Getting the Hang of It
I recently moved into my own place after 5 years of serious relationships, 8 roommates and 5 apartments. In case you've never lived alone- and I mean truly alone with no dormitory and just cordial acknowledgements of your neighbors- there is a wealth of new experiences (and less wealth in your new budget). There are many things to figure out like how to set up the apartment or what happens after a bad day when that support network is no longer there. After 2 1/2 months of doing this, I think I'm starting to get the hang of it. Here's some of my newfound knowledge:
You really can be pants-less whenever you like and as often as you like, as long as your apartment is well heated. Lucky for me I live in a sauna so this hasn't been a problem. Just make sure to close the curtains before doing so even if the window faces an alley (which is probably why the neighbors probably only nod at you- it just can't be unseen).
Have a craving for quiche and blueberry pancakes? Go ahead and eat whatever you like because your significant other, who couldn't eat either of those, won't feel left out anymore. People say cooking for one is difficult but it's because they either haven't discovered the joys of leftovers or don't want to admit that they ate that entire quiche by themselves.
Get a pet but do not exceed the crazy (insert animal here) lady line. That line is two. Two cats, you're a cat lady. 4+ and you're crazy cat lady (3 is a gateway number, duh).
Make plans with your friends. Rediscover hobbies like gaming, reading and only paying $1 admission at museums. Make lists. Do any and all of these things so you get your sad, lazy ass out of the apartment once in a while. But for the love of self, don't reopen that okcupid profile or get into yet another relationship- they will all fail because you're constantly on the move for better options and you know it.
Stop feeling guilty. You made this decision for sound reasons (hell, you've even modus ponens the fuck out of it and had your handy truth table to reference). You're young and ready for the next step whatever that ends up being. As cheesy as it sounds, the only one who's stopping you is in fact yourself.
So, how did I know I was getting the hang of it? Well, that's a great question. I realized I had the power all along when I, without second guessing, ordered $20 worth of take out, watched movies all night and passed out after two beers. Then it was solidified when I woke up and wore my cat-hair covered yoga pants and Boba Fett sweatshirt to grab some coffee and paid for it in quarters.
I have a lot to learn still but I can't complain- I know I have so much love around me and for once I can figure out who Shayla is.
ggfn ttywitty- leftover cold sesame noodles are calling me.
