MB - I think what Dee said is great. If he's the right one for you, or even someone who will just be a good friend, he will not judge your apartment or your past. We all have things we feel ashamed of, I'm sure he does, too. If you can figure out how to open up to him, show him who you really are, you'll quickly find out where he stands on acceptance. And go at your own pace. No rush to spill your guts on everything. I think you have a lot going for you right now - try to focus on the here and now - looking back and worrying about the past really gets us nowhere. You know that. (I understand that's hard to do - I struggle with it myself.)