things are lookin' alright

once upon a year ago, i had a mad rush to move out of this city. the stress at work, the endless traffic, the self-entitled people with their imposing diet restrictions and manicured everything - i had enough of it. and when you have a picturesque dream city in mind (ahem, seattle), it makes the urge to move that much greater.

until now.

over this past year, i have come to re-appreciate this grand ol' city. my position at work has progressed, as i've earned my credibility as an L&D nurse. our home sweet home is truly one-of-a-kind, a hidden gem that feels like "us." the temperate weather that allows me to be outdoors all year long - running, hiking, swimming, sitting outside lazily embracing an afternoon tea.

and then there are these other things...

...like being a 5-hour drive from these spectacular views.

and eating, drinking, and napping outside.

going to world-renown venues (go bruins!!) to watch eclectic performances by creative people (can i get an eight-clap for ira glass?!)

and then there are those friends who are family, those few people who make this crazy city feel like home.

i had to grow up a bit to understand why i'm here, now. i had to open my eyes to the good around me, to the amazing opportunities in front of me, and to the love that was born in this very zip code. 

los angeles, i'll shut up now. thank you for putting up with my doubt. this is home. 

p.s. emma, if you read this, know that you were one of the firsts to help make this city feel like home. thank you for exploring our surroundings with me in college...those dates will always be cherished!