Birthday weekend in NYC

I knew what I wanted and where I wanted to go get it.

In the weeks leading up to my brief birthday weekend in New York, I planned, researched and weighed my options. After consulting with JP, I had formulated a list of what I wanted to eat. That list included:

• Shake Shack

• Eataly

• Totto Ramen

• Magnum New York

• Sweet Chick

• Tacos from Chelsea Market

Oh shoot, I never told you what brought on the trip — besides the obvious, of course. With JP gone, I’ve had a really rough time, but as most things in life go, after something unfortunate happens, a ton of great things seem to come about, too. Well, during this time, a bunch of good and bad continued to balance each other out.

Firstly, I received a promotion, which I feel really thankful for. Secondly, two of my coworkers in my section each gave their two weeks’ notice — this is when panic set in. With a new title came new responsibilities, and the thought of shouldering the work with only a few people to manage seemed terrifying. Furthermore, I received some not-so-great news about my health and had to undergo a procedure that left me feeling physically and mentally exhausted.

On top of everything, I was preparing to move out and had to deal with the stress of returning home and ultimately letting go of my independence.

I think my family sensed my frustrations, and, out of the blue, my dad offered to send me to New York. And, honestly, through the good and the bad, all I really wanted to do was see JP, be in his company and let some of those burdens fall away — after all, he is my partner, my person, my best friend. And because buying a ticket across the ocean on my own was not an easily attainable thing for me, I was grateful for Dad’s gift. It was truly the best birthday gift ever.

The two days went by in a flash, and I have to admit that the first time I saw JP — after a grueling 10-hour flight and a confusing Uber ride from the airport — it was almost like meeting him for the first time, hugging him for the first time. But, after a quick nap, that all faded away and we were back in-step with our usual selves — we were as thick as thieves, two peas in a pod and better than ever.

It’s hard to be without your support and best friend. Family parties and social get-togethers aren’t the same without your teammate. Eating adventures and nights in aren’t as exciting without them. Still, it won’t be much longer until I’m back in NYC and we’re making more memories together again.

Here are some highlights from that magical trip: