How I am Romanticizing My Life in Upstate New York

I have been spending a lot of time on Threads, a place where the intellectuals and humorist come to play. On one particular February day, I posted “some days i question whether i made the right choice moving to upstate NY.” The response was a combinations of invitations to meet for coffee, recommendations of places to visit, people expressing their love for being here and transplants like myself being left to wonder if this dubious crisis is a rite of passage. Hundreds of responses later, I was able to connect with a few people and also made the decision that I will start romanticizing my life in Upstate NY.

So here are some of the things I have done lately since I made the decision to truly indulge in my life here.

Bake bread

I seems like spring isn’t fighting back, and we have been bombarded with snow here in the north east. One of the best ways I have come to enjoy being indoors is baking. I have come to enjoy baking bread lately, and quite enjoy the outcome.

Baking bread on a random Saturday

The end result of bread making

Baking baguettes on a random Saturday

Visit Fun Coffee/Tea Shops

I love a good coffee/tea shop. They share culture and flavors in a warm and cozy environment. I try to stick to mom and pop shops rather than chain stores, because I appreciate the authenticity and variety of flavors. I also do enjoy people watching, because you get to see human behavior on full display.

The Whistling Kettle

This was my most recent visit to The Whistling Kettle in Troy, NY. The drinks and food were great.

Morning Walks

My weekend morning walks have become something of a ritual. No matter what season, I make time to get outside for at least 15 minutes a day, and a little longer on weekends. I particularly enjoy my quiet walks on my own that give me the solitude I need. I take the time to observe everything around me and how they make me feel. From the sunlight, to the snow, the streams, the swaying of the trees. I allow myself to interact with my surroundings on a deeper level.

Walking through my neighborhood on a sunny day.

Library Visits

A place that feels peaceful and enlightening from my childhood till now is the public library. My neighborhood library hosts a range of activities for every age group. Bi-weekly, I attend a sit and stitch group with a wonderful group of women who are working on their knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross stitch and needlepoint. There is so much inspiration and creativity in that room and I enjoy every part of it.

Crocheting and studying at my local library

Photograph corners of your home that bring joy

There are moments when I sit in my home and think of how beautiful it is. How every piece of artwork was made by me, every plant nurtured by me, and every book read by me. I bring life into a space that would otherwise be four walls. I infuse color and character where memories will be created.

Capture making breakfast

As much as I enjoy watching food shows, I enjoy being in my kitchen. It is one of my favorite places to create and experiment. I plan on romanticizing my kitchen adventures. Even though I will be one of many, I enjoy being in the moment. It is also a time when I get to pass along my culinary skills and my influences to my daughters.

View Video: Making crêpes on a snowy morning

As the season changes, I look forward to more adventures. I will be taking pictures, journaling and documenting my experiences. I encourage you to do the same, because even life’s small events are worth celebrating.