A new year, a new apartment, a new job, and a new, uh, haircut ... in other words, a lot of newness has come to pass since I began my self-imposed blog exile. Not that my return is meant to imply that I have somehow solved all my problems — still driving around in a car that probably couldn't pass a 48-state emissions test, for example — but, as they say, I'm working on it.

My new apartment in the heart (sort of) of Broad Ripple is an under-furnished dream come true. I really couldn't have asked for a cooler, more reasonably-priced place within stumbling distance of the bars. (I really could have asked for a dishwasher and central air, but beggars can't be choosers, can they?)

I am still learning the ropes at the new job. Given the recent rash of people who have been fired for blogging, let's just say that I am working in the advertising department of an un-named alternative newspaper, and it is an awesome, stimulating, creative environment to be in.

(I am typing this from the Mac on my desk, for example — those of you who know what an elitist poseur I am will understand how thrilling that alone is for me.)

Of course, the coolest aspect of working here is that my success is 100% in my hands, as this place is full of extremely cool people who are on the look-out to see what I can do. In fact, the reason, they said, that hired me was because they see that I am full of "potential" — something that I have been desperately trying to get someone — anyone — to see. It's up to me now, and I'm on my way, and, not to sound like a totally broken record, but that is pretty cool.

More to come ...