For the next month, I have decided to challenge myself. As many of you know, I tend to live my life at a fast pace, slowing down for nothing. To fix this in little ways, I'm going to stop using the microwave.
 
I realized yesterday that while I've been in my new apartment, I hadn't set it up and I was still functioning fine. In fact, by not using my microwave, I noticed that I have stopped purchasing microwaveable meals - one time foods for $2-$3 dollars a pop. Instead, I've started purchasing things like ramen (don't worry, I'm not using the seasoning packet), oatmeal and things I can heat in the toaster oven. Granted, I haven't unpacked my toaster yet either, but that will be coming soon.
 
Speaking of unpacking, I'm still in the midst of unpacking. The first thing I set up at my new apartment is Cable TV & Internet, which in retrospect was an amazingly poor decision. Now, I spend my time sitting on my couch, browsing the world wide web and watching movies through OnDemand. I'm trying to get everything out of the way, but my bedroom has taken priority.
 
I've decided on the layout of my room, and now I'm trying to bend the will of the universe to mine. I'm still strongly tempted to build my own desk and I spent about 2 hours this morning at Lowes trying to decide on materials and techniques. Finished Plywood was recommended to me for a top, and I think I could be persuaded to use it. I still like the idea of using fence post / piping to do the legs, however I couldn't find the attachments that would go on the end to mount the top. If all else fails, I can use the standard filing cabinet / door trick that serves so many people.
 
Finally, I really like my neighbors. The other night, I spent two hours sitting out back and chatting with them. They are a great group of people and I'm really lucky to have them as neighbors. Also, I have a new nickname. "Casio." I tried explaining that I'm more of a Yamaha guy, but the nickname stuck - Keyboards :).