My X's

I met a few of my ex-colleagues yesterday for lunch. Going into Philly once every six months or so does me good, except for the long, unavoidable bus rides through Camden. But it's worth the trip. I still enjoy being with them, and I don't expect that will change any time soon. Going back is almost like never leaving, and I like the way that feels.

They're well. I hope they stay that way. These days, hundreds of people get laid off daily. Believe me, I wouldn't wish that on anyone I know, let alone like. (Well, perhaps there is one exception to that, but that's a blog for another day.) I know my X's all keep their fingers crossed. What else can they do?

It's scary out there. MBAs working at ShopRite, engineers becoming truck drivers, small businesses without any business. Never thought I'd see it; never thought I'd be home day after day. I guess it's my own fault...you should never say never.

Anyway, there are some wonderful perks to being home all the time. Let's be honest...waking up when you like, watching NCIS reruns all afternoon, cleaning house just for kicks, staying up late just because. Plenty of time to exercise, read, surf the Web, talk on the phone. Bake. Take classes. Volunteer. Keep a diary. Paint the bathroom. Shop at the dollar store. Visit the X's. The list just goes on and on and on.

Of course, I didn't feel much like doing any of that today. But I set up this blog and 'daggoneit,' I should keep it fresh, at least for a little while. It's a sort of discipline I've set for myself. Usually do it before bed. Now there's something that always feels good--sleep.

It's just that when I sleep, there's never enough time to think about all those wonderful perks for the jobless. I'm too busy dreaming of being an X again.