A week in the Valley

I just recently returned from a week long solo trip to Fresno.
The purpose: To gain some experience, along with some extra income, working in my father's dental practice.
The transportation: Bus/Train.
The experience: Bittersweet.

Cheryl had another week of work after I was done with school, and instead of just lounging around the apartment in my bathrobe, honing my Wii Bowling skills (more on this after our holiday trip to see both sides of the family), Cheryl shipped me off to Fresno to get some work done. First some Praises: Amtrak does a nearly flawless job at coordinating it's bus/train connection and "for all intents and purposes" is a fantastic mode of transportation. However, it sure takes a LONG time. I understand that the gentle rocking and clickity-clackity of the train and it's tracks makes for a relaxing trip, but the views aren't that great, speaking about the valley, and any train ride after 5pm will get you nothing but a a nice reflection of yourself in the glass. I fear that my days of train riding might be coming to an end. Amtrak only goes as far north as Sacramento, I'll never know why, and I might be in the midst of a lifestyle transition; where my time becomes more valuable than my money. At which case, I will be purchasing more plane tickets and less train tickets, assuming Southwest Airlines keeps doing what it does best.

The time at my dad's office was an amazing learning experience and I left with a much greater appreciation for not only my father's capabilities as an all-around general dentist, but his staff as well. I will need to surround myself with capable employees who will work to their fullest potential and take a vested interest in the success of my practice. "You are only as strong as your weakest link" and that can't apply any better that to a dental office. Since the dentist IS the boss/owner/decision-maker - call it what you like - there is limitless potential for growth through feedback and change, not only financially, but in the quality and ethicacy of the treatment of patients. Bottom-Line: I have a a lot to learn about how to run a business and it will do me well to keep my eyes open to the specific dynamics of the dental offices I visit/work in over these next few years.

Thanks Dad and Mom for a great week in Fresno, but I sure missed you Cheryl. Fresno is aweful cold this time of year; Maybe I should ask for thermal underware this Christmas?