live. work. dream.

In 9 years, not one single day has been boring. In this business, every day is so different from the next. As long as you’ve got it in you to take each day and make the most of it, you’ll find that there’s never and end to things that need to be done. The biggest quality an entrepreneur needs is discipline, and motivation. Ok, that’s two qualities. But if you have those two things, you’re guaranteed to thrive.

But really, I’m not ever sure what to expect. For example, last Friday at 4:30 pm, just as we were getting ready to go to happy hour at the AA Lounge, a client who I’d previously sent a quote for, called with a huge rush order, worth $1k! Wow. Now that was worth being late for cocktail hour.

Then today, a guy who I gave lots of information and samples to about two months ago, finally placed an order directly through our website. He emailed his artwork, and it was perfect.

We did spend some time over the weekend working on fun production stuff, like cutting out mock boxes, but that’s because we’re taking a week off in two weeks.

There’s never an end to the variety and balls that we are juggling. And unlike the many jobs I had when I was a lousy employee, not once have I said “This job sucks. I’m bored.”

Here’s a sad but interesting coincidence … as if all coincidences aren’t interesting enough:

Last week we printed a 7′ Magic Pak banner display for the National Brain Tumor Foundation. They placed their order by phone after reviewing our website and approved the artwork I designed for them on Monday. As it turns out, just the day before my friend Don Wolski passed away after a long battle with brain cancer. We’ll miss you Don.

Don was the long time host of our local NPR radio station’s Bayside Hayride — a hokey yet enjoyable mix of old-time string band, bluegrass, folk and country tunes that airs every Sunday evening at 5:00 pm. He was also a founding member of the Redwood Technology Consortium — a local non-profit group serving as the primary information and educational resource on issues related to the technology industry on California’s North Coast.

What touched me most about Don’s struggle with cancer was the way the community turned out in full force to support him and his family. Once this tight-knit town was aware that Don’s treatments were financially challenging for his family, a benefit tamale dinner was coordinated with all the proceeds going directly to them. Hundreds of people showed up. Local businesses donated food, drinks, and services. And everyone had a great time dancing to the musicians who played pro bono. (more…)