how to rock it in a new city

Instead of a How To on crafting or cooking, let’s try something more adventurous…

How to rock it in a new city

Divide your time between nesting, exploring, and socializing.

1. Get lost to find yourself. Don’t rely on a GPS or fancy phone. Study the city map online so you know major thoroughfares that run N/S/E/W. Buy a Street Finder map for your car or bag. Next, GET LOST. Use the map and your instincts to find your way back. Then, do it again.

2. Find the free independent newspaper. Circle things you’d like to do. Then, actually go do them. For me, that’s music shows, art openings, writing groups, crafting groups, free yoga, park events, etc. (Thanks for the tip, Mando.)

3. Invest in your space. Moving is an excellent chance to shift old habits, even domestic ones. Despite my normal thriftiness, I thought, “Repainting costs be damned. I like color.”

And, of course, set up your stereo before anything else. (Pack that shit on top.)

Last week, I was living very happily in Louisville, KY. Today, I live in Raleigh, NC. I’ve gotten lost about 5 times. I’ve stared amazedly at incompetent slow people in the paint department. I’ve rediscovered forgotten music and fallen in love with a hiking trail.

Friday, I had a date with the city and caught a show by The Young Republic, a Nashville band I saw in Louisville last month. Southern tours, we’re doin’ it right.