HAPPY NEW YEAR -- 2018!!

I an truly excited about 2018 and what I perceive is the beginning of the next chapter in my life.  Hopefully there is more than one more chapter in MY book.

I have been in hibernation for the past several weeks for a multitude of reasons .. all of which become moot this coming Monday Jan 8; my self-imposed deadline for the conversation to stop and the action to start.  I wanted a clean separation in my income after retiring last summer so I've waited until 2018 to step off.

I've also learned that I need to generate more $$ to enjoy the lifestyle I've chosen.  Do not confuse 'generating income' with getting a job; at least not as a Walmart Greeter (just yet).  In fact, I've not had a W2 income in more than 20 years and I'm not starting now.  But I do need some cash in my pocket beyond what my social security provides.  There is a limit on how much I can make before my SSA money becomes taxable tho.  On the positive side, any additional income I have in 2018 goes into the calculation for my future SSA checks (I think).

My new business is now legally formed. I will go to my bank and get a checking account established next week.  Then I can begin selling stories and pictures about my adventures.  I am tentatively looking at Feb 5 or so to load up and head out on my next road trip -- I know not even where.  But perhaps southern FL.

I have some January commitments here in town with the City of Seminole's Community Emergency Rescue Team (CERT), where I volunteer.  Besides, I need to finish up the business ending of my old trucking company.  There are still 1099s to get out and tax stuff to prepare.  I've got about 4 weeks to get it done .. no problem!

Also high on my to-do list is: Get a Dog. I want a medium sized dog -- 25 or 30 lbs.  Many campgrounds have restrictions.  My dog will be trained as a Search and Rescue dog tho, so she can't be too small.  As far as breeds go, I'm looking at a Spaniel of some sort; probably a rescue dog.

I met Mike Hadsell with the Peace River K9 Search And Rescue (Collier County, Florida) at a CERT Convention last summer.  Then I went to one of his training demonstrations this past December.  It is easy to understand why the PRSAR team is so highly regarded by the law enforcement community all over the Southeast USA for their SAR work.  Mike has offered to help me when I get a dog, hopefully within the next month or two.

As most people probably know, a dogs love is truly unconditional and knows no bounds.  When that dog gets that love returned, they will do just about anything you ask -- including following a scent.  Watching the PRSAR Team play Hide-N-Seek centered around the dog's love to play and please under the handler's guidance.  For the dog it was all about having fun.  I want a dog like that.

Change is in the air -- and it has started for me.  Lots to do and I'm ready.