So close I can taste it...

Remember the big project I was leading? The one for the technology we are transferring to the company in Italy? The one that is the reason I have the opportunity to work in Italy?

Well, we are almost done with the transfer project. It is so close I can taste it. We had one qualification review this evening and have another one on Monday morning. Barring any last minute surprises, we should be qualified.

This has been so much work over the last nine months... I was given the rare opportunity to lead this important project at work, with very big business consequences. What seemed like an insane schedule to begin with was accomplished with the hard work and dedication of a very talented team at both companies. I have been so gratified by the people I've come in contact with on this project. I have learned so much!

But, was it worth it? At times, I worked long hours at night and on weekends. There were days that we had crisis after crisis come up, each one taking energy and focus and immediate reaction. For the first time ever, there were moments I really felt like I hated my job. I was grumpy at times to those around me, including the people I love most.

While I have a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction with being this close to completion, what I really feel is relief. Relief that this huge organizational objective is not going to be on my shoulders anymore. Relief that I can get back to the day-to-day objectives and regular firedrills. Maybe even slack a little. (OK, knowing me, not much, but a little.)

Maybe in a year or two I will feel like it was worth it. Right now I'm not so sure. I'm just ready to be done. And we are so close....