Concrete Jungle.

It's been just under a week since my return from the big city and I've had some time to gather my thoughts and get reacquainted with my life in the great state. Before I left town I was warned by many that once I got a taste of the Big Apple I'd immediately want to skidaddle and leave Tejas far behind. Well friends, you were all wrong, but I get it. 
NYC was exactly the way I imagined it would be - busy, full of energy, and twinkly. But to be honest, it was a lot like meeting someone in real life that you had only seen pictures of via facebook. You know when you realize that the person is in fact good looking, but EXTREMELY photogenic and realllly knows their angles? 
I admit Carrie and her gals painted quite the picture for me, and I know that there will likely never be a post card of a subway track rat, but still...I expected to be swept off my Texas toes. There is a good chance the lack of central air had a lot to do with the lack of zha-zha-zhu....just being honest. 
With that said, I'm ready to talk about the life and times of AG in NYC. For the first half of my trip I stayed with my good friend from #TXST, Gabe, and his darling roommate Diana in Spanish Harlem (Maria Maria....). They are proof that you can take the kids out of Texas, but you can't take Texas out of the kids. We rolled around with other friends from back home and ate, drank, and laughed way too much. Observe: 

Night 1

 Roomies

 Blockheads

Taxi

 La Boy, Juan

 Mama Empanadas

 Tasties at Grand Central Station

 The Goods

Grand Central Station

 St. Patrick's Cathedral. The Guad.

 The library.

 The Plaza.

 The stoop.

Yes, Carrie's stoop. 


The second half of my trip I attended the Latin Alternative Music Conference, and I must admit...I was so glad to get my mind back in order. We attended panels, live music showcases, and made some great connections. I'll expand on that soon.  More food, friends, and music... 

 Mean waiter turned nice.

 Que Bajo showcase at DROM.

 Richie Rich in his old stomping grounds.

The Texas jukebox.

Latin Alternative Music Conference

 Oyster Bar.

 Shina Chancleta.

 Latina Magazine.

 John Christopher and Kat Edmonson

 Hill Country BBQ / MTV Iggy

Feels like home.

Beyonce.

Lowridaz.

Icing on the cake. 


All in all, I had an amazing time in a city I've never been to. I have memories with old friends and new friends that I know I'll never forget. Can I live there? Sure, but do I want to? Not really. It's pretty simple, I LIKE NY. 

My next trip to NYC will definitely be in the winter, I hear it's magical....

~A Charlie Gal