The weekend in Texas was somewhat stressful, but ultimately successful. We arrived late Friday night and picked up our rental car. We decided to add a navigation system, which proved very helpful, as we ran into an accident and had to detour before we reached the hotel. The rest of the trip, it continued to prove its worth--some of the residential areas we were looking at seem to have been designed to contain a minotaur.
Saturday morning, we started fairly early with a list of 15 homes and the Realtor assigned to us by the relocation company. She was a Vermonter, but had lived in TX for 25 years, so she had an interesting accent: Yankee with a hint of Southern. We started off with some of the houses that were the highest on our list. The first few either had strange layouts or didn't show as well in person as in the photos. Another looked great until we kicked the siding in back and it crumbled like sawdust. After that lipstick-on-a-pig special, we took a break for lunch, having found one house we could live with, but nothing that thrilled us.
After lunch, things immediately picked up. We toured a house we hadn't considered as much because of its excessively large size, but it didn't feel as excessive in person, and it was quite nice. Then, we stumbled upon The One. It was a home that we'd almost eliminated from our list. I think we'd taken it off and later put it back on as a remote possibility.
Unlike some of the other homes, this one showed better in person than in the pictures. It had a nice layout, a fabulous, updated kitchen, a warm family room with rich wood paneling and a gas fireplace, dental crown molding, and an upstairs game room. It also had enough bedrooms for everyone and seems to have decent mechanicals. More importantly, H and I both just felt good about it, like this was a home we should make an offer on. We saw several other nice homes after that and identified a backup house in case things fall through, but nothing to compare with that house.
On Sunday, we drove through a couple of nearby cities we had wanted to see, but we didn't need to tour any more homes. We drove through the neighborhood, past the schools, and went to church at what would be our new congregation. We weren't ward-shopping, but it seems like a decent ward. We'll be pretty close to the church and closer to an LDS temple than we are now in Utah.
On Monday morning, we saw the house again, then we made an offer, they countered, and we settled on a price 1k less than we paid for the house we are in now, plus they are throwing in the pool table. We celebrated with a lunch of some excellent Texas BBQ brisket and turkey, headed home, and picked up the two kids who were staying with Grandma and Grandpa. (With so many houses to see in such a short time, that turned out to be a huge help--thanks again, Mom and Dad!)
I just faxed back the final paperwork and we expect to have the sellers sign it today. After that, pending a clean bill of health from the home inspection, we'll be moving into our new home at the end of next month.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Off to Houston
I still haven't blogged about parts of my trip, including the Amazon, but I've been so busy since I returned, catching up at work and also working with the details of the relocation. I've had dozens of phone calls and emails related to the various details of moving to Texas. My new employer provides a wonderful, comprehensive moving package that is very generous financially, but there is a lot of paperwork and other hoops to jump through.
I'm just about to head off with H, S, and R now to Houston. We'll have Saturday, Sunday, and half of Monday to find the house we're going to buy. We've been researching online and through people we know in the area for months, but it's still scary. Wish us luck. We have a list of about ten homes we want to see, so hopefully one of them will be the right one.
I'm just about to head off with H, S, and R now to Houston. We'll have Saturday, Sunday, and half of Monday to find the house we're going to buy. We've been researching online and through people we know in the area for months, but it's still scary. Wish us luck. We have a list of about ten homes we want to see, so hopefully one of them will be the right one.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Back from darkest Peru (I)
In the Paddington Bear, stories my mom used to read to me as a child, Paddington was from "darkest Peru." After a journey of 36 hours to get home that included two boats, a hike, a bus, five flights, and a car ride, I don't question the appellation.
My trip to Peru was great, a once-in-a-lifetime trip. For those of you who are interested, I encourage you to check out my brother's blog. He is a more diligent blogger and has many additional anecdotes to report.
Without backtracking for now, I'll pick up where I left off, which was getting ready to head into the Amazon basin with my dad. We didn't know if M would join us; after commenting to my dad about my supposedly "weak constitution" after I was smitten with an intestinal bug for the second time on the Machu Picchu day, he got ill just as I was getting better.
In fact, I started feeling better shortly after I threw up and dragged myself onto the train. While the train ride down to Machu Picchu--yes, down, for while Machu Picchu looks to be high in the mountains, and it is at 8,000 feet, this is almost 3,000 feet lower than Cusco and over 1,000 feet lower than Ollantaytambo--was highlighted by the spectacular scenery, it was dark on the ride home. So naturally, the train crew, after serving drinks and snacks, put on a fashion show. They modeled some clothes with an Andean touch, like Alpaca shawls and sweaters, but it was mostly, well, a second-rate wannabe J. Crew fashion show. Weird, but not as weird as the strange man dressed in some sort of traditional Andean costume who did a little dance down the aisle, making sounds rather like a guinea pig, before the train attendants came back to try to sell the clothes they had just been modeling. I wasn't feeling well and mostly pretended to be asleep.
Anyhow, the next morning I was feeling somewhat better, so Dad, G, and I headed back to Cusco. M, however, had been hit hard with the bug during the night and was simultaneously fighting vomiting and diarhhea. He was not well enough to come with us and he thought he might have to skip the jungle part of the trip. Luckily, some doctors from Houston were staying in the same hotel, and they wrote him a prescription for various drugs. Since they are available over-the-counter in Peru, Dad and I also picked up some Cipro to clear up our own lingering intestinal issues.
We all proceeded to Cusco and G got ready to head to Grand Cayman and Dad and I to the rain forest. Luckily, M dragged himself in that evening, looking like death, but clinging to hope that he could join us the next day. The next day, he was indeed just barely well enough to come. Dad and I were still tired, but looking forward to the trip into "darkest" Peru, and G headed off for some scuba diving. This post is getting long, so back to work. Next post: the long-awaited trip to the Amazon.
My trip to Peru was great, a once-in-a-lifetime trip. For those of you who are interested, I encourage you to check out my brother's blog. He is a more diligent blogger and has many additional anecdotes to report.
Without backtracking for now, I'll pick up where I left off, which was getting ready to head into the Amazon basin with my dad. We didn't know if M would join us; after commenting to my dad about my supposedly "weak constitution" after I was smitten with an intestinal bug for the second time on the Machu Picchu day, he got ill just as I was getting better.
In fact, I started feeling better shortly after I threw up and dragged myself onto the train. While the train ride down to Machu Picchu--yes, down, for while Machu Picchu looks to be high in the mountains, and it is at 8,000 feet, this is almost 3,000 feet lower than Cusco and over 1,000 feet lower than Ollantaytambo--was highlighted by the spectacular scenery, it was dark on the ride home. So naturally, the train crew, after serving drinks and snacks, put on a fashion show. They modeled some clothes with an Andean touch, like Alpaca shawls and sweaters, but it was mostly, well, a second-rate wannabe J. Crew fashion show. Weird, but not as weird as the strange man dressed in some sort of traditional Andean costume who did a little dance down the aisle, making sounds rather like a guinea pig, before the train attendants came back to try to sell the clothes they had just been modeling. I wasn't feeling well and mostly pretended to be asleep.
Anyhow, the next morning I was feeling somewhat better, so Dad, G, and I headed back to Cusco. M, however, had been hit hard with the bug during the night and was simultaneously fighting vomiting and diarhhea. He was not well enough to come with us and he thought he might have to skip the jungle part of the trip. Luckily, some doctors from Houston were staying in the same hotel, and they wrote him a prescription for various drugs. Since they are available over-the-counter in Peru, Dad and I also picked up some Cipro to clear up our own lingering intestinal issues.
We all proceeded to Cusco and G got ready to head to Grand Cayman and Dad and I to the rain forest. Luckily, M dragged himself in that evening, looking like death, but clinging to hope that he could join us the next day. The next day, he was indeed just barely well enough to come. Dad and I were still tired, but looking forward to the trip into "darkest" Peru, and G headed off for some scuba diving. This post is getting long, so back to work. Next post: the long-awaited trip to the Amazon.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Machu Picchu
Sometimes you wait so long for something that when it comes, it is a little bit of a disappointment. We have seen so many cool ruins on this trip that I was afraid that might be a little bit the case with Machu Picchu. However, I was not disappointed, except that I wasn´t feeling great.
After seeing awesome ruins on Sunday afternoon in Ollantaytambo--the entrance was just a couple of blocks from our hotel--we arose early yesterday morning to take the train to Aguas Calientes. The ride along the Urubamba River was spectacular in its own right, but the bus at the end of the line on the dirt road up the windy switchbacks left much to be desired. In fact, I felt ill and the rest of the group went ahead of me. My dad and brother wanted to hike Wayna Picchu, the peak you see behind Machu Picchu in the pictures, but my constitution wouldn´t allow it. I barely staggered through the gate and took a nap on the grass near some llamas.
Luckily, my strength slowly returned. I began slowly seeing some of the ruins, stopping when I got tired. I eventually ran into my bro in law, which was nice, and we saw more sites together. The hike to Wayna Picchu wiped out dad and tired out M, so I probably saw as much or more of the ruins as they did. I got sick again just before I got on the train, but I made it back okay, and I feel somewhat better this morning. Dad and M, however, are quite sick and are in bed. G has felt fine this entire trip and has been flexible, which is nice.
Anyway, despite that, the ruins are almost beyond description. It is amazing how the Incas built such cities high in the mountains with stone age technology. It was worth the trip and is something I will always remember.
After seeing awesome ruins on Sunday afternoon in Ollantaytambo--the entrance was just a couple of blocks from our hotel--we arose early yesterday morning to take the train to Aguas Calientes. The ride along the Urubamba River was spectacular in its own right, but the bus at the end of the line on the dirt road up the windy switchbacks left much to be desired. In fact, I felt ill and the rest of the group went ahead of me. My dad and brother wanted to hike Wayna Picchu, the peak you see behind Machu Picchu in the pictures, but my constitution wouldn´t allow it. I barely staggered through the gate and took a nap on the grass near some llamas.
Luckily, my strength slowly returned. I began slowly seeing some of the ruins, stopping when I got tired. I eventually ran into my bro in law, which was nice, and we saw more sites together. The hike to Wayna Picchu wiped out dad and tired out M, so I probably saw as much or more of the ruins as they did. I got sick again just before I got on the train, but I made it back okay, and I feel somewhat better this morning. Dad and M, however, are quite sick and are in bed. G has felt fine this entire trip and has been flexible, which is nice.
Anyway, despite that, the ruins are almost beyond description. It is amazing how the Incas built such cities high in the mountains with stone age technology. It was worth the trip and is something I will always remember.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
In Peru
I´ve been writing mostly via email to family, but I thought others would like to hear about the trip. I´m several days into my trip with my dad, brother, and bro-in-law. Last night, we ate at the hotel where my dad was staying (my brother and I were around the corner in another place). It had a lovely little courtyard with flowering plants and hand-carved wooden tables. I ate trout, which I hadn´t eaten for many years. My memories of trout are of gutting and frying up the fish my brother and I caught as kids. It was always strongly flavored and often had a few bones. This trout was very good, though. It had a nice garlic sauce and a very mild flavor. It also came with delicious sided of mixed vegetables and mashed potatoes. The latter was nice because many restaurants here serve as sides primarily plain white rice (dry) and potatoes with no salt, butter, or other fat (though papas fritas--french fries--are also common).
This morning, we went to the Sunday market at the Plaza Constitucion in Pisac. There is a market there every day selling the typical tourist stuff we´ve been seeing all week (jewelry, alpaca clothes, handicrafts), so we wondered how this would be different. This time, the locals were out buying as well. They had closed the street in front of the plaza and they were selling real market stuff, i.e., foodstuffs. I ate crepe-like banana pancakes for breakfast and didn´t try the cooked food, but I bought a couple of mangos, and they were delicious.
After we ate, we rented a taxi, who took us to the ruins at Pisac. They consist of the remnants of an Incan city built into the hillside. The extent of the construction was impressive, and much of it remains. The terraces into the hillside were huge, and there were perhaps 15-20 terrace levels at some point. We ascended some narrow paths while our guide´s four year old daughter cantered ahead, dangerously close to steep dropoffs.
Eventually, we came to a low tunnel that was used as a defensive point to restrict the passage of enemy troops. On the other side was the temple of the sun, a small altar with a large stone and sundial. We could also see the terracing below cut into the shape of a partridge--the ¨pisaca¨
We left Pisac and continued in our taxi up the Sacred Valley. We followed a beautiful valley along the Urubamba river until we eventually reached the town of Ollantaytambo, where we will stay tonight. The balcony up the stairs from my room may be the best view I´ve ever had from a hotel where I´ve stayed. On one side, the near Andes tower seemingly to the sky. To the right, the distant, taller mountains are capped with snow. On the other side, the impressive ruins and agricultural terraces of Ollantaytambo loom just a couple of blocks from our hotel. It is magnificent. Our room is sparse but comfortable and nicely designed.
So far, this has been a wonderful trip. We´ve had ¨discussions,¨but no real arguments. Hopefully Dad doesn´t mind. Machu Picchu tomorrow, and then Dad can apparently die happy.
This morning, we went to the Sunday market at the Plaza Constitucion in Pisac. There is a market there every day selling the typical tourist stuff we´ve been seeing all week (jewelry, alpaca clothes, handicrafts), so we wondered how this would be different. This time, the locals were out buying as well. They had closed the street in front of the plaza and they were selling real market stuff, i.e., foodstuffs. I ate crepe-like banana pancakes for breakfast and didn´t try the cooked food, but I bought a couple of mangos, and they were delicious.
After we ate, we rented a taxi, who took us to the ruins at Pisac. They consist of the remnants of an Incan city built into the hillside. The extent of the construction was impressive, and much of it remains. The terraces into the hillside were huge, and there were perhaps 15-20 terrace levels at some point. We ascended some narrow paths while our guide´s four year old daughter cantered ahead, dangerously close to steep dropoffs.
Eventually, we came to a low tunnel that was used as a defensive point to restrict the passage of enemy troops. On the other side was the temple of the sun, a small altar with a large stone and sundial. We could also see the terracing below cut into the shape of a partridge--the ¨pisaca¨
We left Pisac and continued in our taxi up the Sacred Valley. We followed a beautiful valley along the Urubamba river until we eventually reached the town of Ollantaytambo, where we will stay tonight. The balcony up the stairs from my room may be the best view I´ve ever had from a hotel where I´ve stayed. On one side, the near Andes tower seemingly to the sky. To the right, the distant, taller mountains are capped with snow. On the other side, the impressive ruins and agricultural terraces of Ollantaytambo loom just a couple of blocks from our hotel. It is magnificent. Our room is sparse but comfortable and nicely designed.
So far, this has been a wonderful trip. We´ve had ¨discussions,¨but no real arguments. Hopefully Dad doesn´t mind. Machu Picchu tomorrow, and then Dad can apparently die happy.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Layoff
Someone from my team just got laid off. He had been here for almost ten years, and while his work was spotty and he's probably the person I would have chosen had I been making the decision, it's always hard. I feel bad for anyone who has to find a job in this economy, and I wish him well.
I've been asked to pick up another sizable state and a major global strategic partner. It will be more work for me, but since I won't be here long, it doesn't matter too much. It's worse for my manager, who will have to reshuffle again very soon and worry about training a new person while everyone on the team is picking up the slack. Our team has now shrunk two people since I joined, so the stress level isn't going down. Also, everyone leaving, voluntarily or not, seems to be attorneys, so when I leave, there won't be much in-team legal support for the front-line negotiators. When I started, we had 5 of 11 attorneys on the team. When I leave, if I'm not replaced by an attorney, that number would drop to 1 of 9.
I've been asked to pick up another sizable state and a major global strategic partner. It will be more work for me, but since I won't be here long, it doesn't matter too much. It's worse for my manager, who will have to reshuffle again very soon and worry about training a new person while everyone on the team is picking up the slack. Our team has now shrunk two people since I joined, so the stress level isn't going down. Also, everyone leaving, voluntarily or not, seems to be attorneys, so when I leave, there won't be much in-team legal support for the front-line negotiators. When I started, we had 5 of 11 attorneys on the team. When I leave, if I'm not replaced by an attorney, that number would drop to 1 of 9.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Texas bound
As most people who read this blog probably know by now, yes, I am moving to Texas. I got the call last Friday with a verbal job offer, and the written offer followed in the mail. All I have to do is pass a background check (please, no identity theft) and a drug test, and I'll be headed to Houston. The job sounds very interesting, the company is on sound footing, and the salary is more than I expected--quite a bit more.
This will be a new chapter for our family. Between school, work, and internships, I've spent time in Oregon, California, Utah, Colorado, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut--every region of the country except for the South. And Texas. Because I'm not sure whether to say Houston is in the South--they were part of the Confederacy and it's hotter and farther South than almost the entire South except for Florida. On the other hand, Texas has influences from the Southwest and Midwest. Houston is also very cosmopolitan, as there is a very international influence from the many global companies--especially oil companies--located there. In the end, maybe the old saw that Texas is a whole other country will prove to be correct.
I will very much miss the mountains and deserts of Utah, and I will especially miss my family members who live here, as well as some very good friends. But I feel like this opportunity is too good to pass up. More importantly, my wife and I have made it a matter of careful discussion, thought, and prayer, and we both feel like this is where we are supposed to be right now.
And, to my wife's family members in Kansas City, at least we're moving a little bit closer.
This will be a new chapter for our family. Between school, work, and internships, I've spent time in Oregon, California, Utah, Colorado, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut--every region of the country except for the South. And Texas. Because I'm not sure whether to say Houston is in the South--they were part of the Confederacy and it's hotter and farther South than almost the entire South except for Florida. On the other hand, Texas has influences from the Southwest and Midwest. Houston is also very cosmopolitan, as there is a very international influence from the many global companies--especially oil companies--located there. In the end, maybe the old saw that Texas is a whole other country will prove to be correct.
I will very much miss the mountains and deserts of Utah, and I will especially miss my family members who live here, as well as some very good friends. But I feel like this opportunity is too good to pass up. More importantly, my wife and I have made it a matter of careful discussion, thought, and prayer, and we both feel like this is where we are supposed to be right now.
And, to my wife's family members in Kansas City, at least we're moving a little bit closer.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Not yet
Well, another week, and no call yet. I told myself it would likely be next week, but I was hopeful. In the meantime, my wife has a concert tonight, so I can go enjoy some good brass music with the older children and my parents. Plus, tomorrow is football day, including a big game for one of the schools I attended, so the weekend should be nice.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
A little more waiting
The hiring manager from the company in Texas emailed me yesterday thanking me for coming down and saying they hoped to make a final decision by the end of this week. Hopefully, that means I'll have a definitive answer within a week or so and can either start packing or stop thinking about packing. I feel good about my odds, but I don't know what other candidates I might be competing against, nor what kind of compensation will be on offer if I am offered a position. So, for now I'll keep plugging away.
In the meantime, my department is being reorganized and my director will be under a different functional area. We've had a close professional and personal relationship, so I'll miss him. I also worry that our department will be diminished in the corporate pecking order within the legal function.
On Sunday, our ward (congregation) was also realigned, so I'll have many new neighbors at church and many old neighbors attending a different ward. The combination of a work and a church realignment the same week makes me feel change is in the air. It also weakens the social barriers I may have felt about leaving for a new opportunity. If change will be forced upon me anyway, why not try to make something of it?
In the meantime, my department is being reorganized and my director will be under a different functional area. We've had a close professional and personal relationship, so I'll miss him. I also worry that our department will be diminished in the corporate pecking order within the legal function.
On Sunday, our ward (congregation) was also realigned, so I'll have many new neighbors at church and many old neighbors attending a different ward. The combination of a work and a church realignment the same week makes me feel change is in the air. It also weakens the social barriers I may have felt about leaving for a new opportunity. If change will be forced upon me anyway, why not try to make something of it?
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TX Trip
My lunch in Texas went well. One of the three attorneys was out sick with the flu, but he was the one I had previously met. The two women I met with were both pleasant, and I could see myself working with them. I had noticed one of them was involved with an open-source technology industry group. Since my current employer is heavily involved in the open-source movement, I used that as an opening to talk shop with her. She seemed pleased and said at the end she enjoyed the exchange of ideas. Lunch was on the top (43rd) floor of a downtown building. Too bad I was too focused on the conversation to much enjoy the view.
I felt good about the interview and my chances, but I won't find out for a few weeks whether I will be offered the job. There are actually two positions available, but only one open headcount, so they are trying to decide which to fill first. I think I might enjoy the capital project procurement attorney position more, but the IT job would be a better fit out of the gate.
On the flight home, the pilot pointed out Canyonlands n.p. as we passed by. After being in Texas, it looked so dry, but it was also stunningly beautiful, even from 36,000 ft. It's easy to see why the section they call the Maze is so named and is one of the most remote and inaccessible areas in the United States. Then, a few minutes later, I could see the abrupt edge of the Colorado Plateau in a way that you don't see from the ground. It looked like a vast table for a feast of the gods. A few minutes after that, the Wasatch Mountains came into view. We flew up Highway 6, passed some giant wind turbines near Spanish Fork Canyon, flew almost directly over my home, and along the Wasatch Range.
I've visited many states and have found natural beauty in each one, from the Berkshires in New England to the sand dunes along Lake Michigan in Indiana. However, I think that only Oregon and California can match the variety of different types of beautiful scenery in Utah. We have everything from lush, rainy subalpine forests to some of the most inhospitable deserts. And the state is a geologist's paradise. The Colorado Plateau and Grand Staircase (including the Grand Canyon, just outside the state, of course) have exposed more layers of rock than probably any other place on earth.
So, with all that, why would I move to east Texas? Not for the scenery. Texas has its own beauty, but for me, geography is a barrier to overcome, not a selling point. Nevertheless, I'm very impressed with the company and the career potential there, so I may end up moving away from the mountains I love so much, as well as many dear friends and family members.
It's not something I'm considering lightly. For me, as a believing Mormon, the decision will be a matter of prayer and careful pondering, weighing it out in my mind, but ultimately relying on my heart to tell me where I believe the Lord would have my family at this time. Maybe I won't be offered a position and I won't have to make that decision, but I am preparing myself all the same, savoring every opportunity I have to be with family or enjoy the natural beauty around me. On Sunday, for example, we went for a ride up a nearby canyon and enjoyed the changing fall colors. It was beautiful, and a part of me hopes I end up staying here. But I am also excited about the positives that could come with a change.
Soon, I may have a new place to write about and new cultural or geographic wonders to enjoy, but for now, Utah is home, and I think it will always have a big piece of my heart.
I felt good about the interview and my chances, but I won't find out for a few weeks whether I will be offered the job. There are actually two positions available, but only one open headcount, so they are trying to decide which to fill first. I think I might enjoy the capital project procurement attorney position more, but the IT job would be a better fit out of the gate.
On the flight home, the pilot pointed out Canyonlands n.p. as we passed by. After being in Texas, it looked so dry, but it was also stunningly beautiful, even from 36,000 ft. It's easy to see why the section they call the Maze is so named and is one of the most remote and inaccessible areas in the United States. Then, a few minutes later, I could see the abrupt edge of the Colorado Plateau in a way that you don't see from the ground. It looked like a vast table for a feast of the gods. A few minutes after that, the Wasatch Mountains came into view. We flew up Highway 6, passed some giant wind turbines near Spanish Fork Canyon, flew almost directly over my home, and along the Wasatch Range.
I've visited many states and have found natural beauty in each one, from the Berkshires in New England to the sand dunes along Lake Michigan in Indiana. However, I think that only Oregon and California can match the variety of different types of beautiful scenery in Utah. We have everything from lush, rainy subalpine forests to some of the most inhospitable deserts. And the state is a geologist's paradise. The Colorado Plateau and Grand Staircase (including the Grand Canyon, just outside the state, of course) have exposed more layers of rock than probably any other place on earth.
So, with all that, why would I move to east Texas? Not for the scenery. Texas has its own beauty, but for me, geography is a barrier to overcome, not a selling point. Nevertheless, I'm very impressed with the company and the career potential there, so I may end up moving away from the mountains I love so much, as well as many dear friends and family members.
It's not something I'm considering lightly. For me, as a believing Mormon, the decision will be a matter of prayer and careful pondering, weighing it out in my mind, but ultimately relying on my heart to tell me where I believe the Lord would have my family at this time. Maybe I won't be offered a position and I won't have to make that decision, but I am preparing myself all the same, savoring every opportunity I have to be with family or enjoy the natural beauty around me. On Sunday, for example, we went for a ride up a nearby canyon and enjoyed the changing fall colors. It was beautiful, and a part of me hopes I end up staying here. But I am also excited about the positives that could come with a change.
Soon, I may have a new place to write about and new cultural or geographic wonders to enjoy, but for now, Utah is home, and I think it will always have a big piece of my heart.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Labor market
I posted this on another forum and thought I'd repost it here as a partial summary of my employment search over the past year, year-and-a-half:
The conversation on the awful labor market made me think of my own employment situation. I have a decent job, but have decided that my long-term career development will be served by making a change. I've been selectively looking at opportunities for over a year now. Three personal anecdotes show just how cautious companies have been about hiring lately, at least in the legal market.
Company #1: A financial services company contacted me over a year ago. I had a couple of interviews with them, but then the financial market blew up. Nothing happened for many months, but in June they contacted me again and asked if I was still interested. Several more phone interviews followed (seven total in-person and phone interviews to date), and I was told that everyone liked me and they want me to interview in person when the manager comes to my city for a super candidate day (they are growing a team from scratch and need several people). But they've given no indication when that will be or even when they will be able to tell me anything definitive, and it's been 2.5 months since my last interview. I think they sincerely want to staff up in this city, but they are apparently in no hurry to do so.
Company #2: A tech startup interviewed me for a general counsel job last fall/winter. I went on-site three times for interviews, signed an NDA, got loads of their confidential information "to get up to speed so I could hit the ground running," and was told by the CFO that he was meeting with the compensation committee to decide what they could offer. All of this took about three months. Then, nothing. The CFO didn't answer numerous calls or emails, the promised offer never came, and the company never contacted me again. It was bizarre. Given that and the shape of their financials, I'm glad I'm not working there.
Company #3: I spoke with a Fortune 100 company in mid-February and flew out for an interview in March. They were to get back with me in April, then that was pushed to May, June, August, and finally, "we still like you and have you on file and will contact you if a position becomes available." Just when I had concluded that things seemed doubtful to go anywhere, I got a call last week. The company wants me to fly back next week for another interview, after which they will supposedly quickly make a decision. So, even if things proceed in that fashion, it will be eight months from first contact to final decision.
For those of you looking for a job, good luck, keep your chin up, and don't count any birds before they hatch. If I knew someone with a suboptimal job offer and an "interested" company that was early in the recruiting process, I'd tell them to take the first offer available, because the one might take a long time to develop. I feel very blessed that my search has been from a position of full employment.
The conversation on the awful labor market made me think of my own employment situation. I have a decent job, but have decided that my long-term career development will be served by making a change. I've been selectively looking at opportunities for over a year now. Three personal anecdotes show just how cautious companies have been about hiring lately, at least in the legal market.
Company #1: A financial services company contacted me over a year ago. I had a couple of interviews with them, but then the financial market blew up. Nothing happened for many months, but in June they contacted me again and asked if I was still interested. Several more phone interviews followed (seven total in-person and phone interviews to date), and I was told that everyone liked me and they want me to interview in person when the manager comes to my city for a super candidate day (they are growing a team from scratch and need several people). But they've given no indication when that will be or even when they will be able to tell me anything definitive, and it's been 2.5 months since my last interview. I think they sincerely want to staff up in this city, but they are apparently in no hurry to do so.
Company #2: A tech startup interviewed me for a general counsel job last fall/winter. I went on-site three times for interviews, signed an NDA, got loads of their confidential information "to get up to speed so I could hit the ground running," and was told by the CFO that he was meeting with the compensation committee to decide what they could offer. All of this took about three months. Then, nothing. The CFO didn't answer numerous calls or emails, the promised offer never came, and the company never contacted me again. It was bizarre. Given that and the shape of their financials, I'm glad I'm not working there.
Company #3: I spoke with a Fortune 100 company in mid-February and flew out for an interview in March. They were to get back with me in April, then that was pushed to May, June, August, and finally, "we still like you and have you on file and will contact you if a position becomes available." Just when I had concluded that things seemed doubtful to go anywhere, I got a call last week. The company wants me to fly back next week for another interview, after which they will supposedly quickly make a decision. So, even if things proceed in that fashion, it will be eight months from first contact to final decision.
For those of you looking for a job, good luck, keep your chin up, and don't count any birds before they hatch. If I knew someone with a suboptimal job offer and an "interested" company that was early in the recruiting process, I'd tell them to take the first offer available, because the one might take a long time to develop. I feel very blessed that my search has been from a position of full employment.
Flu shots
Yesterday, my employer offered flu shots on campus. They were free for employees and $10 for dependents, so we brought the whole family. When we got to the large, crowded room, though, they had one line for employees and another for dependents. My younger kids were already nervous about getting a shot, so it was poor planning to make me stand in a different line on the other side of the room for 20 minutes while my wife tried to corral and reassure them. Especially when my four-year-old got poked and started crying loudly and I couldn't do anything about it because I was still in line.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
$1000 lunch
Back in March, I flew to Texas for an interview with a multinational energy company. They seemed to like me, but delay stretched into delay and nothing came of it. Then, a few days ago, they called unexpectedly and asked me to fly back to TX next week for another "interview." The interview consists of me meeting the recruiting coordinator at 11:30, having lunch across the street with three employees at 12:00, and taking the limo back to the airport at 2:00. Since there was no morning flight that arrived early enough, though, I'm flying in the night before.
Based on the e-receipts I've gotten, the company will pay over $1000 for this lunch meeting. I'll burn a day of vacation for the privilege. The good news is, they say I should find out very quickly afterward whether I get the job. If I do and if I accept, it will be a huge change for the family to move from Utah to eastern Texas. A Texas-sized change. I'm keeping both eyes open, but I'm looking for opportunities to advance my career. The company seems like a good place to work from what I've learned so far, but still, Texas is a whole other country.
Between work, school, and internships, I've lived at least briefly in OR, CA, UT, CO, IN, PA, and CT. The South is the gaping hole in that geographical c.v. Culturally, Texas isn't quite deep South, but it was a Confederate State.
In contrast, my wife is from Kansas City, but she was born in Memphis, where her mother was raised and many of her relatives still live. She also lived in Houston for several years as a child, so she knows better than I do what to expect. And yet, I enjoy exploring new cultures and places, and I think it's much easier to do that by "going native" than by taking a vacation. Bring on the grilled armadillo and deep fried Twinkies??
Based on the e-receipts I've gotten, the company will pay over $1000 for this lunch meeting. I'll burn a day of vacation for the privilege. The good news is, they say I should find out very quickly afterward whether I get the job. If I do and if I accept, it will be a huge change for the family to move from Utah to eastern Texas. A Texas-sized change. I'm keeping both eyes open, but I'm looking for opportunities to advance my career. The company seems like a good place to work from what I've learned so far, but still, Texas is a whole other country.
Between work, school, and internships, I've lived at least briefly in OR, CA, UT, CO, IN, PA, and CT. The South is the gaping hole in that geographical c.v. Culturally, Texas isn't quite deep South, but it was a Confederate State.
In contrast, my wife is from Kansas City, but she was born in Memphis, where her mother was raised and many of her relatives still live. She also lived in Houston for several years as a child, so she knows better than I do what to expect. And yet, I enjoy exploring new cultures and places, and I think it's much easier to do that by "going native" than by taking a vacation. Bring on the grilled armadillo and deep fried Twinkies??
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Visiting Grandma
My parents travel quite a bit, and when they're out of town, I usually try to check in on my 90-year-old grandmother at least once. Last night, I stopped by with my older son, and we saw a flock of about 20 birds on the lawn behind her house. They were pretty good-sized, maybe the size of a pheasant. I think maybe they were a type of grouse, but I'm no bird expert.
We were visiting, and my grandma started talking about the sororities they had when she went to college, and how she didn't like them much because the sorority girls tended to look down on everyone else. In any case, she was from a small farm town, it was the Depression, and she couldn't afford to join a sorority, either. She commented, "Once, we were passing by one of the sororities, and we saw a girl hanging out the window with no clothes on!" She then added matter-of-factly, "Blaine [my grandfather] watched that window pretty closely after that."
I love little stories like this and hope at least my older children will remember knowing their great-grandmother. Her stories of growing up in the Depression are more relevant than ever today, yet so far removed from the experience of my children (no running water, refrigeration, etc.).
We were visiting, and my grandma started talking about the sororities they had when she went to college, and how she didn't like them much because the sorority girls tended to look down on everyone else. In any case, she was from a small farm town, it was the Depression, and she couldn't afford to join a sorority, either. She commented, "Once, we were passing by one of the sororities, and we saw a girl hanging out the window with no clothes on!" She then added matter-of-factly, "Blaine [my grandfather] watched that window pretty closely after that."
I love little stories like this and hope at least my older children will remember knowing their great-grandmother. Her stories of growing up in the Depression are more relevant than ever today, yet so far removed from the experience of my children (no running water, refrigeration, etc.).
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Still here
The reports of the death of this blog have been only slightly exaggerated. The reports of our family moving, however, have been somewhat more premature. Not only are we still here, but we have no immediate plans to move. That is, our Realtor, after only six weeks as our listing agent, told us that we should cut the price by 40k if we wanted to sell the home. Since that would mean essentially walking away from the home with no equity, we told him to hit the road, and we terminated our listing.
So, we've begun the process of getting emptying out the storage unit and unpacking some of what we'd already boxed up. We have sufficient storage space in our basement, but we had moved out a lot of stuff to stage the house. We'll be closing that out soon. It's a bit sad that things didn't work out, but happily it also means we don't have to worry about showing our house at a moment's notice anymore. That was very stressful for H, with four young kids in the house, as you can imagine.
So, we've begun the process of getting emptying out the storage unit and unpacking some of what we'd already boxed up. We have sufficient storage space in our basement, but we had moved out a lot of stuff to stage the house. We'll be closing that out soon. It's a bit sad that things didn't work out, but happily it also means we don't have to worry about showing our house at a moment's notice anymore. That was very stressful for H, with four young kids in the house, as you can imagine.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Career goals
Man, Facebook has totally killed my blog. It's just to much easier than writing an entire post.
Anyhow, I was having breakfast with my four-year-old this morning, and we were talking about how people have to go to school to be smart, get jobs, etc. She then informed me that she is going to go to "space school," like her nine-year-old brother. Then, after a pause, she asked, "Why didn't you become anything when you grew up, Daddy?"
When I assured her that I did become something, she asked, "What?" in a tone of voice that clearly communicated that she didn't believe me. Maybe I should have told her instead that Daddy just hasn't grown up yet.
Anyhow, I was having breakfast with my four-year-old this morning, and we were talking about how people have to go to school to be smart, get jobs, etc. She then informed me that she is going to go to "space school," like her nine-year-old brother. Then, after a pause, she asked, "Why didn't you become anything when you grew up, Daddy?"
When I assured her that I did become something, she asked, "What?" in a tone of voice that clearly communicated that she didn't believe me. Maybe I should have told her instead that Daddy just hasn't grown up yet.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Since you asked
Someone asked me yesterday what the nasty smell was the other day. The truth is, I still don't know. I suspect, however, that it may have been someone firing up the building's A/C system for the first time this year. Happily, the smell was gone the next day and hasn't returned.
What hasn't abated is house showings. We had another last week and two more scheduled today. It's very tiring, and if I could get a final determination on the TX interview situation, I would know whether to give up and remove my home from the MLS, refinance, and settle in again, or to start packing like crazy for the big move. I can't imagine the middle alternative of selling my home without getting a new job, and I'm not sure whether or not I even want that alternative to come to pass. Our home has issues, but no more than most homes, and we do like our neighbors--but we are also the type who loves a new adventure in any form.
The TX company is supposed to get back to me in the next ~2 weeks, so we'll hopefully have more information soon, even if it's just that another interview is scheduled.
What hasn't abated is house showings. We had another last week and two more scheduled today. It's very tiring, and if I could get a final determination on the TX interview situation, I would know whether to give up and remove my home from the MLS, refinance, and settle in again, or to start packing like crazy for the big move. I can't imagine the middle alternative of selling my home without getting a new job, and I'm not sure whether or not I even want that alternative to come to pass. Our home has issues, but no more than most homes, and we do like our neighbors--but we are also the type who loves a new adventure in any form.
The TX company is supposed to get back to me in the next ~2 weeks, so we'll hopefully have more information soon, even if it's just that another interview is scheduled.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Happy Odd Day
Today is only one of six days this century comprised of three consecutive odd numbers: 5/7/9. So, do something odd today in the name of mathematics! Or, look at your journal and do the reverse of what you did on 9/7/5.
Belated spring break report
The trip to Southern Utah was short, packed, and tiring, but I had a great time. On Friday, we left home early and went to Snow Canyon and hiked the trail to the lava tubes, went swimming, saw a few relatives, and visited the temple visitor's center and Jacob Hamblin's home. On Saturday, we spent the day in the Zion Canyon part of Zion n.p. and did some great hikes. Zion
is stunningly beautiful if you've never been. On Sunday, we went to church in La Verkin. The bishop looked just like the judge of Deadwood, c. 1875. He had the Wyatt Earp/President Taft handlebar moustache, the long, high-buttoned greycoat, the string bowtie, and the riding boots.
After that, we did the scenic drive and a hike in the Kolob Canyons part of Zion n.p., and also stopped at Cove Fort on the way home.
It was a lot to do in a few days, but it was fun and inexpensive. Our motel in Hurricane was quite nice, had kitchen facilities, and cost $133 for two nights, including tax. Beyond that and gas, our costs were pretty minimal. I hadn't been to Zion for many years, but I highly recommend it. I think the kids liked it even better than when we went to Arches last spring break. My wife stayed home with the baby, which gave her a little quiet and enabled us to do a little more. I could carry L when she got tired, and the older kids did just fine with lots of snacks and periodic rest breaks.
I made sure to point out to the kids that most of the people in our motel seemed to be German. People come from all over the world to visit the parks in the Southwest that are only a few hours from my home. I want my kids to realize that a vacation need not be to some far-off place or cost a lot of money to be memorable.
is stunningly beautiful if you've never been. On Sunday, we went to church in La Verkin. The bishop looked just like the judge of Deadwood, c. 1875. He had the Wyatt Earp/President Taft handlebar moustache, the long, high-buttoned greycoat, the string bowtie, and the riding boots.
After that, we did the scenic drive and a hike in the Kolob Canyons part of Zion n.p., and also stopped at Cove Fort on the way home.
It was a lot to do in a few days, but it was fun and inexpensive. Our motel in Hurricane was quite nice, had kitchen facilities, and cost $133 for two nights, including tax. Beyond that and gas, our costs were pretty minimal. I hadn't been to Zion for many years, but I highly recommend it. I think the kids liked it even better than when we went to Arches last spring break. My wife stayed home with the baby, which gave her a little quiet and enabled us to do a little more. I could carry L when she got tired, and the older kids did just fine with lots of snacks and periodic rest breaks.
I made sure to point out to the kids that most of the people in our motel seemed to be German. People come from all over the world to visit the parks in the Southwest that are only a few hours from my home. I want my kids to realize that a vacation need not be to some far-off place or cost a lot of money to be memorable.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Off to Zion (park)
The weather here has been awful. I'm excited to take the next couple of days in southern Utah. I'll be visiting Zion Nat'l Park and the ironically-named Snow Canyon, where it should be much warmer than it was when I awoke to several inches of new snow this morning. 80 degrees on Saturday--I'll take it.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Synesthesia
I just finished reading a young adult book, A Mango-Shaped Space. It is about a girl who has synesthesia. This is a condition where stimulation of one sense leads to perception in another sense or another cognitive perception within that sense. Since that sounds like gibberish, the protagonist sees colors when she hears sounds. She also associates each letter or number with a particular color. Other synesthetes might link taste or smell with shapes or colors.
Why do I write about this? Because my wife and daughter have synesthesia. My wife had talked about how she sees colors in numbers, but I didn't really understand it until I stumbled upon the above-mentioned book while looking for a recorded book to listed to on a family trip. My wife also associates color and sound to a lesser extent, such that she can tell you the color of a concert C, for instance. No wonder she has good pitch!
When I found the book, I excitedly told my oldest daughter, who was with me, about my discovery. She surprised me by stating that she also associates colors with letters and numbers. I don't know if sound has any color for her, but the book was an interesting read to me to learn how synesthetes perceive the world. My wife thinks synesthesia is common, but I have assured her that I associate no colors with letters, numbers, sounds, smells, or tastes. My sensory perceptions are very discrete.
Read more about synesthesia here. Synesthetes can have learning difficulties in some areas, for instance foreign languages and math. My wife is good at math, and my daughter does fine, but my wife is terrible at languages, because the equivalent Spanish and English words have different colors, so she has trouble with the associations. But, synesthesia often leads to exceptional ability in the creative arts. My wife is good at art, sculpture, and music. My daughter is good at dance and creative writing and poetry. Synesthesia is also associated with high spelling ability, but my wife and daugher appear to be fairly average in this regard.
Since synesthesia is not a disease or disorder with a "cure," I plan to encourage my daughter to use her synesthesia as an asset to help her perceive things in a richer way and to encourage her to explore careers and hobbies where synesthesia may be an asset. I don't think my older son is a synesthete, but I don't know about the younger two yet.
Why do I write about this? Because my wife and daughter have synesthesia. My wife had talked about how she sees colors in numbers, but I didn't really understand it until I stumbled upon the above-mentioned book while looking for a recorded book to listed to on a family trip. My wife also associates color and sound to a lesser extent, such that she can tell you the color of a concert C, for instance. No wonder she has good pitch!
When I found the book, I excitedly told my oldest daughter, who was with me, about my discovery. She surprised me by stating that she also associates colors with letters and numbers. I don't know if sound has any color for her, but the book was an interesting read to me to learn how synesthetes perceive the world. My wife thinks synesthesia is common, but I have assured her that I associate no colors with letters, numbers, sounds, smells, or tastes. My sensory perceptions are very discrete.
Read more about synesthesia here. Synesthetes can have learning difficulties in some areas, for instance foreign languages and math. My wife is good at math, and my daughter does fine, but my wife is terrible at languages, because the equivalent Spanish and English words have different colors, so she has trouble with the associations. But, synesthesia often leads to exceptional ability in the creative arts. My wife is good at art, sculpture, and music. My daughter is good at dance and creative writing and poetry. Synesthesia is also associated with high spelling ability, but my wife and daugher appear to be fairly average in this regard.
Since synesthesia is not a disease or disorder with a "cure," I plan to encourage my daughter to use her synesthesia as an asset to help her perceive things in a richer way and to encourage her to explore careers and hobbies where synesthesia may be an asset. I don't think my older son is a synesthete, but I don't know about the younger two yet.
"I Suspect..."
I like having a sister with the last name of White. Since my last name is also a noun, it made for fun wedding announcements. But it's particularly nice when the family plays Clue, as we did last night. Instead of suspecting Mrs. White, we always use our sister/aunt's full name. Sis, you got off this time--it was Miss Scarlet--but don't think we aren't watching your every move for suspicious activity!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Musical Contracts
Perhaps I need to start working on my singing and acting skills for my next contract negotiation.
Green Eggs and Ham
I had breakfast with my kids at my parents' house this morning before work. My mom had a tradition of fixing a green breakfast on St. Patrick's Day when I was growing up, and she invited us over this morning to pass that along to my kids. They still talk about the green breakfast they had two years ago when they stayed with my parents while my wife and I were in Mexico for our 10th anniversary, so they were excited to go. Mom served eggs, ham, milk, grapes, and muffins. Everything but the ham was green. We had a nice meal, then my mom went to find Green Eggs and Ham while I headed off to work in my green Notre Dame shirt (St. Patrick's Day is a great day to be a ND alum).
Thanks, Mom!
Thanks, Mom!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Negotiating against myself
I've been heavily involved lately with a significant set of contracts with one of the world's largest IT companies. This company is moving into a new market segment and is partnering with us as an OEM distributor of our software, bundled with their offering.
On Friday afternoon, we were down to just one major issue, indemnification. The partner wanted to use their big name as justification for our offering more indemnity coverage, but we had explained to them that we had other "big" OEM partners, too, and that our coverage should be tied to the revenue generated by the deal. I thought we had reached a compromise position that would offer them less protection than they wanted, but extra protection in case a certain class of claims was brought--a class of claims they were worried about, but one that we thought was very unlikely to occur.
Imagine my surprise when their attorney called me back to say that his business folks had heard that my company would offer more indemnification, if pressed. The sales director had learned of our absolute bottom-line position and went behind my back to leak this information to the partner with the express intent of getting me to cave. His oft-repeated mantra is "Let's just get the deal done," as if the only function of legal is to kill good deals. He cares nothing about the interests of the company, just his team's sales and commission figures.
I had a tense conversation with my legal counterpart as I assured him that what he had heard was not my company's official position. In the end, I prevailed and they accepted our lower indemnification, but I was very angry that my own colleague would jeopardize the deal and the terms on which it would be consummated to pursue his own agenda. I like being involved in strategic revenue deals, but it is frustrating that my most difficult conversations are usually with my company's own salespeople. For that reason, I sometimes think it would be better to be in a position that was less sales-facing, like drafting inbound engineering development agreements, for instance.
On Friday afternoon, we were down to just one major issue, indemnification. The partner wanted to use their big name as justification for our offering more indemnity coverage, but we had explained to them that we had other "big" OEM partners, too, and that our coverage should be tied to the revenue generated by the deal. I thought we had reached a compromise position that would offer them less protection than they wanted, but extra protection in case a certain class of claims was brought--a class of claims they were worried about, but one that we thought was very unlikely to occur.
Imagine my surprise when their attorney called me back to say that his business folks had heard that my company would offer more indemnification, if pressed. The sales director had learned of our absolute bottom-line position and went behind my back to leak this information to the partner with the express intent of getting me to cave. His oft-repeated mantra is "Let's just get the deal done," as if the only function of legal is to kill good deals. He cares nothing about the interests of the company, just his team's sales and commission figures.
I had a tense conversation with my legal counterpart as I assured him that what he had heard was not my company's official position. In the end, I prevailed and they accepted our lower indemnification, but I was very angry that my own colleague would jeopardize the deal and the terms on which it would be consummated to pursue his own agenda. I like being involved in strategic revenue deals, but it is frustrating that my most difficult conversations are usually with my company's own salespeople. For that reason, I sometimes think it would be better to be in a position that was less sales-facing, like drafting inbound engineering development agreements, for instance.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Deleveraging
What a reversal of course! Just last year, my mailbox was inundated with offers for new credit cards, including from American Express (my wife has an AmEx, but I don't). Now, however, comes the news that AmEx is paying some of their customers $300 to pay off balances and close their accounts. I guess they're targeting customers that are at a higher risk of default, figuring maybe with some incentive AmEx can avoid being one of their creditors when the inevitable defaults follow. A brave new world, indeed.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Temples
A couple of weeks ago, I had the chance to enter two temples on the same day. In the morning, I was with my sister, her husband, and other family members and close friends as their daughter was sealed to them for time and eternity in the Salt Lake temple. What a beautiful ceremony that was! I was so grateful my sister and brother-in-law were blessed to find a selfless birth mother who would entrust her daughter to them, and I am sure they will try hard to be the best parents they can be, and to raise her up in light and truth.
Then, that afternoon, I was able to return with my children to the Draper, Utah temple, which has not yet been dedicated, for a tour. I was able to explain to them about the purpose of temples and what I had done that morning.
I asked each child what their favorite part of the temple was, and then why.
S: "The bride's room. It was so beautiful, and I could imagine myself in there, the center of attention, getting ready to be married."
J: "The room with all of the chandeliers and lights [Celestial room], because it is so beautiful and makes me think of being with Heavenly Father.
L: "The pond." Why? "Because it had water and all of those cows." I surmised that she was referring to the baptismal font, held up by carvings of twelve oxen representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
Anyway, after I came home that night, while contemplating my gratitude for my own family and temples that seal us together as families and allow us to commune more closely with Diety, I wrote the following:
God, who guarded ancient Israel
With a cloud and shining flame,
Once again shall keep His people
In a house built to His name.
In the tops of holy mountains
Is His habitation raised.
Come, ye children of the promise,
Enter in and sing His praise.
May our cov'nants be recordedl
Seal us, Lord, beyond the veil,
Bound by sacred priesthood power,
Though our mortal flesh should fail.
Then, with children linked to fathers,
Mighty Michael at the head,
May we gain again thy presence,
Father, Lord of quick and dead.
Then, that afternoon, I was able to return with my children to the Draper, Utah temple, which has not yet been dedicated, for a tour. I was able to explain to them about the purpose of temples and what I had done that morning.
I asked each child what their favorite part of the temple was, and then why.
S: "The bride's room. It was so beautiful, and I could imagine myself in there, the center of attention, getting ready to be married."
J: "The room with all of the chandeliers and lights [Celestial room], because it is so beautiful and makes me think of being with Heavenly Father.
L: "The pond." Why? "Because it had water and all of those cows." I surmised that she was referring to the baptismal font, held up by carvings of twelve oxen representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
Anyway, after I came home that night, while contemplating my gratitude for my own family and temples that seal us together as families and allow us to commune more closely with Diety, I wrote the following:
God, who guarded ancient Israel
With a cloud and shining flame,
Once again shall keep His people
In a house built to His name.
In the tops of holy mountains
Is His habitation raised.
Come, ye children of the promise,
Enter in and sing His praise.
May our cov'nants be recordedl
Seal us, Lord, beyond the veil,
Bound by sacred priesthood power,
Though our mortal flesh should fail.
Then, with children linked to fathers,
Mighty Michael at the head,
May we gain again thy presence,
Father, Lord of quick and dead.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Tighter lending standards
No wonder no one can get a loan. It seems lending standards are getting tighter at nearly every bank these days.
Congratulations, Wendy!
I just got the happy news that my sister and her husband have finalized the adoption proceedings for their precious little girl. I'm so happy for them and am sure that they will continue to be good parents, and I wish them all the best with the hundreds of sleepless nights yet to come.
Friday, January 23, 2009
The Omnificent English Dictionary in Limerick Form
I like writing lyrics and poetry and am also a bit of a "word nerd." So, it's' not surprising I found something very charming about a dictionary with a limerick for every definition.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Now this to worry about?
It seems the earth may be part of a giant hologram and that everything we do is simply a projection of some process happening elsewhere in two dimensions:
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20126911.300-our-world-may-be-a-giant-hologram.html
This is what happens when you stack assumptions on top of assumptions on top of other assumptions. Physics and philosophy have merged.
http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20126911.300-our-world-may-be-a-giant-hologram.html
This is what happens when you stack assumptions on top of assumptions on top of other assumptions. Physics and philosophy have merged.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
From the dead
So, the company I first interviewed with back in early October and had given up for dead contacted me again today, reiterated their strong interest, and sent me a bunch of their confidential information to review. Based on everything that was said and the history, I think it's reasonably likely I'll be offered the job. So, here's my dilemma:
I like my current job pretty well, and the salary is plenty, but the growth potential is limited. My boss is really cool, though, as are my team members. Job security is reasonably good given this economy. I'm part of a decent-sized law department at a company with several thousand employees.
The new job would be general counsel of a start-up with about 80 people. Being in senior management of a smaller company is something I've always thought I'd like to try eventually, but it will be a learning curve now because I'm still relatively young. The new people seem pretty cool, and I get along with them, although they've been pretty slow at communicating. Salary would probably be a little better, which I don't care about much, and I'd get some ownership in the company, which would be great, because I could retire early and go on several missions. Sounds great. BUT...I'm very risk-averse, and this company is operating on a shoestring, limping from financing round to round, and they are not yet even cash flow positive, so there is a big risk. It would also surely be more stressful than my current job, since I'd go from mid-level, non-management to the legal go-to guy in a company with some unique challenges.
Bottom line: security with a job and people I know I enjoy, or take a pretty risky shot in a bad economy at a dream job with a chance to prove myself, grow a new business, and make money I don't need to meet my needs? Oh, and there's this: my wife and I have felt for several months like we were supposed to move to the metro area with the new job, which is about an hour from where we live now. If we successfully sell our home (we showed it again today) and don't take a new job, it will be an annoying commute to my current job for as long as I remain there.
I like my current job pretty well, and the salary is plenty, but the growth potential is limited. My boss is really cool, though, as are my team members. Job security is reasonably good given this economy. I'm part of a decent-sized law department at a company with several thousand employees.
The new job would be general counsel of a start-up with about 80 people. Being in senior management of a smaller company is something I've always thought I'd like to try eventually, but it will be a learning curve now because I'm still relatively young. The new people seem pretty cool, and I get along with them, although they've been pretty slow at communicating. Salary would probably be a little better, which I don't care about much, and I'd get some ownership in the company, which would be great, because I could retire early and go on several missions. Sounds great. BUT...I'm very risk-averse, and this company is operating on a shoestring, limping from financing round to round, and they are not yet even cash flow positive, so there is a big risk. It would also surely be more stressful than my current job, since I'd go from mid-level, non-management to the legal go-to guy in a company with some unique challenges.
Bottom line: security with a job and people I know I enjoy, or take a pretty risky shot in a bad economy at a dream job with a chance to prove myself, grow a new business, and make money I don't need to meet my needs? Oh, and there's this: my wife and I have felt for several months like we were supposed to move to the metro area with the new job, which is about an hour from where we live now. If we successfully sell our home (we showed it again today) and don't take a new job, it will be an annoying commute to my current job for as long as I remain there.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
New year
Man, I've been slacking at posting anything on my blog. Part of it was I was waiting for a final resolution on that interview I mentioned in my last post. Unfortunately, the company has reeeaaaly been dragging their feet. They say they like me, but I think they're afraid to hire a new employee who won't be directly producing revenue, given the current economic climate. And I confess, I'm nervous about going to a startup in this climate, too. So, the waiting continues. In the meantime, I'm trying to recommit to my job here and get on with other goals for the new year. A few of them:
Exercise at least 3x per week. I've been using the elliptical almost every day the past two weeks, and it feels great. It's a nice way to keep my energy up in the winter months especially.
Study my Spanish a couple of hours per week to get ready for the trip to Latin America I'm taking with my dad, brother, and brothers-in-law in November. My Spanish is surely the worst of the bunch. So far, no progress there.
Family scripture study and prayer (almost) every night. Doing pretty well.
No raising my voice in anger. Always room for me to improve here and keep my home a pleasant place where the Spirit is felt and where family members and friends want to be.
So, that's it. After a great trip to Hawaii with the family in December, it's time to hit the ground running. I'm excited to see what changes this new year will bring, even if the economy doesn't seem to warrant optimism.
Exercise at least 3x per week. I've been using the elliptical almost every day the past two weeks, and it feels great. It's a nice way to keep my energy up in the winter months especially.
Study my Spanish a couple of hours per week to get ready for the trip to Latin America I'm taking with my dad, brother, and brothers-in-law in November. My Spanish is surely the worst of the bunch. So far, no progress there.
Family scripture study and prayer (almost) every night. Doing pretty well.
No raising my voice in anger. Always room for me to improve here and keep my home a pleasant place where the Spirit is felt and where family members and friends want to be.
So, that's it. After a great trip to Hawaii with the family in December, it's time to hit the ground running. I'm excited to see what changes this new year will bring, even if the economy doesn't seem to warrant optimism.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)