New Things

Well, it's January. That means I've been back DC-bound for over three months now (!), and I suppose you'd like to know what I have to show for it.

1. A real room! I have a room in a house with 4 other similar-minded folks in the U Street area in downtown DC. My room is small (read: tiny and without a closet), but the location is fab and the roomies are good. Minus the dirty kitchen. *Sigh* can't win them all. At least I'm now in walking distance of most important things like the grocery store and Layne's apartment.
2. A job or two. I spent a month helping out at A Wider Circle again before the holidays. As my DC family, I just can't get away from those lovely people and the important work that they do. Though answering phones isn't my strongest skill, it was wonderful to be welcomed back so warmly and to have meaningful work while I figured some things out. Also, I have just finished training to be an LSAT teacher for Kaplan, and will have my own class starting in February! Very exciting, especially since I'm thinking of teaching at the graduate level after law school. Finally, to make the rent, I'm now working at Hudson Trail Outfitters, an outdoor store on par with REI and EMS. Though the job is shitty and the pay even worse, I at least get some killer deals on gear! Now, I just have to restrain myself long enough to pay the rent first.
3. A great relationship. Layne and I just celebrated our one year anniversary (eek!) and are going strong. We aren't sure of our future plans (law school for me and who knows for her), but for now, all is good.

So, that's not a bad list. I'm doing my very best, which isn't so great at times, to be positive. My back continues to give me a lot of trouble, and my lack of health insurance makes it impossible to get treatment. Working at HTO doesn't make me happy, but I am thankful to be employed in this crappy economy and able to pay my rent. I look forward to getting news from law schools in the next weeks and months, so cross your fingers! My top choices right now are Berkeley and Stanford, but that could change depending on who wants to give me money!