Travel Diary - New York City

This year I spent my 23rd birthday in New York City. 22 was definitely a weird year for me all around. I found myself, lost myself, and found myself again all in this past year. I learned how to love someone else in a relationship, but also learned how to pick myself up from a breakup. It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions, but I’m happy with where I’m at in my life right now. Being single again opened my eyes to the world. I’ve learned so much about myself and what my goals and aspirations are for the future, and I’ve learned how to be happy in my own solitude.

I originally booked a flight to New York because I was running away from my problems back home. Once I arrived, I learned that my answers weren’t here; they were still left in San Francisco. As a kid, I always wanted to run away and give up when things got tough or I didn’t want to face my problems head on. That toxic habit followed me throughout adulthood unfortunately. When the going gets tough, I run - physically, mentally, and emotionally. This time around, running away from my problems wasn’t the answer. And honestly, I don’t even know if I left any problems back home to run away from.

I’m naturally a very emotional person, but I don’t know what emotions I’ve been feeling lately. I’ve just been living honestly. I’m not anything, I just am. I’m pretty content with how my life is currently, but I’m always a work in progress. Getting away from home only made me realize that home is where I’d rather be for the moment. I’m not saying I regret going on this trip to New York. I guess I’m saying my intentions for coming here weren’t the best. But regardless, I’m thankful to be here. I spent my 23rd birthday at a wine bar for 9 hours with my cousin working on this website. Being in New York definitely helped spark the creative side in me, and I’m more than thankful for that.

I used to think that New York felt like home every time I visited, but that faded a little now. This city still has a soft spot in my heart, but I think my heart still belongs in San Francisco. For now at least. Nevertheless, thank you for the hospitality, New York City. You know I’ll be back.