I find myself in a situation eerily similar to that of a year ago. I am 1) unemployed, 2) aching to get back in school (although this time with a definite prospect), 3) preparing for an extended vacation to my birthplace, 4) driving a car without air conditioning.

Despite these parallels, I’m handling my free time (boredom) in significantly (p = 0.04) different, and I dare say healthier, ways. Instead of burying myself in a landfill of journal articles and driving a partner crazy with my constant presence, I decided to abolish my normally Spartan decorative style and began beautifying my new room. During this process, I’ve learned a few of things about painting: First, when a paint can says to “use only in a well-ventilated area”, you should listen; otherwise, don’t be surprised to suddenly hear yourself singing 50’s bubble-gum pop, loudly and a cappella, followed by a severe, lasting, headache.* Second, paint is expensive. Third, black labs drool a lot. Not a fact from painting, but after 12 hours in that fume-filled room, I’m having a really hard time telling the difference.

*Incidentally, I was surprised to find that I remembered all lyrics and jigs from Love Potion #9. Damn cops. Sheesh.