Settling In

It's now been a week and a half since my last post. I've been busy unpacking, sorting, and settling in. We haven't established a routine yet, mainly because of the upheaval in the house as we attempt to integrate my stuff into her stuff. Boxes, boxes, everywhere.

Still, we've gotten a lot accomplished. None of the rooms are finished, but already my presence is imprinted upon nearly every room. The bathroom has my toiletries and hair products (yes, I use product - sue me). The living room has some of my family pictures and my beloved chess set. The office is where my presence is most felt, with my computer, TV and entertainment center, globe, clock, bookshelves, books, and shelving units shoved into the closet which holds mainly my books, comic books, and general random stuff. Even the kitchen has my imprint on it because of a couple of kitchen appliances I brought (my microwave oven and toaster oven were newer than hers).

Stuff is important in a way. Not for being "stuff" in itself, but your stuff is a reflection of who you are. Having your stuff says "I'm here." Of course, it helps if your stuff has a place to be. Sitting around in unpacked boxes doesn't really cut it. The dining room is still a disaster area of boxes.

Also, I have met some of the locals. At Lowe's, we were helped by a friendly salesperson who directed us to a place where we could get what we needed for less cost. Of course, I was also struck by his appearance and how he talked. He was big and burly, with no neck. He talked with a slow heavy drawl. After we walked away to other parts of the store, I said to Southern Belle, "That was a good ol' boy." She said "Yep, that was a good ol' boy. You'll find a lot of people around here are friendly like that."