I can’t believe I’m writing this
post when I’m about to start the second semester. My supervisor has tasked me
to write a course description that is new and quite innovative, and yet my
brain is wandering all over the place.
But I’m enjoying my peace.
It’s been five months since I
first went on an apartment hunt and finally settled for one that is so, so, so
close to school. There are ups and downs in maintaining my own place and now I’m
out of the nest, I am overwhelmed with sheer pleasure. To be specific, these
are my simple joys.
1. I
Prepare My Own Food, Learn To Budget and Not Seeing Food Go To Waste
I’ve been joking around, telling
people around me that all I need is a house since I already have a mini rice
cooker, a refrigerator and a microwave oven and electric kettle. I get up in
the morning and prepare my own food which I have learned to budget and I’m
pleased to make sure that nothing goes to waste. I’m happy to have the freedom
to even experiment lol.
Talk about easy, I set the table
when I am ready to eat. There is only a mug, a plate and a pair of utensils to wash
after each meal.
2. I
Go To Bed On My Own Time And Get Up to The Sound of Silence
I believe in going to bed early
and having a good start to the day. I don’t like the sound of a noisy alarm
clock, not even a phone alarm. Ever since I got used to getting up at 3 in the
morning to catch the 6:30 bus, I’ve learned to appreciate the spill of golden
glow among the trees and on the streets. It may sound poetic, but that’s the picture
of hope that comes in each new day.
My body is responsible for waking
up in the morning and this is better compared to a noisy alarm clock protruding
into my “almost there” dreams and screeching in my ears.
3. I Enjoy My Own Stock of Everything
I have a Weekend Movie Selection,
that’s when I reach for my popcorn and nachos. I also have my art stock, for
when I want to create something and have some art therapy. This girl can be so
happy with just watercolour and pencils. And finally, my Wi-Fi allows me to
complete writing projects. I indulge in long showers and there’s nobody to
knock on the door telling me I’ve been in there for twenty minutes already.
4. Concentrating On What I Have To Do On My Own Free Time and Working In Silence
When I am assigned tasks and face
deadlines, I concentrate and work in silence. I now manage my own time and work
in silence, getting up and eating when I want to, putting on shoes and going
for a walk or running when I want to. I do it all the time with a smirk on my
face. :p
5. Tackling Domestic Problems On My Own
Sometimes domestic issues are a
challenge to how innovative I am. A dim light bulb just meant I had to switch
it for a brighter bulb and I learned to replace it all on my own. I had to keep
my place clean, and thank goodness for honest neighbours! Also, the real me
shows itself when I am so particular about dirty dishes and budgeting my needs.
At the end of everything, I am just so grateful for the peace and for being on
my own.
6. Bonus: Oggling At Cute Puppies Downstairs
Here’s a plus, you all know how
much I adore puppies. My landlord has a bunch of cute Shih Tzu puppies
downstairs and I get to see them make a mess with all their furry faces every
time I see them. They are just so cuuuuttttteeee!
I guess it all boils down to
being responsible. This may be a small flat, but taking care of it made me know
myself more, that I like plain sheets over printed ones better, that I do enjoy
silence most of all. It’s knowing that I have me and myself to depend on and that
makes me feel content and somehow just grateful.
It’s during those quiet hours
when I feel really creative and productive; no wonder I thrive so well at night
as long as I have a good lamp.
