quote Originally posted by FieroRumor: Yes, there ARE some 'perks' to this new place... but It's the fact that at this place there's opportunity to grow and constantly be working on NEW things...!

Yep, I can see how certain part of ya might grow there.

You should stay where you are. How many other bowling centers could you work at if that one fails and lets you go. $40000 with no benefits is not a good deal for someone in their 50s

The only way I would go back is if they signed a 3 year contract and paid $50000 plus benefits.

quote Originally posted by maryjane: I did EXACTLY that. Went back to the terra firma of my childhood.. I am, back where I roamed in my early teens, every ravine and knoll so familar even after all this time. You CAN indeed go back "home".

So that's 1 yes, 43 no's?

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And they said one to another, "Behold, for here comes the dreamer. Come now, let us slay him and we shall see what then will become of his dreams." ~ Genesis 37: 19-20

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: So that's 1 yes, 43 no's?

2 yesses... $40,000 is a **** -pot of money comparing it to $20,000. $10 an hour is terrible pay and you aren't going to get ahead anytime soon on that wage. You've already taken a risk once, why not again?

quote Originally posted by ls3mach: 2 yesses... $40,000 is a **** -pot of money comparing it to $20,000. $10 an hour is terrible pay and you aren't going to get ahead anytime soon on that wage. You've already taken a risk once, why not again?

$40,000 IS a lot of money to me.
Maybe the most I will ever make at 50.
Even through corporate.
Corporate does offer benifits, which would add up to be more, but corporate is also a lot of azz-kissin' game-playin'.

Delayed gratifacation, corporate is the smart move.
Instant gratifacation is served by the other.

My WHOLE life I never know what to do.
I just always do it, and make it work.

I never know what to do.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: I don't like rain / I don't like snow.

You should have kept moving futher south, then!

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: My WHOLE life I never know what to do. I just always do it, and make it work. I never know what to do.

Boonie, none of us know what to do. Realistically, life is a crap shoot. I thought I was doing everything right all my life. Put time in at a place that had been around for a hundred years and lost. Put money away for retirement, and lost. Held onto what I could over the years, but that has kept me alive and kicking. And isn’t that all you can hope for.

Do what you and the Mrs. think is right. No one can be absolutely sure they are going to do the right thing, just hope and pray if you do that, that all will go well.

Good luck at what ever you decide to do.

I, like Don came back home, while not right where I grew up but to where they say in the news is the most laid back state in the US. I love it, the idea that I don’t have to worry about being carjacked, home invaded, or shot walking down the street.

Things have changed but are still the same here in Maine, like Alaska, and Texas.

No 2 places are the same, but do what ever you think is right. Good luck.

Steve

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Technology is great when it works,
and one big pain in the ass when it doesn't.
Detroit iron rules all the rest are just toys.

quote Originally posted by 84fiero123: Boonie, none of us know what to do. Realistically, life is a crap shoot. I thought I was doing everything right all my life. Put time in at a place that had been around for a hundred years and lost. Put money away for retirement, and lost. Held onto what I could over the years, but that has kept me alive and kicking. And isn’t that all you can hope for. Do what you and the Mrs. think is right. No one can be absolutely sure they are going to do the right thing, just hope and pray if you do that, that all will go well. Good luck at what ever you decide to do. I, like Don came back home, while not right where I grew up but to where they say in the news is the most laid back state in the US. I love it, the idea that I don’t have to worry about being carjacked, home invaded, or shot walking down the street. Things have changed but are still the same here in Maine, like Alaska, and Texas. No 2 places are the same, but do what ever you think is right. Good luck. Steve

This could be the most expensive mistake I ever made.
This move cost me every dime I had and put me in the low-middle 5-figures into debt.
And all I really learned is a little fish in a big pond is a head-down situation.

In the big pond I have to start from scratch.
In the little pond I can jump right to the finish line.

So, is the main thing the win, or the race itself?

[This message has been edited by Boondawg (edited 04-09-2011).]

YGPM

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: My WHOLE life I never know what to do. I just always do it, and make it work. I never know what to do.

And you think the rest of us are some kind of prophetic Gods, who can see the future? When I took the job I have now, I actually was negotiating with an old co-worker to work for him. It was down to minor details. Small company in the solar field. LOTS of room to move up. He was VP, and, for some strange reason, really thought highly of me. But he could only bring me in as a contractor to start. That, and the fact that the company had NEVER made money in it's lifetime, threw me.

So I went elsewhere. Good decision? Even time won't tell. Once you take one road, the road not taken changes. And you change. So comparisons are impossible. Whatever you do, you WILL make it work. Because failure is not an option.

YOU

ARE

BOONDAWG!

Perhaps it is time for Him to reconquor the frozen north. Those He left behind cry out to Him, "We were weak, and doubted. Forgive us!" And once again He turns His face toward them. BEHOLD! The snows melt at the radiance of His gaze.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: So, is the main thing the win, or the race itself?

I can’t say, only you can. And no matter what, never look back and say “I should have.”

I have a few regrets, mostly related to my health but we have little control over what happens. Like I said it is a crap shoot.

Some will say it’s the race, others will say the win. But it is you who has to answer that question for yourself.

Steve

------------------
Technology is great when it works,
and one big pain in the ass when it doesn't.
Detroit iron rules all the rest are just toys.

quote Originally posted by ls3mach: YGPM

Thanx.

quote I wonder who here at 50 is making $40,000 a year?

I spending more than that a year, with no income, and have been doing so for over three years now.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: All things considered, i'd rather be you.

No, you wouldn't. I deeply appreciate the sentiment, but there is much you DON'T know about me, and my situation.

You are Boondawg. That is not a trifling thing. The man has lived an adveturous life. Zeb can't even spell advencher without a spellcheck.

Besides, you'd have to live in New Jersey. I think that'd be a deal-breaker right there.

quote Originally posted by avengador1: I spending more than that a year, with no income, and have been doing so for over three years now.

Oh, so you know how great it is!

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: I wonder who here at 50 is making $40,000 a year? For a drop-out/ex-dopesmoker who is not getting any smarter, stronger, or faster, that is alot of money!

Im 46

Suck it up, I finished 11th and 12th grade in trade school
Joined the Navy before I got in anymore trouble and spent the next 4 years with my head down. When I got out I went back to what I know and just got stuck in a rut.

I picked my life back up and went to school, paid for it myself and have been working on computers and networks for the last 11 years.
You only have to make a choice.

Yes I make more than $40000 a year and that doesn't include what they pay me in benefits. (Edit - I wont keep a job that wont offer benifits)

Ok now that the tough love is out of the way. Dude do what will make you happy and those around you happy. Money is only a small part of life. There are homeless people that are happier than some of the people I know.

[This message has been edited by Jake_Dragon (edited 04-09-2011).]

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Yeah, but being as smart as you are would even it all up.

To be as "smart" as me you'd have to remove half your brane. I googled "smart" All I got was pictures of some tiny clown car.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: P.S. I guess I kinda' always have been an open book, here. Someday someone will be able to go back and trace 'The Rise & Fall'........or 'Why You Shouldn't Smoke Dope For 35 Years'.

Perhaps it will look like this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wik...e_of_Reginald_Perrin

I think I would go back, just in the next three years you would have 60 grand more (less tax etc.). That is a nice chunk for investing for the future. I think the place you work now is just waving carrots and you have little time for BS.

Since you are almost local I would like to meet you before you go though.

quote Originally posted by Red88FF: Since you are almost local I would like to meet you before you go though.

Hell, I think I'd even drive down from Vancouver for the opportunity.

Just saw this thread. Having lived in Anchorage for 3 years (and Tacoma for 2), I'd probably stay put. There are many reasons you left, so it's probably a good idea to ride the wave. Going back could be a mistake.

If it was me I would pray about it and have much thoughtful discussion with my better half before deciding anything. But I'd also be leaning towards staying.

Either way good luck Boonie.

Thanks for the invite Don
You want to know what I would do? OK..pin back your lugholes, and here it comes

Very simple. I would use the offer (IF IT IS WRITTEN IN STONE ) as a simple but effective bargaining chip. The answers you get will determine the outcome for you.
Go to your Management. Say you want to have a serious discussion with him/them. Now you have their undivided attention, (hopefully ), explain to them the situation. " Sir, I am grateful for the job opening you have given me here. I am finding the job to be interesting, testing, and expanding my experience greatly. However, although I have not tried to find alternative employment since I started here, because I am grateful FOR the job, and always put loyalty at the top of my self-demands, I have been contacted by the leading competition in my old State of Alaska. They have offered me a position which, had I been in Alaska still, I would have seized with both hands.
But things have changed now. I have moved down here because it seemed that my opportunities for financial and job- position improvement offer more scope.
The opportunity they are offering me would make it very, very tempting to pack up and return there. However, I am NOT the kind of person who throws fate to the winds,( edit to add Not TOO often ) and like to feel I am a responsible worker for my employer, and can be relied on to do the best I can for THEM. Having said that, Sir, the financial benefits on offer are considerably more than I am at present enjoying, and with the economy etc being so bad, I have to seriously consider my, and my family's financial position.
I hope I have been exhibiting the kind of enthusiasm and commitment to my job that has impressed you, and if that is the case, then I am asking you to review my salary and work situation somewhat earlier than the Contract we have for my employment has set, which I believe comes up for review in 2+ years from now."

The ball is then firmly in their court. You won't have tendered your resignation at all, and it then becomes THEIR problem to unravel.
IF they are so minded to think you are worth more to them than they are presently paying, and that you are a good investment for THEM they will, if they have any sense at ALL, review and discuss your remuneration and terms immediately. If they DON'T...well then...your mind is made up for you ..you move back to Alaska...but ONLY on the terms of a guaranteed 5 year contract (I didn't like the bit about giving the other guy 2 years to decide to move away or NOT...beware that they are not using you as a pawn to manipulate a person they went to great expense and effort to tempt in the first place ) I would certainly get THAT in writing BEFORE talking to your present employer.
The timing of it all is of vital importance Don. Get all your armament lined up and ready to go, before you embark upon a decision which could unravel EITHER WAY if you don't.
Nick
( PS...I would give my eye teeth and perhaps one testicle to be earning $20,000 WITH benefits right now )

[This message has been edited by fierofetish (edited 04-09-2011).]

quote Originally posted by fierofetish: Thanks for the invite Don You want to know what I would do? OK..pin back your lugholes, and here it comes

Thanks for the idea.
Unfortunatly, where I am at they don't place much value on me.
They have already hinted that I am overpaid.
They expected me to come on line much faster, based on my former expirience.
And they have already made comments that my memory (lack of retention) is a real problem.

So, my 'diminished' state really don't leave me much leverage.

Boonie, I think I would move back, enjoy being the the man, for double the pay.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Thanks for the idea. Unfortunatly, where I am at they don't place much value on me. They have already hinted that I am overpaid. They expected me to come on line much faster, based on my former expirience. And they have already made comments that my memory (lack of retention) is a real problem. So, my 'diminished' state really don't leave me much leverage.

But it would , apparently, give you an answer Boonie to your dilemma. If you are so unsure of your future there, then look at it this way:
You have an indeterminate future where you are now (from your comment above...or is that you being defeatist:wf:?). And you are being 'headhunted' by somebody who knows of you, and apparently thinks you are THE Man, and went to the bother of contacting you to offer you double your current salary.You could probably pay off your debts in 18 months with what they are offering you...or is the prospect of them finding out you 'financial mini-holocaust' that gives you trepidation? At least you can leave your present job voluntarily, and go straight into employment...going for a step-up (a BIG one ) in personal employment terms can hardly be considered irrational or flippant, IMHO. And if they DID terminate you because of your 'perceived shortcomings' as you have stated above...where would you be then? Wouldn't look good on your CV when you tried to find other employment where you are now, whereas personal betterment is a legitimate and understandable career move in anybody's eyes.
I therefore say, I personally would go back. Familiarity may well bring contempt, but it also can bring security and peace of mind. And you would, according to your comments, slot straight in to a reasonably lucrative postition, doing something familiar and confidence-building.
Nick

Whenever you are faced with two choices, just flip a coin. It works not because it settles the question for you, but rather because in that brief moment while the coin is in the air, you suddenly realize what you are hoping for.-Kevin Purdy

Brad

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: Unfortunatly, where I am at they don't place much value on me. They have already hinted that I am overpaid. They expected me to come on line much faster, based on my former expirience. And they have already made comments that my memory (lack of retention) is a real problem.

Make sure you wife is aware of this, it may hedge her decision.

Have High School diploma so, my numbers do not really count. At 44, and having done well for myself financially otherwise, I would be ok with making "only" $40,000 but, I would want benefits. What I quoted above and spouse would weigh heavy in the decision.

quote Originally posted by FriendGregory: Make sure you wife is aware of this, it may hedge her decision.

I tell my wife everything.
Except if I suspect something is wrong with me medically....

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: I tell my wife everything. Except if I suspect something is wrong with me medically....

You learned to do that too I see. Wise move--they nag and nag ya to go to the Dr as soon as ya even hint you aren't in 100% perfect health.

I just tell mine "I can't go. They'd find out about all the rat poison you've been slippin into my dinner."

quote Originally posted by fierofetish: Thanks for the invite Don You want to know what I would do? OK..pin back your lugholes, and here it comes Very simple. I would use the offer (IF IT IS WRITTEN IN STONE ) as a simple but effective bargaining chip. The answers you get will determine the outcome for you. Go to your Management. Say you want to have a serious discussion with him/them. Now you have their undivided attention, (hopefully ), explain to them the situation. " Sir, I am grateful for the job opening you have given me here. I am finding the job to be interesting, testing, and expanding my experience greatly. However, although I have not tried to find alternative employment since I started here, because I am grateful FOR the job, and always put loyalty at the top of my self-demands, I have been contacted by the leading competition in my old State of Alaska. They have offered me a position which, had I been in Alaska still, I would have seized with both hands. But things have changed now. I have moved down here because it seemed that my opportunities for financial and job- position improvement offer more scope. The opportunity they are offering me would make it very, very tempting to pack up and return there. However, I am NOT the kind of person who throws fate to the winds,( edit to add Not TOO often ) and like to feel I am a responsible worker for my employer, and can be relied on to do the best I can for THEM. Having said that, Sir, the financial benefits on offer are considerably more than I am at present enjoying, and with the economy etc being so bad, I have to seriously consider my, and my family's financial position. I hope I have been exhibiting the kind of enthusiasm and commitment to my job that has impressed you, and if that is the case, then I am asking you to review my salary and work situation somewhat earlier than the Contract we have for my employment has set, which I believe comes up for review in 2+ years from now." The ball is then firmly in their court. You won't have tendered your resignation at all, and it then becomes THEIR problem to unravel. IF they are so minded to think you are worth more to them than they are presently paying, and that you are a good investment for THEM they will, if they have any sense at ALL, review and discuss your remuneration and terms immediately. If they DON'T...well then...your mind is made up for you ..you move back to Alaska...but ONLY on the terms of a guaranteed 5 year contract (I didn't like the bit about giving the other guy 2 years to decide to move away or NOT...beware that they are not using you as a pawn to manipulate a person they went to great expense and effort to tempt in the first place ) I would certainly get THAT in writing BEFORE talking to your present employer. The timing of it all is of vital importance Don. Get all your armament lined up and ready to go, before you embark upon a decision which could unravel EITHER WAY if you don't. Nick ( PS...I would give my eye teeth and perhaps one testicle to be earning $20,000 WITH benefits right now )

Excellent advice, Nick. Unfortunately, in this day and age, doing this would definitely end up with Boonie back in Alaska, as they'd tell him not to let the door hit him in the @ss on the way out. What you suggested may have worked years ago, but not in the economic climate we have now, and definitely not if they feel he's behind on the learning curve.

Boonie, I feel for ya', buddy. You have quite the dilemma staring you in the face. My vote? If you can get by on what you and your wife make, then stay put. I know the bigger dollars are down the road, but as others have said, having the benefits far outweighs the difference in salary, especially if one of you gets seriously ill. My wife is 54....she's had a heart attack, a cancerous kidney, and has battled atrial fib for several years now. If I had no benefits, I'd be working the rest of my life to pay off those bills. As it is, because we both have health insurance, our out of pocket expenses have been relatively small. Never underestimate having benefits. As for me, I'm also 54, and I make more than $40,000 a year. I have a high school diploma, and I spent 4 years in the Air Force, which has little to do with the job I have now. But I've also been lucky, and have been in the right place at the right time to get jobs that paid fairly well. If I were you...I'd stay where I was, keep learning, and maybe try to find a part time job to help fill in the income.

quote Originally posted by Boondawg: You know, I pray and I pray and I pray. All my life. I never get an answer. Ever. You could hear a pin drop. I hear my own voice just fine, but none other. I am sure I am doing something wrong. Or being ignored. Maybe that is my cross to bear. I gotta' do it all on my own. "If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?"

I'm willing to bet you do get your answers, just not in the way you expect.

Either way, stay or go back, I hope you'll be okay with your choice and not wonder what might have been. Hard to do. I dropped everything and moved to Texas last year, and it was pretty rocky to be honest. The job thing didn't work out and we took a bath on our house so we are currently in an apartment. (Going from 2,000 sq ft and a 2 car garage to a 900 sq ft one br apt is a bit of a change, but we're getting used to being cozy again.) But I am glad I am here, and wouldn't go back even if my old job offered me double my pay.

quote Originally posted by Flamberge: I'm willing to bet you do get your answers, just not in the way you expect.

No, I hear my own voice tell me what to do, and it is always what I was gonna' do anyway, so that is how I know it is only my own voice.
And let me just say, I have never really felt 100% great about my choice.
Or it's results.

I am quite sure God has never spoke to me.
I'm not accusing, just saying.
That's his right.

I wouldn't even consider moving back, unless they are willing to help you relocate back to Alaska and pick up the expenses of your moving back there . You also need to make sure that they are a solid business that isn't going to go out of business a few years down the road. If that happens the whole excercise with be for naught. How confident are you in this company that is offering you all this money? You should also re-examine the reasons you left Alaska in the first place. Are they still valid? Maybe you should compare the pluses and minuses of both places before you make a decision. Most importantly get all promises in writting. Anything promised to you verbally is worthless.

So, that's 3,856 no's, and 3 yes's.

How could 3 people be wrong?!

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And they said one to another, "Behold, for here comes the dreamer. Come now, let us slay him and we shall see what then will become of his dreams." ~ Genesis 37: 19-20