one year.

A year ago yesterday, I moved to New York.

What to say? I don't think I can remember another year of my life where there were just as many ups as there were downs. It has been a struggle moving to such an expensive city as a graduate student, learning how to deal with the lack of nature and space and best friends that I had in California and Vermont. At the same time though, I'm not sure anything in my life will ever compare to "making it" here, becoming closer with acquaintances, getting my own apartment with Nick, and discovering new things about this city every day.

Although I still have a year and a half of school left, people are already asking me what my next move is, and probably will continue to until the day I graduate. The answer: I don't know. Nick and I are both ready to leave, and know that New York is not our long-term spot, but as each day passes by, I think we realize that we've passed the point of remaining unattached to this place. If we stay here past May 2012, I think we'll be ok with it, and when we finally do leave, we won't be able to help but miss it.

As winter hits harder and harder here, the travel itch is growing and I can't help but be jealous of Lauren teaching in Japan, Vicky living in Kenya, Becky and Ian gallivanting around New Zealand for nine months...but I have to remember that crossing the borders isn't what makes an adventure. I'm living my own adventure right here in New York City. As the mark of a new year is upon us and everyone is making resolutions and goals, I will simply say this: I want 2011 to be a good year, no matter what. Despite money and school and time and all the other things that are easy to get wrapped up in negatively, I want to do my best to enjoy yet another year in New York and to always see the glass as half-full.

Happy New Year.