great questions!
1. What is something that surprised you upon moving there?
The "ordinary night out" restaurant food is usually worse. I might be picky, but I feel like something getting 4 stars on yelp in NYC would get like 3.5 or 3 in the bay area. Pizza is an exception. It might also take some time to find the right spots.
Also the NYC Marathon was Sunday and it was so much fun. The route went two blocks from my apartment and a local DJamer (who threw massive block parties during the pandemic) set up shop and there was a crowd of folks partying and cheering on the runners. Lots of them put their names on their shirts so you can cheer them on by name and you would yell out someone's name and they would hear you and smile and it made me really happy. But like the whole route people are out all day cheering on folks. I'm sure this happens in a lot of places but NYC'ers think it's pretty unique and friends of mine all over the city were saying it's their favorite NYC day.
2. What is something you hope your family experiences that you couldn't get other places?
well for starters my kids are getting into better high schools than we could ever get in California. We took advantage of NYC's ridiculously imbalanced system and one of them tested into arguably the best public school in the country and the other is in one that isn't the best in the country but is still better than the experience they had in California. They take the subway to school, go to like shitty pizza joints after school with their friends, and meet kids from all over the city. My wife has been going to a bunch of museums while her nursing license transfers. We go to lots of $10 comedy shows which are available every night. I got to see Joe Pera which was a special highlight, and he has a weekly show!
3. Any favorite pieces of architecture or buildings in your neighborhood so far?
mostly because of the name:
https://www.scoutingny.com/where-old-ladies-hookers-and-the-wealthy-live/I also have a favorite cocktail bar, pub, and craft beer bar within a five minute walk (like 1 long block).
4. Have you seen any randos wearing K-State gear?
No but I did see a KU hat/KU shirt rando yesterday. Like full KU garb in Midtown on a Tuesday. But have seen non-randos at KSU alumni watch parties! there was a pretty decent crowd for KU! People should come by if they're ever in NYC! I also got a sweet KSU starter jacket at a Brooklyn thrift store which was pretty cool.
5. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Probably still here! So far it's been great. Hardest part is no close friends yet. Haven't had a winter yet either.
