Like many suburban singles all over the nation, I live with my parents. The area that I live in is fairly expense to move into, considering my Student Loan Payments, Credit Card bills, Car Loan, Insurance, Cell Phone Bill, etc. Not to say I'm mooching off my parents. I try to kick in where ever I can and pay rent (granted a lot less than if I lived in an apartment).
But honestly, living with your parents really takes a hit on your dating life. There's this weird added pressure of bringing anyone home since it kinda forces you into a "meet my parents" place when neither of you are at that point. Even if its just to pick you up to go on a date. Not to mention any other romantic interludes you were hoping for.
I'm not one to complain needlessly, so I decided to put on my big girl pants and start apartment hunting with my friend, M. We get along really well and are in similar situations. We talked it out and decided that it would be a good decision for us.
I like to prepare, so when we made the decision to look a while ago, I have been trying to save money. I've pretty much cut off all non-necessary spending so I have a comfortable safety net post move. In the meantime, this really effects my dating life. In NYC or other cities, there are a million places where you can hang out for little or no money. You don't even have to drive if you have a bike or know places that you can walk to.
In the 'burbs, you have to plan a little more. Not only that, no matter where you go, you have to drive. Its not the 90's anymore and as everyone knows that gas is expensive. I'm trying to do my best, but its really difficult. Mostly, I've been staying home to resist the temptation of going out.
This has done absolutely nothing to help my single life. I would online date, but I don't want to register for a paid site like Match or eHarmony, cause that costs moo-la. And the people on free sites are kinda creepy, not to mention that they live farther away.
Anyway, I'm hoping once I move out, my dating life will pick up a little. Its a lot easier to introduce some one to your roommate than your parents.
