Dino and I were on “our” way to Blenheim this morning,
I slept okay, but could feel the restlessness when I got up this morning. I kept on telling myself that this was just a visit, but I knew there was much more at stake. The road calmed down as soon as I left Christchurch and was almost empty past the Lewis Pass turn off, so “our” progress was good and steady. 4 Hours in the car to get my head into gear and the Hamster on the ready. I was still not sure how this was going to turn out and it could be followed by a pretty interesting and busy stint of my life. Lots to think about I guess.
My meeting started at 11am, greeting everyone first and then got taken around the workshop and fabrication area for a tour. It was nice to see the “things” I was going to work on and support in real life. There was one unit with a fault in the field, so I went on a “call out” with one of the guys. Seeing the machines in action and also faultfinding to get to the bottom of a problem was a real hidden privilege. I could get a sense of the workmanship and resources available. I had a great time, but getting back to the office left me with more questions and I didn’t like everything I saw and experienced. This is going to be a hard decision and I was hoping the visit would help with that… but it didn’t.
By the end of the day I was very conflicted when I reached the hotel. Lots to consider and a lot to think about… possible movements, job satisfactions and the future of this place… with or without me. They put me up in a fancy hotel (great) and I took a walk around town after making a call to try and clear my head. I can think when I walk (<-surprise surprise LOL). Blenheim is pretty small compared to what I am use to and the pavements and street are empty after 6pm. It feels unreal, walking around a new town that I have never explored before… a bit like being on the trail actually. I guess I have a decision to make, and not an easy one.
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43.5323 – 172.5567
22 January 2025
FP-377