Drew, I'm sorry your sister is trying to take advantage of you like this.

Steph, I'm glad your brother is doing better. May this relapse be a productive part of his process in creating a sober and prosperous life for himself.

Good luck, flea.

My son wants me to look at some compile problems he's having with java while trying to mod a video game. I'm feeling kinda proud.

So, there might be a plus to this only child thing.

Steph- I am so happy to hear about your brother!

Much career ~ma for flea!

My review is not for awhile, but they have implemented a university-wide online system instead of just having each school or department do what they want. So for many years, my boss has asked that I create specific, measurable goals that are within my power. This year we have been told to make our goals just our job description. So, for example, my "goal" is "register students in student information system" where in previous years my goal would have been something like "work with IT department and register to streamline registration so that students can be notified more quickly". It is weird to get used to.

Also, I just said this over at "askamanager", but why do people smoke weed outside at bus-stops? It is technically illegal! Aren't they afraid of getting caught?

In re reviews: one thing I hated was when a former boss proudly announced that he NEVER gave anyone an outstanding rating. Really? Way to give people incentive, right?

The managerial theory I've heard is that you can't give people top marks or they'll stop striving for improvement, and there's always something that can be improved. Because apparently employees who feel satisfied with their job and feel well-rewarded become lazy.

This year we have been told to make our goals just our job description.

Man, that sounds great.

Because apparently employees who feel satisfied with their job and feel well-rewarded become lazy.

Oh, so that's my problem. I was lazy to begin with! There's nothing to strive for!

That's pretty great, Gud!

Hey, Kate, do you have a realtor recommendation? Since he has time, husband wants to spend a bit of time looking around to see what's what.

Our realtor was fine -- I wouldn't say he went above and beyond, but then our search and sale were both pretty straightforward. His name is Daniel Hayes; here's his website: [link]

Let me know if you want any specifics on neighborhoods. Do you have any idea where you'd be looking? Or where his potential office is?

This year we have been told to make our goals just our job description.

I thought this when I first started, but my boss here helps me come up with really great and achievable goals that make me feel good when I accomplish them, and have me learning and growing. I do have to say that this boss is the only one I have ever had who takes the year-end review as an opportunity for my professional growth and to talk about what I want to be doing, so it is nice.