A Blog Post That Isn't a Caption to a Photo

One week from today, I will be starting a new job. Yep, after 12 successful years as a freelancer, I will be going back to the 8 to 5 routine.* I wasn't looking for a "real" job, but one of my local clients encouraged me to apply for a full-time job. Given the economy, I figured it didn't hurt to at least check it out. Much angst, dithering, and soul-searching ensued as I went through the process (three interviews and a test!), but I got offered the job, and decided to take it.

The salary is decent and the benefits are outstanding, plus there are some nice perks. I'll get to work from home two days a week after I've worked there three months. Also, they offer free half-hour massages to their employees. Not exactly sure how this works, but I will be finding out and signing up ASAP!!! Benefits aside, I really like the people and the organization's mission is something I can feel good about contributing to. Plus, they're actually doing well despite the economic climate and have a reputation for being a great place to work.

So, I'm feeling good about the decision. Ideally, I would have continued freelancing forever, but that is just not an option I can be comfortable with right now. Like most freelancers in my line of work, I've seen a drastic drop-off in assignments over the past year or so, and many of my formerly steady clients are really struggling to stay afloat.

We'll see what happens!

Since I was offered the job a few weeks ago, I have wrapped up all my freelance work, and I'm attempting to cram as much summer FUN into my life as I possibly can! I think I have been fairly successful, but I'm sorry to report that I cannot let loose quite as much as this guy.





Or this guy. Note the hat fashioned out of a Busch Lite beer carton.




Or this guy.






*Remember when it used to be 9 to 5? What happened to that? People work too hard.