It was going to be a perfect day. I was going to work from home in the morning, take time off in the afternoon to get fingerprinted for my concealed pistol license, and spend the evening doing some writing and taking the dogs for a long walk.  Here is how the day actually went:

• 8a.m. – Started a report for work.
• 10a.m. – My dog bit me in the butt.  Apparently, in Frankie’s mind, the FedEx guy was a potential murderer and I MUST be stopped from opening the front door.
• 11a.m. – Lawn guy showed up asking me to pre-pay so he could buy gas.
• Noon – Finished the report for work that I mistakenly thought would only take 30 minutes.
• 1p.m. – Lawn guy still hasn’t returned.
• 3p.m. – Still working. Lawn guy returns, but didn’t finish.
• 6p.m. – Shopped for an environmentally friendly, yet easy to use mower and weed eater.
  A friend sent me a link to a battery-powered mower that I think has potential: http://m.homedepot.com/p/EGO-20-in-56-Volt-Lithium-ion-3-in-1-Cordless-Lawn-Mower-LM2001/204746234/. At least, I shouldn’t be able to start a lawn fire with it like I did with my last gas powered mower.
  
• Midnight – Wrapping up some work, with both miniature schnauzers sleeping next to me all sweet and innocent looking. 

More on Michigan's Concealed Pistol Licenses:  In Michigan, it is easier to transport guns to/from the range for target shooting with a concealed pistol license. Carrying a pistol in day-to-day life is a serious decision that is quite simply not for me.

Thank you for taking the time to read my new Blog.  About once a week, I will discuss topics related to environmental research, climate change, and wildlife.  Occasionally, I will bring up some of my other interests, such as wildlife-related travel, outdoor recreation experiences, and my miniature schnauzers.