Thanks, Theodosia. Sensible ideas.

Got my first day of the new semester off to a good start. Well, no classes yet, but I'm pretty organized, food-wise, which I know makes everything else in my day more organized. Took the beans out of the slow cooker (I started soaking them yesterday! And put them in the slow cooker last night! I can plan ahead!), put some in my lunchbox and the rest in a tupperware thing in the fridge. Unloaded the dishwasher and put the slow cooker insert and assorted beany utensils in there. Put breakfast on the stove (and put the measuring cups in the dishwasher), and, which breakfast was cooking, swept the kitchen. Now, if I just remember to take out the trash as I leave the apartment, I'll be all set.

(This amount of organization in the morning is unheard-of from me. I'm very proud of me. Except that I think I may have just burned my cereal while I was typing this.)

Kevin, look for water damage (signs of a leaky roof, or flooding), and make sure the heat works (turn it up and make sure it comes on). If you have a car, make sure there's parking, and ask where guests can park. Ask about the neighbors. Ask which appliances come with the flat. Make sure those seem to be working. Make sure there's sufficient closet and storage space. Ask about laundry facilities.

You can BURN cereal? That's impressive, Hil.

It's all fun and games, 'til someone loses an eye. [link]

eta...

Sayid! [link]

So that warm weather I had yesterday? Is gone. Supposed to drop into the 30s today. It's already dropped at least 10 degrees since 6 am. Windy.

And yet? My office is too warm so I have the window cracked open.

Make sure the plumbing works. No, seriously, turn on a couple faucets, flush the toilet. See if the heat in the water comes up fast or if you're waiting and waiting. Flip light switches, too.

Kevin, This? I did not look for in the place I've lived for 8 years. Still waiting multiple minutes for hot water...finally purchased a 'hot pot' for the bathroom sink so that I can wash my hands in something other than icecubes.

Also, look around the perimeter for possible noise sources. It's hard to tell when you are only there for a short period...but give a look anyway.

Smells. Take a deep whiff in the hallways for cooking smells, smoke, rubbish.

But beyond all the cautions...good luck!

I remembered to wear my heavy coat. I didn't need it this morning, but I will by this evening, when it's supposed to be in the 20s.

Sayid!

I know the rumpled look is in, but someone get that man a hairbrush.

Maybe he and Cameron Diaz should get together and do each other's hair.