ODE TO THE LAUNDROMAT
(I wrote this ironically while at the laundromat)

Image Courtesy of:

http://www.colectiv.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/laundromat.jpg

Note: Use of this image does not in anyway denote that I approve or disapprove of the content of the site from which I "borrowed" the image. Only that I liked it best of the laundromat photos I "googled"

Not that I know what an ode really is, but it felt like the right title. I'll be very excited when I re-enter the world of people who have their very own, non-coin operated washer and dryer. I've used laundromats before, but only in Provo and only where the use of said machines was restricted to use by the tenants of the various BYU abodes that I once called my apartment. While providing some great culture shock and exposure to the four seasons, Georgia has also given me the great opportunity to visit my very first "public" laundromat, where anyone can come in and use the machines as long as they are willing and able to fork over $2.00 in quarters per wash load and $.25 for every 5 minutes of dry time. Normally I plan to be at the laundromat when there really is no one else there. I have found Thursday after work to be such a time. On occasion and usually due to circumstances beyond my control I have to go on Fridays. I avoid Fridays at the laundromat like I avoid canned corn (I hate the stuff). I mean who knew that the laundromat is the place to be early Friday evening. I would write you a long laundry list (pun intended) of the reasons why I avoid the laundromat on Friday, but I feel the following conversation should suffice, if not I guess I'll write the list. Here is a "typical" Friday night conversation at the laundromat with some random member of the male species who of all the women in the laundromat (or after all ready striking out with every other female within a ten mile radius) has decided I am the one he will grace with his presence.

Male Patron: So, you come here often

Me: (trying to continue studying while precariously balancing numerous books and assorted writing and highlighting instruments in my lap) Uh...

Male Patron: (undeterred by my non-response) Yeah, I opened my dresser and I didn't have any clean underwear and I said guess I better do laundry. Didn't know it would be so crowded on a Friday.

Me: (see above and add with a look that says I can't believe he said underwear) Uh...

Male Patron: Yeah, so ...

(at this point the friendly laundromat person in charge (FLPIC) interrupted)

FLPIC: Dryer 6 is now available

Male Patron: Guess I better go dry my clothes.

Me: (HALLELUJAH! HALLELUJAH!)

What about leaving the laundromat to be outside away from everyone while carrying many books says, "Please random stranger man, please come talk to me about your lack of clean undergarments"? Someday, I'll have my own washer and dryer...minus the weird creepy laundromat males.