I laid out the boards so the patterns on the planks were random. (and shuffled the ~70 boxes to make sure the coloring was well mixed)

I picked my starting point by measuring and ensuring my last row wouldn't be a small sliver. This meant 'back laying' a large section due to the weird room size (floor covers basement family room, kitchenette, and 2 hallways)

Worst is, I even used spacers AND a small section of baseboards to make sure the ends by the walls were a good distance. I skipped this small area because all the planks lined up perfectly (the wall, however, followed a different path).

Note to self: Check every inch of wall.
2nd note to self: DO NOT POINT THAT SPOT OUT TO THE WIFE WHEN SHE GETS HOME FROM WORK! 🙂