John Bell:  

Hi Friends! Decided to update this old story line. So, here goes... I've got a good Budweiser buzz on so bare with me please - it's my truth serum. No, had to give up the other stuff... damn drug test really put a damper on the career. lol. Since HS... gave my best shot at a career in Medicine as a Doctor. Unfortunately, I found out that I pass out at the site of blood - usually mine. Not good for most Dr's. that I know. I figured then that I should be a professional fisherman... however, never found a Bachelor's degree in fishing. Crap. I vowed never to touch a computer when I was still in HS. However, computers is how I've made my living thus far. I ended up getting a degree in Electronics Engineering Technology from Texas A&M University. Best decision I've ever made. I can't imagine my life without the clicking of the mouse and the ever present access to the most wretched pornography available to human kind. NO NO NO!! That was a joke! I rarely use a mouse. I'm a proficient software developer for Windows - done 'em all. Started with C then moved to Delphi and now am into C# and the .NET Framework. I love it. Not doing any serious development anymore - but I do keep my skills up with various utilities as my job requires. I now work for a company that develops process engineering and manufacturing execution systems for printed circuit board manufacturers. It's good stuff. I travel the world and deploy these systems at OEM's and EMS companies - anyone who builds circuit boards. I did have my falling out of this career back in 2001. After 12 years I went thru the proverbial mid life crisis sans the Harley Davidson. I quit my job and took a year off to 'find myself'. I was quite lost. Too much money and not enough self discipline - I found it difficult to leave the party if you know what I'm sayin'. Oh, I had my fun... a little too much fun really. Falsely assumed that the money would always be rolling in and got myself in a world of debt that was, quite frankly, stupid! When I quit my job... I lost it all - and I mean all! The trucks, boats, guitars, amps... all of the toys that boys love. Gone in an instant. I was left with the clothes on my back, a backpack, and some hiking shoes. I couldn't even afford a pack of smokes. Had to move back in with my parents at the age of 38. Nice huh? Not my proudest achievement... LOL. I knew I had to make a serious change in lifestyle and start acting like a financially responsible adult. Oh, don't get me wrong... I've always been a responsible person - great careers, lots of advancement, ever increasing pay and position. But, I let my personal life go by the wayside and found myself quite unhappy and somewhat self destructive. Did I say somewhat? LOL. I was a freight train of self destruction - seeking happiness in all the wrong places doing all t...Expand for more