July 2015 Recap: NYC Life, Wins, Challenges, and Upcoming UK Adventures
In my monthly round-ups, I reflect on the past four weeks of travel, successes and setbacks, updates on Globetrottergirls.com, and what's ahead.
Where I've Been
Aside from a quick trip to New Jersey, I spent the entire month in New York City. Yet, in the city that never sleeps, 'standing still' is impossible. I was so busy I didn't even turn on the TV for my favorite shows or crack open the books 
I'd been eager 
to read 
. Overcommitting led to too many short nights, and I'm feeling the burnout.
What Went Well
Plenty of highlights this month!
New Friendships
After a hermit phase last month, I rekindled my social side, meeting inspiring people. Visa limits cut things short, but the connections were genuine. I even lined up a housesit post-cat-sitting—visa rules notwithstanding.
Hosting a Special Visitor
Rarely do friends visit NYC just for me, but my friend Anna—met via her aunt Shannon in Chiang Mai (2011) and traveled with in Cambodia (2012)—spent eight days here. Now 14, she's remarkably smart, funny, and mature. We explored my favorite spots: beaches, Coney Island, Central Park, and a Paul Rudd-hosted Ant-Man screening (better than expected!). Friends praised my 'parenting skills,' and we parted incident-free.
Recognized by a Reader
Spotted by a follower in a lesbian bar—flattering! We hung out multiple times (hi S! 😊). Grateful for community connections, including touching emails and a tempting housesitting offer I'll likely take.
Two Months of NYC Cycling
I survived nearly incident-free on my bike 'Lola Warrior Princess' across two months, often 20km+ daily between Manhattan and Brooklyn. My last day: a minor pedestrian bump (her fault, stepping into the lane). NYC biking is intense, but I made it through unscathed overall.
What Went Wrong
Work Overload
NYC fuels FOMO, especially on borrowed visa time. I juggle too much: workouts, social life, business growth. Sleep suffers, leading to crashes. Workload exploded—seeking an assistant since January, to no avail. Inbox overflows with PR, partnerships, plus writing, editing, social media, tech woes, admin, and billing. Hosting threats added stress. Five+ years solo-running this feels endless some days, craving normal hours. Yet, I love the flexibility and independence. Solution: better time management, not quitting. Result: lighter publishing schedule, now re-energized.
Leaving NYC Heartbroken
Visa forces exit mid-summer fun—my favorite season here. Only two months in NYC vs. last year's more; it feels like home. Key people are here too. Working on longer stays next year—watch this space.
Losing My Phone (Temporarily)
Forgot iPhone on a stranger's car during a Brooklyn shoot. Chased the car 10 miles; it stayed put! Honest finder called—relief, as backups were outdated.
Challenging Housesit
Not all gigs are smooth; some pets test patience.
What's Next
En route to the UK for summer vibes. Weekend at Brighton Pride for #mustlovefestivals, promoting European events. Last visited a decade ago—excited with camera in hand. Follow live on social media!
