It sure does feel nice to find the time and space to work on something creative, especially when it's something that's been sitting partially done for a long while. Using that creative part of the brain is definitely a good way to use some free time and feel refreshed.
I have so many unfinished paintings and drawings sitting around - they do seem to taunt me now and then, when they peek out from the shadows where I've hidden them. I like to take a few moments now and then to work on them a little... it takes a while to finish something when you do it that way, but it's better than not doing it at all!
I've never tried oil painting before, but I imagine it would be fun to work with something that has so much play. I've used acrylics from time to time but generally use watercolour. I enjoy the "airy" quality once it dries.