This three day Orientation to Americorps VISTA, I can say, without reservations, was the best networking I've ever done in my life. I literally can't begin to write a description of our coming plans. Short end of the story is that were at a point where the tools are there, the expertise and experience is there, and the commitment is there -- and we're ready to change the history of community technology
Another very encouraging sign is that I've already received some possible, and inticing job offers for after my year is over. Unfortunately, there were a few unwelcome suprises... Mainly, I will not be able to generate any outside income while working as a VISTA. Some things the corporation is willing ot be flexiable with. This is not one of them. I'm not yet sure what I'm going to do about that detail -- but I will have to do something, as their monthly stipend will not cover my budget (unless I decide to get a credit card and get into debt... apparently, its fine to spend money you don't have?!). Its funny -- I understand the benefit of living at the same income of the people that you might be working for -- however, I'm not sure how I feel about requiring us to live on the absolute, not a dollar to spare before failing to pay rent, bills, and food sort of edge. I've spent the last 7 months there as I've developed my independent contracting business, and its a bit -- I don't know the adjective.
According to my sources, today is one of those unusual mondays where classes are out, banks are closed, and a few lucky bastards are off of work. Of course, according to my watch, it is 7:35 in the AM, and let me check -- yep, I'm up and awake. Hmmm, this would seem to suggest that I get to work all day, like I worked yesterday, and the day before that, and so forth in to infinity. This is particularly sick, as I work typically work from home/coffeeshops. This is not as relaxed as a situation as one might imagine. 
