ode to 2053

I’ve been wanting to write something all week about my apartment and how I’m going to miss it now that I’m leaving. Now that moving day has been bumped 2 weeks ahead to this weekend, I thought maybe I should get this out of the way before I am knee deep in packing materials.

You don’t really think that people would get so attached to something like an apartment, but maybe they do. I only moved once when I was a kid, and then I was six years old, so it wasn’t a big deal. When I moved out of my parent’s house, I didn’t think twice. Partly because I knew that they were staying and I could come back whenever I wanted. You can’t get sentimental about a dorm room because it’s so temporary and cold and has fluorescent lights!

But this apartment – 2053 – I’ve had this apartment for almost 3 years. I didn’t have my car vandalized (why I left the apartment before this one), it wasn’t a claustrophobic mess (why I left my 1st apartment), there’s nothing wrong at all with it! It became home to me.

It’s strange for me to think about what’s happened in that apartment since May 2003. I had 4 different jobs. I had my one major relationship so far with Mike. Mike got fired from his job while we were hanging out on my balcony. I rearranged my living room twice. I set the smoke alarm off a few dozen times, not because I burned something but because fish cooks smoky in the oven sometimes. I lost my virginity there. only threw a few parties there. small ones, like I like. The ups and downs and ups and downs that are mine and Russ’ relationship. learned what it really felt like to be in love with another human being. 3 next door neighbors, 2 downstairs neighbors, and 3 katy-corner neighbors. 60 pounds lost!

I’m a completely different person walking out of 2053 than I was when I walked in so long ago. I know I’m a better, stronger, more mature person. Older and wiser, of course. But in a lot of ways, I’m still the same ol’ Laurie. Screaming at the tv during a basketball or football game. Caring for and giving too much to people that will never return the favor. Wearing my heart on my sleeve. Making my friends laugh. Enjoying being young, and single, and carefree. I spent so much time worrying about everything and now I just want to relax and have a good time.

I loved that apartment and everything it stands for in my life. Transition, independence, growing up – all of which happened. Part of me thinks that having a roommate is a step backward, but I’m trying to see it as another transition. I’ll have to learn to be sociable I guess. Although I think living with a guy would be a whole lot easier than with another girl. I guess this will put it into that perspective.

I think I might cry on my final night in 2053. I’m not going that far, but the apartment won’t be the same without me and my stuff. And when someone else moves in, then I think it will be contaminated. I’m glad we’re having a party that night. For me it won’t be just to watch the Jermain Taylor fight – but to say goodbye to my security blanket that was my apartment.