Good and bad news. The consulting opportunity with the government came through and I started work.
Working 9 to 5 again has its good and bad points, but the government aspect tips it towards the bad.
On the good side, you learn new things and meet new people. The money is good and there are lots of tax advantages to being self-employed. I was also able to help at least one colleague get a similar assignment so that is good too.
However, being forced to get up, commute, work 8 hours, and follow government procedure is not much fun. I will spare you all the details but suffice to say, the US public's disdain for government carries over into working conditions and procedures for the government agencies. The building that I work in was inaugurated by Richard Nixon and is in original condition, complete with 40 years of wear and tear.