I *heart* My City

I've mentioned this before, but I'm going to say it again: I love Santa Barbara! My hometown is a little city in the desert with nothing fun to do. It's in a valley south of Los Angeles, so all the smog from LA drifts down and keeps the dirt and heat trapped in this little city. So when I moved to new city with things to do, clean beaches to stroll, and fresh air to breathe, I instantly fell in love :)

Today I met up with a friend who graduated from UCSB two years ago and moved to NYC for graduate school. She is studying to be an occupational therapist and loves her new life in the Big Apple. However, when she comes back to visit, she realizes how much she misses little ol' SB.

This morning we took advantage of the beautiful beach-town weather and went to a coffee shop to catch up. She brought a friends with her from NY; it was this girl's first time in California. So we got a cold drink, sat at a table on the sidewalk, and people-watched while we chatted. We took her around and showed her things that we are so used to here, but that are non-existent in New York. It made me realize that I've been taking our grocery stores, coffee shops, and parking structures for granted.

I was actually able to slow down for a minute today and enjoy some time outdoors in this beautiful city that I now call my home. I was so bright-eyed and receptive when I first moved here, but now that I'm used to this little-big town I don't notice the small things anymore. When I go somewhere to get a coffee, I grab it and go. I hop back in my car and rush off to complete my to-do list for the day. Having company here reminded me how much I enjoy living in SB. And since I probably won't be here forever, I decided I need to continue taking advantage of living in such a beautiful and unique place. I want to cherish these moments in the city that defined my life as a college student. I still have that itch to travel, and I'm sure I always will. But since I am living here for the moment, I want to appreciate all the beauty and fun in this city.

So instead of being cooped up in my apartment this sunny afternoon, I'm going to get out somewhere and take my work with me. I need to enjoy this while it lasts!