2014 began, for me, in a local newsroom in Pennsylvania; and with a roommate very dear to me: my Grammy.
My life was filled to the brim with strong family relationships and friendships; but, my dream of living in New York City incessantly beckoned. So, I continued to apply for jobs in that great big city and hoped for the best.
A winter of bitter cold and snowstorms prompted an escape to Southern California to visit family and friends -- a much needed escape.
My cousin, Matt Connor and I, during a sunset dog walk. February 22, 2014
I didn't realize how needed that escape was until Matt and his girlfriend, Liz, dropped me off at the airport and tears filled my eyes beneath my sunglasses...
I was so upset that even the TSA official checking my bag said, "It's okay, hunny, you'll be back soon enough!" (As if I was on my way back to college...)
I mean, I couldn't be crying just because I love sunshine and warmth that much, right?
My plane ride back to Philadelphia was filled with much reflection AND the conclusion that I needed a change.
Just two weeks later I mysteriously got an email inquiring if I was still interested in interviewing for a position at the Institute of International Education. I applied for the positon nearly two months prior and to be honest, forgot I had.
Three weeks later and what I must admit was a stellar final in-person interview in NYC, I had an offer!
And, two crazy weeks later, I moved to NYC!
A quote I find myself revisiting when life gets chaotic.
The move, in itself, was only a part of the choas of 2014; but to me, it was beautiful chaos.
I snatched up almost every invitation to explore my new city; endeavors certainly made easier by the warmth of spring and summer, and an ethereal energy this city seems to posses.
Mural visible from the Meat Packing District's highline path. Photo taken 5.31.14 during a stroll with Lindsey Keane!
Summer Central Park hangs with friends Becky Levin and Brian Walker. Photo taken 6.7.14
The Kara Walker Exhibit on display in Williamburg, Brooklyn this summer. Photo taken 7.5.14
Summer boat ride up the Long Island Sound to Half Moon Beach with Maks Suski and Joe Stehle. Photo taken 7.22.14
These are just a few of the NYC highlights of this past, incredible, chaotic year; not to mention numerous work trips -- Atlanta, GA, Boston, MA, State College, PA, Albuquerque, NM, Philadelphia, PA and four trips to Washington, D.C.!
As i look forward to changes, some growing up, and love to come in 2015; I can't help but first look back to the year when my childhood dreams of living in New York City came true; and the anthem I kept returning to this past year by The Avett Brothers.
"One foot in and one foot back
But it don't pay, to live like that...
Ah, Brooklyn, Brooklyn take me in,
Are you aware the shape I'm in?"
What was your 2014 anthem?