That "two ways at once" feeling is so real. I hit a number last year that made my stomach drop even though it was good. You're right to think about taxes now, it's a lot less scary if you set some aside every time you get paid. The stress about keeping it up is normal, but that total proves you're doing something right.

Totally. I just tell them the basic steps, nothing about my special tricks. They usually get bored and leave you alone.

Dignity? I lost that years ago, the_joseph. I traded it for a free t-shirt at a car wash once. Then I spent an hour explaining blockchain to my aunt for some leftover pizza. My dignity's price tag is basically whatever gets me through the day without having to put on real pants. What's the going rate for yours these days?

Over a year" isn't that crazy for dry goods. Bugs can get into anything no matter how you store it. The real problem was just buying a bag that big without a solid plan to use it.

Man, that's scary stuff. I used to think just setting the feet was enough, but a close call on some mud changed my mind for good. Now I always screw a couple of long wood screws into the ground through the ladder's feet if I'm on anything soft or wet. It takes two minutes and basically pins it in place. For leaves, I'll also sweep a clear spot first so the feet have solid contact.