[GratefulCitizen]

Had a very good day.

After ten years of enduring UPS standard operational chaos and being laid off 10-12 weeks per year, I'm securing a bid on my own route, which I will likely remain on for the remainder of my career (~16 years).
It's in the most remote area of the lower 48, and brings with it tremendous autonomy and independence (even by UPS driver standards).

Due to obscure tax laws regarding Bilagáana working in the Navajo Nation, substantial tax benefits come with the long commute (~200 mile daily round-trip).
Got home today off of the route to find my bimmer out of the shop and ready to roll.

Kid #1 (20 years old) came over this afternoon.
After much trial and error, his life is coming together and he's "getting it" in regards to building a life.

Kid #2 (12 years old) is coming along fine, enjoys basketball, and is growing like a weed.
Measured his reach at 72 inches (he just turned 12 in May).

Kid #3 (10 years old), kid #4 (6 years old), kid #5 (4 years old), and grandaughter #1 (2 years old) were playing in the new kiddy pool in the back yard.
It's big enough for me too, and was enjoyed in the 100+ degree afternoon heat along with Guinness in a frozen mug.

Later, the younger ones and I jumped on the trampoline while watching lizards on the back yard wall.
Life is good.

On top of all this, boating season (on Lake Powell) starts for us this weekend.


All of the peace and prosperity my household enjoys are made possible by brave souls (past, present, and future) who protect us from, and take the battle to, those who would do us harm.
On behalf of my family I thank you.