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So if you’ve been following along with me, then you’ve probably noticed a change of scenery. Jason and I have officially moved back to Atlanta! While I was super excited and ready for the change, it was definitely difficult to say goodbye to New York City. And if you know me personally – then you’d know I’d be lying if I say that I was totally enamored with the big apple from the start. To be honest, moving to New York from the South was a definite adjustment for me. First, it was hard being farther away from my family in Florida. I missed the comforts of home, the southern hospitality, the ease of having my car, and just the overall culture. In New York, the tiniest task like getting groceries took more effort and planning. I was also in a bit of culture shock, because the people aren’t full of the nice and fuzzies like back down South.

Despite being in one of the greatest cities in the world, I found myself feeling tired, lonely, and stressed so much of the time. Mentally and emotionally it took a toll on me that was hard to experience first-hand. For someone who also suffers with anxiety, it was often overwhelming. Despite feeling this way much of the time, New York will always be in my heart. I look back on my time there and would’t trade it for the world. I made the most incredible memories with my best friends, made so many NEW friends, traveled to different places, bolstered my career, and found a strength and conviction within myself that I didn’t know I had. Not to mention, I ate EVERYTHING in that city. Side note, I’m going to have to sign up for a Flywheel membership to combat those culinary experiences.

I always fancied myself a confident and independent person, but in many ways – New York helped me grow up and become unapologetic about being me. So while I’m moving back to Atlanta, I feel like I’m returning as a slightly different person and ready for some new experiences. Thank you, New York. I love you.