This is the last entry I’ll make at this URL. In the coming days, I’ll launch a new site to chronicle the next chapter of my quest for more satisfying work and a more balanced lifestyle. Much of the same structure, background content, and even the title will be recycled. Look for me here:
http://escapeart.wordpress.com
Do keep reading—your support and words of encouragement over the past six months have been golden!
Did I mention that I quit my job?
Oh, yeah … that.
I gave notice last month; Thursday was my last day. For the sake of security, I sent out applications to find a new job, and even landed some interviews. But on the cusp of an offer last week, I got so completely spooked at the idea of committing to another 9 to 5 job that I cut my prospective employer off at the pass—even though the offer was in Austin, where I really want to move.
I want to say that this was a difficult decision. Actually, it was crystal clear.
Now I am happily packing for my trip to Europe—a long-anticipated, much-needed, springtime spin around Scandinavia, the Baltics, and the Balkans. If all goes as planned, I’ll squeeze some articles out of the venture.
I am approaching this new chapter with a few freelance prospects, a little savings, and a lot of hope. I feel a little like the narrator in the Gillian Welch song playing on Pandora right now, “Wrecking Ball.” It’s such an obvious imitation of Dylan that it’s almost a spoof.
Look out boys, 'cause I'm a rollin' stone.
That's what I was when I just left home.
I took every secret that I'd ever known
And headed for the wall
Like a wrecking ball.
It’s a fine start—bold dreamer sets forth to incite transformation! Trouble is, the narrator of this song winds up working at a mall in Santa Cruz. I have to laugh. I don’t mind contemplating this fate; it keeps me on my toes.
