Well, in the grand scheme of things, Columbus Day is a rather meaningless holiday. But, all government offices are closed and some businesses, such as my employer, the Delta Institute. But, I’ll probably work a half day anyway, because I can’t afford to take too many days off right now. I’m hoping to secure two firm commitments by the end of the month to jump-start my work and take some of the pressure off of me. I’m not sure why I’m worrying so much about this job and the performance expectations. I’m going to work hard and do the best work that I can. If it turns out that I don’t meet the performance objectives laid out for me, then so be it. If I lose my job, then I lose my job. I can always find another one. But you know, it’s not failure that I worry about – it’s disappointment. I don’t like disappointing people, whether it’s my friends, my family, or my employer. I don’t want the great people at Delta to say, “Todd Parker is a big disappointment. I guess we’ll have to let him go.” That’s what scares me. So, no days off for me.

I may have finally found an office location. The deal with Dykema fell through, so I’ve been searching downtown Lansing for some office space. I’m going to look at a place above a popular downtown restaurant tomorrow. And, I hope to look at several by Wednesday. Hopefully, I’ll can secure a spot by the end of the week. My boss is giving me lots of leeway to choose an office. In fact, I have so much discretion to make decisions, it kinda scares me. I’m not used to working such little oversight. So, I’m being overly cautious at this point, until I’m comfortable making all the decisions.

I finally finished my porch project today. I decided to paint the porch white, to match the body of the house, and the railings burgundy to match the house trim. I know, I know, a white floor will show dirt. But I have to tell you, I used a paint specially designed for porches. So, it is a high gloss finish, which makes clean-up very easy. I still have to install the mailbox, but unfortunately, Miss Dig has not arrived to flag my underground utility lines. So, I may have to call them again. Oh, before I forget. I made the first payment on a chain link fence. Yup, I’m giving Butter the fenced in backyard that she deserves. Hopefully, the fence will be installed by the end of the month. Speaking of Butter, her birthday is Tuesday – she turns 6. Doggy treats for everyone!!

Alright, I should get back to work. I’m rehearsing my presentation on Tuesday for a business-to-business luncheon in Ann Arbor. Hopefully, this presentation will generate several solid leads.

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