I Survived Finals

The title tells all... I survived finals. But for those of you who have that knowing smile on their face, I did not get straight A's. I have found my limit and it is 4 grad classes and a baby. I just managed to get good enough grades in two classes to not have to retake them and in the other two... yes I got A's. But at this point I just need to get through and learn the material even if I can't get enough sleep to perform well on exams. I have a job.

So that is the big news. I do have a job. It's official or will be as soon as I sign the paper and send it back - which I will do later today. In May, Aaron, Ian and I will be packing up and moving to Chicago! I will be working for a company called Halcrow which is based out of London, England. The parent company is a civil engineering firm with about 6000 employees in 70 countries! The property group is called Halcrow Yolles and employs about 750 people in three regions: North America, Europe and The Middle East. North America is headquartered in Toronto where about 200 people work - this is also the headquarters of the whole property group. They are just trying to expand into the US and currently have offices in NY and Los Vegas as well as the newest office in Chicago. I think I am one of the first engineers hired in Chicago - besides the principal heading the office. I am sure by the time I start there will be a couple more.

The company made me a good offer. Most importantly it includes health, dental and vision insurance for the whole family - with no contribution required by me. That is rare these days! My theory is that it is because they are headquartered in Canada, where one of their values include the idea that everyone should have decent health care. Strange, but true.

We are happy with our decision and feel that it is the right thing for all of us. The next step is to find an apartment, a job for Aaron, daycare, oh - and complete three more classes successfully. But all in good time. What I really want to do right now is prepare for Christmas.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone over the holidays and if I don't get to see you, please have a Merry Christmas! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!