Home sweet home

We've been living on our own for two months now. Despite the plummeting prices of homes since our purchase, I have no regrets so far.

For a start, we have cut down so much time on commuting. The kids suddenly gain alot more independence in their movements. They can go out, meet friends or invite them over without having to worry about transport.

Here, they have their own space and privacy. With internet and cable TV, they can never be too bored. They can go to the gym or for a swim without having to rely on me to send them. If they're feeling peckish, there are plenty of food choices around.

For me, it feels good to have a cosy place to live where it's quiet enough to work at home without any phone disruptions, internet disconnections, dogs barking or kids howling in the background.

I sleep on a proper bed in my own room instead of the tiny cot in YK's room with my head next to the TV and waking up feeling so sleep deprived. And I don't have to squabble with him over the room temperature anymore. I detest sleeping with the air-con on.

Now, I can even wake up slightly later than before and still get the boys to school on time. I've rediscovered my love for cooking and believe it or not, I am beginning to enjoy doing laundry by hand. These two months of scrubbing and wringing clothes have toned my arms!

I like having CH over frequently or going for a walk with him after the chores are done. I also find it so convenient to walk everywhere - to the market, the stores and train station. I can even go running at the park that's just a stone's throw away. Everything is within easy reach here.

Of course now that a chunk of my salary goes towards paying for the mortgage and household expenses, we are more mindful of our spending. I don't get to see my parents and nieces everyday. Plus the dogs don't get to live with us. But still, it's nice to have a place of our own.