More Sparky

Hi again,

As I hinted at last week, here are more photos of Aengus and sweet Sparky:


Also, an update on my new job: it's awesome! I am getting paid to learn things I would happily learn for free! Don't tell my employers, though....ha, ha, ha. Seriously, though, it is going great, and I am really enjoying it. It's fun after all these months to have a "job job" that I look forward to going to (gardening with Suzy doesn't count - it was far too cool to be considered a job!).

Anyway, I am happy. It feels good to be productive again, and to be spending my time doing something I find interesting, and that I believe in.

Lastly, although I think I only have about four readers, I would like to give a shout out to those people who haven't had the good fortune I have had and who are struggling with unemployment. I am lucky to have what I have, and I appreciate it that much more after having been in your shoes. I am truly blessed.

Warm wishes for a happy Friday!

I'm leaving the ranks...

...of the semi-/unemployed! That's right, I secured myself a genuine full-time job, and will start on Monday. Hmpf.

Actually, the job sounds pretty sweet, and I feel blessed to have found it. Truth be told, though, it found me. A rather random conversation about six months ago led to an email about six weeks ago, then a few meetings, a nice offer, and the start date on Monday.

I'll be working for an international organic seed and grain company, doing things from shipping and freight to helping regional farmers get their organic certifications. Odds are good that I'll be able to visit farms in the area in the short-term, and possibly get in on some of the international travel down the road a bit.

Although I must admit to having mixed feelings about giving up my vacation lifestyle (challenging, frustrating, and demoralizing though it was at times...), I am so aware that there are millions who would love to be in my shoes about now, shoes that will walk me through the door into what sounds like an interesting job with a paycheck and benefits to boot.

I will miss gardening with Suzy, though. She's a dear, and the work was healthy for both mind and body.

Anyway, that's my news.

This Sunday is Easter. I'm looking forward to a tasty dinner at my parents' house.

Wishing you all a lovely holiday weekend!