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Hi my friends,

You know that old saying, people come into your life for a 'Season or Reason?' Well for me, that has been my relationship with New York City. 

I’ve lived in NYC several times for a number of years throughout my life.  I first moved to the city fresh out of college in the early 90’s.  My original plan was to stay for the Summer and decide if I would attend law school.  Well, Summer quickly turned into 3 years and law school turned into an opportunity to live and work in Europe.  I spent 3 years living on a pull out couch, working 2 jobs, and taking in as much of the city as possible. What I remember most about our time together was even though I didn’t have much money, I had the time of my life.

In the mid 2000’s, I came back to her after spending twelve years living between Europe and Africa.  Our twelve years apart had changed the both of us.  I came with a new profession, a stable career, one that afforded me the opportunity to experience a side of the city that I could not afford prior.  This time my stay would be brief, just over two years. This time it would be South Africa who would beckon me away. During this season in NYC, I enjoyed more of the arts, experienced the culture, and spent my weekends in the museums.  It appeared we had both matured, gone were the crazy late nights, now it was cafés and galleries.

Today it was my opportunity to work with John Hardy that brought me back to NYC.   I decided I would move back for two years, which quickly turned to four years.  It’s funny how she always has a way of making me stay.  This time though it was different. My time spent with her would be more sporadic as work had me constantly on the road.  Yet, this time something would happen that would forever change our relationship.

Over the past twenty years, NYC has taught me many of life’s lessons.  She has tempted me with much excitement along with the promises of dreams fulfilled.  We have had a whirlwind relationship full of peaks and valleys.  Yet, each time when I left, I always knew in my heart it was never ‘good bye’ but ‘see you soon’.

As I pack up my apartment, I feel something is different.  I have a feeling that our relationship will be a long distant from now on.  This time I can’t be tempted to stay for I am leaving a Dad.  My world has forever changed with the birth of my daughter and I now have a gift that no city or job can compete with.  When I say good bye to NYC next week, it will be my hometown where we set our sights.

Upon reflection, I’ve realized that the world has taught me much, but my family is the reason and this winter is the season that I choose to go back to where it all started.  I’m excited for Olive to be near her Grandparents, to be loved like only a Grandparent can. I’m excited for her to live in the neighborhood where I grew up and experience life with all of her nieces and nephews.  This next season of my life will be full of new family adventures.  Good bye & Thank you New York City, I will miss you.

Safe Travels,

Scott

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