Heart House

Since I've now been living in Jefferson for 4 months, here's a photo of the people. Connor is the newest roommate w/ the red man bun and big beard, to his left is Joelle - a volunteer for the non profit and friend of all, to her left is Phil - creator of composting business, to Phil's left is his girlfriend Lacey - the one who invited me into the house, and the final person is Jan - she works for the non profit and is a friend of all.

We have "family meal" once a week now where one person cooks for the group or we collectively cook. It's been a challenge for me as Phil and Lacey are vegan and cooking vegan can be hard - different spices and ingredients to aid in the flavor and texture. It's funny how butter or eggs can really become part of daily food cooking, or cheese. I've cooked vegetarian quite a bit since I've long had veggie friends, and that was always easy, and I eat vegetarian often. But, vegan is a new ballgame. It's also been hard w/ my busy schedule, which will get even busier, to find time to designate group time and coordinate schedules. 

I will say, while I've lived alone in the past and was fond of it, it is nice to have company. As I get older, I find I do enjoy solitude more than I once did. So, I do spend a lot of time in my room when I'm home in a full house. I enjoy my own space, my own rules. The ability to invite people over and have it be yours instead of ours, private conversations, the fridge all to yourself. And with that too, there are downsides.

Regardless, I am thankful for Lacey and Phil for taking me in, for being so gracious in a time of uncertainty in my life, for inviting me into their community and exposing me to new things. Plus, the rent is very affordable and will allow me to get by for the time being. Cheers, skol, prost!