Lessons in life, living and lighting things on fire

Wow! I can hardly believe I've been away at college for a whole month. It seems like only yesterday I was stressing out about what shoes to wear as I made that long walk to center stage to receive my high school diploma. But sure enough I'm here in St. Louis and loving every minute of it. But if someone would have told me a month ago about all the things I have done since I have been here, I probably would have just laughed --or cried, I'm not sure. But nonetheless I am moved in, semi-settled and having the time of my life.

Now most people would think that after moving four times I would be a pro. That I'd have it figured out, that I'd know exactly how to pack and unpack everything. But let's just say it wasn't as easy as I thought it was going to be. Still, with a little help from my mom and my new roommates, we fit everything into the new house.

After unpacking and saying the dreaded goodbyes to my parents, it hit me --I was on my own. I didn't live with my parents any longer. Instead I had a new "family" to live with. At first it seemed weird. I was living with people that I had just met. But after a few short, awkward introductions, everyone jelled and now it seems like we have known each other forever. I have three roommates whom I am growing to love more every day.

But along with my three roommates I also have three other roommates. Allow me to explain.

Four people including myself pay to live in this apartment, but we have three friends who like our house better than their own and they stay with us all the time. No, really -- all the time! They have clothes and shoes and food and makeup there. I think I would miss them if they left.

And boy, is my life different now. At home I would never have dreamed of dealing with the things we are coping with now, like hooking up cable and paying bills and grocery shopping and laundry. I hate laundry. But after getting the machines hooked up and dealing with a huge leak and almost catching the place on fire because we didn't know about cleaning the lint drawer, I am getting pretty good at it.

Speaking of fire, we've almost caught the place on fire three times. (I know.I shouldn't be allowed to live on my own.) But we've been scared enough times that maybe now we won't leave the gas stove on and try to get the smell out with candles or put hats on lamps all night.

Believe it or not, a baseball cap will melt if left too long on top of a hot lightbulb.

We have purchased a fire extinguisher and we are all going to try to be a little more careful when dealing with anything hot.

We are going to always watch the food we are cooking and try not to juggle our thermostat. We are going to remember to get the mail every day so the mailman won't stop putting it in the box. We're going to be quiet at night so our neighbors don't get mad and call the cops. We are going to work hard and make lots of money so that during basketball season we can pay the rent.

And last but not least, we are going to enjoy this summer and have tons of fun.