After not having gone anywhere for several days (except for walks) I decided I needed to get out. So I went to Ikea and got a couple of bargains. I’m still putting together cheap shelving for my pad, and thought if I could get some small, sturdy shelves, I’d have even more room for my stuff. I picked up a couple of Malm nightstands for $17.50 each. I couldn’t find a wardrobe door for shelving that I liked, but I’m sure there will be one soon. I also got a couple of Baggebo shelves, so I can store some of my smaller appliances. For someone who hates to cook, I’ve somehow acquired a popcorn popper, bread machine, juicer, blender, mandolin slicer, a small oven, and a borrowed microwave. I also have a plastic storage unit for some of my dry foods as well. Not sure if the plastic storage unit will fit with the shelving, but even so, I have plans.

But after my shopping spree, I felt a bit depressed. I’m not sure why. I have had plenty to do this break, but it seems like every break, I get depressed. I’m sure it has something to do with my age, the fact I have no money, and I’m just plain tired of struggling. Shout out to Jami, who says she doesn’t know anyone who struggles so far only to not have anything work out. Thanks so much for at least acknowledging that. It’s hard to hear from people, “Oh, Gloria, EVERYONE struggles.” If you’re driving a car less than two years old, you’re not struggling. If you have a streaming service or two, you’re not struggling. Starbucks five times a week? You’re not struggling. Making more than $9.37 an hour? (I’m not.) Okay, you MAY be struggling, but what have you cut out? I haven’t been to a movie since last summer. No streaming services. I haven’t bought new clothes since two springs ago. Haven’t bought new shoes in over a year.

So I went for a walk. Didn’t make me feel much better, but then when I came home, I couldn’t get in. I tried my usual key. Then I tried my other key. Then I tried my hidden key. Nothing. And it’s spring holiday. Great.

I told a security guard via my translator app what was going on. He tried two of my keys, and nothing. He started calling a few people, and then indicated someone was coming. He had a can in his hand and I knew what it was. SD 80, known in the states as WD 40. I looked at the can in the elevator and chuckled.

And within two minutes, I had access to my cluttered pad. I thanked the men profusely, got myself some water, and fired up the computer.

So as mopey as I am today, I’m grateful someone was available and had bootleg WD 40. I told them it was the worldwide problem solver, and in the states we call it WD 40.

Now, if I could only hide a can of that outside my apartment door.