I was Andrew's guest for a bit over four months and, in that time, I realized how fortunate I was to have chosen and been accepted by this host. I felt safe, yet was given space to do my own thing. Still, it was nice to feel that someone was watching out for me: Andrew would check in if I hadn't come home. As a woman returning from work late at night, the neighborhood was incredibly safe; St. John's University is across the street and the Public Safety vans were always on patrol. The area is such an anomaly for NYC-- it's so suburban and therefore very quiet and peaceful. There are some drawbacks to this as it was not exactly night-life central, but in about 39 minutes using the Q46 bus and the F or E train, you are in midtown Manhattan.
My room was separated from the area Andrew spent most time in and right next to the bathroom, so I definitely had a sense of privacy. The bedroom was spacious enough, with a good-size closet, a shelving unit, a huge wrap-around desk, and a full bed that was INCREDIBLY comfortable. The daylight entering the two windows was great, unobstructed and bright- and that's a huge thing for me, especially compared to so many NYC offers.
Andrew and I spent quite a few evenings chatting and debating many topics; he is a curious, well-read, informed individual (as am I!), and I feel I thought and learned new things as a result of our conversations. At the same time, I appreciate how he gave me my space when I would close the door of my room and not emerge for awhile.
The time I spent living in Andrew's home was a moment of transition, and I think I had the best roommate given where I was in my life. I appreciate his hospitality and his friendship and how he conducted himself. He made me feel his place was also my home.