It has been just over 6 months that my sister moved to the Big Apple. Since then I am making it a point to visit her at least once a year. A few weeks back I ventured to New York City by myself. Aside from hours of conversation with my sister and one of my best friends, I gorged on delicious cuisine, ventured to several parks throughout the city, gazed for several hours at the iconic and profound architecture, indulged on several cups of coffee and of course collected over 500 images with my SLR and iPhone. At the end of my trip, I totaled over 35 miles of walking.
Side post: My last day in NYC, I was left to explore the city by myself. I have to say, it is different to travel alone. I lived in Chicago by myself for almost a year, before my then bf moved up, however, being in a "foreign" environment with Google Maps in hand and my mind wandering can be a rather overwhelming experience. I am used to having someone around, and now I had some time to reflect and think to the point of rediscovering myself. I was forced to face the fact that I have been in this weird funk of self deprivation. I am not ashamed to admit that I grabbed some ice cream, found a park bench at Madison Square Park, hoisted my large backpack with my traveling possessions and cried. My emotions were beyond scattered between guilt, happiness, and borderline depression, toying with the idea of missing my flight. I did not want this day to myself to end. I enjoyed my peace and serenity. But fortunately/unfortunately, reality kicked in. Any angst or qualms I had, was sifted away with each tear that shed. I am content.
I honestly do believe everyone should take some time to themselves, and not just running errands without your s/o, or having a night(s) to yourself during the work week, or girls night type of time, but a day to get away from it all. No work, no errands, no responsibility. A road trip, a getaway with yourself and only yourself. Simply ask yourself "When is the last time you spent time by yourself, without someone influencing an idea or compromising?" I had a hard time with this. It can be overwhelming and negative, however I truly do believe you begin to figure out your happy place, whether it is that moment or another, remembering that specific time, for me: crying on the park bench, I found some sort of peace with myself.
I hope you as a reader, can find this.
On a more stabilized note: I hope you enjoy the pictures I took!
