This weekend marked my one-year anniversary of moving to New York City. It’s been a whirlwind—a rollercoaster in the best and most honest sense. The excitement of discovering another new city, the opportunities that brought me here, the moments that pushed me far out of my comfort zone… all wrapped up into twelve fast months.

One thing that’s remained constant: my love for exploring the world through food. And this city has delivered. It’s been a joy to eat my way through different cultures, cuisines, and corners of New York.

Being closer to Europe has been a gift too. Knowing I can hop on a plane and see family or friends with a little less jet lag brings a kind of comfort that’s hard to explain, but deeply felt.

Not everything has come easily, of course. Skyscrapers instead of trees still take some getting used to. The city doesn’t exactly offer stillness—but I’ve gotten better at finding my own version of it.

One year in, and I’m still exploring. Still settling. Still stretching. But also—grateful. Curious. And very well-fed.