Pressure

"Welcome to Hollywood! What's your dream? Everybody comes here; this is Hollywood, land of dreams. Some dreams come true, some don't; but keep on dreamin' - this is Hollywood. Always time to dream, so keep on dreamin'." - Pretty Woman

I like living in LA. I've lived in the area just over 3 years, and it's still exciting! There's always lots to do, and tons of opportunity. It's still fun to go into the city, and I'm thankful for the opportunity I've had to go to such a good school (even if I forget sometimes).

But, sometimes, I get the feeling I'm Country Mouse in City Mouse's place. The majority of people I go to school with drive cars that cost more than I make in a year. My car is 13 years old and probably more economical than a hybrid. We don't live in a house or a condo, or even in a recognizable neighborhood. I usually try to save money; my sunglasses were $5 at Wal Mart and I'm not above wearing clothes from Target (I don't wear Wal Mart clothes any more, because they're low quality and it ends up not being a bargain). It pained me a little to spend $60 to go to the tailgate last night, and believe it or not, there are some months I don't put anything into savings and cut myself off from my credit card. We actually have a "wedding budget." I'm not a "manager" of anything at work, except for maybe the copier.

Normally, it doesn't bother me. I don't judge my friends based on things like that, and I know they don't judge me (or we're able to laugh about it together - even better!). But I know there are people who judge me, and I've heard enough comments that were not made in good spirit. So yes, while it doesn't bother me most of the time and I'm happy with my quality of life, I can't say it doesn't get to me sometimes.