Thank the GODS it's over!
The CDs came today, and I've never been more happy to see a package in my life. (Seriously, I'm writing a 40 page paper for my class in school right now and it hasn't created even half as much stress as this stupid mastering job).
So what about the CD? Well, it sounds pretty good. There is only one song that I am not totally satisfied with, and it's not entirely Sjoko's fault. I mean, he could only work with what I sent him.
Of course, the one song is something we could have easily fixed, but I've certainly had enough waiting anxiously at the mailbox. I'll take it as is. Good enough. End of story.
So folks, what did we learn from this experience? A few things at least:
1) If someone offers to do you a "favor," ask them if you can spend an extra hundred bucks or so to get "normal" business coverage. As it turns out, the favor won't always work in your favor.
2) If you take on a job, and then have circumstances that prevent your getting to it, remember the key word: "communication." Keep in contact with your customers, even the little ones. Send them at least an email saying "I'm sorry I can't get to your job right now, would you like to cancel or wait?"
3) If you are stranded and don't know what to do, try posting here. I can't tell you how reassuring it was to find so many people rushing to help, or at least to try and understand. I seriously think that a little public pressure is what gets things done sometimes. And if you can articulate your position, people really do listen.
4) If it seems like someone is scamming you, just remember that there may be circumstances that you don't know about. Sometimes there are very good reasons they can't actually follow through. So, expect good service, but be fair too.
So now I'll move on with life, a little wiser maybe. I sincerely hope Sjoko gets better soon.
That's all for me folks. I've got to go write that paper....
Squashboy
P.S. I liked the lawnmowing analogy--that was good
