I’m still struggling a bit to find the normalcy of this new job journey I’m on. For 15 years I was a Best Buy guy which meant throwing on a completely different outfit. Now when I get ready in the morning and look in the mirror I see “Business Paul” instead of “Best Buy blue polo Paul.”
While getting used to the new threads – shirt, tie, slacks – it honestly feels a little like I’m cosplaying a more professional version of myself. Took the obligatory hotel mirror selfie to prove it actually happened.
Yesterday I spent the work day shadowing, learning the ropes of the new role, then grabbed a solo dinner at Los Toros in Chatsworth. Food was great, company was…me. Not my favorite way to do Mexican food, but it did give me some quiet space to think about this next chapter.
I’m excited to get this hot rod of a job out of the garage and see what it can really do. But more than anything, I’m ready to check out of this hotel, drive home, and be back with my wife. Home doesn’t feel like home without her there.
Still very aware of the Harley‑shaped hole in all of this too. Coming back to the house without his paws clicking on the floor, wagging his tail with excitement at seeing me walk in with his old man greetings is going to sting. I’m grateful I got this chance to reset professionally, but I’d trade a lot to hear that pitiful little siren howl on the patio one more time.
One day at a time. New job, new clothes, same guy underneath trying to do right by his people.
Paul Ellis 
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