Wow, stumbled upon this thread and this was such a wholesome thread, i love how you periodically returned to update and keep us in the loop in your life's progression. This was one of the best character development arcs i've read around here, hahaha!

Life is really a game of snake and ladders so i'm happy you've managed to accrue enough good luck and opportunities at the right time and place to get to your current position! Keep up the positive spirit and I hope things continue sailing smoothly for you, your wife and upcoming baby (hehe)

However i'm really curious how you were able to afford a flat with renovation on your paycheck back then? Both you and your wife were working and contributing? I'm guessing the salary must be pretty comfortable! If you don't mind, please share more on how you overcame the financial hurdles too since you werent exactly in the best circumstances previously