MOVING OUT ONE YEAR ON & WHAT IVE LEARNT

This time last year I was just settling into my very own place. The excitement was very real (so was the tiredness). I was raised in Buckinghamshire and for work purposes and the fact I hated the town I lived in, I decided to move to the suburbs of South West London. My flat is right opposite the station which makes commuting into Central London super easy. When I first moved I honestly had nothing figured out, I just needed my own space and I needed it quickly. Lucky for me, I haven't been happier and I love my little home. My closest friends Mary & Callie live close by and my boyfriends parents live 10 minutes down the road. I feel lonely at times but thats nothing online shopping, a good TV show and a text from my Mum can't fix.

After 6 months I finally got into my own routine with cleaning (yup, that still needs work) paying bills, doing the food shop, working, socialising and doing things for me. Although I've always been independent, renting alone really makes you feel like a proper grown up. The best part is furnishing - I love home ware and buying things to fit my place. I often spend my time scrolling Urban Outfitters, H&M and John Lewis and obviously making numerous trips to IKEA (those meatballs tho). 

I could waffle on all day about the process of moving etc etc, I actually did a Q&A on my Youtube channel which you can watch here. All I can say is I am so thankful blogging has enabled me to be my own boss and I am able to leave the town where nothing ever happens. Sometimes I have to pinch myself that I've actually made something of my life..

Anyway, here are a few things I've learned. 

I Hate Cleaning

I don't mind tidying and sorting through all my belongings, but actual cleaning - I can't f***ing stand it. Ive recently hired a cleaner (my mum hates me) LOL!

I Love Living Alone (ish)

People often ask me if Simon lives here, he does, but part-time. His work often takes him up and down the country and some days he's at home with his family. We see each other when we can but I really enjoy my own company. Theres something really fulfilling about living alone. That rug is mine. That kettle is mine. Yup those bowls are mine. Maybe its a little territorial and selfish but either way I love it!

Renting Is Expensive

When I moved out I had no idea how I was going to afford to live. I could just about cover my bills but I needed my space so I told myself 'I'll make it work' & I did. Im financially comfortable now, however that doesn't take away the fact that renting is so expensive. I pay more than £1000 to live here (its a two bed though) plus bills, food, my weekly ASOS orders too lol. I know I could rent a smaller place or house share but firstly, I need an office to separate work and leisure and secondly sharing with people just doesn't interest me. London is super expensive, but for now, its my home and I'm happy here.

Nothing Is Ever Done

I used to get super stressed that my washing basket was never empty, the dishwasher constantly needed filling and my cream carpets were always covered in black fluff (where does that fluff even come from). I moaned to my Mum about it and she told me 'nothing is ever done, don't worry about that stuff'. I guess being a blogger I wanted a Pinterest flat which is actually pretty unfeasible. My flat is lived in, its my home and I'm doing the best I can.

I Miss My Mums Cooking

I completely took for granted coming home from a busy ass day and a delicious food was on the table waiting for me. Now its a ready meal, stir fry or a takeaway lol!