Hi Hesperis. You said something about going to a shelter and having to store stuff at your ex's. I might be able to help you out with some storage if it's more convenient or if you're less than happy about asking your ex for the favour.

Also, you said on the subject of au pairing: "I'm not very outgoing and need a lot of private time, and I'm just not awake in the morning most days. I like people fine, but... please, at a reasonable hour of the DAY."

I'd say that describes me too, and I wouldn't want to take a live-in babysitting job for that reason, but I've had a couple of good experiences as a live-in companion: once with an elderly woman, and once with a severely handicapped woman. In both cases there was little to no "work" required in exchange for free rent; my main responsibility was simply to be home at certain hours, in case of emergency and so that the person wouldn't feel alone and anxious. Lots of time to myself, no morning chores. Having a curfew did cramp my style, but it sure beat paying rent.

These specific opportunities aren't open to you (both in other cities) but the point I want to make is that these kind of arrangements are out there. From what you said, I worry that you may be ruling out a great way to live for free for a bad reason.

One other thing... you've had a bad experience housesitting - so make it a point never to sit that house again. But that's a bad reason to rule out all housesitting. There are good housesitting arrangements out there too.

Marion

PS I will PM you my phone number now in case you don't have it anymore.