Happy Independence Day!

July 4th has never been a huge holiday for me, but this year I have a big reason to celebrate the fittingly-named Independence Day —I've moved to New York!

Despite not having completely solid plans in place, I decided to just bite the bullet and book a one-way ticket for July 1st, and I haven't regretted it one second since I arrived. It's only been a few days, but I've already found a place to stay (right across from Central Park - !) and had two interviews for two great, potential jobs. I have one more interview lined up for next week, and if you know of anything that might interest me don't hesitate to send the info my way.

I've worked at 427 Design for the last five years, and while it was incredibly sad to leave my family (and my amazing office), I'm excited about switching it up and doing something new. It's insane to think that it's been five whole years since I graduated college. I guess I'm really getting old because at least once a day I think: where did the time go? I'm sure in the blink of an eye I'll be thinking the same thing about my first five years as a New Yorker, but for now I'm trying to enjoy my first five days.

It's incredibly difficult leaving the only home I've ever known, but I'll miss the people I've met even more. I never felt "at home" in Ohio, but hitting the jackpot in the friends and family (and coworker) departments always more than made up the difference. The support I've had has been overwhelming and it hits me in waves how very, very lucky I am.

Getting here was not always a breeze, and the last few months have been particularly challenging for me in a lot of ways, but I know it's time. I still feel as if I'm on vacation, and I've been told that feeling will last a while. I hope it never goes away entirely, and that I never lose my sense of wonder and awe at being able to actually live here. I've loved and respected this city for more than half of my life, and I'm honored to be able to finally call it home. I always felt like I was, but now I legitimately mean it when I say, I'm home.