As of 2020, I made the move to Sacramento, California with one goal in mind: to find a place for myself and my children, and eventually my significant other.
Homelessness was rampant in the area, so I felt blessed to have a roof over our heads. However, I knew that we needed our own space.
In November last year, I applied for a new apartment, even though my chances of getting in were slim. There were only 58 units available, and I was 129th in line.
To complicate matters, only 22 units were available for those with a 40 percent income requirement and a voucher.
For months, I thought about the apartment complex, but my hopes of getting a unit were low. Then, two Fridays ago, I received a text message from the leasing office of the apartments, telling me to check my inbox for an important message. To my surprise, I had secured a unit! I had to read the email several times and even forwarded it to my roommates and significant other to confirm.
To my relief, they were all supportive and congratulated me. I had worried they would feel abandoned, as we had been searching for a larger home for four people and four pets. My significant other even pointed out that I may have become accustomed to toxic and chaotic relationships, and their positive reactions were a shock to my system. Nevertheless, I was grateful for their support.
On the 24th of last month, I submitted my deposit and chose my unit, which will face the morning sun. I had always dreamed of waking up to the sun, and the afternoon sun could be obnoxious.
I had previously lived in an apartment with afternoon sun, and it had made my living room unbearably hot.
As I signed the final pieces of paperwork, the woman at the leasing office informed me that my move-in date was still to be determined, but they would call me between the 27th of last month and the 31st of this month.
Now, I sit here eagerly awaiting their call, hoping to sign my year lease for my brand new studio apartment. I am nervous and a little scared, as I have lived alone before and did not enjoy it. However, the excitement of having my own space and the knowledge that it is a brand new apartment makes it all worth it. Additionally, every household in the complex will receive a free bus pass to promote environmentally friendly travel.
2023 promises to be a year of opportunities, a brand new chapter in my life, and new adventures. The force is with me, and I am one with the force. May the force be with you as well.
