Monday, November 15, 2010

Ode to My Apartment, Part 2


In 2003 when I got laid off from my advertising job, there were some days when I never left my apartment. Maybe it was because I was depressed. Maybe it was because there was really no need for me to go outside other than to collect the mail from my front porch. During my 4 months of unemployment, my house became a cocoon of comfort for me.



I would sit at the table, at my desk, on the couch, on the floor, pounding away at my laptop keyboard, pouring my heart into a novel attempt. It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. I remember thinking, "Wow THIS is what it could be like if I became a real writer." I could just wake up in the morning and start working on my book. I wouldn't even have to put on clean underwear. But I wouldn't have any human interaction, either. And despite the days that I spent willingly avoiding contact, that was the thing I missed most about being employed.



I did a lot of cleaning during that time. And rearranging of knickknacks. When you spend that much time in one space, you can't help but want to spruce. I refused to paint, though, because I was convinced I'd fall in love and move on before the paint job really became worthwhile. Here we are, 7.5 years later...

My sweet living room has gotten me through a lot of rough patches. The carpet in it has been a soft landing place for me many times. Its electrical outlets have powered my writing and reading and online dating. And even though its walls stayed a bland shade of off-white, they also kept me safe and sheltered, in career sickness and in health.

I am 100% sure there will be nights that I miss this little place.

7 comments:

laura said...

You have it decorated so cute!! I'm sure you will miss it, but I can't wait for the posts of our new place!!! :)

Sizzle said...

That couch looks cozy.

I have one particular home that I still miss. I lived there for about 5 years alone (with my dog) and it was my sanctuary.

Anonymous said...

First - trying to get over my jealousy of the fact that you have an air conditioner. Heck, I'll bet your walls have insulation too.

In a weird way, you make a few months of employment sound appealing. At the very least, maybe I'd get my place as clean as yours!

Danielle said...

I bet you forget about it the first night. *wink*

Jeff said...

I hope you read the small print on your escrow papers. There's a standard "clean underwear" clause.

Janice MacLeod said...

You'll look at these photos one day and think "What ever happened to that chair/bookshelf/plant, etc." You'll never miss it. It's who you were. Not who you are.

mom said...

Life is full of changes and change is good. Your home was your castle; but now you will not only have a
new castle but prince charming to go with it. We are so happy for your changes and happiness that comes with it. Life is good!