Spoiler: My rooftop view with the Empire State building. SURREAL.

I can't believe I'm actually here. Even though I'm constantly reminded by the sights around me, it's such a dream to be here.

I got here last Saturday, to start on my graduation internship on Monday. I know, it's so last minute and it's against my design to not have everything arranged at least 2 months prior to leaving for 6 months to the U.S. But truly there was no other way, then just to give in to the struggle that's called "visa arrangements".

I mentioned it before that after my leave for Asia, my sense of home increased so much for the Netherlands and all my loved ones. My home is probably formed mostly by people rather than places. I think everyone hates to have cliche's to be true in their lives, but yes 'home is where the heart is' is very present and real in my life. Back in the days (I know I'm not old, so that tracks back only 2yrs ago) and even before I left for a longer period of time abroad the first time (Korea), I was that person who thought she was a 'world citizen', unattached to any kind of 'system' that was related to the words 'settling down, home and normal'. I was going to be that person that'd travel the world on her own and somewhere around 30-35 I'd consider what would be the next step. I'd be a wanderer, and totally free and happy being that.

2 years down the road called #experiencingitformyself, I realized that those three terms, 'settling down, home and normal', are things that I really feel passionate about. 'Normal' to me is the culture -  To me that's mostly revolved around 'family, friends, politics, government systems, unspoken rules & ettiquet, social values'. It's really when I got to know and hear other cultures, that I realized that where I come from is a place of privilege compared to so many other cultures and government systems.

So there I was, being able to go abroad for another 6 months. As part of my graduation, it was mandatory to do my internship abroad. So I might as well do it big and reach for the stars. That's how I came to this longly paused 'everybody-dreams-it-so-why-bother' desire. It's one of those, too-good-to-be-true and where-do-I-even-start things, and that's why I can truly testify that godly favor got me here. I know during the process, I was encouraged and covered in prayer by many people who genuinely love and support me. And I know that the process, which was quite tough and stressful, made me realize more how precious and important it is for us to have such people in our lives. And to be able to say that I do, is a blessing I'll treasure and seek to nurture and carry out for the rest of my life. Even though goodbyes were harder, knowing that I have so many sincere hearts to come home to is everything.

So here I actually am. In NEW YORK. When I first got here, it was inevitable to get overwhelmed by the buildings and people. And I'm looking forward to get to know this city for what it truly is. I don't want to be that 6-month tourist. I want to be a New Yorker at her 6-month home.  Up until now, I experienced many good things, but witnessed many sad things as well. My first internship day went great and I have such nice coworkers. Both my apartment building and my internship building have amazing views. There is so much stuff to do -in Midtown alone (which is where I stay)- , that I'll need to find a way on how to find out about everything and plan it into my schedule. Let me know, if you have some tips.

The last part was probably the only informative part of this post, but what is an update without a backstory of my mind in coming to this place. Don't worry, I'll try to update on all thats mentioned. It's day 4 now, and I'm constantly trying not to tear up out of gratitude and happiness. Yes that's me, #emotionalnina. Hence, the long talks on my thoughts. Anyways, stay tuned for tours of my crib and my hood (spoiler: W 34th Street with a rooftop view of the Empire State building). I know. Surreal.
Love,
Nina