In the meantime, between time

A few years ago, I briefly found myself out of a job. No need to go into the details here (this ain't a diary, you know?) but, needless to say, it was quite distressing.

But, looking back on those days now, they were probably some of the best and most fulfilling times of my adult life.

Megan McArdle at The Atlantic.com has some pretty helpful tips for some of the unfortunate souls on Wall Street who will soon find themselves collecting unemployment benefits. I'd say the advice is applicable to almost anyone of a certain level of education and job experience.

To her list, I might add a few things unrelated to a job search:

1. Get reconnected with family and friends: you'll never have so much time to spend with your loved ones again. You'll never regret doing this.
2. Spend some time volunteering or working with kids: I helped coach a little league football team with some dear high school friends during that time and had a blast. It remains one of the most fun things I've ever done.
3. Read ... books: I probably knocked out about 20-25 over a couple months. Many days, I'd head to a beach, sit in a chair and stick my head in a book. Most were for fun, some were to lift my spirits and others were to get me back on the right track.
4. Hit the gym or the track: it gives you something else to focus your energy on and can be surprisingly relaxing. I've never been in better shape, even counting my college football days.
5. Pray: Realize, you can only control what you can control. Leave no stone unturned, of course. But the rest is left up to Him. Or Her.