Long time, no see! So...
I didn't post last month because I was busy moving out to my new apartment!
I actually didn't intend to move out so soon after making up my mind, but sometimes making a firm decision just forces all the chips to fall in place. After I wrote my last blog post, I thought to myself "why wait?" and I set off on my apartment hunt. Everything just ended up working out within a few weeks, and with the help of my family, I was able to set up shop in one day.
There's only so much I feel comfortable sharing about my new place for privacy and security reasons. But I got a great rate on a 1-bedroom apartment with an in-unit washer/dryer. Big win for me. I feel very lucky. My biggest priorities in my search were finding a place that had the washer/dryer and fit within my (kind of tight) budget. I aimed for a rent rate that was a few hundred under what I know I can actually afford so that hopefully, once I'm settled in and take care of those few big one-time expenses, I can actually continue to save a decent amount. I'm still young, so I know I can handle living in a smaller space. But all in all, I'm really liking my new place and management has been wonderful, which I know can make or break a renter's experience.
I'm still adjusting to my new environment and responsibilities. I haven't had to pay bills in a long time, or meal prep or do really intensive cleaning. But I'm excited to build up my new adulthood routine. Maybe I'm just feeling optimistic and rosy because this is all still so novel, but it feels really fulfilling and nourishing to take care of myself and my home so holistically. The more elbow grease I put into setting my apartment up, the more it feels like home.
There's still much work to be done and a lot to learn. Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of furniture right now because of my budget. I plan to buy and incorporate pieces over time. It's kind of hard not having a couch right now because I know that would make my space feel so much more cozy and lived-in. I've been using my cajon as a chair. I have grand visions for what my place could look like, some crazy combination of Midcentury Modern, Art Deco, Eclectic, and Victorian styles. But I'm having to be patient with myself and appreciate what I already have. My two rugs already go a long way.
I'm also a tad paranoid by nature, which means I've always worried quite a bit about my own safety. This is both a blessing and curse when you're living on your own. I double-check the locks and closets before I go to bed and keep a knife by the bed. I try to ignore the ghosts that roam the halls. But my paranoia also keeps me vigilant and safe, so I'm trying to not fight it too much.
Everything is still new, so I don't know that I have too many insights about what it's like living on your own yet. I still have yet to have any friends over or host any parties. I keep my place clean, but I don't really have a routine for it. I'm still figuring out how to balance the activities that bring me joy, like music and art and crocheting, while still taking care of my new adult responsibilities.
My family has also been really supportive of the move. They agree that this will be great for character-building and maturing. But this is a major step to me becoming a "full" adult, and I have yet to see how this change is going to influence my family's dynamic. It'll ultimately be good, I'm sure. But I'm sure we'll all be dealing with some growing pains along the way.
It'll be interesting to look back on this post in a few months, once I'm more settled in. I'm sure I'll write up an update. Have any of you moved recently? Got any advice on finance or routines? Let me know in the comments!
Comments