I’ve been in Emporia for almost exactly five months. I now see myself staying here for at least a few years, but not without the help of a few trusted items in my metaphorical toolbox:

1. The Daily Route

Angie, barista/coffee shop owner, can tell you about my morning walk. On my way to the Police Department for the crime blotter, I chat and buy coffee at her coffee shop, Java Cat, then head out via my favorite adjoining vintage boutique, Studio 11. I’ve gotten to know many Emporia business owners, who know practically everyone and everything happening in town. By association, I have coffee with the entire city each morning.

2. Subscription to the local paper

What a shameless plug for community journalism! No, I don’t subscribe to a newspaper I work for that I read for free. But if I didn’t work here, I’d sure as heck subscribe. All the town happenings, the characters, the important issues are in those pages. It’s way better than CBS (no offense, Walter Cronkite).

3. Wine and accepting occasional solitude

In a new city, it takes time to build a social network (even the Mark Zuckerberg kind). Now, I have about four good friends plus drinking buddies. Until you get your girls-night-movie-marathon buddies, enjoy your own company. To do so, I uncork a pink Moscato, watch a favorite show, write and jam on solo acoustic guitar. Don’t be an alcoholic. Do develop your hobbies.

Here’s a very sweet video on solitude:

4. Two wheels are better than four

I call her “The Paddywagon.” She’s a 1975ish KHS bike, repaired by Revolve in Kansas City. With my bike, I can ride to The Gazette, the grocery store, the local pub, Java Cat … any place that matters. Any small townie can tell you the city looks best from a bicycle. We move at slower speeds.

5. Boots and spurs (kidding)

My only country roots are down in Texas, where I only travel to eat turkey every Thanksgiving. I’m from Johnson County, a more urban area near Kansas City. I absolutely do not pass judgement on a country lifestyle, or make fun of country music (out loud). There are three stores who sell cowboy boots – pretend to blend in.

6. Guitar strumming (or insert hobby here)

This one pairs well with #3, but it’s worth mentioning.

Remember when I said I drink Moscato and jam on my acoustic? It’s another Sunday afternoon thing. I always wanted to learn, and I finally have the time. An accordion is on the way. The best part about moving was extra time to get in touch with myself and my creativity.

 

What items do you need to survive in your city?