Rays on a budget- My (somewhat long) story w/pics

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Been real busy lately working on a few things...working means trying to figure out how to pay for stuff in this case...lol.

I have it worked out though, and some big changes are in the works. Just put in an order for some essential items to upgrade my hatchery. This will increase efficiency, and significantly reduce losses of Tilapia fry that I have been experiencing. Each successive wave of breeding results in more fry...which up until now, has also increased my loss percentages. I'm really looking forward to setting this up.

Next week, I will be finally be plumbing in the new pool. I have been waiting all this time due to not wanting to heat the extra water, but the time is coming for me to really need the extra space. Big thanks to Mike at H2O for providing me with the need to do so.

I'll be making the trip out east in a couple of weeks. The plans aren't totally set yet, but I am taking rays to New Hampshire where I have a brother...and then heading to NY where I also have a brother. How convenient!

In the meantime, I caught my Leo male trying to 'get a little' from my biggest female. He really set his sights high...He had her half flipped last night, and I really thought I was going to witness the deed. Won't be long.

So this serves as notice...be prepared for another wave of big news and big updates. I'm stoked for this!

Mike
 
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Can't wait man, looking forward to seeing more pups
 
Well...It looks like I am a terrible judge of character... I know my own operating system, and that means that if I say I'll take it...then I will find a way to make it go through even if I have to sell blood...or a kidney...

2 people on another forum made the effort to contact me and say they would take "them". The first one agreed to terms on 3 of the older pups, but said he din't have any money for a while. I wanted him to have them since he is the 'site owner', so I said no problem...but try to get me a down payment ASAP because I am in some serious financial predicaments...so time goes on...and this person is listing WTB ads. for 2 FX5's and other things...

the 2nd person wanted one of the new batch. I held the pup, told other people who inquired that the female was sold. Last week I sent a message saying "I REALLY need to know when you can pay, and how much"...but I made it clear that I was just trying to plan some things out. the answer was "Tuesday, I will pay in full".

There's 39 minutes left in "tuesday" and she has ignored my PM's since Sunday...Mr "site owner" hasn't replied to anything since Saturday, when he had inquired about buying another pup...

Now there is 36 minutes before the trip out east is officially CANCELLED.

But I'm not that stupid...I was facing shutoff on my electric, and internet, and even having to pay my car insurance late. Last thing I would have done is to count on some other people to come through when it REALLY matters. Problem solved. I'm a survivor, and I made it work the way I always have so far.

It is here...and NOW...that I proclaim that I am over the hump. I have met my financial obligations, and I have resolved my income issues and fry losses. I don't need their money... I won't TAKE their money.

The last month has been the scariest month of all since I quit my job. When I first quit, it was tough and I was really broke. But I made my choice and I charged forward towards a impending avalanche. Last month was the "test of faith", and I passed.

Pups for sale. Serious inquiries only.

Mike
 
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Keep pushing through. All new business owners struggle with hurdles and it all goes a long way in teaching you the lessons to survive for the long run.

If I had a bigger tank I would take one off of your hand but nonetheless I really enjoy hearing of your trials and tribulations.
 
Glad to hear things have worked out. Remember, you are living many of our dreams and I think in some way we are all pushing and hoping for you to succeed, the way we all wish we would do in your situation. I personally am watching closely and am trying to send good vibes your way.:)
 
There are so many tire kickers in the world of fish...sometimes you have to just be rude and say "first come, first served".
 
mike, sad to hear about all your troubles, finances are hard for alot of people but i can only imagine the stress for you with kids and trying to start your own buisness. I know we.ve had a couple run arounds with me possibly trying to get one of your rays and i mean it when i say i would love to buy from you. As of right now my finances just arent there and im still trying to get my tank settled out and make sure my parameters dont fluctuate. Im going to get a ray from a local place first, mainly to make sure im worthy of taking one of your rays youve put so much time and effort into, but also because ive got some store credit built up there so i dont have to worry about the finances part. You are a truly good person and i consider myself lucky to even be able to communicate with you on this forum
 
tscharf;4548140; said:
I know we.ve had a couple run arounds with me possibly trying to get one of your rays and i mean it when i say i would love to buy from you.

No worries. You have been clear in your intent and I never felt, nor do I feel, as if you had led me on. I completely understand your position and goals.

I am just happy to know that you became interested in them, and I can't wait to see you with a whole gang of them.

Mike
 
I pulled the 2 youngest pups out for picture updates a couple days ago. It's a reminder that you can't always see changes on a day to day basis...but ohhh what a difference just a couple weeks have made. I sure am enjoying watching these patterns develop.

1st is the original pic from when they were just a few hours old.

hybrid x royal 006.jpg

hybrid x royal10-11F.jpg

HybridxRoyal10-11M.jpg
 
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