Well, today I begin. The excitement of a new mission always energizes me. There is so much to do and I always jump in with both feet.

This morning I met with the chief engineer ( a very capable looking fellow) and discussed the physical changes that I would like made in my new Sickbay. I'm afraid that by now I've become a creature of habit and I'm going to need some reconfiguring done to make things run efficiently. I don't know why these new designers have the urge to put in so many bulkheads!!! I don't want my staff running around like rats in a maze!!! I like larger, open spaces... more wards. Besides, sick people need company, not complete isolation.

And then there is my new staff.....I really want them to learn MY way of doing things. They come to me from all over the galaxy and have trained under a myriad of physicians in many different facilities, yet if we are going to be an efficient, well- oiled medical team, we will need to follow procedures in the same manner. It will take a while to indoctrinate them.

My own, personal, adjustments will have to wait until I'm confident that our Sickbay is well supplied and the staff ready for anything. My personal quarters are a shambles and I'd like to spend some time bonding with my staff and getting to know the executive officers. I want them all to know that "Dr. Van" has a human side too. I'm not ALL business and efficiency. But....I do have a duty to provide medical care for all on board, and I just won't be able to rest until I feel that things in Sickbay are ready. So.....I guess I'd better get at it.