6 years ago I dreamed about being employed by Google. Now I dread worrying that I might have to apply there again as a fallback. Imagine that.
What I've come to see, however, is that Google is not necessarily the best place for everyone to work.
1. You really need to fit the mold. While I think I could be a cultural fit, I wouldn't want to be (based on what I've seen professionally and with friends)
2. I've become more familiar with Google's method to product and feature development, and it's not something I'd want to deal with as an engineer
3. Office politics. Many of my friends are Xooglers, and they have horror stories galore. I know that not everyone has that experience, but I like to avoid environments that foster that kind of BS
4. If I would get a job on the Android team, it probably wouldn't be doing exactly what I want (which leads me to...)
5. I've found workplaces where I've thrived professionally and socially. Sure, the compensation and prestige is a little less (but you'd be surprised to find out that it's not by much), but you can't discount being comfortable where you are