A View into My Life

It’s Only Supposed To Be Temporary, Right?

Each day in my life blends into the next. It has become a routine that seems to have no end. The way I now live is greatly paired down from what it used to be. Once there was a family, not anymore…just me.

Being homeless has a certain stigma associated with it that many wish to avoid. As such, the only people I interact with are my co-workers. And, with them, it’s only at work…not after. That’s okay. I’ve learned to be comfortable with myself, even if others don’t wish to really know me.

The place were I have temporary lodging is a bit of a rat hole, an unfinished basement complete with spiders, cockroaches, snakes, etc… It’s not as bad now as it used to be. I believe these critters are wising up in staying away from me. What belongings I own, mostly books…more books…a few more books, clothes and music are stored in plastic totes with lids. My photography gear is sealed within my zippered camera bag. My sleeping arrangements comprise of an outdoor camping cot, a blanket and a couple of pillows. I usually spray my cot with OFF insect repellent each night before I go to sleep…just in case.

For entertainment, my laptop does everything. I watch my dvd’s, listen to music and do all my writing on it. Plus, I use it for all my photo editing with Photoshop, version 6.0.1. Yeah, it’s old. I also play guitar, but not very well. That’s okay, I do it for myself.

In regards to dining, it’s kinda sad, but oh well. Most of the time, I can only afford one meal a day. I usually eat it at night, a couple of hours before sleeping. There’s nothing more annoying than having a growling stomach while trying to sleep. If I’m at work, I’ll try and get a hot meal. It’s nice to get 50% off with my employee discount. There are times though, I just get a couple cans of Ravioli…cold. I try spicing it up with Tabasco sauce and eat it out of the can. The Army has taught me much that you just do what you need to, so you can survive.

Transportation is another story. I have to walk everywhere until I get my van repaired. I walk at least 4 miles a day, while carrying a 30 pound daypack. It carries my mobile office (for my writing) and my work clothes. The nice thing is that I’m getting some much needed exercise, at the same time I’ve even lost some weight.

All of this is only temporary, or I hope so. I’ve been saying this for over a year, so it has to end soon!

Now, to get ready for work.