Two big events happened before I left my job. My car was taken from me, insurance labeled it a total loss. I received money from that. I was also hit by a car while riding my bike. This also provided me with some money. This money, has run out at this point.
I have done some freelancing for people, graphic design. I also help my girlfriend run her dog treat business. Arrfscarf.com
But most importantly, now that I have no income, she has been a huge help.
Even, when I go back to having spending power. Being jobless for over 8 months has given me a different perspective on consumption.
I'm an out of college CS grad that just hasn't been hired yet, but I didn't work some soul crushing service job in the meantime. I get what you are saying, though. Christmas was kind of awkward, I ended up spending more in a month than I did the rest of the year just to appease relations.
I've done freelance IT and did some community service since I graduated, but nothing making real buck. My total income in 2012 was like $6,000.
