Where the F*ck Have I Been?

Guten tag! Hello! Hola! 

It has been a while since we’ve last seen each other; my apologies for the disruption, but I have been figuring things out in my life, and although these may be minor changes in my life currently, they feel HUGE. Last month, I got employed as a sous chef at Wright & Company in Detroit, a great position that I thought would ultimately benefit me. It was a place where I could see myself making those critical connections in the hospitality industry. It is, in fact, not a place where I could see myself growing. Unfortunately, my personality did not align with the community culture there, which is okay! I am currently finding my way during this transition, but it is challenging as someone who thrives off of consistency within the workplace! Which is okay! Life presents so many challenges that we face daily, and although it may seem extremely hard, it is essential to recognize and reflect! Everything happens for a reason, and you have the right to be sad, happy, grouchy, upset, or even mad about something that didn’t work out. 

I am currently in the process of leaving, and as upsetting as it was, I knew it was the right decision! I value commitment, and I know how vital that role plays in the hospitality industry. Unfortunately, I could not contribute in that way. I am more committed to school, which is the best investment I could have made for myself. Truthfully. I enjoy being academically challenged, tested, and coherent on the subject matter at hand, and that's something that means a lot to me. I’ve only ever had jobs within the hospitality industry, I love them, and I will continue to work in them as well, but limiting myself and what I do will be very important as I continue to find a balance between work, life, and school. It is an exciting challenge, but it is undoubtedly kicking my a*s right now, and I don’t like it.

Now… On to the good stuff… Summer is upon us! A wonderful time, and right now, there is so much to do in and around the Metro Detroit Area! I have compiled a list of things you can do with your friends, partner(s), or even yourself! Here are the top five things going on in and around Metro Detroit!

1. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, and Ford Rouge Factory Tour! With 3 must-see attractions. 1 awe-inspiring experience. At The Henry Ford, learn about America — the culture, innovations, individuals, and can-do vibrancy — and hundreds of hands-on ways to explore, appreciate, and be enlightened by it. Prepare to be surprised by these attractions: Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, and Ford Rouge Factory Tour.

2. The Detroit Institute of Arts! Home to one of the most extensive and influential art collections in the U.S., and the only museum in the country to exhibit works by historic African American artists like Robert Scott Duncanson and Henry Ossawa Tanner, is a testament to the cultural richness of Detroit. As a culture enthusiast, I find it a privilege to immerse myself in the DIA's offerings, each visit deepening my understanding and respect for Detroit's cultural heritage.

3. Experience Detroit's Finest Riverboat Dining and Entertainment! Convert your unforgettable adventures into memorable experiences with the Detroit Princess Riverboat. The venue is not just about the remarkable environment; it's about creating moments that endure a lifetime.

4. Explore Belle Isle! An oasis of flora and fauna is just minutes from Detroit’s urban center. Spend a day frolicking on the city’s island jewel.See the electric eel at the Aquarium, the oldest in the country. Feed the fallow deer at the Nature Center, where a fully accessible, nature-themed playground recently opened, or immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory.

5. Visit the Detroit Theater! Unofficially, Detroit has the second largest theater district in the country to New York City. But officially, we don’t care either way. Detroit’s theaters are architecturally incredible, with the country's best original and Broadway plays. Make it a point to go to big-name shows and a few local shows, too. Check out upcoming shows on the Detroit events calendar!

There are also a ton of great places to eat, which I’m going to compile. List my top five favorite restaurants in the Detroit area and share them in the following newsletter! Thank you so much for reading! I enjoyed catching up with you! I hope you have a great rest of your day, and I look forward to writing more for you in the upcoming weeks! 

Cheers! Enjoy your week!

Ariana :)