I have a machine that has a timer switch as part of the controls. After a number of years, the switch began to fail so I was faced with another repair.

For some reason I’m having a really hard time wrapping my head around the fact that it’s 2018.

Having made the decision to remain in working mode and not retire, I am finding that as time goes on, there is less and less time available.

When is it good enough? I am at a stage in life where most people would consider me to be a master. And you’d think, at this point, I have little left to learn.

We all know about spring cleaning, the once-a-year, take-everything-out cleaning binge that is usually accompanied by a dozen other tasks that have been put off for one reason or another.

I have tried to avoid discussing anything political here. This is supposed to be about running a shop. But completely separating business and politics is like separating the cart and the horse.

I have always tried to pay a living wage. The actual dollar amount is irrelevant because a living wage can vary dramatically depending on where your business is located.

I have always tried to maintain a positive outlook. Even when things get difficult, it’s not impossible to envision things improving. But these days, I’m finding that it is taking a lot more mental energy to combat the negative energy that seems to be pervading everything.

How often have we been in the position of having to do something, knowing that there is a tool or a piece of equipment that could get it done easily, quickly and efficiently? Personally, I have been in this position many times.