Self-employment.

I admit that I've struggled with my self-image since That Company got rid of me. I've called myself a deadbeat more than once, in that funny self-deprecating tone that isn't quite 100% joke. However, the tax folks call me "self-employed," and words like "freelancer" and "contractor" keep coming up.

I'll have to describe my situation to whatever apartment we decide to move to, and it's slowly occurring to me that I'm a self-employed designer, and not a deadbeat. This is putting a good face on things and helping me understand what I'm going through, even after a year of doing this kind of thing. That German half can sometimes be very thick.

When people ask me how I'm doing, I always say things are going fine. They are, that ain't no lie, and thanks to LWC's constant encouragement and support, we're doing okay. But would I rather have a full-time job than be self-employed? Yes, I would. I'm doing better at this than I ever thought I would, both financially and emotionally, but full time is still my preference.

So if you're thinking that Chuck says he's doing okay so I won't tell him about that job opportunity they have where I work... don't do that. Give me a call. Still seeking full-time employment.