Technology never ceases to amaze me. I still marvel how I can voice control all the lights in my home through my nifty Google Home devices, change the thermostat temperature with a tap of a button on my phone — and the latest, shut off my water at the main (also from my phone) thanks to my FloLogic leak detection system.

This month marks my seven-year anniversary with BNP Media, and seven years writing about the trades. When I first started, I knew next to nothing about HVAC and plumbing, not to mention I didn’t have any contacts or friends within the industry. 

Summer is just around the corner, and things are beginning to look up in the U.S. More than 45% of American adults are now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

In today’s world, online reviews matter. I recently decided to switch dentists and find one closer to our new home. 

I am lucky enough to talk to contractors, both large and small, all across the U.S. Inevitably, when I ask them about their greatest challenge or greatest future challenge, the answer is always the same: The skilled trades labor shortage. 

The end of the pandemic is finally in sight as healthcare workers across the country have been receiving their first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations. 

Happy New Year! I hope all of you are as thrilled as I am to be getting a fresh start this year. 

As I write this, I cannot believe next week is Thanksgiving, and after that, just a few short weeks left until Christmas.