Oh, hey loves. So, I’m in NYC right now! I actually use to live here if you didn’t know. So, I’m not going to lie.. I lived here for two years and towards the end of the second year I was ready to get the heck out. Living in NYC was so much fun the first year or so.. but wow, you need a lot of money to have a somewhat normal life here. I have realized I would much rather visit NYC than live in it. Visiting is fun.. but knowing I can go back home to my cozy apartment that isn’t making me bankrupt in Austin is reassuring.

Another cool thing about not living here but coming to visit is that I honestly look at the city with new eyes. Everything is beautiful.. even the angry drunk person on the corner yelling at me.. I mean, oh well- I don’t live here.. so cheerio my friend, and bottoms up!

So, this morning I woke up and walked down to the lobby…

We are staying at the W, downtown. Check out this cute rug in the elevator. Well, good morning too you too, Mr. rug! Btw, these chucks are probably my favorite casual shoes.. and these ones you don’t have to tie! They just slip on, which is pretty amazing.

I then started walking north ( we are staying at the south tip of Manhattan) and I headed straight towards Soho, which is my favorite section of Manhattan. I spotted a LuLu Lemon as you can see in the photo above, but I was good and didn’t go inside. The thing I love the most about Soho is you really can have fun just strolling around and window shopping. It’s such a charming spot in Manhattan. There are fresh flowers all over for sale, adorable cafes, beautiful architecture and also tons of adorable dogs.. ( I tend to notice them more than people.)

While strolling around Soho I was rocking my my latest obsession, Articles of Society jeans. So, if you’re into nice jeans but don’t want to spend crazy money you must check these out! They remind me of my Paige jeans but less than half the price. I got these babies for just $64! They are seriously so soft and fit just right.

Shop my outfit below loves:

I walked around Soho for a few hours and suddenly was starving. I walked by so many places but wanted to find just the right cafe for brunch, a latte and maybe a sneaky little mimosa. After walking around in maybe a few circles I finally spotted the perfect place. The most charming French cafe called Vin et Fleurs.

There was one table available inside but you’re basically outdoors because the doors were all open. I sat down and ordered the eggs benny, a late and a mimosa. I also made friends with a Chinese hairless dog who was sitting next to me. His owner was on her cell the entire time, so I decided to chat with the dog instead. Very polite little man he was. The food was delicious and so was the mimosa! The latte was okay, but the atmosphere definitely gets a 10.

The Freedom Tower / Ground Zero

I then returned to the hotel to freshen up and give my feet a break. I also needed to write this blog post, duh! I’m currently sitting on the balcony and my view is of the new freedom tower. What a site to see. Honestly, I’m torn about how I feel sometimes when I look at the new freedom tower. I’m happy it’s here. It’s a sign of strength & freedom for Americans, but it still makes me sad every time I see it. I still can’t believe what happened on 9/11.

One thing that is extremely surprising to see when walking past the observatory is tourist smiling and throwing up peace signs taking pictures next to ground zero. I feel like so many people are numb to what really happened here. It’s not a place to be posting your favorite happy selfies, that’s for sure. There is something hauntingly peaceful about the area though as I sit here and look at it.

This is something totally different for The Scarlett Social blog, but right now I want to close this post by saying please go hug the one you love, say sorry to the ones you’ve hurt and really enjoy each moment. Because all we have is right now, so let’s make it count.

Come back soon to see where else I go in NYC!

XO,

Scarlett