First Glimpse

Everytime I move to a new apartment, it typically has been a bittersweet feeling because not only am I leaving behind the place I've lived in before but I'm also leaving behind the setting of some of recent memories attained while living in that place. Different apartments I've had before are the basis for more memories than others but each one I have fond memories of, people that I've lived with, parties had there, etc.
My last apartment in particular was one the holds some fond memories. It was my favourite apartment I've had in that it was a proper one-bedroom that I lived in on my own so everything was done on my own terms. I didn't have as many gatherings as the year I lived with Gina and Kim for example, but I had people over and still had some good times there. I had always considered it my getaway from everything when I was there and when it came time to move, I was indifferent to the idea of even moving. I was satisfied where I was. My last time there when I left the keys, I took these photos. Two years I had spent sleeping in that bedroom, cooking in that kitchen and hanging out in that living room. Two years I had a place to call my own.

The place I did move to is located in the Hydrostone, the heart of Halifax and one of the oldest neighbourhoods of the city having been constructed immediately after the Halifax Explosion in the late 1910s and early 1920s. Most of the houses in the neighbourhood are from around that period and a lot of them are surfaced with stone and actually hold a lot of character. It's a very nice neighbourhood.
Walking to work in the mornings, sometimes I don't put on my iPod because I pass by people out walking their dogs and they'll always greet me. The people here are friendly and neighbourly. It's refreshing and enlightening. The Hydrostone has that small-town feel with the luxury of being in a bigger town.
Our actual house has a front and backyard so there's lots of greenery with plenty of plants. Very visually appealing. Most of the houses in the area have both. I love the hidden backroads between the rows of houses on each block. I love that there's a nice park across the street up on the hill. And there's a corner store a few blocks up where the shopkeeper has a reputation of being neighbourly. So far in my experience, the rumours are true. He's quite friendly. And of course, the Hydrostone Market has some pretty interesting shops and restaurants. Julien's Bakery and Salvatories Pizza are two spots that I like.
The actual house we live is very nice. Large kitchen, a guest-room, an extension to the bedroom, a large basement. Each window has something nice outside. It's well-lit. It's quiet. Hardwood floors. And I think we've done an excellent job at decorating and arranging. Below are some photos of the new place. We hope to be having friends over for dinner and games very soon and perhaps a martini gathering.