The City That Waited for Me
A reflection of New York City
New York City had always lived in my imagination — a place of rhythm, chaos, and creative pulse. To finally stand in the middle of it all felt surreal. I owe the experience to my fiancé, Tim, who made the trip possible.
Before leaving, I told myself I’d take endless photos and videos, the kind of content meant to freeze time. But once I arrived, I couldn’t bring myself to lift the camera as often as planned. The city demanded presence. The energy, the sound, the constant motion — it was enough just to be there.
Being there stirred something in me. I felt excited for the city, nervous about being somewhere new, refreshed as I wandered through the concrete jungle, yet quietly wary of my surroundings. The experience was both memorable and important — a reminder of how travel can awaken you and steady you at the same time.
We must have walked miles each day; my feet certainly reminded me of it. Thank goodness for my trusty ON and Cole Haan shoes. Between the shopping, the food, and the endless sightseeing, each day felt full in the best way. When we arrived, the weather hovered just cool enough to feel familiar — like Hawaiʻi without the humidity. By midweek, the temperature dipped into the 60s, perfect for layering. I lived out my own Devil Wears Prada moment in Manhattan and my Brooklyn Nine-Nine fantasy across the bridge.
Usually, there’s a point in every trip when I start to crave home. This time, I didn’t. New York felt unexpectedly right — as if I was meant to be there, if only for a while.
Will I move there someday? Maybe. The thought lingers.
