In the process of clearing off my memory card for Halloween festivities tomorrow, I came across more Maui photos that provided a great source of escapism.
I also found a photo that Dylan took of me which captures a moment I enjoyed immensely: napping on the warm rocks as the sun set at Kalama Park.
I can’t believe that just one week ago I was sitting in the middle of an empty living room, half-heartedly alphabetizing my DVDs in the midst of a complete emotional breakdown set to the soundtrack of music by Explosions in the Sky. I was in full panic mode: I had lost Dylan, my life was nothing, I self-sabotage every good thing in my life, my dog is my only friend, etc. It was U-G-L-Y.
A mere week later I am full of smiles, coming down from a lovely weekend spent noshing on a fabulous dinner Dylan made, going to an improv comedy event that I’d previously missed, holding hands while walking around Capitol Hill, and great conversation.
Yes, it’s cheesy. And I admit it’s even more gross in that I’m publicly admitting how happy I am and how my fears of loss have subsided. I suppose my compulsion to share is partly public closure on that moment and also provide an update for those of you sucked in to this emotional period with me.
Now I leave the phase of panic and fear and tears and general woe and enter one of motivation and organization while hunting for a new housing solution. I have one lead which involves a pretty stellar person, a cool house, and a small move (probably no more than a mile away from where I am not). So I’m happy to report the tales of sorrow and drama will be no more.
Let’s take a short commercial break from life changes and drama. I present to you my newly updated work desktop, brought to you by Canadian comic creator extrodinare, Bryan Lee O’Malley, and the highly anticipated Scott Pilgrim Gets It Together.
If I have not forced Scott Pilgrim into your hands, it’s behooves you to check it out on your own. Pure unadulterated happy fun time. Trust me, it’s awesome.
I wasn’t going to talk about it. But since Dylan mentioned it, I suppose I should throw in an update.
”It” is a change in my living situation. Gone are the days of the cramped and cozy apartment in Capitol Hill. No more tripping over random pieces of music gear and cords. Now the apartment holding a year and half of laughter and love is barren and and, well, empty. I now am living on my own, for the first time. Ever. So now we are entering the era of experimentation, where I try to keep my chin up and figure out my place in the big, bad, scary world.
The one constant is Dylan’s role in my life. It’s an important one which cannot be destroyed by a fifteen minute bus ride and separate living quarters. Many slumber parties and chess nights are in the future, and we remain committed to each other and our relationship. Conjuring up optimism isn’t a strong suit of mine, but it’s a requirement for this change to be a good decision. So naysayers can get to steppin’.
With nothing left of my Maui trip except peeling skin and sand cascading out of the laundry that still needs to be done, my memories are the only thing keeping me warm on these chilly Seattle nights.
First impression getting off the plane? “Goddamn, it’s fucking hot here!” That, and the airport smelled of dirt.
First thing I did? Rolled up my pant legs, for I am the nerd that forgot to layer.
And what about the rest of the trip? Imbibing chilled tropical concoctions with the frilly umbrellas, spending time driving around the island with wind whipping our hair and sun burning our hands (for those of you who haven’t ridden in a car with me I must always ride with a window down and a hand riding the air. Apparently I haven’t progressed beyond 6 years old. Or my canine stage.), and spending vast lengths of time laying on beaches and trying not to drown in gigantic waves that like pulling off swimsuits.
To sum, it was perfect.
I also gave myself an extension of vacation after coming back. Mental exhaustion and emotional turmoil has made me somewhat unstable and the two extra days gave me the serenity to calm down a bit. And I’m sure the 87 degree weather in Maui didn’t hurt.
Halloween, part 1
My favorite holiday commences! Behold my work costume…
Night costume and plans include zombie Christmas carolling, with photographic evidence to follow.