I’ll probably never get married, but I still need some damn dish towels.

It’s funny to read an interview in a blog I’ve been reading for a while, and see one of those actual “expert” people say something that I’ve been saying for years. Mostly as I put together my own household goods from family gifts and hand-me-downs, thrift and discount stores, yard sales, and Freecycle.

Jaclyn: I suggest that when every person turns 25 he or she gets a party. The celebrant can register for house wares, furniture, linen. He or she might even have a ceremony that involves committing to important people, one of whom might be a lover. But these material rewards would not be contingent upon finding “the one.” There wouldn’t be this mad husband-hunting mentality. It’s moving that the older generation wants to help the next generation get a start in life, but reserving this support for those in amorous couples is outrageous.

Me, I’d set the date closer to when someone moves into their first independent home or graduates from college, whichever comes first. Whether it’s with a partner or not. I’ve always resented the implication that what I have in my house is fine “for now,” and I’ll get real dishes or silverware or glasses when I get married. No, I’ll get real dishes when I can darn well afford them.

(Which is no time soon, but that’s a whole other entry.)