Funny how things change

It's funny how - once everything starts falling into place - little things don't bother you as much. Personally, I noticed this when my wife and I finally found a new apartment and I found a new job.

At my current (soon to be former) job, there were certain co-workers and management styles that would get under my skin. Actually, that's putting it mildly: they pissed me off to no end. Drove me absolutely bug-freakin' insane on some days. After I put in my resignation, all of that faded away; fluttered off into the ether, presumably to attach itself to the poor sap that takes over my position. If I had known that it would be this relaxing, I would have resigned much earlier. Now, I get to look forward to my last day here; realizing that once those doors close behind me I never have to step foot in this fluorescent-lit cubicle farm of hell again. I may giggle with glee; perhaps I'll skip. Who knows. Whatever I do I'll make sure to leave on a professional note, because who knows? Someone here may help me along later in my career.

A few months ago, I posted about a problem we were having with our landlords and another post about the annoying barking dog upstairs. The landlords aren't that much of an issue. We've been forced to realize that they're just not as nice as they used to be; that they really don't care about the places that much. If they did, they wouldn't be selling them. Oh, and they'd probably be more honest with the tenants that have just or will be signing leases shortly. As for the barking dog, that seemed to resolve itself when the people moved out rather quickly - more than likely it was because they were evicted due to the complaints about the dog. Unfortunately, the new tenant also has an annoying dog as does the new tenant in the back apartment. Lots more annoying barking, with a side of lawn-grenades. Meh. I'm sure the person that's renting our place will be understanding, until the second or third time they lose sleep or have to scrape dogshit off of their shoes. As for my wife and I, we're moving to a beautiful apartment a little in the country. There are neighbors above us, but they'll be moving out in October and I'm sure that whoever moves in above us will be quiet; our new landlord seems right on top of things.

So, we're leaving a metric ton of stress behind for greener pastures. There are things we'll miss here - friends; certain restaurants; etc. - but we can always drop in for a visit. Onward and upward, as they say.

Feel free to drop in for a beer and a chat. Arbor Brewing is a short drive away, and we always have room for our friends.

'tis official...

...I'm employed. Well, I'm employed in Grand Rapids, but not for much longer. In a couple weeks I'll be relocating to the quaint little town of Saline along with my wife, who will be starting a glorious - and hectic - career as a graduate student at the University of Michigan. I, on the other hand, was looking at being horribly unemployed and slowly going bald whilst worrying about paying bills.

Until today, that is.

About an hour ago, I received a call from the wonderful woman who interviewed me - while it's not "official" (meaning, I still have to meet the owner and go through a background check), I have the position. Not bad for three months of work: 150 resumes, and countless phone calls and trips for interviews.

The job itself sounds challenging. Essentially, I'll be responsible for redesigning the company website, working on amazing amounts of print work (postcards, direct mail, logo design, etc.) as well as maintaining ads on sites like AutoTrader.com and corporate "sister" sites. While I'm giddy about finally having a position before I move, I'm also sitting in rigid anticipation at the sheer amount of work I'll be doing. Damn, I'm going to enjoy it...my inner geek asplode.

What else is left to say besides: "Look ma! I'm usin' my degree!"