Life Chats

I’M MOVING TO NEW YORK CITY!!

I got the apartment!! Now that’s a sentence I didn’t know if I would ever get to write. I’m filled with so many mixed emotions right now that I’m not even sure where to begin. My hands are literally shaking as I type.

Years ago, I thought that I would be married with at least one child by the time I turned 34. My life’s plan turned out to be completely different than what I had initially expected. I am a single, 34-year old woman who is about to move into her very first apartment. I’ve watched all of my friends purchase homes, plan weddings and have babies. Deep down inside there’s always been a part of me that believed none of that would ever happen for me. I’ve always wondered when it would be my time to reach a milestone of that magnitude, but I’ve learned you can’t compare timelines.

I guess you can say that things have unfolded for me at a much later time than most people. While I’ve never actually spoken or written about it before, I’m sure that you all knew. I’ve lived at home with my mom up until this point, for many different reasons. It took me awhile to get my business off the ground and once I finally got into a position where I could leave, my mom lost her job. I tried to help her as much as I could and I even felt guilty to move out. Honestly, I still do feel a little guilty.

I have such a close and special relationship with my mother. She is literally my best friend and the most supportive person in my world. I wouldn’t even have this blog if it weren’t for her taking my photos every week for the last 6 years. We’ve become such an incredible team and I owe so much of this to her. She’s made so many sacrifices for me and I have tried to make some for her too. The thought of leaving her alone breaks my heart, but at the same time I have to move on to the next level of my life. Even though she’s sad for me to go, she’s still incredibly happy for me and I’m beyond blessed with her support.

It’s been really difficult for me to not be able to share all of this with my father. I always find myself feeling this way whenever I experience any type of milestone in my life. He would be so nervous about me living in New York, but he would also be so proud and want to help with every little thing in the apartment. I swear that he’s been sending me signs over the past few months about this move, so I do believe in my heart he’s still sharing this experience with me. I’m so thankful to have him as my Guardian Angel.

New York City is not far away, but this will still be such a huge transition for me. Everything in my life is about to change. I must admit that I’m feeling a little scared, nervous and overwhelmed, but at the same time I’m so excited to begin this next chapter. I have worked so hard, for so long, to achieve this goal.

It makes me think of that quote, “If it doesn’t open, it’s not your door.” For awhile, there were moments when I honestly didn’t know if and when this would ever happen. I started to think that maybe this wasn’t going to be part of my life’s story. The dream felt so far out of reach at times. But here I am, sitting down in MY apartment holding the keys to MY door!

If you’ve been keeping up with my blog, then you know I have been talking about this specific apartment since last fall. As a quick overview, one of my close friends owns this unit inside a co-op building. She moved out a few months ago to a bigger space with her husband, but she wanted to be able to rent this place out to someone. After multiple discussions, it seemed like the perfect opportunity for the both of us.

I still had to go through the whole approval process with the board, which I admit was a bit nerve-wracking at first. Co-op boards can be tricky, so I didn’t know for sure if I would even get approved. I’ll be honest though, it ended up making this whole process that much more rewarding because I did it and I did it on my own!

I found out about two weeks ago that I got approved, but part of me didn’t feel like it was real yet. I wanted to wait until I got the keys before making the official announcement. When I walked into the empty apartment with my mom a few days ago, it all started to hit me. I went through this thought process of, “Omg, I can’t believe I did it! This is my apartment. I am moving to NYC!” Then that immediately followed with, “Omg, what have I done?!” lol – I think that’s normal though, right?

Now here’s some details on the apartment. It’s petite, like me! It’s right in the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, which is such a great location for me. I literally have everything that I need right at my doorstep and I’m just a few blocks away from the train and Port Authority. I can easily take the bus back to NJ whenever I want. The unit is in a walk-up, so I guess it’s safe to say that my legs will be in the best shape of my life!

It’s a studio alcove, which means that I have a half wall separating the living room area from my bed. One of the walls has white exposed brick, as you can see here in the photos. It’s my favorite part about the apartment because I think it adds so much character. The kitchen is small, but I can make it work. I’m actually waiting on the countertop to be redone. My friend cut off the overhang when she lived here so that she could create a little dinette area, but I prefer to have barstools instead so that I can save space!

There will definitely be some challenging aspects for me. I have to create a living room, office, bedroom and dining area all in the same room. There is not a ton of space for storage. I’ve actually been downsizing a lot over these last few weeks. Everything is also so high up that I will need a step stool to reach most things in the closets and cabinets. Where’s my tall future husband when I need him the most? Only half joking. 😊

I’ve got two windows with great natural light. The unit faces the back of the building so it’s actually super quiet for an apartment in NYC. I plan to show you all the full empty space soon and would love to share this whole process with you. I’ll be moving things in within the next two weeks and still have to order all my furniture. It’s definitely been so overwhelming that I don’t even know where to start, but it’s still so exciting!

Kiko is moving with me too! It’s going to be a tough transition at first, taking him from a house to a small apartment. I am taking him away from Mikey too, who will be staying with my mom. That part makes me sad, but I’ll definitely be bringing him back to NJ with me for visits. I think he’ll love going for walks constantly and he’ll probably be excited by the new environment. At least this is what I am hoping for. He’s so attached to me that I think he will be happy as long as he is with me. So what does all of this mean for the blog? 

That’s going to be another big transition for me as I won’t have my mom to take my photos each day anymore. We are hoping to still shoot together sometimes, it just won’t be as often. Whether I hire a photographer a few times a week or simply have a fellow creative snap my pics, I am sure that I will figure something out. I am definitely going to miss shooting with my mom though as she’s been the other half of this site. It feels like the end of an era.

It’s going to take me some time to get into a new groove, so I apologize in advance if my content becomes even less consistent in the beginning. I’ve been so comfortable doing things a certain way for such a long time that this will definitely shake everything up for me. One of the great things about moving is that I can be more present in the city, which I hope will bring me even more work opportunities.

I also plan to create a Home section on this site, where I can share the moving process, home decor, and the fun and challenging aspects of living in New York City. I believe this change will leave me feeling more inspired and creative. For so long, I have been craving a change this big in my life and now it’s finally here.

These last two weeks have been somewhat of an emotional rollercoaster. As I begin to move my things and say goodbye to living in my childhood home, I know these emotions will only heighten. In many ways, I am letting go of certain parts of my life, but this is going to challenge me, take me out of my comfort zone and help me to grow even more. It’s prepping me for what’s to come. My story is just beginning!

Never give up on your goals and dreams, no matter how long it may take you. And don’t allow fear to hold you back from reaching that next level of your life. Now more than ever, I’m a firm believer that everything happens exactly when it’s supposed to. Trust the timing! I’ve prayed on this for so long and God waited until He knew I was ready. I truly believe that.

Thank you so much for reading this long post. I can’t wait to share more of this experience with all of you. Cheers to new beginnings! ❤️

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  1. So beyond excited for you! I’ve watched you build this brick by brick! Xoxo

    • Naty

      Thank you babe! You know it means so much to me! xo

  2. Stephanie

    Actual tears as I read this post. Been following this progression and your journey for years and I’m so excited for this new chapter. Praying for peace and security throughout your move. And much love!

    • Naty

      Aw, thank you sweets!! I always appreciate your support and kindness! xo

  3. Tammy

    Congrats!

    You and your mom remind me so much of me and my mom, so I understand how hard this is for both of you (my mom is part of the reason I’m still home too).

    I love the exposed brick. It’s on my wishlist of what I want in an apartment. Can’t wait to see the whole decorating process.

    • Naty

      Thanks so much girl! It’s definitely going to be a tough transition on the both of us, especially in the beginning. I’m looking forward to turning her into a city gal though! The more she’s been going over there with me, the more excited I see her getting and that makes me so happy. I love the exposed brick too, it adds so much character! Thank you for the support xo

  4. Congratulations 🍾🎉!! May God bless your home and new journey ♥️

    • Naty

      I appreciate this so much, thank you!!

  5. Rachel Francis

    This is amazing! I don’t know you personally, but I’m so excited for you and can’t wait to see how you make this place into a home!!

    • Naty

      Thank you Rachel!! I truly appreciate the support and sweet words. It means a lot to me and I can’t wait to share more! xo

  6. Felix Cruz

    Súper excited for you amiga! Welcome to NYC neighbor!

    • Naty

      YAY!! Thank you!!

  7. Isalethe

    Im extremely proud of you! I have been following you for a while. And one of my dreams if so also move to the city. So I can only imagine what you are feeling right now. I wish you nothing but the best. God bless Naty.

    • Naty

      This is so sweet, thank you for the love and support. It means so much!! Keep reaching for the dream you will make it happen!!

  8. Sam

    Congrats and welcome to NYC! It’s a crazy place to live, but fun too!

    xx
    Sam

    • Naty

      Yay I can’t wait!! Thanks girl!

  9. Shehanaz

    Congratulations on this new phase of life!! You’re definitely gonna rock this babe 🎉Cant wait to see pictures when you’re done. God bless ❤️

    • Naty

      I really appreciate that, thank you for the love!! Can’t wait to share more pictures! xo

  10. Tara

    how exciting!!!! the wait was so worth it and you deserve it all😘

    • Naty

      Definitely worth the wait! Thank you SO much love!

  11. Pooja

    So excited and happy for you, dear. Best wishes on this new adventure and here’s wishing you a memorable NYC life! ♥️ Love and luck ❤️

    • Naty

      Aw, thank you Pooja!! This means so much! ❤️

  12. Ruth

    I don’t know what to say, so here’s a BIIIIIIIIG HUG!
    You deserve it Naty, it’s been a long time coming.

    • Naty

      Awww Ruth, thank you!!! Hugging you back! xoxo

  13. Chantell Greene

    Woohoo! Embrace the journey. I know you’re going to hook up your space no matter how small. Cannot wait to follow the progress.

    • Naty

      Thank you so much! Can’t wait to share more!

  14. Emily

    Hi!

    I can relate to you in a lot of ways! Thank you for sharing this inspiring post I really needed right now in my life. I am 28 and it’s taken me a long time to find a stable job in my career then I went back to school for a second degree and am now in the process of looking for a job again, enough to support myself and live on my own, it’s hard. I have been living with my parents because of that. Thank you for sharing that you are 34 and life is just beginning for you. It gives me hope that there is still something out there for me. I’m recently going through a long term relationship breakup as well and am not where I thought I’d be at this age in my life. I think a lot of women go through this. I’m waiting for that big breakthrough in my life too!

    • Naty

      Hi Emily! Thank you for reading and I am so happy that you felt a connection to it. I honestly think that my life really started once I hit my 30s and now I understand why things happened later than I initially expected them too. Timing truly is everything! Definitely hold on to that hope and don’t give up on your dreams. Breakups are so hard, but your breakthrough is going to come soon! Sending you love! xo

  15. Zainab

    OMG! Congratulations hun! I’m so happy and excited for you. I’ve been following your journey for a couple of years now and can’t wait to see how you transform the apartment. I also have this dream of moving to the big Apple and getting my own place someday so this is really inspiring for me. Congratulations once again! I’m rooting for you ❤️

    • Naty

      This really means so much to me! I appreciate it more than you know. Don’t let go of that dream. It will happen for you too! Can’t wait to share more soon! xo

  16. Jesenia

    OMG so happy for you!!!! Wish you the best on this new journey. 💜

    • Naty

      YAY! Thank you Jesenia!! xo

  17. Rose

    So excited for you…this is just the beginning! Can’t wait to see pictures of your new space…im sure your mama is going to continue to be proud of you and visit you often

    • Naty

      Thank you so much Rose! Photos to come soon and I can’t wait to turn my mama into a NYC gal lol

  18. How exciting! Congratulations!!! Can’t wait to see what you do with the place!

  19. Millie

    Omg congratulations, this post brought me to tears because I always used to compare myself to my friends but I now understand that my timing hasn’t arrive yet and that I should not give up on my dreams. Welcome to NYC baby!!!

    • Naty

      Thank you so much Millie! We really have to trust in the timing. I am continuously learning this and now more than ever realize that I probably was not ready for this until now. Definitely don’t ever give up on your dreams!!

  20. Natasha

    This is Awesome! I got introduced to your site by your Mom! I worked as a temp at her job and she saw I was around your age (I’m a little older lol) and thought I should check it out. I read your blogs and admired your style. Your Mom always had wonderful words to say about you and your sister. So happy for this accomplishment in your life!

    • Naty

      Really?! My mom says she promotes my site to everyone, haha. Thanks so much for checking it out and for the sweet words and love!

  21. Lisa

    This post is so inspirational! I am just starting to look at apartments and am looking forward to tips on moving and decorating. Good luck!!

    • Naty

      Thank you Lisa! Wishing you all the best with your apartment hunt! I can’t wait to share more of the process soon! xo

  22. I am so incredibly excited for you!! I moved out on my own last year and I was a little scared too but it was the best decision. I speak to my mom daily and see her about twice a month. I’ve really become a more responsible and mature adult since I moved out to the city (D.C. for me.)

    • Naty

      Aw, thank you so much Amber! It’s definitely a little scary, but also so worth it! I think it will actually bring me even closer to my mom. So great to hear that you consistently speak with your mom and spend time with her. That’s so important!

  23. I don’t know, but I’m extra touched by this post. So incredibly happy for you. Congrats! Unrelated (but sort of related, I guess) – I’ve followed your blog for a while and love how open you are about the loss of your dad. It’s not an easy subject to talk about, but I can see how he continues to drive you and push you. My mom passed away a little over a month ago, and I find comfort in your old posts that celebrate his life and impact on you. I choose to continue to celebrate my mom’s life as well.

    • Naty

      You are so sweet and have no idea how much I appreciate this! Thank you so much for the love and sweet words. I am so sorry to hear about your mom and I am sending so much love and strength your way. Definitely find ways to celebrate her life and let her legacy inspire you to keep reaching for your dreams and pushing forward in your life. It took me awhile to really open up and write about my father, but when I did I realized how therapeutic it was and it also seemed to resonate with so many others who have experience such a great loss. I know it’s cliche to say, but she is definitely still with you every day. Sometimes I feel my father’s spirit so strongly. Pay attention to the messages that she sends you. Giving you big hug!

  24. Angie Diaz

    Hi Naty!
    The part when you talk about your life plans turned out to be super different from what you expected def resonates with me! Im 32 and all my friends are mommas, married, or engaged. When you talk about envisioning a different life for yourself I totally get you on that! Thank you for being so transparent and sharing your journey. Ive been reading your blog for a while now and following you IG since I started IG like 5 years ago. Keep living out your dreams and congratulations on this awesome stepping stone!

    • Naty

      Hi Angie! I’m so happy that this resonated with you and it’s so great to see that we are not alone in how we feel! We have to stop putting ourselves on a specific timeline and just trust that it will all work out exactly when and how its supposed to. I really appreciate the sweet and encouraging words. It means so much! Sending you love!!

  25. Alexandra B

    Is it weird that I literally just hopped to your blog over from Krystal’s This Time Tomorrow and I already want to be your best friend after reading just half of this post???

    Even if we were to never meet in real life, I am SO happy that you’re moving to NYC (Hell’s Kitchen is AWESOME and I’m so jealous!) but if you need someone to take your pictures, just give me a holler! I will never turn down an invite to hang out in the city!

    • Naty

      OMG no, not weird at all! This really made me smile and I appreciate it so much! So happy that you found my blog. 🙂 You are too sweet! Let me know when you’re in the city. xo

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