Oh Lord, you are going to be sorely disappointed if you stay with airline flying. There is nothing more expensive to an airline like a well informed pilot. All they want are mushrooms. Just remember, the following phrase, "4 to 6 (day, weeks, months, years,) is their favorite way to pass information. Knowledge is power, and they don't want us having any power.

FWIW, my approach is to just enjoy the time off. When they want me to fly a plane, they'll let me know. Otherwise, nothing beats getting paid to sit on my couch!