diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 60c46ee..a726e01 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -30,8 +30,6 @@ and then exported to pdf.
 
 [3]: https://mustache.github.io/
 
-It also writes to html and text.
-
 ## You Will Need
 
 1. groff 1.23.0: for typesetting and pdf output (with the ms macro package; it *should* be installed anywhere groff is installed)
@@ -40,15 +38,28 @@ It also writes to html and text.
 4. jq 1.6: json queries
 5. (optional) just 1.14.0: just a command runner
 
-## Getting Started
+## Cover Letter
 
-1. Edit `example.toml`
-2. Run `just pdf`
-3. View pdf
+I'm honestly not sure what the point of a cover letter is.
+But here's how to make one.
+First, feed a job description and your resume into chatgpt to get a
+(probably way too stuffy and wordy)
+cover letter and then tweak it to your liking.
+Then format it (groff) and templatize it (rec)!
+Pepper it with slots like `{{position}}` and `{{company}}`
+and then:
+
+```
+cat << EOF | recfmt -f coverletter.ms | groff -ms -Tpdf > coverletter.pdf
+position: chief lumberjack
+company: swarthy lumberjacks of america
+EOF
+```
 
 ## Frequently Questioned Answers
 
 Why TOML?
 :  Because YAML is a drag.
 :  Because JSON, while highly serializable, is highly annoying to write with its strict, verbose syntax.
-:  Because while I love GNU Recfiles, they are just a little too annoying to query
+:  Because while I love GNU Recfiles, they are just a little too annoying to query and template when complex table joins are involved.
+
diff --git a/dist/coverletter.pdf b/dist/coverletter.pdf
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..df1c998
Binary files /dev/null and b/dist/coverletter.pdf differ
diff --git a/justfile b/justfile
index f59d884..cc8b71a 100644
--- a/justfile
+++ b/justfile
@@ -72,3 +72,19 @@ watch:
   && mustache lib/view.js template/html.tmpl \
   > {{outhtm}} \
   || echo "No update"
+
+# view stale applications
+@stale:
+  stale=$(gdate -d'- 14 days') \
+  && recsel db/jobsearch.rec -ie 'status ~ "active"' -p company,created,updated \
+  | recsel -e "updated << '$stale'"
+
+# make coverletter
+coverletter:
+  #!/usr/bin/env sh
+  read -p "company: " company
+  read -p "position: " position
+  cat<<EOF | recfmt -f src/coverletter.ms | groff -ms -Tpdf > dist/coverletter.pdf
+  company: $company
+  position: $position
+  EOF
diff --git a/src/coverletter.ms b/src/coverletter.ms
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..363df87
--- /dev/null
+++ b/src/coverletter.ms
@@ -0,0 +1,39 @@
+Hello!
+.LP
+I am writing to express my interest in the {{position}}
+position at {{company}}. With over 8 years of comprehensive
+experience in software development, a strong background in full stack
+development, and a proven track record of successfully leading technical teams
+and projects, I am confident in my ability to contribute to the success of your
+dynamic and innovative organization.
+.PP
+In my previous roles as Engineering Manager and Full Stack Engineer, I
+led the technical aspects of software development projects, taking ownership of
+the entire software development lifecycle. I collaborated closely with product
+managers and stakeholders to define project requirements, translating them into
+robust technical solutions. My proficiency in web development technologies,
+including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, along with expertise in modern frameworks
+such as Vue and React, enabled me to architect, design, and develop
+scalable and high-performance full stack mobile applications via React Native and Expo.
+.PP
+Throughout my career, I have demonstrated effective communication and
+leadership skills, providing technical guidance and mentorship to development
+teams. My commitment to code quality, performance, and adherence to coding
+standards has consistently resulted in successful project delivery.
+.PP
+I am excited about the possibility of joining {{company}} and contributing
+to its continued success. Enclosed with this letter is my resume, which
+provides further details about my skills and experiences. I look forward to the
+opportunity to discuss how my background aligns with the goals of your
+organization in more detail.
+.PP
+Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my leadership and
+technical expertise to {{company}} and contribute to its ongoing growth and
+success.
+.sp 2v
+.LP
+Sincerely,
+.sp 2v
+.LP
+Joe Bloggs
+
diff --git a/template/pdf.tmpl b/template/pdf.tmpl
index 89d497d..21f35b0 100644
--- a/template/pdf.tmpl
+++ b/template/pdf.tmpl
@@ -1,3 +1,6 @@
+./" ============
+./" == CONFIG ==
+./" ============
 .EH ''''       \" delete header (even pages)
 .OH ''''       \" delete header (odd pages)
 .nr HM .5i     \" tighter header margin
@@ -46,7 +49,7 @@ center expand tab(;);
 lb s
 - -
 {{#work}}
-lb r
+lbx r
 {{#role}}
 lb r
 {{#highlights}}