Today marks five years of living in New York. It kind of crept up on me but it feels like such a milestone.

I still remember that anxious feeling I had in my stomach when I stepped on that plane with my one way ticket. (I was actually supposed to fly out on February 1 but due to a massive snow storm my big, cross-country move became less climactic having it delayed by a day – ha!)

What’s interesting about that feeling I had on that day five years ago is that sometimes I still get it…

But it is out of excitement more so than anxiety. Because despite five years here I know I still have so much to look forward to and still so much to see/taste/do in this concrete jungle.

New York has a way of constantly surprising and delighting. It also has a way of disappointing and stressing. But man it sure knows how to make it up to a girl.

I have had so many pinch me moments in my time living in New York. Moments I had only dreamed of and moments I couldn’t even dream up. I’ve met so many wonderful people. I’ve toughened my skin and learned many a lesson. I’ve made memories and explored and eaten too much and had too many cocktails and spent too much money and stayed out till 5am and pushed myself too hard. I’ve figured out more of who I am. I’ve celebrated and suffered. I’ve seen goals become reality. I’ve met people that inspire me and comfort me.

…in all five years, I’ve most certainly found a home in New York. And while I wouldn’t call myself a New Yorker, it’s good to know I feel at home here. I know not all have the same experience and each person’s journey is different. But today I know that I wouldn’t trade my decision to move from San Francisco to New York for anything.

New York, I love you. I can’t wait to see what year six brings…

[Last year’s anniversary post.]

[Bekka Palmer Photography]