Back to Working for Myself

17 March 2011

Oh dear, I have done it now...after a bit of a barney with Chris about the blokes upstairs and his lack of care regarding his tenants, he and I have agreed to part ways. I have to admit that the drive from Chris' office to my house was one of the longest I have ever had. I just didn't know what I was going to tell Claire.

She took one look at my face and knew something serious had happened. I have to say that my wonderful wife is pretty much every man's dream because she totally supported my decision and pointed out that it just hadn't worked out like we wanted. It was too much like having a boss and that was never the point of being self employed.

So as things stand, I will continue to do the downstairs flat and will finish my contract with him once that is done. Claire will still do the garden as well. She is pleased with that as she will have something for her portfolio and it gives me enough time to drum up some business.

Over the weekend I called some of my old regular clients and let them know I was back in the game and a couple were pretty interested and invited me round to give them quotes. Just small jobs, but got to start somewhere. I have also put my ad back in the local paper and set about arranging a letter drop to my client list. The thing is that I have a good reputation and so I don't feel worried about getting work. The only issue is that now I have the evening quotes, the paperwork and the client interaction to deal with. I guess that makes life more interesting.

Back at the flat I have been making as much noise as possible – as early in the morning as I can. Eva tells me her nights have been overtaken by loud music and television watching, so my ambition is to make life hell for those boys while I can.

So every morning this week I have been drilling, pulling down plasterboard, throwing my tools on the floor, playing my radio and generally being noisy and inconsiderate. Oh, and I have been starting at about 7am, just for fun! I have had one or two thumps on the floor from the bedroom area, but I ignored it. I am happy to have a few words with them if they can get out of their lazy beds and come to the door. But so far I have been spared that little bit of fun.

I have been thinking that if Claire and I are able to get our idea of buying a little house and doing it up for rental off the ground then Eva would be the ideal tenant. It might be a while yet, but here's hoping we can get her away from this horrible place!

This week has been plastering and more plastering. I have a severe case of plasterers arm! - you know, the bulging biceps and shoulder spasms associated with holding your arm above your head for hours on end. The ceilings in this place seem to go on forever. Why didn't I get an expert in to do that job? Anyway, the smooth ceilings will perfectly offset the spotlights I have installed, so it was a necessity.

Strangely, I am already feeling less stressed about my work and am looking forward to a new challenge over the next few weeks. I have around three or four weeks left here then it is all change once again. Bring it on!