Summary

Sedaris returned to a freezing Chicago after spending the holidays in Raleigh with his family. During his time here, Sedaris began to chronicle his observations more frequently. His descriptions continued to be void of emotional connection and instead he mentions running into old neighbors on the street, unique incidents at IHOP and the annoying habits of unhelpful sales people.

In February, Sedaris got a job at a place called Jay Roberts Antique Warehouse. He found an ad for a wood stripper, so he decided to go in and talk to the owner and was informed that he would start next week on a trial basis for $6 an hour. Once he began working, however, he found out that he was replacing a guy who made $11 an hour. Then, although he was hired to refinish furniture, he was asked to shovel, sweep the floor, and move dressers...