Honey, I’m Home!
Wow, what a day. I am beat. So tired. Head aching. But I am also the proud owner (or loaner, really) of a brand new appartment.
And by “brand new” I mean “really old craphole”. But it’s MY craphole. And that, in and of itself, is a quality I find very redeeming. I think I’m gonna like it there.
Everything went fairly smoothly today. I got my key. Went and checked out the appartment. My first thought was that it seemed smaller than the last time I saw it. And that there was sort of an echo-echo-echo. But it’ll be much nicer when I get my stuff all unpacked and fill the place. There’s no oven. Hmm. I’ll have to get a microwave oven I guess. I need lamps too. There’s practically no light at all. Apart from one in the bath room and one at the kitchen sink. But no lamps in the loft or anything. Must get lamps. No shower curtain either. And the place wasn’t painted. Good thing I don’t really care about all that stuff. It’s not a luxurious place by any standard. But it’s my little bunker.
No drapes either. Silly me thought that getting drapes would just be a matter of going down to the drape shop and pick some out and bring them back and hang ’em high. But I can understand from my parents that they need to be custom made and it’ll take maybe up to a week before I get them. Bummer. I’m going drapes shopping with my mum tomorrow. She’s an expert on these matters. Compared to me anyways. I hope it won’t be too long before I get them. When I say “drapes” I mean “curtains”. And vice versa. What is the differences between drapes and curtains? Now I have said “drapes” so many times that I’m starting to wonder if it’s actually a real word. Do you know that feeling? You say a word so many times that suddenly you wonder if you just made it up yourself. Hmm. Anyway, without drapes and curtains there are just big old windows opening up to the green middle spot between two appartment blocks. A spot where people walk and children play. So I can’t be naked 24/7 until I get drapes.
After checking out the appartment I called my dad. He came over and we did the syn. Checked everything out and wrote down all the little niggles and squibbles. Little holes here, a lose wood panel, white splotches on the walls, a dark spot on the ceiling. Little things that aren’t important to me and that won’t get fixed, but I just need to have them registered so I don’t get blamed for them when I move out.
The original plan was for us to move my stuff tomorrow with the help of my dad’s friend Oluf. But we changed the plan and did it today instead. Oluf came and picked up my bed and most of my boxes. And we all went back to my appartment with the stuff. And by all I mean, all. My mother and brother came too. To see the appartment. And my brother was quite helpful with moving stuff and inspecting the place. That was nice. We don’t always get along too well, but today he was a sport.
Everybody seemed pretty happy with the place. Apart from the lack of a paint job. My mother thinks I should get it done. But really, I don’t want the hassle. I’m fine with the way it looks.
And now most of my stuff is there too. Not unpacked yet. But all the boxes stacked around. I still haven’t moved the computer though. My internet kicks in tomorrow, so I figured that we’d do it then. But Oluf isn’t available tomorrow. So we’ll have to wait for Friday. I’m currently considering when to actually move in myself. Tomorrow or Friday? Tomorrow there will be no computer or TV. And that accounts for about 99.9% of my life. And with no drapes all I can do it sit around like a monkey in the zoo and let people stare at me. I might wait till Friday.
We decided not to move my TV. Dad convinced me to let them buy it from me. They wanted a spare TV. So instead of all the trouble of moving mine and then them having to buy a new one I just got some money. And ordered myself a 26″ flatscreen TV. I wasn’t planning on spending money on that, but ah. With the cash for my old TV and a little dip into the savings account, it’s not too bad. And a sweet new telly is on its way. 2-4 days.
Oh I got my first mail as well. There wasn’t any there when my dad and I inspected the place. But when we came back with Oluf I had a nice letter with my payslip. And some advertisements. So my mailbox is no longer virgin, but I still hope y’all will send me stuffs. I would most appreciate it.
After we had unloaded all the boxes and taken measurements for drapes and talked a little, people went on their merry way. I said I’d come back home right away, but I ended up collaping on the bed. Tired and with a head full of impressions and thoughts. So I just lay there for a while. That bed is so good compared to my old one. Sweet. It was an odd feeling though, the empty room, the noises of kids playing outside. The strangeness of the place yet the knowledge that it is now my home, it is where I will be. Be for a long time most likely. My mood kept swinging from “this is SO awesome” to “this is so scary”. I hope I can do it. I had my doubts when I first walked through the door. But I will make it ok.
I think that’s all for today. Tomorrow I’m going drapes shopping as I said. And I will move some assorted tidbits to my new appartment. Maybe look for lamps. On Friday I’m going with my dad to “kirkens korshær”. Look for some second hand furniture. He needs some stuff too, so we’ll go together. I’m primarily looking for a table and chairs. We’ll see what they have.
Tonight might quite possibly be the last time I sleep in my old bed. I hope I’ll have a good dream. One for the road.
Stay tuned for more adventures in new appartment land the following days. There will probably be some pictures and videos eventually too. Wish me luck!
August 1st, 2007 at 23:59
Wow… big excitement in your life… this is great! Woo yay for you!
August 2nd, 2007 at 0:11
Well, if that isn’t a suble hint for me to come paint your apartment! Wish we were closer to you, we sure would do it for you. Don’t think you could feed my husband enough nuts and raisins to keep him happy though.
When I think of “drapes”, I think of something in a heavy durable fabric with maybe a lining behind the material (to keep out the sun and window peekers). Curtains are lighter material, usually less expensive and can get them at Wal-Mart, etc. I think most drapes are more expensive because they are custom-made, I agree with your Mom on that. But whatever works for you . . . be sure and give your Mom a big “Thanks” for her help. It’s great how your family is being so helpful with your move.
I sent you a card TODAY, so be watching the non-virgin mailbox. I am sooooo happpy for you, Plumey. You’re doing great with everything, I’m so proud of you. Our goatzies send three big hugs to you!
August 2nd, 2007 at 18:50
Man, what a wonderful thing! So many people helping you out plus a brand new tv too boot. And just think a year ago none of this could even have been possible. But all it takes is baby steps and eventually you’re there.
Debster is correct. Drapes are usually heavier than curtains and they have to be custom made. I guess for something temporary you can put up flat bedsheets and tape them to the wall.
Anyway, I’m very, very happy for you, Plume. Congratulations!!
August 3rd, 2007 at 21:27
Stu – Yay!
Debster – I wasn’t hinting at anything! But you know, the number 15 goes straight to my door.. and red is my favourite colour. Say no more!
I hvae been sure to thank everyone for their help. It’s been swell and it makes me quite happy. And a thank you to you and the goats as well!
Luis’ Lemmings – It’s wonderful indeed. I feel special! I’ve certainly come a long way, further than I really thought I’d be able to go. Thank you muchly!