Richmond Love Letter

Richmond, I know we just met, but I’m feeling things I’ve never felt before.

Things I just have to say…

I’ve lived in other cities, but I’ve never met anyone like you.

You’re different, special, just downright more live-able than anywhere else I’ve ever been.

Richmond, I hope you don’t think I’m being too forward….but let me count the ways I think you’re just, well, just awesome:

The Fan and Museum District – You’re beautiful and historic. I can rent a great apartment in one of your pre-War houses and walk to restaurants, bars and parks. You’re like Brooklyn or Old Town – but quieter, more austere. And definitely more affordable.

Monument Avenue – You’re the only street in the nation to be designated a National Historic Landmark.

The River – What other city has a Class IV rapid river running right through it? I ask you. I love Belle Isle, Pony Pasture, the amazing James River Park System. Summer, winter, fall and spring, there’s always something new to see.

Cheap rent. In Richmond, you can literally rent the entire floor of an antebellum house in the city for a fraction of the cost you'd spend on a closet in Brooklyn.

The Restaurant Scene. I love your restaurants. I love all the little Fan bars with exposed kitchens and tin ceilings. I love the foodies and the occasional snobberies and just the really good food from the Fan to Church Hill...heck, even to Short Pump. (Peter Chang's anyone?)

The Art Scene. You have Ed Trask murals painted on your city's buildings. You have art galleries and free museums and the incredible Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. You’ve got the #1 art school in the country. And plus, you’re crawling with artists in skinny jeans…and who doesn't think art is sexy?

The Farmer’s Markets. In the spring and summer, you’ve got a farmer’s market for almost every day of the week. In every neighborhood. Bursting with fresh produce, home-made cheese, delicious food and even wood-fired pizza (hello Pizza Tonight!).

Location. You’re 20 minutes from everything. No matter where you are, you’re within 20 minutes driving distance of downtown, retail shops, the river, Costco, whatever. Plus, the beach and the mountains are just a short drive away. (And sure, I might be head over the heels for you, Richmond, but driving to D.C. still sucks.)

Independent Shops: I love your bookstores, your clothing stores, your record shops (Save Plan 9) and basically every little spot in Carytown and beyond. You've got personality, Richmond. And that's what makes you a fun place to live.

Drinking. Seriously. But Richmond, you serve a mean happy hour. Three dollar drinks?! I’ll take them. And several of them, please.

I won’t say it, but I interviewed a guy once who said he moved here for cigarettes. Because cigarettes are cheaper. That’s just a side note. Somebody else’s love letter.

Still, Richmond, I have to say it…

I think I love you.

Let’s take this relationship to the next level. I can’t believe I’m going to say this…

I’ve never said this to any other city before, but I’m ready to make a commitment, I’m ready to take the leap…

Richmond, let’s do this. Let’s make this official. Let's buy a house!

…..to be continued