Sandy with Nashville roommate, Kindell and friend Mary at “The Watch Dog” Release Party at Michaelangelo’s Pizza on Elliston Place.

I am someone who adapts easily, embraces change and looks forward to new adventures and setting new goals for myself. For these reasons alone, I have decided to move back to New York. To many, this comes as a surprise. I’ve been hearing things like, “I thought you loved Nashville?” Oh, and I do love Nashville—very much so! I will miss all of my friends, who have become a second family to me. I will miss the cafes and the convenience of things being fairly close together.

Now that “The Watch Dog” is complete, and that was my main mission here in Nashville, I have been thinking about other things—like new novels, doing more freelance journalism, missing my family—especially my beautiful niece and nephew, who are growing up without me.

I don’t think I gave my writing career in New York a fair shot. I always thought it was too cutthroat, too expensive, and I wanted to experience other places. Well, after being quite self-sufficient in Nashville and finding out more about the valuable experience and skills I have, I gained so much more confidence in myself to take on New York City full-force. That’s my new goal! Plus, I’m in “character” so to speak with writing another part in the “Dream Catchers” series, which predominantly takes place in New York.

Sandy with some of her best friends in Nashville celebrating her 30th Birthday.

With moving back to New York, the pressure to come back for holidays and family functions is off. Now I can use my travel time and money for new places, like the Bahamas this summer for my dolphin expedition! Or I can take a trip to Ashland, Oregon, where I’ll be researching for a future book and meeting up with friends. And I’m super excited to be a bridesmaid in one of my best friend’s wedding in Ohio on New Year’s Eve this year!

I just want everyone to know that I am not leaving Nashville for any horrible reason. I had no falling outs with anyone. I didn’t lose my job or get evicted, haha. I am loved in Music City very much so, and I love it and everyone in Nashville right back! I will always consider this city another home and am already planning a visit for Bonnaroo this June.

I am the most fortunate person in the world, I think anyway, to be able to have friends/family in so many places. I will always miss someone wherever I live, but just know I think of every friend, family member, fan, or acquaintance fondly no matter how far away I am.

With that said, it’s time I finally go to a Yankees game, don’t you think?