Every once in a while I get this deep longing for New York City. I call it my “New York State of Mind”. It’s odd because I’ve only been there once—Thanksgiving a couple years ago. Maybe I watch too many movies and TV shows that take place in that city.

When we were there a couple years ago, I was kind of nervous that I had built it up in my mind as this magical place, and I would be disappointed with the realities of the city. I was sure that I would feel like a tourist and my west-coastness would show. We drove into the city from Philadelphia and I fell asleep at some point during the drive. I woke up to the skyline and the Statue of Liberty. I couldn’t believe it. It was like I had been transported into the opening titles of one of my favorite movies.

With just a couple steps onto the pavement, I felt at home. I could walk as fast as the native New Yorker. I could easily find my way around. The crisp fall air invigorated me and I wanted to explore the park and buy a bagel and a coffee from a food cart.

(I took this photo on Thanksgiving day, walking through Central Park after the Macy’s Day Parade)

I want the busy streets, the old, towering buildings, the changing weather, and the necessity to get out of the house and walk somewhere. Los Angeles is just so different. I live on a quiet street in a medium sized city within a city. There’s a subway walking distance from my apartment, but I never use it. My car takes me everywhere—driving over an hour to get across town is not unusual and I might do it twice in one day. Being in the car I don’t bump into people, or see new shops open up or feel fresh air blow through my hair. The buildings are all about 3 stories high, built in the 70s and the same 3 colors of beige.

Moving to New York is just a distant dream at this point. M’s work keeps us firmly planted in The City of Angels for now. But I did a brave thing last night and sent my dream out to the Universe: Some day I will live in New York City. Even if it’s just for a month. And even if I learn that I’m a West Coast girl, and come running back to my homeland… I will try it.

For now I’ll watch You’ve Got Mail and drink latte’s…

Is there a place that you dream about living? What’s holding you back?