I have been having a frustrating time getting some kind of communications system working in my otherwise charming new pad in Oakland. In most of the apartment I have zero bars on my cell phone, which is a big bummer. Just as importantly, I have been so far unsuccessful at getting any kind of broadband installed, largely due to incompetence by Comcast cable.
Of course, I am in a major urban center, so I can walk a few blocks and get to several establishments with free wifi. And my phone works everywhere else but in my apartment. So it could definitely be worse.
Still, it has been discombobulating not having any kind of external communications in my home, for both work and pleasure. I feel adrift and unsure of what to do with myself much of the time. Can't tweet, can't watch videos, can't visit Second Life, can't look up what's going on around me, can't chat with friends….
So I've been concentrating on staying focused, calm, and happy despite my circumstances. For the most part I have been succeeding, with only 2-3 small meltdowns. I know that sounds like "First World Problems," but much of my work and social life occurs onine.
There is a good possibility that I will be back online as early as Monday morning. But I'm not holding my breath. Instead I'm taking deep, cleansing breaths… and going OUTSIDE.
UPDATE October 10, 9am: Comcast technician Jeff managed to get me online, when 3 other techs had failed. Yay, Jeff!