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Dec 27, 2007

2007 Inventory

Posted by Clifford under My Strategy

Similar to last year, I am writing up a “year in review”.  What was done, what was attempted, what was left to do.  The difference between this year and last: red wine is not assisting me.

Slight oversight on my part.

On an overall level, this last year was mentally tough.  It started rough and finished rough.  More than one day, I found myself secretly wishing this year could have started over again.  Or disappearing into Tibet, adorning orange robes and shaving my head.  Recognizing I chose this path, easy as well as difficult times will have to be endured.

The first objective for the year was obtaining a 4-plex in Corpus ChristiA cash-flowing property.  Three harrowing months after starting the project got scrapped.  Lending requirements changed, the property slipped away.

Shortly following the Corpus Christi adventure, a new project appeared in California.  That has been talked to death.  Let’s move along.

Of course, failure to mention the relief of a 12 year sore spot would be pure negligence on my part.  The relief I speak of is my Student Loan debt disappearing forever.  From a personal standpoint this was definitely a bright star for the year.

Also, an event occurred which is the stuff of television legend.  In writing my memoirs some day, this adventure will definitely be included.  It involves a burning aircraft and my escape from it.  With the investigation complete, I can now talk about it.

A good friend of mine invited me to a “tour” of Orange County from about 3500 feet.  In our small personal aircraft, the view was incredible.  However upon landing, the tower informed us our aircraft was on fire.  We escaped.  Obviously.  Photo Photo Photo

Photo

and the last photo

I guess if we’re looking for those unique stories which people can have, I have one.  Some kind of a “Bar Story” which should warrant me at least a free shot.  Or three.

Psychic I am not.  But for the new year, changes are coming.  And changes bring opportunities.  My objective will be to recognize when these opportunities and take advantage of them.

One objective: cashflow.  A few online projects are to be launch.  One model which has caught my eye is the “drop-shipment” model.  Following closely a few other sites, their success has been an inspiration.  I believe this is something I can achieve with a bit of practice and patience.

  1. Jared Christiansen Said,

    Wow! I can only imagine the feeling you had when you found out your plane was on fire!!

  2. Clifford Said,

    Jared, the worst came afterwards. The realization hit that the plane could have caught on fire when we were over the ocean. At least we were on the ground when this happened.

  3. Trisha Said,

    I’m horrified!!! Do you feel like you may have used one of your nine lives? Someone was really watching over you that day!

    And, you have reconfirmed for me why I don’t fly in little planes. I have friends that have them, too. Forget it!

    Congratulations about paying off your student loans! As far as investing, I think this year was hard for almost everyone in REI. Since you survived without any foreclosures on your record, consider yourself one of the lucky ones! I’m not sure why, but I’m hearing 2008 is forcasted to be like 2007. :-( Keep us posted on the “drop shipment” venture!

  4. Clifford Said,

    Trisha, I think I’m down to life 4 out of 9. :) But don’t let this story deter you from flying in small planes.

    I’ll definitely keep you posted. I’m fairly excited about trying this.

  5. Uwe Hook Said,

    Thought this was very insightful

    http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2007/12/only-two-years.html

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