Dear readers,
A few months ago, I was driving through my hometown of Arlington and felt that familiar pain of nostalgia. RIP to my 18-year-old self cruising down Cooper Street at midnight in my 2002 Honda Civic with a cigarette in one hand, singing along to The Neighbourhood’s “Sweater Weather” with my best friend. I had my favorite spots — the park around the corner from my mom’s house, the nail salon in Pantego, the snow cone hut across from the hospital — and they all felt like mine.
I wondered if Dallas would ever be like that to me.
Since I moved here a year ago, I don’t deviate much from my rat trail between work and home. I spend most of my off-hours with my man and our cats, either crafting, playing video games or catching up on chores.
That can only be fun for so long. At almost 32 years old, I will probably always be some version of an introverted homebody, but if I really want Dallas to feel like home, I’ll need to put some effort in.
In our September issue, I interviewed Swizzle’s Jen and Marty Reyes about the local food and drink economy. They suggested that people explore our city in a staycation that’s more than hibernation. Pretend you’re on vacation in Dallas — where would you go, and what would you do? Find a new-to-you restaurant, coffee shop or bar, buy tickets to that show, and meet the people we share our city with.
I am challenging myself to get out there and do more to make my 18-year-old self proud that she grew up to be me. I invite those of you who are looking for connection to do the same.
After all, life is too short for it not to be fun.
