Gordon,
just so you know you're not alone, i am looking at
my third rejection in as many months, as well as
the latest notice of the default on my student
loans.
My last two real jobs were both grant funded, no
benefits.  In a way i am getting used to the
"freelance life." Besides, I really didn't want a
family, home or decent health care. Thats why I
went into conservation.
What is interesting is that I have restored art
worth a half million dollars, and the client
balked when presented with a bill for  $600.  And
of course in the same vein, I am paid $12 per
hour, but am expected to treat irreplaceable,
priceless works of art and smile while doing it!
P.S. i met a conservator at the Holocaust Museum
in D.C. who told me just be patient, because she
had been a volunteer for TEN years before she got
her job there.
j chin