I had an interesting opportunity presented to me at work yesterday… I don’t talk about my job that much around here, although I’ve spilled the beans to some of you at random times, so those in the know might consider what I do for a living pretty cool, or at least interesting. It allows me to work in sports, and travel to many events every year. For example, for those of you who are friends with me on Facebook (me personally, not the blog), were inundated with several pictures of hi-jinks in New Orleans last week for the Super Bowl.
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| To-Be-MVP Joe Flacco Warming up Super Bowl Pregame |
Anyway….
Yesterday I was presented the opportunity to go to Jacksonville, Florida. Permanently. My department in Pennsylvania is closing this summer as part of a company consolidation, and my bosses feel strongly about my work to date and future with the organization that they’d really like it if rather than accepting a severance package & moving on, I move down to the Sunshine State and work at the Mothership. In all honesty, some people may re-actively be turned off by such an ask, but I’m flattered, it feels good to be recognized & wanted, especially in a time when others are not as fortunate.
Here’s the deal. I don’t know how I feel about Jacksonville. I’ve been there several times over the past few years. It’s just like most cities. There are good parts of town and bad parts of town, I’ve been fortunate to have found many of the good in my travels. I know my family will find its way, heck, my wife navigated through cancer…and I’m sure I could probably score a house for Lilly with the swimming pool and trampoline she’s always wanted.
But do you know what Jacksonville doesn’t have? Coldwater streams… With real trout… What I’d consider legit Tenkara opportunities. You know how I like me some Tenkara. Yes, Jacksonville has great inshore & saltwater fishing, even fly fishing for bass, but the former is such a part of who I am…such a part of what I love, and daydream about when I’m at said job, that…I’m…well…confused.
Am I ready to trade in my T! sticker for a Salt Life sticker?
Is this what’s in store for me (& the blog?)
I don’t know, but I have about a month and a half to figure it all out.
I’m open to advice, suggestions, you name it, because right about now, all are welcomed.
Take it from me, they are easier to take off your neck than skin cancer…and I've worn both!
No problem – I've moved a five times for work so I can give you some battle-tested relo/family insight too.
New Logo…New Uniforms…and I agree, new location by 2015.
Thanks Kiwi. Oh, the tenkara rods won't go unused…even if it just for “cane pole fishin'” 🙂
We've got all Spring. Whenever you want.
Tenkara summit is a given. And should I move, don't think you'll be getting off easy. I'll be keeping tabs. Photoshop still works from Florida (I think…)
Thanks. Your advice makes too much sense. Also, a semi-annual trip West will definitely be in the cards should this happen. No doubt.
I wish for you the best in whatever choice you choose. 8yrs ago I relocated from San Diego to Boone, NC. No job just a hope that things would work out. At least you have employment going for you. Some work is better than no work.
Ok…I can't help but toss my $.02 in on this one. River Dammsel is dead right on the company aspect. A company that feels THAT strongly about you is worth its weight in gold-that is a rare thing in this day and age. My only caveat to that is that it must be a family decision and work for everyone. And the trout thing…as a full blooded cold water fishery kind of fella…I get your angst about leaving it behind…but truth is truth…You will always be a troutster at heart and there are plenty of us who would gladly host you for a cold water getaway. The fact that you have polled the crowd tells me that you will give this every bit as much thought as it warrants. All I ask is that you keep writing. 🙂
Thanks Kevin. I agree, things could certainly be worse. Going to head down with the wife in 2 weeks to do some serious scouting. Depending on how that goes, we'll see…
Thanks MacLoosh. Fear not, I'll keep writing no matter what. Like Clif said, my blog is hardly about fishing anyway…
Congrats, Mike! I know you work hard and can only guess by the offer that you are really good at what you do. Having lived in New England for over 20 years, I have always believed I would never move to Florida or Southern California, unless an outstanding opportunity awaited me there. If you like your job and the company, your decision is already made. I don't care how good you are, looking for work now really, really sucks.If you are still on the fence, I recommend you listen to this Freakonomics podcast and visit their new website about making life changing decisions (http://www.freakonomics.com/2013/01/24/introducing-freakonomics-experiments-a-new-marketplace-podcast/)BTW… As I watch the snow blow outside my window, a move to Florida …. nah I like the snow better ;-).
Thanks for the viewpoint & the link, I'll check it out. Firmly on the fence a week ago, I'm coming around to the prospect now. It's still going to be different, any way you slice it.
I say make the move to Fl! Job security is nothing to sneeze at in this economy of layoffs and downsizing. Plus, you'll be pretty close to all of the great stream bass fishing we have to offer in AL… especially if you like to drive. It would be my pleasure to show you some our bass waters here in the Heart of Dixie.Whatever you decide, best of luck to you.