A month ago I attended the Start Conference where, among others, Mark Hedlund talked about his view on start-ups and gave some (sage) advice.  Mark has a real knack for brevity and focus in his message - this was no exception.  So, according to Mark, there are five essential guidelines to always keep in mind:

1. Do the idea that won't leave you alone (what keeps you up night)
2. Only work with people you like and respect
3. A cool idea is not a business - a great need is
4. The best way to get investment is not to need it
5. 'No' means maybe:  'Yes' means maybe

I believe I have, for the most part, kept these guidelines in mind as I've been building Motus Connect during the last year.  And I believe the result has been a more robust and more sustainable company than it would have been otherwise.

-Paul

As summer winds down here in Northwest Washington state (aka, Republic of Cascadia) we have been making forays into the mountains to the East - the North Cascades.  These hills (sic.) are home to the relatively famous Mounts Baker and Shuksan, among countless others.  Two weeks ago we were at Artist Point and this Saturday we hiked up Welcome Pass to Excelsior Ridge.

Of all the things that make Bellingham the place I want to be, these hikes into the hills and the accompanying vistas are the reason that I can't consider leaving here.  Below are my favorite shots from the last two weeks - now back to work!

(above)  Mount Shuksan and Mirror Lake

(above)  Mount Baker from Excelsior Ridge (High Divide)

Bob Baty-Barr, Doug Robar, and me have created some brief video snippets explaining why we're excited about Codegarden US this year.  It's rumored that Casey Neehouse and Niels Hartvig also have videos coming up.

You can watch the videos here.

And, the Codegarden US organizers have graciously extended the Early-Registration Discount to 4 September - so head over and get registered if you're not already.