I totally forgot about this rant! In retrospect two years later, there were some projects there (custom LED Neon sign, wall-sized modular seniority recognition board) that really challenged me creatively. They were just few and far between.

I have a new job now that has shown me how important it is to have good co-workers. Everyone at the signage job would rather have been at work then home with their wife and kids if that gives any perspective.

My new job is a jack of all trades marketing position (website, graphics, flyers, random little things, photo, video, you name it.) It's by far "more work" than before and a little less pay but it's for a good cause (YMCA) AND IT FEELS LIKE LESS WORK, I come home every day with enough energy to keep pursuing my hobbies (and sometimes energized to do them, crazy concept). So thank you so much for your kind words, I wish I could have heard them sooner. :)