You'll have to forgive the untimeliness of this one. I guess I've been working so hard lately, I haven't had a lot of time to update everyone on what's been happening in my life lately.

As most of you know, I was working for MKS a fine establishment that makes quality software development tools. However, I wasn't having the best of time there. Working for technical support gave me an excellent opportunity to hone and develop technical skills, but because of the nature of the job, it was not very gratifying.

As time passed, I eventually came to the conclusion that I would be happier elsewhere, and I began putting out feelers for other work. There were quite a few positions out there, and furthermore, there were quite a few that would be ideal environments for doing either part-time or consulting work.

As time goes on, and I get more crotchety, I find that I really would rather just work on my own terms. This would favour me working as a consultant, as I be much more free to work from home (or wherever else).

I made a couple of serious inquires for work, one of which was Quarry Integrated Communications. They are a marketing company first and foremost, but they do have need of computer savvy people to do various jobs, websites mostly.

And so I talked with people at Quarry. I had an interview, and I waited. Then I had another interview and I waited. Then I waited five months. Then I talked with Quarry again. Eventually I was offered a position on the Interactive Media Group.

At this point, I was still unsure of whether or not I really wanted to work on a contract basis. The allure of a steady paycheque is strong, especially when you are supporting more than just yourself on it.

So what can I say. I'm a coward. At least in so far as I don't have the resources to support both myself and Carmen for any amount of time on no salary. I took a full time position at Quarry, for which I get a guarantee that I'll be able to pay bills, plus a health benefits plan for both of us.

In the meantime, I still daydream about the day when I won't be under the thumb of the man. When I can sit at home, with a hot cup of tea in my hand and a warm cat in my lap, and music blaring out of my desktop speakers.

I suppose it's a perfectly achievable daydream. Until recently I never really got around to setting aside a goal to aim for. While I know what I want long term, it's only a vague objective. I've been trying to set aside specific goals for myself (mostly, setting aside X dollars to live off of) so that I can evaluate my progress when I reach those goals.

If I ever get there, I'll let you know.