Live Out Loud

With Cara and her friend, Chris.

I just got home from my boss's fund-raiser gala called "Live Out Loud," a yearly event that recognizes young gay and lesbian achievers, and awards scholarships to these deserving students. It was held at the Chelsea Art Museum, and my other boss took care of everyone's tickets (whew!).

I used to go to events left and right back when I was beauty ed, and these days, the chance to mingle and attend these fun gatherings are truly a treat. And I have more fun than ever because they don't come as often and they're no longer taken for granted.

My train ride home was a happy, steady buzz, thanks to two glasses of Chardonnay, cute little hors'd ouvres, and tiny slivers of lemon cream cake. I was this close to hop-scotching my way home, enjoying the music on my Shuffle, unsuccessfully trying to stifle the urge to sing along to Bill Medley and Jennifer Warns's "Time of My Life" (from the movie, Dirty Dancing).

I thought to myself: Dating, crushes, and relationships aside—this, is me.

THIS is where I'm supposed to be.

And I am definitely enjoying and excited for this adventure that is Manhattan.

"Just remember...
You're the one thing
I can't get enough of
So I'll tell you something
This could be love
Because
I've had the time of my life
No I never felt this way before..."