So, this happened! My inauguration last night was AMAZING and different in a lot of ways. For those of you who have attended them in the past you will recall they were large sit-down affairs held at Guild Hall with many dignitaries and plenty of speeches. They were a once-a-year reminder of the stature of the organization and the profound honor it is to take office. Don't get me wrong, they were pretty nice. Clement didn't get a party because of that awful pandemic we all had to endure. So, the first time back, mine was a more modest wine-glass affair held standing up at Great George Street and I must admit it was waaaay better. For one thing - only one speech - mine. People got to mingle and meet new and old friends, there was a fantastic mix of young and old in the room and several past presidents (who are always a hoot). It was my kind of congenial, eclectic crowd. I hope RICS never goes back to the banquet-style celebration. Thank you all who left the kind remarks on LinkedIn. Natacha Fielding and Stephanie Bunce pulled together all the festive details so a big thank you to them. Past prez, Amanda Clack, gets first prize for capturing this beautiful moment.