Dave, I know what you mean. When I was a freelancer for seven years, one of the most difficult parts was not having a measurable sense of the work I was doing (no official reviews, no promotions). Now that I'm back in the full-time work world, I really value the kind of formal and informal feedback that happens there. As for the rest of life, ah, yes, I think it's measured in the small moments that make up happiness. 

Kristin, I look forward to seeing future guest posts!

Cobalt, thanks so much!