My Facebook friends are probably getting plenty in the way of details, but everyone else (a rapidly declining number) might not be getting much at all.

Right now I’m in a coffee shop retraining my huge hands to use my netbook keyboard. I might finally be able to use this thing to take notes the week after next, when my Project Management class begins.

This is my second summer living in Austin, and part of me just can’t relax. It’s a part that’s easily swayed by Texas martinis and nootropics, varied entertainment options and a hassle-free workplace, though. I imagine it’s kind of like post-hypnosis. The days when I used to quack like a duck on command are long behind me, and by “quack like a duck” I mean “seethe with disempowered rage.”

I’m sure other people would react differently to such a dramatic life change. This year, I’m sure most in this country experienced one that they’ve had to endure — but I’m also sure I’ve groused about other people’s problems before, without useful conclusions.

Meanwhile, my journey of self-reflection has progressed with fits and starts. I’m currently testing out the notion that the way I talk, both with inflection and choice of words, makes me sound annoyed more often than I really am. Still not sure if it’s actually true, but being happy makes me more self-conscious about such things. I am also aware, as well, that I’m getting old and fat. Being a guy in his 30s, this is not something I feel comfortable questioning others about.

The classical radio station is on too loud in here, and my Step by Step Microsoft Project 2007 book is sitting like a big blue and white lump on the table. I’m probably the happiest I’ve been in years, and the only thing I wonder about is how long it’ll last, which means I still don’t really know how to smile.

Maybe once summer’s finally over.