The irony is often brutal. The people who witnessed your quiet endurance, your willingness to let things go, are often the most surprised – and sometimes the most critical – when the volcano finally erupts. The built-up resentment, the unexpressed hurt, the sheer volume of what you've been carrying in silence can manifest in ways that feel disproportionate to the immediate trigger.

We adore our friends for their unique quirks and celebrate their triumphs as our own. We learn from their perspectives, grow alongside them, and build a rich history together through shared moments, big and small. This positive energy fuels us, uplifts us, and makes the journey of life so much brighter.

I've been there. The group chat is buzzing with plans, and a little voice inside you whispers, "Stay home." It can feel like a betrayal, a missed opportunity, or even a bit… lonely? But I'm learning that saying "no" to the night out isn't a rejection of friendship; it's an affirmation of self.

There's a difference between a friend having a bad day (we all have 'em, and you know I'll be there with wine and bad reality TV) and someone who consistently rolls into your life like a negativity tornado. You know the ones. The constant complainers, the drama starters, the people who suck the joy out of a room faster than a toddler with a vacuum cleaner.

And the worst part? The insidious little voice in my head that whispers, "It's your fault." I find myself replaying every interaction, every perceived flaw, every way I might not measure up to some invisible standard. I dissect myself, searching for the reason why I’m deemed worthy of stolen moments but not of open acknowledgment.

But hold on a hot minute. Dining solo isn't some scarlet letter of singledom. It's a power move. It's a declaration to the universe (and that judgy couple by the window) that you are a magnificent, self-sufficient, independent badass who doesn't need a plus-one to enjoy a damn good meal.

What I truly crave is someone who is supportive, not controlling. Someone who understands that taking medication is part of my journey, but it doesn't define who I am. Someone who celebrates my triumphs, big or small, and offers a hand to hold during the inevitable rough patches.

So, the next time someone raises an eyebrow at your unconventional living situation, just smile knowingly and say, "We're just maximizing our relationship ROI.

And to all my fellow singles out there, navigating this crazy dating world: you are not alone. Keep your standards high, your heart open, and your sense of humor intact. Because let’s be honest, sometimes all you can do is laugh. And maybe write a slightly-too-long blog post about it.

This is a humorous take on life in Wisconsin. I love my home state, and I know many wonderful people here. But let's be real, sometimes you gotta laugh at yourself (and your fellow cheeseheads).