glh's Journal: General Update

Just had the site walkthrough on our lot Weds. It went pretty well! Unfortunately I didn't bring the camera..still need to take some pics. The developer and builder were both there, and they worked out all the details on the lot lines and the where the hookups were for all the utilities. I've also been getting to know the developer- he's a pretty good guy and seems to know just about everyone. Has given me some good advice on how to deal with building a new house and what pitfalls to avoid (he is not affiliated with the builder at all). Oh, and somehow I volunteered myself to help him install Windows XP and get his laptop up and running :) (Kicking myself for revealing I know about computers- but he did ask what I did for a living)

Anyway, our next biggest hurdle is getting the closing set up. I have all the paperwork for the loan finished up- just waiting on the final blue prints to get the developer sign off (which he already verbally has done). Probably another week or so before that happens, and then we plan on closing by the end of October. After that, my wife gets to pick out all the colors, flooring, etc. We'll be driving over to Akron, OH.. anyone out that way?

In other news, work is still keeping me busy. I've got several projects in the middle of development, leading a team of 7 people (3 of which are remote- in the US). Things will probably get even more interesting when we hire a few more offshore developers that are supposed to be on my team. Apparently, 6:30 am meetings are the norm due to time differences... The company gets to save money with cheaper resources, but wants me to work more hours, and crazy ones at that. ?? Hopefully, a good raise will come to counter balance that. On the flip side, at least it is early (I'm a morning person), and I've been getting to work at or before 7am anyway. Plus, since offshoring is the current trend I'm sure it will be good to get some experience manging it.

So it's been a little stressy with work, class and building a house, and making sure to get time with the wife and daughter. But.. hanging in there. Overall I think things are going pretty well. The Lord is my strength!

Ha!

[Lumpish Scholar]

Apparently, 6:30 am meetings are the norm due to time differences... The company gets to save money with cheaper resources, but wants me to work more hours, and crazy ones at that. ??

Yes.

Hopefully, a good raise will come to counter balance that.

No.

(That's three things the company is doing to reduce labor costs.)

... Plus, since offshoring is the current trend I'm sure it will be good to get some experience manging it.

That's like saying, since red power ties are back in fashion,* you'll be better off fi