So, I know it has been a really long time since I've blogged, and I apologize for that. It has been a really chaotic few months for me (not an excuse I know!) and I suddenly have had a moment of sheer epiphinatic (yes, I made it up, just go with the flow...) genius!
So, at the end of August I started renting my very first apartment in what is generally called the "ghetto" of my city. It's a little intimidating, and I know some readers are getting to the point where they're looking at renting or just starting out on their own in the first place. I'm also pledging into a fraternity (again, go with it, you'll understand soon.) and I'm nearing the second year of my relationship with my boyfriend.
The Start of Something New & BeautifulSunday, October 3, 2010
So, I feel those are 3 big commitments to blog about for all of my readers. :)
Paying the Bills...
I'm going to give you a little insight and advice on how to keep this as simple and unstressful as possible.
1. When you move into your apartment/house/where ever you'll be paying a monthly rent; get a small box or folder and label it Bills and organize it by date due. Most bills are due only once a month, and can be separated very easily by date. Your rent is usually due right at the beginning of the month (mine is due the 4th of each month) and your electricity bill (assuming you pay your utility bills, of course) is usually due in the middle or the end of the month. Other things like cell phone bills, insurance bills, etc., will be due at times that vary per bill. So, get that box or folder and label, separate, and save!
2. Something I like to do is buy "big groceries" once every two to two-and-a-half weeks. By doing this, you're more likely to actually spend less money in the long run on your groceries if you do this. Make a list of what you'll need in general (spices, milk, bread, eggs, meats, other dairy products, veggies and fruit, etc.) and then what you want. What can you get at a later time? (Those Hostess Cakes can wait, readers!) and What do you need now? Toiletries are a must. As tacky as some of you may think it is, go to The Dollar Tree and buy your hair care products, spices, and other things. You can get more for your dollar (literally!) and now they even have a frozen section!
3. Once you're comfortable after a few months (I haven't hit this stage yet, but soon I will!) of living on your own and get the hang of paying/saving for bills you will find that you'll have a little extra to spend every month on the things you want. New dress for formal? You'll probably have enough money at the end of the month to buy it! Hair dryer? Bought. Just do what you're comfortable with, but remember that saving ahead isn't always a bad idea, even if the money is burning a hole in your pocket!
Pledging Alpha Phi Omega...
So, I've decided to pledge into a service Fraternity (they have men and women in this organization) and this is something I think I should address.
1. If you are not passionate or serious, don't join. That is really, really, truly something I try to push when I talk about Greek Life to ANYONE. If you're going to pledge to any organization, please be serious about it. Don't join it for the letters or resume building qualities, pledge for the family you're joining and the cause you're supporting with the men/women of your group.
2. Make sure you can handle the dues. Most fraternities/sororities have fundraising or payment plans you can use. If there is ever a time you need to use those resources, please ask a member that has been active longer than you! It isn't a bad thing to ask for help! :)
3. Remember, be thorough. Don't go into a group because you like the ideal. Look at the people. Do you truly fit in? Do you know the ins and outs of things?
My philosophy on Greek Life is to find the one group you fit in with, then go to another. Sometimes you think you fit in so well with one group and when you switch it up, you may find you're more suited for another. No one will penalize you for weighing your options, in fact, we prefer it!
Nearing the Second-Year Mark...
This doesn't have any points or bullets. I'm not going to tell you that it's extremely hard or easy. I'm going to tell you, though, that this is an amazing experience that I hope lasts. :) I'm so in love, and while it isn't as easy as the movies make it looks, it can be effortless if you're truly comfortable. You'll fight, you always will, but if you can look at each other and talk it out, smile, and kiss and make up, you're going to be alright.
I highly recommend a relationship with someone as amazing as my "Skinny Boy."
I'm going to try and update this blog every week now, or at least twice a month. Keep on commenting, readers! I love to hear your feedback! <3>
Sincerely,
The Fat Girl
