Life update: so we moved into a hotel

Blogging these days is set to look like a very “glam” industry. While I like to see and share all pretty things, I don’t want to pretend that life is perfect. Everything you see is real, but yes, much of my life is not presented here, the reason why I wanted to share what’s been going on lately.

This past month has been tough. While I have felt overwhelmed and even exhausted, I can’t say it was a bad one. I have been away from my blog and even Instagram for what feels like forever.

Truth is, our life has gotten a bit crazy lately. We decided on a whim to move out of the apartment we’ve been living in for years because we have had enough of the poor conditions.

We have been constantly disrespected by the staff there, living in an apartment that felt like a cave: super cold in winter (talking 60 degrees) and super hot in the summer (talking 89 and above during heatwaves, and mid to low 80s on regular days), with heat/AC barely doing anything to help, hot water only lasting for a few minutes and, not to mention, the most disrespectful neighbors, (one happens to be the property “manager”, and another part of the maintenance staff). So, as said above, we decided last minute to take our money (mind you, it was not a “cheap” apartment, rent-rate-wise) elsewhere. We looked at other apartments and were unimpressed with the reviews, to say the least.

While exploring all options, we decided to move into a hotel for the rest of the time we will be spending in San Diego. We did the math and figured that living in a hotel wouldn’t be much more expensive than renting an apartment given that we wouldn’t have to pay utilities and such. We made sure we chose one that has a kitchenette - I do need to cook since I like to know exactly what goes into my food - yes, you guessed right - we don’t eat out much and are picky with our food.

After what was the toughest move of our lives, we finally settled in.

We’ve only been in the hotel for a few days but are already feeling comfortable and much better overall, being able to get our rest without being awakened by rude neighbors early morning, and most importantly, being warm and cozy.

One thing that pleasantly surprised me was the downsizing. I have to admit that I was a bit nervous about not having “personal space” from my husband - we all need that no matter how great a relationship is - but it’s been quite enjoyable. My husband and I are pretty much together all the time since we both work in the same building and we take breaks and lunches together every day. Because of that, we didn’t have much adjusting to do.

So, as part of moving, we have donated our furniture to Salvation Army, other items to Goodwill, and even purged a lot of things that no longer served us (talk about Marie Kondo-ing unintentionally). I have to admit this was bittersweet but having less stuff really feels good; I did not realize the weight things had on us until we had to move.

Speaking of purging, I have been wearing some of my older clothes to help me decide if I wanted to keep them; these pants did not make the cut, and they have been donated to others in need.

We decided to donate versus sell. While it would have been nice to get some money for our things (which were all in great condition), we felt we didn't have the time for "negotiations" and thought that donating would make a greater impact.

Also, while I have donated many of my clothes, this wrap top stayed. I love a wrap top - they are so feminine and sexy at the same time. Of course, this one is old, but if you want to add one to your wardrobe, check this classic one, this fun one, this very elegant one, or this one with lace inserts.

I hope things are going well for you.

Until next time.

XOXO,

Em