I hosted a special visitor over the weekend. One of my very best friends from school was up to see me and her significant other. It’s not often that I do much around here on the weekends, but this one was different.

Thanks to my tight budget, and no source of income for at least 10 more months, I tend to stay in a lot.  A typical Friday or Saturday night for me and the roomie is not anything you’d expect from two 22-year-olds.  Not that I’m sure anything could be considered typical for our age group, but let’s just say we don’t know really know much about anything—from where to find the closest movie theater  to where you can get cheap drinks with an exciting crowd.

So, having visitors? That’s quite an event around here!

I asked around where I’m doing my internship: What are some casual/inexpensive places to go out? Which areas would you recommend.?Where do we even park?!

It’s not too often that I get excited about living here, mostly because it’s still a little overwhelming. I’m not sure I’ll ever be used to an hour commute, or a Metro ride into D.C. just for the day. But then the suggestions rolled in, and my co-workers told me about all these things that go on when it starts getting nicer outside (example: movies projected onto the backs of buildings, and you bring lawn chairs and food. Um, that sounds great!), and all the things to see around Christmas, and where you can find the “college crowd” and where it’s a little bit more expensive but so much fun.

Hmm, that changes things a little bit.

And then there was the weekend with my parents. There was too much to do. We were busy for the full four days, and they even squeezed in touristy things while I was at work.  It was a good time, and about an hour before they left, my Mom decided that they’re just coming back in the spring to fit more in.  Because, really, how can you skip watching the cherry blossoms bloom? Or walking through the American History Museum (currently shut down for renovation)? Or even spending an afternoon in Annapolis to taste-test all the ice cream shops and eat fresh crab cakes by the water?

Well. It may have taken three months, but I’m starting to really appreciate that this is where I am. I’m finally recognizing exits and roads, and remembering where that parking garage is if we want to go to this seafood restaurant or that shopping center.  Now, to add to the list, I know a few places that don’t charge cover, and one that has a dueling piano players (that’s talent right there).  Good times.

I know how important it is to open your eyes to new places. I’ve lived in four states over the last five  years! Each move is hard and definitely takes some adjustment before it feels like home. But, with each new place there is a new adventure, and more importantly…..a new opportunity.

Posted by Mary Ellen Nunes at 11/19/2008 10:29:25 AM |