Moving on up... or at least, moving on out

I think I'm going to submit an application for an apartment today!

I've been searching for a while now, especially since actually figuring out my budget, and I found one I LOVE. It's at the higher end of my budget, but when I compare it to the others I've looked at, it's totally worth it.

It's at least 100 sq. ft bigger than the others and has two walk-in closets (plus a coat closet). It has a nice kitchen with recently re-done cabinets and a dishwasher. The bathroom is super nice, the windows are new, I'd have a free parking space, and it's quiet and just secluded enough to be peaceful. It's within walking distance of the zoo/lake/trails (RUNNING!). There's an outdoor pool, indoor pool, hot tub, saunas, fitness room, basketball court, tennis court, and party room. It's clean. It's just really nice. Oh, and it's at a good halfway point between work and my parents/dance/Babcia/church.

I also got to ask a current resident what she thought of the place because she came to pick up a package while I was meeting with the manager. She loves it. She's been there 5 years and plans to stay until she's married. I'd say that's a good sign.

If I apply today, the $45 application fee is waived, and they knock $100 off my deposit. I wouldn't move in until May though.

That gives me a few more paychecks to save up. Plus, I'm getting a pretty nice tax return, which is awesome. I've gotten a lot better about monitoring my spending habits and thinking realistically about money. I don't need to buy a lot of souvenirs in Poland. I've been there before, and I've gotten things from family since. I have more jewelry than I can wear already. I really only need to worry about money for food and activities while there, and I'll probably at least get something in Budapest since I've never been. I can hold off on buying any personal costumes. I do still want to buy personal boots.

I could probably hold off on the Hungarian character shoes this spring. I did just buy my other character shoes, so they should still look nice for the show, and they should last me a while yet. I suppose that's something to think about.

I can cancel my gym membership... sad, yes, but I'd have a treadmill available, and I haven't gone to a spin class in a while (no time). I have my own yoga mat, so I could just get a book about yoga and do my own practice at home.

So anyway, yay for yet another step in the growing-up process. :)