You should give the walls a light sand to ensure they are even and there are no shinny bits and the scrub with sugar soup – put the putty stuff in all the little holes and cracks and wipe down with water as sugar soap can leave a residue.

I don’t understand how you can lose friends because you are beging successful or whatever. Either you are being a friend to your friends or you are not. I find it hard to believe people would judge your money or your choice of employment if you are being true to the friendship. Perhaps it is your attitude that is turning people off. Anyone is boring if all they are interested in is the sound of their own voice (excuse the cliche). I think you need to spend more time being a friend and less time crapping on about your money/life style etc. Get over yourself!!