Decisions Decisions

It has been a while, but it is for a good reason. I only blog when I have a subject worth mentioning.

Since my last post in November, a lot has taken place. First, I finished my co-op assignment with SABIC Innovative Plastics, formerly GE Plastics, in Parkersburg, West Virginia. It was a bittersweet departure. I gained a lot of worthwhile experience during the six months at the plastic manufacturing plant as well as a very good friend. Brian Reed, my mentor and engineer with whom I worked nearly everyday, taught me countless invaluable lessons during my stay. He is truly a wonderful Christian man and good role model.

Although it was tough to leave it all behind, it was great to get back home and enjoy the holidays with my family and the Halls. Naturally, it involved a lot of excessive eating, weight gain, and fellowship. It could not have been better. Whitney and I also enjoyed another fantastic performance by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra in Columbus after a lovely dinner at Buca di Beppo.

Now, for the more exciting and important news. I pursued an interviewing opportunity with Timken in Canton, Ohio during the month of October and another with SABIC IP near Albany, New York in December. My first commercial flying experience turned out to be quite enjoyable even though it was very cold and snowing most of the time. While in New York, I received an offer from Timken. On the day that I left Parkersburg, I received an offer from SABIC IP. So, this made for a difficult decision for Whitney and I to make. We tried to see the big picture and consider all portions of each offer including the cost of living in those areas in which we might live. After consideration, we decided to accept the offer from SABIC IP for a position in their two-year program known as the Operations Development Program. The job will require relocation to Mt. Vernon, Indiana just west of Evansville. It is roughly six hours from the Chillicothe area.

I have to say that I am truly blessed to have the loving support of Whitney. Without her help, the decision and our future move would be near impossible. For her to be willing to stick with me blows my mind every time I think about it. Her patience and reassurance is refreshing. I am glad I do not have to face this challenge alone.

I moved back to Athens on Friday, January 4. Classes started today. By the looks of it, it should be a fairly light quarter with respect to work load. That will definitely be a change considering last year.

As our future plans develop, I will be sure to post the information. We appreciate the prayers.