The party came and went, and I was left wondering why I’ve allowed myself to remain somewhat isolated in this city for so long. Lately it seems that euro-Frankie—-my outgoing alter ego who talks to everyone and meets hordes of new people each week—-has been hibernating, but I’m trying to reawaken him with spirits and strong coffee. Perhaps he will peel back the covers just once more and venture outside of his head.

My membership at the YMCA has been great. Even despite the red-level ozone alert today, I’m looking forward to jogging my 2.5 miles on the treadmill and lifting weights, the routine I’ve maintained since joining. Already I feel better and can see improvements. My short-term goals are to knock off those extra 15 – 20 lbs. and to develop some endurance. Long-term goal: to have the body of a 20-year-old …. Yeah, you figure it out!

In two weeks, I begin teaching my American government course at a nearby college. The professional development will be great for the next year as I wait for my move to London. Wish I could be more excited about the way in which I was hired: the dean made it seem like I was being hired because they were desperate instead of appreciating the fact that I am more than qualified to teach this subject. For fuck’s sake, I have more graduate hours than the dean himself does! Just one more reason to resent working for others.