stress, stress and stress

I just got my lease renewal from my landlord for next year (starting August 1) and discovered that instead of the customary $20 a month, my rent is going up $70 a month for next year. My rent is currently pretty far below market, especially considering how gentrified Ravenswood is becoming, but this is not what I was expecting.

If I knew I had a job for next year, this wouldn't really be a big deal. But it's hard to sign a lease for next year, not knowing if I'll have a full-time job, or be temping or subbing. If I don't get a job for next year, then temp work or subbing means less money coming in. It also means I continue to pay a significant amount for insurance each month through COBRA.

I hate having to worry about this. I'm okay for a while, but I am going to have to seriously start cutting back on my spending in order to make sure I have a cushion for as long as possible. I was hoping to be able to enjoy the summer, but it looks like I'm going to have to work as much as possible, to get some more cash in the bank to cover any gaps I might have later.

I feel sickish in my stomach right now. Guess I better spend the weekend writing as many cover letters as possible. I think I'm going to have to be less "picky" about where I am willing to work...