Robust morale event budget

I've said half-jokingly that the only place I ever drink is at work. While there's some truth to that, it's more the point that the company does a lot of morale events. Sometimes they're simple get togethers in a courtyard between buildings, for big events there are huge blowouts, and some are more intimate outings for small groups.

I really had a good time doing the electric go-kart thing with my fellow dev team members just before Simon was born, but yesterday's event was even better. A ridiculous country club for millionaires has an 18-hole mini-golf course, meaning an actual grass course. It was absolutely beautiful, with views of downtown Seattle and Bellevue, the Olympics and much of Lake Washington and the sound. The weather was just perfect, too.

After an exquisitely catered brunch (complete with mimosas), we organized ourselves into groups to hit the mini-links. I grouped with my officemate Aaron, and two of the galleries devs, Teresa and Albert. I was surprised to putt well enough to win in our group (other groups didn't even keep score), and Teresa was just a few strokes behind me. Aaron had another ten, and Albert had 20 more or something, but overall, we had a good time.

Then afterward, we gathered in the bar for more beverages and good conversation. It was refreshingly not about work, too. Even though we all have lunch together on most days, it's really nice to get out in a social situation with these folks. There's a lot of talented and interesting people there. It's one of the reasons I wish I had a house, because back home I would have thrown a party for everyone by now.

STO is a pretty neat place to be. I'm not sure what my role may be in the long term, but I dig it there.