I had a 20-minute chair massage from one of the Google masseuses this afternoon, and feel two inches taller - and my neck flexibility is almost back to normal. :~) After four days of heavy usability testing two weeks ago, my upper-left back spasmed yet again and then worsened after lessons with a visiting ballroom coach (who was exceptional, by the way - just not so great for my injury), and I've been hobbled ever since. I can't get massages when my neck is actively spasming, but gentle rubs around the affected areas at other times keep me loosened up nicely. I start a pilates class here in two weeks to supplement my yoga and dancing and help me strengthen my upper back to help avoid these spasms in the future.

My internship as a usability analyst at Google is half-over today. I'd like to tell you all about it, but I won't for two reasons: in doing so I may disclose too much information about Google's culture and upcoming products, and I don't really feel like writing about it right now anyway. I'll sum it up by saying it's what I expected in some ways and not what I expected in others. Google treats its employees well (free gourmet food, cheap massages, free snacks, gyms) but still has a chaotic (some have called it "start-up," though I wouldn't know) feel. The pace is frantic, but as a usability analyst I get to see a whole variety of products and prototypes. If you want more of an update, come by and chat sometime.

I have two side projects designing webpages this summer. I'm still in search of good graphic design classes in the area (Berkeley's selection is pitiful) - if you know of any, give me a shout. And I'm still trying to figure out what I want to do with my life and how to make myself happier.

Even though I'm not going out of town or throwing any parties, I'm looking forward to my four-day birthday weekend.