Hodge to the Podge

So cute I can’t stand it.

Intriguing news from the conflict in Darfur.

Addictive fun for Barbie girls like me. (not that I look like Barbie, rather that I like to play with hair and makeup)

Hot – Another feather in the cap for the new apartment–hot,  hot water.  As in, even if I am the last person to take a shower in my unit, I still get plenty of steamy hot water.  And I am a big fan of steamy hot water.  Ahhhh.

Power Tools - Oh boy, all kinds of jokes could go here.  I fired up my drill for the first time last night, trying to hang the paper towel holder.   In fairness to myself, the paper towel holder is very stupidly designed in that the holes for the screws that attach it to the wall are really difficult to get to behind the paper towel bar, which does not come off.  I did not enjoy this project and it resulted in one totally stripped screw and the decision to EBay that sucker.  I found a couple on Stacks and Stacks that I like where the bar actually lifts out, which should make assembly easier.  But no, the drill did not turn me into a leaner, meaner version of the Power Puff girl I am.  In fact, I am going to try one more project (the towel bar) and if that sucks too, I am returning the drill.

Laptop - I convinced myself today not to take my new laptop to Florida.  I know–seriously, that should have been a no-brainer.  But I am intrigued by the idea of doing my on-line shopping from the hotel so that all these fun household additions are here when I return.  Still, knowing me I’d catch myself looking at resumes, and H. and S. would both yell at me, so I’ll save everyone the hassle.

Party – When I finally have a desk and can start putting more stuff away, there will be a party.  I’ll looking at mid to late August.  Definitely before Labor Day, because my mom might be in town and/or I might be in Minneapolis.

Kitties - Since some of you have asked, the kitties are getting adjusted quite well.  Beatrice loves to sit in my “office” window and watch the world go by.  However, the storms of late have also sent her hiding in corners.  Bastet is a little more shy than usual but mostly back to her normal self.  Both are obsessed with opening the various closets and cupboards I now have.  In the middle of the night, I hear “scritch scritch – thud thud thud – scritch scritch” as they try to climb in the bathroom cupboard or open the living room closet.  Why?  Because they are cats.  They want to prove they can get in there, and then come right back out!

Laundry! Hooray!

Yep, you read that right.  After 2 years of shuffling my dirty laundry back and forth to the equally dirty laundromat, I just finished a load that involved a very short trip down the back steps.
The laundry room is clean and well-lit and not at all scary.  Washing is $1.00, drying is $1.00.  The washing machines are brand new and huge.  And best of all, I don’t have to herd other people’s kids while I am trying to fold my clean clothes.
Did I mention I love this new apartment?
Did I mention the dishwasher has so many options I was looking for the handbook?  And it truly is whisper quiet?
Did I mention tiny birds perch on my window ledge and make me feel like Snow White?
Did I mention I actually have a view of the people walking back and forth outside from my “office” window, instead of a view of the brick of the next buildling from my cramped little living room?
Yeah, despite all my grouching about the work that needs to be done around here, I. Love. My. New. Apartment.  !!