My friends, after all my anticipation about a fresh new year, 2008 has hit me like a ton of bricks.

I got my wish to find better work: I started a new job – literally the first of the year – and it is my first administrative job in the arts world. Never mind that I haven’t been performing for over 6 months, besides a playreading or two; I’m now getting paid to help run a performing arts series. That has to be a good thing, but it has been an adjustment.

The learning curve at the job has been a steep, rugged climb. Typical of a performing arts series, they have money going in and out (mostly out) at a fast pace. They went from 2 staff members to 5 (3 part-time) in less than a year. They are struggling with administrative procedures. Most of the staff is not actually in the office most of the time. They still hand-write all their checks. I could go on, but I don’t want to sound like I’m complaining. I’m elated, actually, and I think I can help whip them into shape. And what I'm finding most exciting is how the web of the arts scene in DC is now revealing itself to me. In just two weeks at this office, I have learned so much about what is connected to whom, which artists work for this series, who among them I know and have worked with (many), and where much of the money comes from. It is fascinating, and I hope it’s just the tip of the iceberg.

I have felt so out of the loop in this town since I declared myself a “performer.” I go to auditions, but I know no one. I hear a little bit about this theater and that director, but I don’t know our seven degrees of separation. Then, there are many auditions happening that I don’t even know about. I hope in earnest that having my foot in the door now will open up my own opportunities.

In addition to the job, my home remodel is in its worst stages, and I cannot begin to describe the pandemonium in the house. Even though the house is starting to look like something, I still can’t just come home and relax on a sofa or read a book in an uncluttered or non-dusty corner. Again: not complaining, just praying for strength to get through it.

In summary: the urge to purge continues. New home, new career: it is all happening, but the growing pains hurt. But I am healthy!