It’s funny to think that I’ve been here for this long when I still feel like I’m just on a work visit. But let’s face it, when I add all the days I’ve been out of the city, it’s probably more like “Day Twenty-Five”!  I suppose if I’d moved to New York or Singapore I wouldn’t have the convenience of commuting home any time I like and it has certainly made things easier. But I admit I’m waiting for the few weeks where I have no trips out of the city whatsoever and where I can just…be. Maybe then it will really feel like I’ve settled in.

Day 53 and I find that I talk to myself a lot more now – verbally congratulating myself on a yummy meal or telling myself out loud “don’t forget that umbrella Peta” as I prepare to leave the apartment. Or how about my favourite and the one I say most, “you idiot Peta!”. Mostly after I’ve spilled something during that yummy meal, or proceeded to forget that umbrella.  I tell myself this new, not so internal, communication is a great thing and just shows that I’m happy in my own company – but it is possible that I’ve just gone a little mad.

Surprising even myself, I’ve started to long for the suburbs now.  There are so many things I love about living in the city: I can sleep in on week days knowing work is only a 1 minute walk away and then head home for lunch to cook up a storm while i watch The View or Ellen. Then there are the amazing things around me for after work and on weekends like strolling to the Victoria Markets or Fitzroy Gardens.  But although I’m in one of the best Lane’s in the city, it’s also great proximity to Swanston Street, Melbourne’s George Street, which happens to be lined with McDonalds, KFC, Krispy Kreme and everything a twenty-something loves to hate! Yes, it’s my own weak personality that I can’t resist these delights (I’m referring to hangover days more than anything), but I find myself wishing there was just a nice little set of local shops in walking distance rather than the entire city at my fingertips! I have some of the best shopping in the city right outside my door but let’s face it, it’s not so ideal for my bank balance!

And although the proximity to work has its perks, I do find myself in a city block bubble most days!

Finally, the thought of being able to lie on my own bed and lounge around on my own couch or eat dinner at my own dining table, is just something my fancy Flinders Lane apartment just can’t compete with.

Day Fifty-Three, and the hunt for a suburban apartment begins!