Good afternoon everyone! Because tomorrow marks the five month anniversary of my arrival to New York City, I decided to round up the five things I have learned so far. With time we’ll see how my feelings of living in this metropolitan city evolve.
Those of you that have been reading my blog for a while, likely remember that I lived in Miami Beach the last 9 years, and in Barcelona, Spain, the prior 2 years. I have also lived in Paris, and in Buenos Aires. Even though I have moved around quite a bit, living in New York City was not on my wish-list, but my fiance got a job offer here, so here we are!!
My first visits here were with my family in 1996, and in 2007. I also visited during high school, with a big group of students. My third visit was in May 2015, my brother had moved here for work, and I stayed with him for a week. And frankly, for me that was plenty.
So when my fiance suggested that we move to New York, my initial reaction was “oh my goodness!” because in all honesty, living right on the ocean with warm temperatures year round was my definition of perfection (and peaceful living!). During one of my trips to the city, we decided to spend a full day looking at apartments, and that is how I learned that ‘quiet’ living areas do exist here. With time I slowly accepted the idea of moving out of Florida, but I feared that I would not adjust too well, especially to the cold. Ay ay ay!
The first month was easy in terms of the climate, we explored around, went apple picking with our pups in Warwick, NY, visited DUMBO, Brooklyn, drove out to New Jersey several times (Wegman’s trips, check-ups at the VET, and visits to his parent’s home). It was not until my third month that I realized I would definitely be needing a huge & heavy coat, similar to those that I’d worn on family ski trips. I started to miss my car (the comfort & privacy it offers), was not enjoying overcrowded subways, did not like ultra cold rainy days, and was feeling really homesick!
Earlier this week we had a few days with ‘warmer’ temperatures so I decided to do some exploring (walking around the city is easier when it is 50 degrees as opposed to 30). I surprised myself when I realized how content I was feeling while walking along the east side of Central Park. I quickly realized that I am starting to feel a little more steady. 🙂
- New York City is often called ‘the center of the universe,’ and there is a lot of truth to that, so make the most of your time here!
- New York City has four seasons, and each season has its magic (yes, Winter included!!).
- New York City is incredibly easy to navigate, and the subway can take you anywhere in just a few minutes.
- New York City has everything, from spectacular restaurants, to all kinds of entertainment, and unthinkable opportunities.
- New York City is tremendously fast paced, but quiet areas abound.
Everyone goes at their own pace, and starting a new life in a new city is not the easiest. When things get stressful, I remind myself of the reason why I am here – because I met my soulmate and we are spending our lives together! Having my two dogs with me has definitely made it easier. Dogs just make everything better, don’t they!?? And now, five months into my new life in New York City, I finally feel that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
Have you ever moved to a city you did not intend to live in!? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Stay tuned for more updates! Talk soon! xx
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