On Leaving Baltimore

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The unknown.  It's exciting and a little scary.  I'm packing up and leaving Baltimore for what I'm considering a new beginning.  In a new town, with a new job.  I am very excited.  But a little nervous.  All of this change at once is overwhelming!  I also have made lots of friends here.  It's hard to say good bye.  Change is always hard.  Even when it's something good.

There are benches all over that proclaim Baltimore, "The Greatest City in America."  I'm not entirely sure I agree with that, but it still is a great city.  The people here are friendly, maybe a little rough, but honest.  It's not really that big of a city.  Pretty easy to get around, except for that pesky harbor.
Here are a few of my favorite places:
Place to visit:  Fort McHenry.  I love Fort McHenry.  So full of history, but also just a beautiful place to hang out.   I have spent many a Sunday afternoon with a picnic and a newspaper, watching the sailboats go by.
Restaurants:  Here's something you may not know about me.  I'm not a fan of a fancy restaurant.  I like a  restaurant with a fun ambiance and really good food.  I don't think that it has to be expensive.  I recommend Hersh's Pizza and Drinks.  It also happens to be right down the street from my building.
Bar: This is a very unfussy place, but very genuine!  If you want a true nautical experience, check out Captain Larry's.  The people are friendly and the food is good!
Wine Shop:  After all my talk about an unfussy restaurant, I have to recommend the Wine Market.  It's both a wine shop and bistro.  The food is excellent, as is the wine. I haven't bought a bad bottle of wine from there.  Great selection.
Day Trips: Downtown Ellicott City is really only about 30-40 minutes away but I LOVE it there.  Small town quaint.  Great boutiques and antique shops alike.  Great restaurants too!
What I'll Miss the Most: Living in a condensed city environment.  I've really gotten used to either walking or taking really short drives to get everywhere.  I also live and work right by the harbor.  This is the first time in my life that I've lived by the water and I have loved it!
I will miss seeing it everyday!
What I'll Miss the Least: Baltimore is not very safe.  I am fortunate to be able to afford to live in a secure building, but the crime is rampant.  Here are a few recent stories.  Two more shot...  Mayor addresses shootings...  (And these are about this past weekend!)  I have to admit, that I have lived here in Baltimore City for 5 years and have not had any issues, but it will be nice not to have to worry so much about it.

All in all, it's been a good run!  I've enjoyed living on the east coast, but am looking forward to returning to the Midwest!