Dear New York, 

Happy anniversary! We made it a year. I’m sorry I’m not there to celebrate, but I promise to make it up to you when I get back. I’ll take you to Vanessa’s, I know it’s your favourite place (alright, we both know it’s my favourite place, and you humour me by saying it’s yours too. One of my favourite things about you). 

One year! Longer than any of my former relationships (and ten times better if I’m honest). I mean it hasn’t always been easy. You have made me broker than I have ever been, including that pretty crummy time you took all my savings when I didn’t have a job. Not to mention what you cost me in rent just to live with you. But I do love our little house, with the light, and the plants, and the old heaters, so it’s worth it. 

Remember when I got fat from always eating with you? You have too much delicious food to offer me – bagels, dumplings, ramen, and a few too many bacon, egg, and cheeses. And all the wine! Every social gathering we go to involves drinks. Every. Single. One. No I’m not exaggerating, think about it. Yeah, see?  

I love how busy you are. I won’t lie, it’s been an adjustment, but I love it. I thought you’d settle down once we had been together for a while, but you haven’t really, and actually, I’m OK with that. Except when it means we are surrounded by obnoxious people on the subway, the kind that wear berets and talk about how they went to The Lodge the other day and it’s just so great, you know, like you really feel like you’re in a country cabin. We definitely have to keep it in mind if ever we get sick of Bushwick Country Club. Look I know you don’t want that girl with a bow beret at The Lodge as much as I don’t want her there New York, but she is invading my favourite fried chicken sandwich place and I can’t handle that. GTFO lady. 

Anyway. Where was I? Oh yes, a whole year! I gotta say, you go HAM on each and every one of the seasons. Summer time? At 100 degrees and about 300% humidity, I’ve never sweat so much in my life. Autumn? I dare anyone to tell me somewhere else does better colours than you. Winter. Do not even get me started. I cannot believe I have spent 30 years of my life living somewhere that doesn’t have a real winter. Winter was my favourite with you if I’m honest. The snow days, the layers, and I’ll happily admit that you look oh-so-fine in a beanie. Spring is... Tolerable I guess. I can see why people love it when I'm with you at least. 

I knew I loved you when I met you on holiday in 2015. And I’m pretty sure you love me too – even if I am broke, chubbier than before, and constantly tired all the time. I’m stronger, happier, and have more love to give with you in my life. So fuck it, I think we should stay together for the foreseeable future. I’m not going to find anyone that makes me happier, and you certainly are not. I’ve left you dumplings in the fridge, they’re five days old now so you had better eat them quick. See you in two weeks. 

Hannah x