New City? Not many friends? Missing home?  I may have the answer for you, well what worked for me anyway. You aren’t going to meet anyone staying inside your apartment, you are only going to find more things to complain about….like how the water kind of smells….welcome to central Florida life. Get out of your apartment and get in touch with a community event. Clearly, people have to have a reason to like living here, otherwise they would all move somewhere else.

If you are like me, you never turn down a good farmer’s market. Fresh flowers, Lemonade and peaches the size of your face..instant mood boost.  Even if you are not a total weirdo like me, just being outside and seeing other people will make you feel less lonely. Talk to different vendors, many of them always have the best stories to tell about whatever it is they are selling.

This past weekend, I ventured out to Winter Park, Florida. Winter Park is exactly what  picture when I think of old world Florida, meaning it resembles a Spanish villa.  The community is filled with college age students, families, and older folks. I met a new friend at the Winter Park Farmer’s Market, which is every Saturday morning from 8am to 2pm. We walked through all the booths a few times, before deciding what treats to indulge in . Pro tip: don’t assume anyone takes cards, most do, but its always smart to bring cash.

Just being at a Farmer’s Market reminded me of being home in Athens and instantly made me feel more connected to a new community. So don’t get discouraged, get out there , feel some sunshine .

XOXO,

Kristen-Elizabeth