Turning 30 in My Favorite City.

I’ve mentioned it before on this blog, but I spent some time in New York City after college. As someone involved in music and theatre from a young age, it was always the city I pictured myself living in.  Along with my love for its arts and culture, New York is just pretty magical.  The people are full of life, and the streets are bursting with opportunity and excitement.

I also have family ties there.  My grandparents were married at The Little Church Around the Corner and my mom was born in Manhattan.  I love looking at pictures of my grandparents strolling through Times Square in the 40’s or my Grandma’s school picture from P.S. 23 (if most of our stuff wasn’t in storage, I’d show you some).  Hearing stories from different family members about living in The Big Apple throughout the decades has always been something I’ve enjoyed.

When I decided to give the fashion industry a go, I chose New York without hesitation.  Living there was quite a roller coaster, but I loved every minute of it. Marrying my husband brought me back to the Midwest, and while I cherish being 10 minutes from family and the ease that Missouri living brings, New York will always be my favorite city in the world.

I haven’t been back in a few years, so when Better Homes & Gardens invited me to their Stylemaker Workshops I said yes without hesitation.

Not only will this be a chance to absorb a ton of knowledge from Better Homes & Gardens editors, it will also be an opportunity to meet some other bloggers that I’ve known online for several years now.

And Nate Berkus will be there.  No big deal.  Right?  His TV show was only my main nap time indulgence for a few years.  Hopefully I can hold it together and not look like a total idiot.  Don’t remind me of the Justin Timberlake incident.

Since the Stylemaker event is the day after my birthday, I decided to go a few days early to just enjoy my favorite city.  I can’t wait to catch up with dear friends, stroll the streets, people-watch at corner cafes and just be Gwen for a few days: not caretaker, not housekeeper, not cook.  Just a girl ready to take on what that big city has in store for me.

Any recommendations for places to visit while I’m there?  I’d specifically love to go to a few museums, home decor stores and thrift shops.  ABC Home and Housing Works are already on the list, but I’d appreciate any other recommendations!