Ten things that the NOLA unemployed can do

While the job market has limited options here, there are some things that those without jobs can do (money pending) that 9-to-5ers can’t. Like sleep. No, really, I’m trying to be positive. Here are 10 activities that the un-hired can try, given endless idle time and summer heat to beat.

Drive around the construction. Locals are not prone to waiting in traffic and/or finding alternate routes home. But the unemployed can meander along city streets and detour for hours (which it takes) around those never-ending street repairs. Watch out for potholes in unfamiliar territory.

Capitalize on the rain. Start a garden. Or perhaps a slip ‘n slide.

Try a detox. This one is definitely for the unemployed. If you’re feeling up to it, go a week with no alcohol — this self-inflicted prohibition will prove well for you and your physique (let me know how it goes).

Discover a new bike path. There are tons of bike paths around the city. Get lost on one. One of my favorites is the path along the bank of Lake Pontchartrain that starts in Fat City and goes all the way to the spillway … stay hydrated.

Pool. No explanation needed; nothing better than some daytime Vitamin D.

Invent a way to stay cool. It has been done before: Thank you to the New Orleanians who created the Cordina mar-GO-rita. Now, if the rest of the country would jump on board the alcohol-to-go train …

Try all 5 million snoball flavors. Even the ones you judge your friends for ordering.

Check out the music scene. So many options here, and this isn’t only for the unemployed. But at least you can go see Rebirth Brass Band play at the Maple Leaf every Tuesday and not be hungover at work the next day.

Be a food critic. Endless options for the hearty eaters. Start by finding out the best pizza place in town.

Brush up on NOLA-inspired literature. And then go to the Quarter and yell for Stella.