In the classic shack-up scenario, two upbeat and downright delightful people work full-time so that they can have a view of the tops of parked cars outside their kitchen window instead of looking up into unwashed bumpers. The arrangement works over 35% of the time and can have several beneficial side-benefits, such as having someone handy who will eat what you prepare - sometimes without complaining at all - and who can teach you how to stretch and grow and blossom as you learn to love all their little foibles. Don't think there will be no foibles! Everyone has a few funny little foibles.
If you find you are perhaps a bit of slow grower and that the foibles are getting the best of you, here are a few suggestions:
- Take turns enjoying the shack. One of you could work even more than 40 hours a week or could perhaps take a keen interest in long distance slow-walking.
- Role play. Many itchy domestic situations have been soothed simply by spending half the time pretending you both belong to another species. Ferns have few foibles.
- Liberally apply Paul and Art. A little Simon and Garfunkel always helps take the edge off. Or, if the DJ is not feeling super couple-ish, maybe just a little Simon.
Next week: Feng Shui for hobbits!