Thinking of NYC
Shirt || Skirt || Heels || Handbag (similar) || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch
Since this global event has started, I’ve heard several times “aren’t you thankful that you still aren’t in New York?” With all that I see on the news, I completely agree with that sentiment. I’ve often said that the universe told us to move back to St. Pete, and that seems more true than ever! On the other hand, I know it’s not that simple. There were things that David and I absolutely loved about living in the city, and St. Pete really can’t recreate those things. Occasionally, I feel this wave of panic wondering if we actually did make the right decision. And yes, it’s happening even during this crazy point in time.
I want to chalk this up to cabin fever, some mild situational anxiety, or maybe even very watered down survival’s guilt because the city I called home now looks like a ghost town. Whatever the root cause, I thought sharing my love for NYC with you would have some therapeutic effects. Please bear with me.
The Neighborhoods
When living in NYC, we specifically called the Upper East Side home. While there are so many neighborhoods to know and love, the UES had so much to offer! A lifetime’s worth of museums? Check! Quick access to Central Park? Check! Perfectly manicured streets? Double Check! One of my favorite weekend rituals was grabbing my coffee to-go (either from Butterfield Market or Ralph’s) and aimlessly wander. Even though I did this multiple times a week, I still feel like I didn’t take full advantage! Better still, even going a few neighborhoods over, like to the UWS or Union Square, would create a whole different vibe and list of things to do.
The History
A city with deep rooted history just speaks to me. It’s probably why I love New Orleans and Newport so much! When I travel, I always try and learn about the history of my next destination. “Oldest bar” or “oldest restaurant” are often in my search history. That was one of the biggest appeals of living in New York City. There was no shortage of traditional restaurants with pages upon pages of history to visits. I loved exploring any particular neighborhood and spotting a historic marker. For example, one of my favorite coffee shops, Devoción in the Flatiron District, just happens to be across the street from Teddy Roosevelt’s childhood home. There were countless little gems like this all around Manhattan.
The Fashion
I almost have no words for the amount of fashion you’ll find in New York. It goes without saying. Every time I stepped out of my apartment, I would come across countless impeccably chic outfits. Wandering down Madison Avenue, where some of the most exclusive designers in the world call home, could send me into an inspiration overload. Between uptown, midtown, and downtown, you’ll also find different styles that speak to the neighborhood that you’re in. All have their special place in the city culture. Since St. Pete is so laidback, dressing in that metropolitan style can raise a few eyebrows. Still, I love turning to some of my favorite NYC bloggers, like Krystal Bick, Allie Provost and Blair Eadie for a taste of the city.
The Buzz
This is probably the aspect of New York City living I miss the most! Calling it ‘the city that never sleeps’ is not a misnomer. There’s always something to do, something new to see, and interesting people to meet. When I first moved back to St. Pete, it felt refreshing to have some peace and quiet. Now that the dust from our move has settled, I find myself feeling jittery over missing that energy. The other angle is that the potential is limitless in New York. There are so many opportunities, especially in terms of a career in writing, my daydream job!
My pictures for this post are glaringly NOT in New York City. Since I was able to live a block away from the MET Museum and its famous steps, I thought I would try and find something similar in St. Pete. This is the Museum of Fine Arts. It’s kind of like the MET, but to a much smaller scale. It will always be one of my favorite buildings in the Sunshine City, especially since our wedding reception was held here. Since I can’t be in NYC right now, I’m trying to find small pieces of the Big Apple locally that give me joy. Even if you’ve never been there, find the best NY style pizza your town has to offer, make your favorite cocktail, and dance to Frank Sinatra in your most elegant outfit. I simply can’t wait to get back to the big city, but until then, I’ll find it wherever I am.
Love from Florida,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.
