Tuesday, 20 January 2004 | Layers

I think because it's the new year I'm supposed to have some new unbridled motivation, but lately I haven't felt like leaving my apartment. When I do leave, I haven't been taking (or even seeing) pictures, or wishing that I'd brought my camera or that its batteries weren't dead. My camera is with me, and its batteries are fully charged, because it isn't being used. I haven't felt particularly productive, either; in fact, this weekend I watched more TV than I did in all of 2003, including a belligerent episode of The Peoples' Court. I'm 95 percent sure it's the direct result of the bad weather, so it isn't bothering me too much, yet.

So even though I hate the thought of stacking on layers of clothing and wrapping cotton around my head until only my eyes peek through, I do it anyway. On Saturday night, part of my motivation was to see a band I'd won tickets for. I think I've discovered a way to (consistently?) win tickets to some pretty decent shows, although that's totally presumptuous of me to say, as I've only tried it once so far. (I tested the method again today but don't yet know the results.) I'm trying to save money, so I figure the best way take advantage of various un-free New York events is to enter silly contests sent to me by a weekly email magazine. I'm 100 percent sure this plan is the direct result of buying a new laptop last week.

Spending so much money at once always makes me feel a little sick. (Like when I pay rent, for example.)