NYC & ME

Today is a very special day for me. Today marks my 4 year anniversary and love affair with NYC. When I first graduated college, I was faced with a major life decision. I could stay in my sheltered suburb of Chicago where I felt comfy and safe, or head off to NY or LA. I was torn. It was time to be brave and make a change. I loved the weather and lifestyle of LA, but the magic of New York was like a magnet pulling me east. Since I was a child working in musical theatre in Chicago, I dreamed of performing on Broadway one day. So New York was the obvious choice. Not to mention, a great guy I was seeing at the time lived here - so, of course, that gave NYC the extra push. So 4 years ago today, I made NYC my new home. Did this great city welcome me with open arms? Hell no! Here's a glimpse of my first few weeks in NYC... I learned if I wanted to be a working actress, I needed a side job. I failed the menu test at the restaurant I was attempting to work at. I discovered mice in my shitty walk up apartment. On my first Broadway audition, I stood in line for several hours before being turned away because I didn't look the part. I never got to audition. I got lost on the subway and ended up in God knows where. And got dumped. YAY for me! NY was kicking my ass. But nothing makes you grow more than being torn down...and somehow, this former Midwestern scaredy cat made herself ready for the challenge.

I recalculated.

I realized I wasn't cut out for the on again, off again life of an actress. I needed a steady job. But it had to be just as fulfilling. So, I became a talent agent and manager. Now don't be judgey...I didn't give up on my dream, I simply found a better, more suitable dream for ME. I will always be an actor-- and that will never be taken away from me. Being an actor and growing up with the training I had has helped me be the strongest talent manager I could be. I work with actors everyday, am constantly seeing theater and showcases, and I am surrounded by art. What could be better? And who knows what the future may hold...?

Today, 4 years later, I have a wonderful boyfriend, incredible new life-long friends, a fantastic job, a gorgeous apartment without a Mickey or Minnie in sight, and I must say I'm stronger, wiser, and kind of kicking New York's ass. 👊🏻

I will leave you with a little secret about life-- there are many different roads and paths to happiness. Friends change, careers change, even your dreams may change, but as long as you allow your heart to always remain open you will eventually find your way and have some fun while doing it. ;)