Wednesday, July 07, 2004

Quattro de Julio Weekend

I had a four day weekend because of the 4th of July holiday, so a few months back I planned a trip out to San Diego to visit my siblings and see some of my Southern Californian friends as well. Since visiting them in January, I've been dying to go back out there, pick up a surfboard, and figure out how surfing is done! I mean, what kind of Californian am I if I can't surf???

Well, three days, $35, and several misplaced vertebrae later, I kind of got the knack for the sport and finally figured it out, more or less. The waves were perfect for me, casually breaking and not to big. The sets were coming in pretty consistently and I didn't feel the urge to catch every single wave that came in. Graham gave me some pointers on how to get the job done and thus contributed to a successful weekend in the ocean.

As always, Graham and Brie spoiled me and we had a great weekend together. I can't wait until they come visit me out in the city so I can return the favor and indulge them in some of the city's culture. They are considering a visit in October and even mentioned a possible trip with some of their friends in December during the holidays, which would be a grand old time....

I had a lot more than surfing on my mind in San Diego, however. Thursday night presented me with a much-awaited surprise: my interview had gone well earlier in the day and I was offered a position at a consulting company called CHC Healthcare Solutions. They provide IT security consulting for healthcare clients and they were looking for a security auditor for a NYC hospital chain. This means that I get roll up my sleeves and do more of the technical security work that I've been thirsty for for the last three years. I'm looking forward to the change and I hope that things work out good for me at this job!

One unfortunate side-effect of me taking a new position is that my vacation plans are in disarray now. Because I'll be on "probation" for the first few months while they evaluate my performance, they don't want me to take any significant vacation. This fell into direct conflict with my plans for Spain and Slovakia for September, but, after some discussions, I was able to keep half of the trip and will still make it to Spain...

1 comment:

  1. Anonymous12:06 PM EDT

    Hey surfer dude,
    Sounds like you had a great time in San Diego. We almost moved there a few years back, can't beat the weather. Good luck with the new job. I may have some techy security type questions for you once you get established. Say 'hi' to your family and stop by next time you're back at the old homestead.

    Dave Van't Hof

    ReplyDelete