Big Cities

on October 7, 2010

Good evening, friends!

Pretty good day up in here. I spent the afternoon and evening preparing for two Operation Beautiful presentations. One is in South Carolina (Fort Mill) on Friday, and the second one is on Sunday morning in New York City! Itâ€™s going to be an insanely short in-and-out trip.

Confession: New York City kind of scares me. Actually, it scares me a whole lot. The city is so loud, shiny, crowded, and complicated. Itâ€™s awesome, but I find it terrifying. Does that make me a wuss?

However, Iâ€™m more nervous about my presentation on Friday night because itâ€™s to a group of parents + young girls, and Iâ€™ve never presented to children before. Itâ€™s a short presentation though so hopefully it will be like ripping off a band-aid (right?).

Dinner was fast and simple. This is my favorite dinner when Iâ€™m in a rush:

You must, must, MUST try sweet potatoes and baked beans. Itâ€™s truly a wonderful combination.

Greens!

+ A leftover biscuit.

And dessert was a slice of Pumpkin Loaf:

Speaking of city living, earlier I Skype-chatted with BFF Lauren, who now lives in Singapore for work! Isnâ€™t that crazy? I miss her so much. She says the city is kind of like NYC, but everyone is insanely polite. There is ZERO jaywalking and absolutely no trash on the street. And everyone says â€œexcuse meâ€ when they bump into you on the subway. Oh, and itâ€™s illegal to chew gum.

Lauren got engaged right before she moved to Singapore, so this is the first time Iâ€™ve seen the ring! Sheâ€™s getting married on 9-10-2011 (how cool is that?). Iâ€™m going to be a bridesmaid; I canâ€™t wait!

Technology is awesome.

Are you a country kid or a savvy city girl?

{ 105 comments }

Me-Linh @ Sweet and Sweat October 7, 2010, 8:54 pm
I remember when I was little I was in the Singapore airport and thought how insane it was that they had carpet…in their bathroom. Huh?!
But your BFF has one beautiful ring!
holly @ couchpotatoathlete October 7, 2010, 8:55 pm
9-10-11 that is awesome! And what a beautiful ring! I love the skype shot of you with the camera- ha!

NYC scares me too — I’m a St. Paul, MN suburb girl so I’m not really used to big big cities like that.

You’ll do fine talking to the parents/kids — I’m sure they will be very receptive to what you’re talking about. OB is wonderful, just keep reminding yourself of that!
Lindsay Perrone (goodiesgalore) October 7, 2010, 8:56 pm
illegal to chew gum???? wow! i’m totally not a fan of NYC– it turns me into a psychopath and gives me sidewalk rage. nice rock she has. good luck tomorrow!
Nikka B October 7, 2010, 9:09 pm
I have always lived in cities but there’s a big part of me that would really like to try living in a smallish 🙂 town, where there isn’t as much hustle & bustle.

I have been loving baked beans on sweet potatoes! My Boyfriend & I have been eating them a lot lately and he thinks I am a genius for thinking of this all on my own (I owe you) 😉
Anna October 7, 2010, 9:12 pm
I’m sure you’ll rock it!

I’m a country girl at heart (case in point: I live on a lake in the middle of the woods) but have some city in me too because my dad was born and raised in Manhattan. I go back to visit family a lot and really enjoying spending time there- I’d just never want to live there. Give me grass and trees.
Tina October 7, 2010, 9:13 pm
I’m definitely more of a country girl. Although I like short visits to cities. I don’t think I would feel capable of managing it alone though. You’ll do great speaking to the younger girls! Think of them like your Girls on the Run crew.
Tabitha Slemmer October 7, 2010, 9:13 pm
You talk to the girls at Girls On The Run, think of it like that. You will do great. Lived in Chicago and now small town in Texas(not the typical small TX town). Definitely would love to live in city again. It is weird going back, sensory overload! Have a great time.
Erin (Travel, Eat, Repeat) October 7, 2010, 9:14 pm
The suburbs is perfectly my speed. I lived in Seoul (20 million people) for a year and that was too much for me. Now I live in DC and it’s ideal.
Chelsea at Striking Balance October 7, 2010, 9:15 pm
I currently live in a big city (Vancouver, Canada), however I consider myself a country girl. I much prefer a small, quaint town. But, Vancouver is where the University is I need to go to, so big city it is- for now!
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey October 7, 2010, 9:16 pm
I am a total country kid – I go into the city rarely, but it’s too much noise for me!

I love skype! When I was in college, the husband and I used to talk that way every night!
eri October 7, 2010, 9:17 pm
dang…her ring is gorgeous!!!

good luck w/your talks. i’m sure you’ll do awesome! 🙂
Cynthia (It All Changes) October 7, 2010, 9:17 pm
Skype is so fun to see friends far and wide. I love that you can stay in touch even so far away.
Amanda- The Nutritionist Reviews October 7, 2010, 9:21 pm
Have a great trip!

And that is a huge rock!
Bridget October 7, 2010, 9:23 pm
I heard about the illegal gum chewing in Singapore. Weird heh? My parents are going to singapore next year and both of them are regular gum chewers, so they’ll have to restrain I guess 🙁
Lacey @ Lake Life October 7, 2010, 9:24 pm
I’m a lake (kinda country) girl. Any highway with more than 2 lanes freaks me out.
Evan Thomas October 7, 2010, 9:31 pm
I’m a country kid. In fact, there are several reasons I’m not a city girl…
You’re going to do great at the presentation. I think it’s easy to be nervous when presenting something, but if you’re comfortable with the subject it’ll be really easy.
Maria @ Oh Healthy Day October 7, 2010, 9:34 pm
First of all – congrats Lauren! That’s my wedding date too (I knew it’d be a popular one!)

I’m such a country girl, living near San Francisco right now. Truth be told, not a fan of the city – this one or any. I belong near dirt roads, where people still wave at your when you pass, whether you know them or not. So obviously, I feel your pain 🙂
- Lauren October 8, 2010, 6:27 am
  Thanks! Congrats to you, too!
Jamie @ Food in Real Life October 7, 2010, 9:34 pm
I’m a suburbanite all the way. I love being NEAR a big city, so that I can have access to good restaurants and culture, but after the evening or day is over or whatever, I just want to escape to my quiet house, on a quiet street in the burbs.
Emily October 7, 2010, 9:37 pm
You will do incredibly at the presentation with the mom’s and girls. You are a real and honest person and that is all that young girls and moms ask for, especially in someone spreading such a positive and wonderful message. Congrats to your friend, she and her ring are gorgeous 🙂 As for your question, I am definitely more of a suburb/countryside girl. I did my undergrad in Boston and now grad school in Cambridge, as much as I appreciate the two for a visit, I much more enjoy the open air and greenness of the country and outdoors 🙂
Exercise and Eat October 7, 2010, 9:38 pm
I’ve always wanted to live in Singapore – their rules make it a fantastic place! The crime levels are SO low, and the politeness is amazing!
Chelsea @ Healthsea October 7, 2010, 9:39 pm
Best of luck at your presentation!

I’d say big city. Going in to the “city” of Miami (where I’m from too– I’m the girl who messaged you about high school at one point!) used to scare me, but now I’ve fallen head over heels. I LOVE New York City. It’s where I live now! And now when I got out in to more rural areas– like where my parents live, by Lake Norman, by you– I don’t quite now how to handle it!
Erin @ A Girl & Her Mutt October 7, 2010, 9:39 pm
I love technology! I skype with my parents every now and then when I need a good dose of them.

Congrats to the BFF on her engagement and awesome career location!
Jessica@tastyandtrim October 7, 2010, 9:40 pm
The combo of sweet potato and baked beans looks amazing! Why have I not tried this before?! Adding it to my to-do list 🙂 I recently moved to Chicago for school and have to say I’m a city girl- I love it there!
Balanced Healthy Life October 7, 2010, 9:41 pm
I am luck I love the country and I love big cities. They both are so amazing in their own way! Good luck with your presentations!
The Peanut Butter Addict October 7, 2010, 9:43 pm
I’ve never lived in the country but I grew up in a small town so innately I’ve always craved the big city. I live in a moderately large city now, but it’s nothing compared to NYC (which I’m going to next weekend! SO excited! 😀 )
lisasfoods October 7, 2010, 9:44 pm
I can understand how NYC can seem really scary and overwhelming – it’s such a huge and tall city. Since I grew up outside of there though, I love it, and would love to live there someday.

For now though, I’m enjoying being a country girl, living in the woods with our garden and berry bushes in the yard.
stacey-healthylife October 7, 2010, 9:49 pm
Your dog looks so cute. 🙂
maria @ Chasing the Now October 7, 2010, 9:51 pm
Skype is the most awesome invention. We use it to call home from Japan all the time! We pay a low, low rate and can call any phone in the U.S. 🙂 Makes being away from home much easier.
Kristina @ spabettie October 7, 2010, 9:53 pm
I LOVE NYC… but yes, it can be intimidating! I used to travel there 5-6 times a year and so so loved it! 😀

I saw the first photo of your dinner and was saying in my head I NEED to try that!! as I was reading you saying I NEED to try that! funny. I’ll do it soon, apparently!

so sorry about your cat. that is never easy – thinking of you & your family XO
JenRD October 7, 2010, 9:54 pm
NYC isn’t so bad when you break it down. Think of it like any big task, and break it down into smaller, more manageable parts, such as 1 block at a time. Most of Manhattan is a grid system, so it is tough to get lost on the streets. And New Yorkers really are friendlier than people think. 🙂 Have fun!
Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday October 7, 2010, 9:56 pm
I’m SO country. I lived in T.Dot for a while but moved back to a smaller city because I didn’t like it so much. It’s like being alone in a crowd.
Babs October 7, 2010, 10:05 pm
I must try the sweet/bean combo, because everytime I see it on your blog I say YUM!
Christina @ Food.Fun.Fabulous October 7, 2010, 10:07 pm
NYC scares me too. I’m a total country girl and can barely handle going to school in Boston lol
Lesley October 7, 2010, 10:10 pm
Sweet potato with baked beans is a crazy good dinner. I like it even better with cheddar melted on top.

I love NYC. I don’t find it overwhelming personally, but I can see that perspective. Plus, I’m a DC suburbanite. I’m used to a little crazy. 🙂

Now public speaking on the other hand, scares the crap out of me. Good luck with your presentation!
Jennifer R. October 7, 2010, 10:11 pm
September 10 is a GREAT day — it’s my anniversary too 🙂 16 years and going strong (and 3 kids too).

I like visiting cities, but I’d prefer a slower way of life in the country. Good luck with all your presentations!
Lisa (bakebikeblog) October 7, 2010, 10:14 pm
oooh yes Singapore is EXACTLY like that! It is so clean and beautiful!
Jasmine @ Eat Move Write October 7, 2010, 10:14 pm
Wow. Her ring is insane! Love it.

I cannot imagine moving to Singapore. How cool.
claire October 7, 2010, 10:18 pm
As a new yorker, I am most definitely a city girl who appreciates the rural country as well! You will have a great time!
Michele October 7, 2010, 10:23 pm
Tried a baked sweet potato & baked beans last week – LOVED IT!!!!!

I’m a country girl; don’t mind visiting big cities, but SO NOT my thing!!
Charlie October 7, 2010, 10:35 pm
Now I have to try sweet potato & baked beans. I actually remember the last time you had it (and said the very same thing, as in “you must try it” ;))
Where do you buy vegetarian baked beans?
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:13 am
  At the grocery store 🙂 There’s multiple types!
Jaime Runs October 7, 2010, 10:36 pm
You’re not alone in being scared of NYC. I hate going there and I live in NJ so it’s easy to get there whenever I want (which is never). I hate the congestion, dirt, smells and crowds. Whenever I’m there taking a cab gives me anxiety so I walk everywhere alone. Not all that smart, but it calms me down.
I heart grass and yards and lawns and trees.
Katie @ Healthy Heddleston October 7, 2010, 10:40 pm
Can I say I’m a suburb kid? Lol. I like country feels but like being able to go into the city when needed. However, my city is Cleveland and that’s kind of just like a big town!

I can’t believe chewing gum is illegal — crazy! Love Lauren’s ring — congrats to her!
Maddie October 7, 2010, 10:41 pm
Does any one know WHY it is illegal to chew gum in Singapore? Just for trash reasons? I’ve heard that before, but it’s kinda funny…
Baked beans + sweet potato looks awesome! Do you just used typical canned baked beans? Seems too good to be true!!
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:13 am
  Because they don’t want people to spit it out or stick it under tables 🙂
  
  And yes, just regular beans!
Heidi - apples under my bed October 7, 2010, 10:49 pm
Goof luck for your presentations! I love presenting to kids, they’re always so sweet. And they’ll be well behaved with their parents there too 🙂
I think I’m both a city and more small town girl – best of both worlds! I just love them both 🙂 and no, you’re not a wuss! I’ve never been to NYC (or anywhere in the USA), and I’m sure I’d be exactly the same!
Heidi xo
Jessica @ The Process of Healing October 7, 2010, 10:54 pm
I LOVE NYC!!! But it is a bit overwhelming.. I think I’m somewhere in between city and country.
Krista @ Can't Survive on Yarn Alone October 7, 2010, 10:59 pm
I’m a suburban girl. I love the hustle and bustle of the city to an extent. Then I just need to get away to a bit quieter place. Too much wide open spaces after awhile gets me twitchy. All about the balance.

Btw Molly, one of my dogs, doesn’t understand why Maggie isn’t featured in this post and James is at the top of the page. I tried to explain that Maggie gets a lot of face time on the blog but she just ignored me and wanted to go chase imaginary frogs in the backyard.
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:14 am
  Haha I have to feature James or else people start to notice which dog I favor…
Hillary [Nutrition Nut on the Run] October 7, 2010, 11:00 pm
small town girl always & forever.
Melissa October 7, 2010, 11:03 pm
Is suburban chick an option!?! 🙂 I do like living near the city though. Teaching for 6 years now, to me getting up in front of kids is soooo much easier than getting up in front of parents. The kids are way more honest and tell you what you may or may not want to hear, but just make light of it and smile and laugh with them. Oh and the one thing I learned from a “Dynamic Trainer” conference is to stand stage left when being introduced, your left, the audiences’ right. Something about the way you are perceived on their brain makes them less likely to be so judgemental. It will be fine! Good luck!
Catherine October 7, 2010, 11:07 pm
I lived in New York for awhile, but about an hour north of the city. It was a bit intimidating going down there, but you get used to it after awhile. If you’re getting there Saturday night, you may get to witness the craziness that will ensue if the Yankees win that night because it means they advance to the next playoff series. It’s sheer chaos and I would advise you to stay in doors 🙂
Amy B (Second City Randomness) October 7, 2010, 11:18 pm
I grew up on a farm. But my heart was always in the city- I can’t imagine being anywhere other than Chicago! 🙂
Anne @thefitbridesmaid October 7, 2010, 11:35 pm
I love that you are in the little window taking her picture.

I’m a city girl through and through. I’ve lived in Cincinnati, Indy, Chicago, and now Boston. Although I do NOT do traffic. Put me on a public subway any day!
Alanna October 7, 2010, 11:37 pm
It makes me sad to read or hear comments about NYC like years. I’ve lived in NYC for all of my adult life (minus 6 miserable months in the suburbs – can’t stand not being able to walk everywhere). NYC is an amazing place, but the noise, people, and grit wears on me too. I think the hardest part is the attitude that most people here have – very entitled and judgmental, but I swear it can be great and I hate that so many people don’t really get to experience New York. I’m not going to lie, I do fantasize about living elsewhere, but I find myself comparing any potential new home to New York. So far, Chicago is the only other city that stacks up. I also dream about having my own farm or living in Europe, but the things that keeps me here and why NYC is like no other place is that in NYC, you never know what lies around the corner. On any given day, in any place, you will never cease to be surprised.

When you (or anyone else visit), you have to get out of touristy, crowded, gray MIDTOWN. There is so much else to new york than the big skyscrapers and tourist attractions (and crowds!). There are wonderful neighborhoods to be scene all over New York and in the boroughs. I wish I could show you around (if that wasn’t so creeper and stalker-ish to show you the positives).
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:15 am
  I want to see the TRUTH about NYC!!! LOL 🙂 I would totally take you up on your offer of a tour too if I wasn’t going to be so in-and-out. 🙁
Carla in Sydney October 7, 2010, 11:47 pm
I am from Sydney and I went to NYC in June for the first time. Everybody I had ever spoken to absolutely LOVED it and I was so looking forward to the trip. What I did not expect was to be scared! The first night we got in about midnight and went out onto the street (Midtown) and I was so creeped out that I felt like going straight back to the hotel. People seem so much louder in NYC than in LA (or anywhere else I have been) and I kept thinking everybody was fighting but it was just because they were talking so loud. I also found that manners were lacking – Even when I bought things from stores it was rare for people to say “thankyou”. As mentioned above though (Comment #52 Alanna)…..I probably should have ventured outside of Manhatten. I guess tourists think Manhatten is New York but there is much more to it than that. Of course, this was simply my experience and maybe I just kept encountering people who were having a bad day.
carlee October 7, 2010, 11:58 pm
I’m kinda in between! I know that sounds impossible but its true! I love the country and I wanna live in the suburbs of Nashville but I grew up in the city type area and still do. But the thought of being around a bunch of people at once terrifies me. I hate assemblies, large town events, etc. I have a huge fear of being alone is huge groups.
That is sooo funny! I actually was thinking about this recipe of yours in school bc i had work and wanted something quick and easy afterward. I ended up not trying it but I’m soooo going to! Funny we though of it on the same day!( except you have already tried it! lol
Camille October 8, 2010, 12:14 am
What a gorgeous ring!
I used to live in San Francisco, so I consider myself quite city savvy. I am good with public transportation and dealing with crowds, but at heart, I am a small town kind of girl. Right now I live in Corvallis, Oregon, a college town of 55,000 and I love it here. It’s the perfect size for me!
caronae October 8, 2010, 12:20 am
I know this sounds indecisive and wishy-washy but I’m a country girl and a city girl. I live in NYC and thrive off of it, but I am a trail runner at heart, originally from rural Michigan, and on occasion, I need to be in the middle of nowhere. In an ideal world I would live in NYC but be very very rich and could escape to remote destinations every weekend. 🙂

Just curious, where are you doing your presentation for when you’re here? Is it open to blog-readers/public? I would totally be thrilled to see you talk about OB but understand if it’s some kind of special gig. 🙂
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:16 am
  aww and i would love to see you, too! 🙁 It’s a closed event (it’s for tweens).
Sarah for Real October 8, 2010, 12:38 am
I’m a country bumpkin all the way. I do love visiting large cities, but they stress me out. Then again, really vast open and empty areas also freak me out. I hate the suburbs though, too many houses close together. Hrrmm… now you’ve got me questioning my whole existence here Caitlin. thanks.
Amber K October 8, 2010, 12:41 am
I am a “suburbia” girl if there is such a thing. I feel anxious when I am out in the middle of nowhere. I like being closer to civilization! But the “big city” scares me. And NYC? Fuh-get about it! Would totally make me nervous.

But my husband is from a SUPER small town a couple of hours away and he always refers to me as his “city girl.” 😉
lena October 8, 2010, 12:42 am
cool! are you coming to singapore to be a bridesmaid??? 🙂
- Caitlin October 8, 2010, 7:16 am
  naw she’s getting married in America 🙂 but i might come visit in the spring!
  - lena October 9, 2010, 7:29 am
    cool! well, if you do come down and need some guide, when your friend’s busy, i could show you around too (:
lena October 8, 2010, 12:45 am
well technically most people are polite here – singapore (: but i don’t really know about the insanely polite part!!! lol!
Aja October 8, 2010, 12:47 am
Skype is the most awesome thing when your friends live in different citites, or states or even countries lol.
Amanda October 8, 2010, 1:06 am
Am I cheating if I say both? I like living on the outskirts of a big city (not the suburbs though).
Coco October 8, 2010, 1:52 am
Her ring is gorgeous.
I love NYC, but I can not imagine I live in there. It is a bit overwhelming to me. Actually, I have always lived in cities, but a part of me always like to live in a smallish town. Guess I am somewhere in between country and city.
maricel October 8, 2010, 2:26 am
That’s why they call Singapore the fine city. You get fined for violating the rules. I’ve never been there though.

Grew up in a small town, in a province. But sometimes it’s good to visit cities once in a while.
Marina October 8, 2010, 2:40 am
I grew up in a small town, really cute and peaceful, so I prefer that.
It’s nice to visit big cities and feel the vibe, but it’s just too much for me. I like my fresh air 😀
Emily October 8, 2010, 4:21 am
I’m a city girl. I grew up in a small town but left as soon as I could. Now I live in London (UK) and love the pace of it. When I visit my mum’s up north I find it really hard to go slow.
Little Bookworm October 8, 2010, 6:38 am
Good luck for your presentations! I am sure they will go really well. 🙂 I don’t think finding New York terrifying makes you a wuss!
Tracy October 8, 2010, 7:34 am
Good luck on your presentations. I’m sure you will do great.

I grew up in a small town and moved to a bigger city when I met my fiancÃ©. Now we are looking to move our family to the country where he grew up. I like the conveniences of the bigger city but am really looking forward to the peacefulness of the country!

Iâ€™ve been engaged for 6 years and just recently we discussed getting married on 9-10-11 too.
Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin October 8, 2010, 7:51 am
I’m a suburbs girl. I like to be right in between. 😀

Good luck with your presentations! I think it would be fun to present to kids!
Johanna October 8, 2010, 8:03 am
What are the chances! I’m a blog reader from Finland and now I’m in New York for the weekend. It seems quite funny that you will actually be in the same city.
Wei-Wei October 8, 2010, 8:08 am
I’m a city girl through and through. The first time the photo of Lauren’s hand with her ring I did a double take; “Is she flipping us off????”
Shari October 8, 2010, 8:18 am
Love NYC – it has an amazing energy!! Good luck with your presentations and enjoy your whirlwind trip 🙂
Jennifer October 8, 2010, 8:31 am
I live and have lived in NYC (well queens, but I consider myself a manhattan-ite) all my life (I’m 23, so it’s not a long life). I’m definitely a city-girl all the way. I’ve visited other cities and within minutes get homesick. NYC is an incredible walking city; it’s a grid, making it kind of impossible to get lost. There are beautiful parks. I wish I could how you around, but I’ll be in Philly Sunday! Boo! Have a great time.
Leanne @ Simplicitlee October 8, 2010, 8:45 am
That sweet potato/baked beans combo looks delicious. Oh how I love brown beans!
Liz October 8, 2010, 8:49 am
I’ve lived in NYC for a year now and it’s still scary to me. I feel really safe in my own neighborhood but other areas of the city are a different story. It took me a long time to be comfortable here. I am here because my husband is in school…only two more years to go!
So, if you’re a wuss, then so am I!
Becca October 8, 2010, 8:55 am
Ooh, a country girl, definitely! I lived in London and Birmingham (the UK’s second largest city) for two years each and while they’re great fun to visit, I swear that only the very wealthy or those in pursuit of the cool lifestyle can handle it 😉
Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) October 8, 2010, 8:56 am
I like both equally! I love NY! We were supposed to go this weekend, but opted to be adults and do other things that needed to be done while my husband has a brief break in work. Oh well…soon hopefully! Good luck on your presentations! I am sure you will do well! Congrats to your friend!
Cindy October 8, 2010, 9:12 am
You’ll do great on your mini speech! Perfect audience for you, instill the important things while they’re young 🙂 I’m kinda a country girl 🙂 Would rather be in the woods on a tailgate drinking beer out of a can 🙂
Meredith October 8, 2010, 9:13 am
I’m getting married that day too! Yay!

I grew up on an acreage, but now live in a high rise condo in a big city. I like both, but I think I’m still a bit of a country girl:)
JavaChick October 8, 2010, 9:32 am
I am a country girl (grew up in the country). I have lived in two very small cities (still do live in one of them) and I’m okay with it, but I have no desire to ever live in a big city. NYC would probably terrify me as well.
Sara October 8, 2010, 9:35 am
Cities, (most) highways and baked beans terrify me.
Heather @ Side of Sneakers October 8, 2010, 9:48 am
I’m smack in between country & city girl.

Don’t worry about your presentation- young girls are so much easier than college girls! Plus you’ve been so great at GOTR!
Brittney October 8, 2010, 9:49 am
I’m kind of afraid of NYC too! I rely on my brother who lives up there to be my guide when I go.
Skype is awesome! My hubby and I used it a lot when he was away at training. I think he mainly wanted to see the dog, but I enjoyed it too!
Claire @ Low Impact Fashionista October 8, 2010, 9:50 am
Your dinner features all of my favorite things: beans, sprouts, tomatoes, and PUMPKIN! Never underestimate the potential deliciousness of a simple dinner 🙂
kelly October 8, 2010, 10:46 am
Yum, I love sweet potatoes + baked beans!! It’s been one of my go-to meals for months. Thanks for suggesting it 🙂
Emily @ Run Emily Run October 8, 2010, 10:59 am
You’ve gotten me hooked on sweet potatoes with baked beans!

I live in NYC, so I guess I’m a city girl now! I still like escaping to my parents’ house in the country every once in a while though. I have noticed my tolerance for bugs and other little wildlife surprises has been lessened. 🙂
Andrea (@ Puppy Dog Tales) October 8, 2010, 11:00 am
I feel so intimidated by big cities, too, but I just keep reminding myself that if it’s a big city, then there are lots of people and not everyone can be smart, intuitive, good with directions, or even speak the native language. So….I should be fine, right?!
Cyndi Eggers October 8, 2010, 11:24 am
As a creative person, I couldn’t imagine commuting into NYC (as we lived in NJ) and then being able to come up with bright ideas and creative solutions – plus staying late to meet deadlines (as often advertisers do) kind of freaked me out. The thought of riding the train home at 1am by myself – then I was only 20, made me think. My solution was to find a growing, vibrant, comfortable city – so I found Atlanta. It was a perfect fit. Have been here since 94 and have enjoyed the city, fear-free – late nights at work and everything. I love the “lower ceiling” here, too. The buildings aren’t as many or as high so you can enjoy the blue sky and sun. Love my Atlanta!
Katherine @ Left Coast Contessa October 8, 2010, 11:27 am
I am a city girl! I grew up in Chicago, went to college in Boston and moved to LA after graduation. Maybe at some point I’ll move to a less urban place, but for now I love cities.
Alexa @ The Girl In Chucks October 8, 2010, 12:08 pm
City girl all of the way.

NYC is a little extreme though. I really have loved it every time I’ve visited friends out there, but I think it would get old quickly. I prefer San Francisco. We’re a big city….but a little less hectic and crazy.
Caitlyn (A Spoonful of Life) October 8, 2010, 12:32 pm
I’m in the middle. I would never want to live in a huge city like NYC, but I also don’t want to live in country where my nearest neighbor is 3 miles away. You could say I’m a suburbs girl!
Shannon, Tropical Eats October 8, 2010, 1:50 pm
I’m definitely a beach or mountain town kind of girl. The laid back vibe is really what draws me to both of them. I’ve lived in FL my whole life and spent summers camping in Georgia every summer– so I’ve really gotten the best of both worlds.

Honestly, NYC scares the heck out of me.. which is why I’m moving up there in a month. I want to test myself in a completely different environment and I know I’ll be a stronger person afterwards because of it. FL will always be my home though and I’ll definitely be back 🙂
ali October 8, 2010, 1:59 pm
I am a city girl through and through. Being out in the country scares me with the weird noises and the on street lights. YIKES!
Lisa October 8, 2010, 6:31 pm
I’ve never been to NYC but it would intimidate me too. I grew up in Seattle, consider myself a full-fledged city girl. But the biggest cities I’ve been to are San Fran and London! Not exactly the scale of NY.
Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) October 9, 2010, 2:10 am
I love NYC, and felt at home when I was in Manhattan, but I grew up in the country, and also feel at home in the middle of no where 🙂
Cassie October 12, 2010, 4:52 pm
How gorgeous is that ring!?!? I’ve never been to NYC, but I hope to go sometime soon! I’m sure I’ll be a little terrified to venture out there by myself, but we’ll see…

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