Yesterday my YouTube Channel, CTSCAPER, passed 5,000,000 views and 10,000 subscribers.  It’s taken four years to get here.

When I filmed my first video on May 10th, 2011 I had no idea where I’d end up.

I remember the nervous energy I felt in front of the camera.  It’s the same energy most people experience when public speaking.  I did my best and tried not to over critique.

Five million YouTube views is the first goal I’ve reached since the birth of my son Matthew nine years ago.  I had no idea the changes being a parent would bring.

It reminds me of other goals I’ve attained.

I’m a quiet person.  I take pride in doing things well.  I avoid crowds of people and get a thrill out of quiet conversations in small groups.

Yes, I’m an introvert.

To earn my college degree and pursue my dream career I lived away from home for two years.  Most teenagers are anxious to move away and enjoy the college experience.  I wasn’t.  I did what I had to do to earn my degree.

After working at a nursery the year after college I was ready to start my business.  Working for “The Man” wasn’t for me.  I don’t like rushing through jobs.  After much soul-searching I started my business.

I’ve learned all kinds of things running a business.  Bookkeeping, taxes, managing staff, purchasing equipment, equipment maintenance, sales, etc.  I’ve worked many late nights and read many incredibly boring books about taxes and bookkeeping to reach my goal.

I never thought I’d own a house growing up.  I didn’t understand how to save enough money to buy one.  When I got married, another thing I never thought I’d do, we found my wife’s, and my, dream house.

It’s a beautiful old home with plenty of gardens.  If my neighbors are out we chat.  I’ve got a big woodpile and I split wood anytime I want.

Why am I telling you, and reminding myself, of the goals I’ve achieved?

We must remember what we’re capable of.

If I took the easy way out I wouldn’t have earned a college degree.  I wouldn’t have started my business.  I wouldn’t live in this beautiful home with my wife and children.

This week I created SawsandSplitters.com for chainsaw and log splitter fans to enjoy and share knowledge.

Let the journey begin.