I haven’t been on WordPress for about two months, maybe longer. A lot has happened during that time. I’ve heard that long gaps between journal entries can mean many different things are happening in one’s life. Anyway, I want to get back to writing about….whatever. It’s a nice practice, and I feel like I’ve let it slip.

Well, I finally moved into my new place. And I am still amazed. I am also still wondering why at certain times I had initially resigned to staying in my old place just because I actually liked my room (studio). It was cozy inside and set up exactly how I wanted it. It was just the outside arena that was a bit hectic. And the process of finding a new place is hectic. I am so glad I chose to go the moving route than stay what I knew and was uncomfortably comfortable. Out with the old. Feels good.

Alas, my new 1-bedroom apartment that I found is three times larger than my old studio. It has bay windows, a kitchen window, (!holy cow!) and two in the bedroom—one on the side and one in front. Since it faces east, I won’t have the sun heating up my place all day like before. I also love the fact I can cook my food in a separate room instead of in my room. There’s a big contrast. Makes a big difference. It’s just awesome.

It’s very quiet here, even with a few kids in the building, which I didn’t have at my old place. That place wasn’t meant for children, and I don’t think anyone under 18 could live there.

I can enter the elevator safely now without running into drama, and there are no fights in the hallways.

Harm Reduction

My old building was focused on harm reduction, and I discovered that few people moved out; mostly, they died. It wasn’t just due to old age; medical issues or the buildup of similar problems among residents created a snowball effect. I never knew anyone who left unless they were kicked out, which was difficult, or their family came to take them away, or they got into legal trouble. It felt like people just stayed until death took them.

I realized that there are many ways to improve those facilities because I believe housing is important, and a necessity; not a want. I hope to advocate for better housing in the future. I’m grateful for the opportunity to move on and for the experiences I gained during my 7 years there.

Getting off the streets

That building got me off the street and helped me achieve small goals while gaining some belongings. Living on the street is hard if you want a wardrobe, a fridge with food, house plants, or my beloved Waterpik. However, it’s easy if you can handle the weather, search for a toilet, face theft, deal with judgment, find a decent sleeping spot with blankets, and look for a job while being told to “get a job”. Or if you have to wait in line for a shower, where some places allow you to sign up for laundry too. Those are awesome. Seriously. You get a jumpsuit and can take off what you are wearing and throw that along with other clothes you managed to have in the machine. Absolute blessing.

The thing I have learned is that I have met many interesting, talented, and kind people while living on the street. I’ve also encountered individuals dealing with mental illness and addiction, struggles that I can’t fully understand. Essentially, we never know what someone has experienced or what hidden talents they might possess. Be kind to others. There were so many people who were kind to me and I will never forget them. It means a lot.

Charley & Stella

This was a big move for both animals. I first moved Charley and waited the last moment to move Stella and the fish tank. Charley was first alarmed by the buzzer that sounds when opening the entry door, and seemed like she couldn’t quite understand what was going on. Stella found somewhere to hide when I managed to get her over to the new place. I don’t know how cats become ninjas but they are so sneaky! She didn’t come out of her hiding spot for a few hours.

The fish did fine, as well. They endured the tank change and travel. I actually just put a few more fish of the same kind into their new home.

I can’t believe Stella and Charley lived in a studio apartment. It was hard; I took Charley for a 1.5-hour run in the morning, which gave Stella a break from Charley’s constant playfulness. Other than that, they were always stuck with each other. They got along well, though, but just so crowded. I’m so glad I moved.

But NOW Stella can go into the other room to avoid Charley and come out when she wants, and Charley can go in the other room to get away from her or me. She doesn’t always likes to be bothered by my constant or lack of attention so now she’ll just go into the other room. I just love my new place.

We now live by 2 parks, both pretty good sized. One is in one direction, and the other is another direction. We can take our pick. They are both pet friendly and have areas to let dogs off leash. Bonus!!!

Another thing is that I was able to get a couch. That wasn’t quite possible with a studio apartment.

All and all I learned to embrace changes and sometimes take the leap of faith on things unknown. I am so glad I decided to stick with it and find a new place. I feel like a new chapter has begun and I am excited.