BRYANT PARK: ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES IN THE CITY

On Sunday, I met up with my friend Sarah for lunch who happened to be in the city for the weekend. Sarah and I met while working in Atlanta together and she now lives in upstate New York. So, when she mentioned she would be coming into the city, we immediately made plans to meet up. Always great to see an old friend and catch up! 

After lunch I did some shopping and took a walk through Bryant Park, which is easily becoming one of my favorite places in the city. Bryant park is iconic for so many reasons. Mostly for hosting Fashion Week in the past years. But one thing I love about the park, is that it always takes on a new feel according to the season. And now that it's SUMMER time, it's the perfect place to hang out. Along with tables and chairs that border the lawn to sit and have lunch or just take in the sites, there is also food trucks and outdoor games available. Not to mention, the park also has some amazing views of nearby skyscrapers. I can't wait to hang out in the park more and take advantage of all things to do nearby.

What is your FAVORITE place in the city?

XO, Rae

MY FIRST TRIP ACROSS THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE

A few weeks ago, I FINALLLY took a trip downtown to see the Brooklyn Bridge. I've been wanting to walk the Brooklyn Bridge ever since my first trip to New York, a few years ago. And now that I live in the city, it only seems fitting.  My roommates, along with some friends visiting from out of town all decided to make a day of it and walk across the bridge into DUMBO.

As you start entering the Brooklyn Bridge from the Manhattan side, you first walk along side the highway and soon start to see the infamous arches of the bridge. Then as you get toward the middle, you start to see views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn. It's the most amazing skyline. For me, it was a bit emotional. It just so happened to be the day after my last day at my job. Standing there on the bridge was surreal for me. It reminded me that in life, you can often be in between two points and you have the choice as to which one you decide to embark upon. I definitely had some moments of tears as well as pure happiness as I walked the bridge. And to be there with my best friend, Will of over 10+ years, was amazing to experience it together. And a day that I will never forget.

For anyone visiting or living in New York, the Brooklyn Bridge is a MUST. 

XO, Rae 

HOW MOVING TO A NEW CITY INSPIRED PERSONAL GROWTH

Living in New York has made me realize a few things about myself. I am way more comfortable now outside of my comfort zone than I have ever been before. New York exposes you to so much just in every day life. You are constantly surrounded by people. It's true, your personal space is pretty nonexistent most of the time. From crowded streets, subway stations and even grocery stores. But the good thing is that you have a lot more chances of meeting some amazing people. Everyday is like a new experience filled with new opportunities.

I have also learned to embrace change head on. Change used to be something that made me feel anxious and I often avoided it. I've had a lot of change in my childhood and I think that essentially made me fearful of change in my adult life.  

I have settled into the city and adapted to my new life pretty well in the past 8 months. Moving in general can be overwhelming but moving to New York adds a whole new level. Smaller space, roommates, no car, public transportation, longer work hours....the list goes on. All of which seem somewhat normal to me now. I LOVE living here in the city and for once I welcome the change that comes with it.

Fear of failure is also something I'm learning to let go of. I no longer want to say "what if." I want to live the life envision for myself and put my fears aside. It can be scary to chase dreams. But I think having regrets is scarier.  I would rather say that I tried and failed than have never tried at all. I'm learning that the journey is more important than the end result. I created this blog to document my journey here in New York. But also, in hopes that women can relate to the honesty of embracing your thirties and reinventing yourself. In addition, I am writing a book based on my life experiences, relationships, friendships and lessons learned. My goal is to one day publish the book. 

I guess you can say New York has changed me. Or maybe it's that I've allowed myself to be more open to this experience. Either way, I'm so grateful for the growth.

XO, Rae