Settling In

Finally getting settled in...


Weather-wise it's been interesting since I got here. The mornings have been overcast but nice, followed by a scorching afternoon (90-ish and humid). Then all of a sudden around 6 or 7pm, there's huge thunderstorms that come in and drench everything for about 15-20 minutes before clearing back up. But I think the humidity's been around 85%, which is quite a shock coming from the Inland Northwest.

So my patio's at the bottom of a hill, and during these thundershowers it fills up with water:





So to explain... I bought this countertop dishwasher, but I was having some problems finding a space for it. My kitchen's pretty small, and it's too big (ironically) to fit on the countertop. Plus, there's a problem with my sink that makes water leak everywhere. So my solution: put it in the bathroom. Genius, I know. I was wondering what to do with all the extra counter space in there anyway. Plus, I can use the fan to ventilate all the hot steam.

I've been steadily filling my apartment with free or cheap stuff. My main tool has been Craig's list (craigslist.com), which is a site for free online classifieds. I got a vacuum for $20, lamps for $10, an iron and board for $10, a free microwave, and a bunch of other stuff.

A big bookshelf for my library--only $24.
I have a larger one coming soon for my CDs.

It may not be a looker, but it's comfy. Plus, FREE!
I strapped it to the back of my car, if you can imagine that.

An older bike, but only $20.
It was the only thing of value I found at garage sales.

And one last shout out. Nicolas Vigil, bandleader of Milonga, songwriter and accordion mofo, gave me a parting gift before I left town. And I have to say, this is one of the best presents I've yet to receive.

Nick, you are a giant among men (physicially and creatively).