I heard a rumor. Not sure how true it is based on the source. A former neighbor. Introductions at the package lockers. Used to meet at the tucked away pool and just vibe. He would sit with his legs in the pool and make flirty comments. I would float. My legs wrapped around his legs. Yellow noodle, waterproof phone case and Apple Music. Renaissance playing on the Bluetooth speaker.

The rumor is I’m no longer able to renew my lease. When it expires, I’ll have to move. Either to a renovated unit in my same complex of the last five years OR out of the complex completely. WTF.

I live in a 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 900 square feet apartment in Dallas, TX. One block from West Plano. If that means anything to you. White appliances, carpet, laminate countertops, and basic wood like cabinets. My rent averages $1350 – $1365 per month including those stupid fees. If I choose to move in the same complex, to an identical floor plan with the new upgrades and amenities, then my rent would be approximately $1800!

Well damn.

Here’s the thing. I thought my lease expired December 2023. However, I called to confirm. Bruh! My lease expires March 2023. Da Fuk?! I’ve only got 4 months to move.

“What’s the plan, Phil?”

Do I sell everything (except my newly upholstered show stopping ottoman), pack my compact SUV, and see where the wind blows?

I’ve spent the last 17 years worried about school districts, basketball courts and commutes. My life has changed. An empty nest. 100% remote benefits. Praise God. A chapter two. My “must have” list has officially changed. . .

But, to what? Hmmm. 🤔

I used to dream of living in a right sized place like Carrie Bradshaw’s Manhattan apartment. Do you remember her apartment? Books from the floors to the ceiling to the left of the front entrance. A tiny living room only big enough for a handmade accent chair from the finest wood. Oh Aidan. An unused oven whose only purpose would be to store sweaters. Or in my case the occasional chocolate muffin shaped brownies. Each with just one perfectly positioned Oreo in the middle. Several pints of cookies and cream in the freezer. A closet that I could access directly from the bathroom. I want to be able to get out of the shower, lotion up on a cozy chaise lounge all while looking directly at my daily options. A capsule wardrobe hanging perfectly colored code… that I never wear. Matching ath-leisure sets from Target in a pile on the floor.

Well. That’s it. Closet door accessible from shower. My new “must have.”

XOXO

Lesson: DDC is on the move.

Question: What are your “must haves?”