Let me start this by saying, I cannot WAIT to move to Georgia.
There’s just so many things to do in Atlanta. What’s more, Atlanta is a city for Blacks. Yes, I said it. There’s a certain sense of ownership I take whenever I visit. A level of comfort that I don’t feel in my own current neighborhood in New York. It’s a natural kinship; effortless belonging.
Now, as travel restrictions begin to ease with the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination, I decide to take a quick trip to Atlanta for some fun. Well, not just for my own enjoyment, I have some business to take care of as well. As mentioned earlier – I’m planning a move to Atlanta. However, I kid you not when I tell you that enjoying the city almost always outweighs the business part of my trips here.
Saucy Santana
Getting off the plane and into a shuttle towards the south terminal, I hear so much noise. At first, I think it’s a group of people excited to land and enjoy a weekend in the city. Turns out – it’s internet sensation Saucy Santana! With all the ruckus, you think Saucy Santana was with an entourage. Nope. It was just him and a friend. But, when I tell you they were all the way live…yes ma’am.
The social media nerd in me is like: “On snap! A celebrity!” But, when I settle into the passenger seat of my friend’s car and tell him I saw Saucy, he goes: “Well Beans, he’s not really a celebrity.” That arguable point notwithstanding, I know this weekend is about to be lit!
Tyler Perry Studios
A drive going past Tyler Perry Studios reminds me that Atlanta is the Black Hollywood. The expansive studio makes me think of my youngest son, who aspires to be an actor himself. I’m told you can purchase tickets to take a tour of Tyler Perry studios. I make a mental note to get tickets for us. You know, this will be a welcome to Atlanta activity, once we’re settled here.
Brunch at Garden Parc
One of the biggest things I love about my visits to Atlanta is the food and the abundance of amazing restaurants. Not only are the options limitless, but there are tons of eateries that cater to Black culture. Again, this means I eat an amazing meal and entertainment with the music that I love. That’s not something I can easily find where I live.
My visit to Garden Parc was no different. First off, the decor is perfectly aligned with the name of the restaurant. Boasting an earthy look with strategically placed hints of rustic elements, Garden Parc gives me Garden of Eden vibes. Ambiance, is of course, perfection – middle aged singles, good conversation, even better vibes.
The live music made my day. Remember Che Mack from Love and Hip Hop Atlanta? Well, she was the DJ for the afternoon! Again, the reality TV junkie in me did somersaults seeing her. Che Mac plays a fun set and in just moments – brunch turns into a party. Good eats and good times. Can’t wait to have permanent access to these amenities.
Dinner with an Old and New Friend
The final, special part of my quick trip to Atlanta was meeting up for dinner with an old friend. This is an important one for me because I haven’t seen the girl in over 20 years! We grew up in the same church together and went to the same middle school – Winthrop Junior High in Brooklyn. The time frame that has largely shaped who we are as women in our 40’s – we spent together.
When the Uber finally drops me off at the Red Lobster in College Park, I make a mad dash towards the entrance. Why am I so nervous? Well, it has been forever. I still can’t believe that after all this time – we’re getting together! As she approaches me, with the same, beautiful smile full of warmth, all my anxiety disappears. We spend the evening catching up and laughing at all the follies of our youth – as we look towards navigating those of our children’s.
I say that I had dinner with an old friend and new friend because, she is one of my earliest friends – which puts our dynamic in the the “old friend” bucket, but my move to Atlanta will ultimately revive our friendship and we’ll now be new friends to one another.
No More Trips to Atlanta
Look. No more trips to Atlanta. I say this to say, I’m counting the seconds until I become a permanent resident at the Black Mecca. Am I nervous? Of course I am. My family, my backbone, is in New York. Moving to Georgia means starting all over again in terms building a family or community for myself and my boys. Yet when I look at ultimately the enhanced quality of life that I can look forward to – I’m ready. No more trips to Atlanta. I’m ready to stay.
