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Beautiful Spots in Upstate New York


“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” ― Terry Pratchett, A Hat Full of Sky

When I first moved to Manhattan, I assumed that the rest of the state of New York centered itself around the city. I could not have been more wrong.

I spent the weekend in a town called Cairo which is about an hour and a half drive away from Manhattan. As much as I love living in such a fast paced place, I find it necessary from time to time to disengage myself from the city and give myself a fresh break from the constant grey commotion.

On the first day of the weekend getaway, I visited Olana Historic Site to watch the sunset.

Entrance into the park is free and tickets are available with purchase to tour the historic house on the property built by the famous artist Frederic Chase and his wife Isabel. Olana is an absolutely great spot to bring some watercolors and paint the sunset as well as some pencils and markers to document the amazing Middle Eastern inspired architecture. PS - The site is pet friendly!

On the second day, I took a hike up to Kaaterskill Falls. The falls themselves were beautiful even though the water level was lower than usual. There are many flat rocks to perch up on and sketch. An added bonus is the wonderful amount of shade and easy access to water for those watercolors!

I then drove over to hike part of Hunter Mountain. It was here that my anxiety was provoked as I was hiking for the first time as well as walking along ridges of a steep mountain. Once I reached the first break in the cliff, I couldn't help but stop and take it all in. I was overjoyed with the natural beauty of the mountains, something a girl from Florida is not necessarily used to.

Moral of the story: Take some time to escape your comfort zone and always stop to document the moment in whatever way feels natural to you.

xoxo,

lauren amigo

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