I bought my first home when I was 21 years old and I enjoyed being a homeowner a good deal of the time.  But there were moments of despair, like when my basement flooded, or my taxes and insurance were due at the same time.  And let's not forget the time I had mice! 

But I left all of it behind when I moved to the city.  I became an apartment dweller and I am in love with the Twin Cities.  I found an awesome apartment near a shopping mall, wildlife reserve, and lots of restaurants.

I'm thrilled that maintenance problems are someone else's responsibility.  The lawn gets mowed and the snow gets shoveled and I don't have to worry about a thing.  BUT, I had to get used to the fact that other people lived above and below me.  And they make noise!

So here's the secret I wanted to share. Earplugs!  I know a lot of people might be thinking, "DUH," but this little invention made me and  my apartment manager happier.  No more complaints from me about the racket.  My upstairs neighbors can romp to their heart's content and I can get a good night's sleep.  I told my adorable co-worker, Rennie, about earplugs and they've changed her life.

So, thank you inventor of earplugs.  Life is good.