Live downtown

I was born in a city—Baltimore, MD. I grew up over the county line, went to college in a small, mountain town. After college I moved home to Baltimore, but ever-so-slightly within the official city limits. I now work downtown (20 minute commute) and have recently started to explore its various dimensions. Despite some of the obvious drawbacks (crime, drugs, poverty, corruption, occasional odor), it really is a great city. It’s complex and historical, cultured yet unpretentious. And it helps remind me of everything else that’s out there in the world.

I feel that living in the thick of it—perhaps going car free—I will be able to absorb my surroundings more fully. Walking everywhere. People watching. Having so many great restaurants, bars, shops, parks, museums, etc. all around. Stumbling across things that inspire me daily. That intangible feeling of success that I attribute (for whatever reason) to being a young female living on her own in ‘the big city’.

I do have a few things holding me back: Money, of course, is in the forefront. While I may save money on gas and car-related expenses, rent is much higher. Plus I know I’d go out much more, spending money I already don’t have and/or should be putting towards other goals (student loans) Also, I love my privacy and quite time—I feel these may suffer in compact, urban environments.

City noises. Being surrounded by people. Being alone. In your face being alone. Not this tidy yard, tight smile and wave to your neighbor while you grab your mail alone…ness.

I still cannot believe this is happening! I was looking for a place downtown with one of my best friends and another friend. We found it!!!! We have a friend that does re-modeling for properties in the city, and he has helped us secure an awesome deal. It is perfect. 5 blocks from the water, nightlife, and shopping. It is also right next to the dog park – perfect for Trek. AND it is at an amazing cost – cheaper than a county apartment yet we get a whole house. Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!! I am so excited! Awesome location, amazing roomies, and inexpensive. Wow, wow, wow!!!

Currently debating whether to live with my brother and a friend next year OR move downtown alone. Brother and friend = huge apartment, save money, not be lonely, have to deal with two sloppy males, in my comfort zone, have someone else to walk Trek on occasion. Downtown = small apartment, super expensive, potential loneliness, my own space, independence, lots of social and cultural opportunity, doggy duty 7/365. What to do?

Okay – so I didn’t get the job ;( I heard from an inside source that the person they hired has a masters in international education. I think that she is overqualified for the position and will get restless – but maybe not. She definitely blew my application out of the water!

Okay – so now I need to find a new path to reaching this goal. Hmmmm . . . .

Well, I had my interview today. I think it went well, but I have no clue to be honest. I was interviewed by two people in a coffee house. The interview was so casual, it is hard to tell how well I did. We spent a lot of the time talking about hiking, kayaking, and bouldering! Not sure what to think about that. They are looking to make a decision quickly – so I should know by the end of the week. As far as I know, I am competeing with 3 other applicants, maybe more. I’m thinking good thoughts!

Through a friend – I have an opportunity to land an awesome job. I was asked to apply for a job making twice what I would as a teacher after graduation. It is in the educational field. I’m not sure I am qualified for the position – still being a college student and not having much professional experience. However, the director of the program specifically asked that I apply for the job! The job is downtown, and with the increased income – I could afford a larger place and take the water taxi to work each day! That would be so awesome. I’ve met a lot of the people I would potentially be working with and I like them all very much. The job itself would be very challenging but I think it is something I would really enjoy. I’m preparing my resume and cover letter today. I hope all goes well!!

I’m looking for an apartment downtown. I’ve decided I’m done with the whole roommate thing and I want to try living in a city while I’m still free to do so. The search has been hard with a 93lb dog in tow – but I’m in no hurry. I want to move once – and stay there for a few years. So I’ll take my time finding somewhere I will be comfortable in . . .

Right now, all I have done is internet searches. I am going to start looking at places in living color in the next couple weeks. My top choice is pictured. It is in my favorite area downtown (an artsy district), a two minute walk from my Dad’s office, a five minute walk from the park, a ten minute walk from the Inner Harbor, and very close to where I will be teaching next year. The building is a restoration and the apartment has a loft. Very cool – sounds too good to be true!

I think the apartment is really tiny b/c the location in prime and the rent is reasonable . . . I don’t mind so much, it’s just me and my dog. Besides, I’ve been looking for a few weeks and it is sooooo hard to find a place that will take a dog his size – I’ll take anything at this point!! I hope it is livable . . .