Even though I feel stiff now, inside I know I accomplished something.
Since my water bill has doubled – for no reason – I have to resort to different measures to keep my clothes clean.
My machine’s an EnergyStar, so I’m really confused about what’s been happening. It’s upsetting. Even if it’s $100, part of that money could go to another bill. As it is, things are still on the edge.
I was prepared for a higher power bill. I have two air purifiers going along with a CPAP machine and I run AC units in 3 rooms along with a giant box fan where the cats are.
It’s annoying, but I have to keep the house as temperature controlled as I can. We’ve been having so many 90+ degree days here. I don’t want my cats to die because of the heat.
I also have two mini and one full sized fridge needing power… along with a deep freezer.
My dryer needs so much electricity that it has its own independent power supply.
I expect bills close to $100 or even $150 with power… but with water, I was averaging $55 at the most.
I’m torn between being sad and angry. I was pulling myself up and trying to shower more than four times a week. I don’t want to stink so I’ve been cleaning my clothes too, which apparently 2-3 loads every few weeks is too much?
Using a portable washer and having to hand-wring your clothes is not the kind of Monday night I expected. However, I still had the thing from the last time my agitator in the washer broke. New bucket though.
I used less than 10 gallons to wash my jeans, some shirts and other unmentionables.
However, when it came to my bedsheets and the long, flowy shirt I wear along with its top and some socks? Into the washing machine. I have three sets of sheets now, so I shouldn’t have to do a weekly wash at least.
My back is now screaming, and I’m certain that my wrists will howl come morning too.
I’m not supposed to exert myself at all like that… but what else can I do until I can get stuff figured out?
In better news, “The Sweetest Treat” is now up. It’s located here https://archiveofourown.org/works/41353095 and here https://www.fanfiction.net/s/14129044/1/The-Sweetest-Treat, if interested.
I’m not sure what my next short will be… but I know it’ll be fun. It was nice writing less than 3,000 words.
Haha!
~J. Lyst
Hey, Miss J! 
Your Thoughts?