A Quarantine Letter From Hungry Grl

As I write this, I wish my fingers moved across my keyboard as quickly as my thoughts flashed through my head. Though this isn't abnormal for any piece I sit down and attempt to write, I find this especially so when it comes to writing during our current climate. 

Truthfully, I have had writer's block for the past month. Or so I thought. After an honest conversation with a client today, I realized that I wasn't experiencing writer's block at all, but more so, a fear for saying the wrong things. Or not saying enough. It's hard to tune out the repeated messages that are thrown at us every day in the media. The last thing I want to do is join in on messaging that is repetitive. And though some of these messages are essential, they can be overwhelming, and sometimes hard to hear or pay attention to. 

If I am honest, Hungry Grl has never thrived more in its existence than it is now. Now more than ever, I have been shown just how much my platform is needed to spread news and information. Client needs are at an all-time high. My email inbox receives new inquiries for partnerships every single week. Since March 16th, Hungry Grl Big City has become something bigger than itself, especially in Pittsburgh. And I have tried my best to embrace it all. 

Since moving back in 2018, I have felt lucky to live in Pittsburgh. After all, my inner Jersey Grl always felt a tinge of imposter syndrome, making such a foundation in a city I wasn't born and raised. But alas, I now call this city home. My friends have become family, and strangers have become friends. I have never felt so loved as I do when I walk into a restaurant and see friends behind the bar or at a table with friends. Because of this, I find myself trying to do everything I can to build up and support each person in this city that has welcomed me with open arms. 

I am beyond blessed and lucky to be in the position that I am. To see this time as a blessing and time for growth and change. That is a privilege I am truly aware of having. And I think I am so aware of this position I am in that it only makes sense to make sure my platform promotes as much as it can. To help show what Pittsburgh restaurants and businesses are doing to stay afloat and thriving, how you can support those that cannot be open, even ways to give back and aid organizations that are assisting those with limited resources and people to lean on, and of course aiding all of the frontline workers that are working tirelessly day in and day out. If you are a frontline worker and reading this, or you know someone who is a frontline worker, please give them an extra hug for me.

As I get ready to enter my 25th year of life #GeminiSzn, I am setting the tone to be filled with more purpose and focus on how I can best move for myself and those around me. I can prioritize my health, well-being, and brand first and foremost and, in doing so, also aid my friends and colleagues. To help spread essential news and not a virus. 

My points to take away from here are, I have felt a lot during this time. I have felt loss, sadness, anxiety, anger, frustration, and even happiness. And at times, it's hard not to feel guilty for feeling what you're thinking about, especially during a worldwide crisis. But to be a helper to others, you need to help yourself first. As Sai said in her blog post, you're allowed to mourn and miss the experiences missed, postponed events, the trips not taken, the projects not fulfilled, the meals in new restaurants not had. You're not a wrong person for feeling a personal loss or losses. I'm writing this for myself and those reading this; try not to be so hard on yourself, especially right now. 

I'm also here to outline that I will be creating more content on my blog. I have been craving the itch to write. I want to let thoughts on bagels, pizza, and cocktails to-go run wild. I will also be linking back every Instagram post to one link so you can source each featured business so you too can support them at this time. So if there's something you want me to write about, hit ya grl up ASAP. 

And lastly, I am here to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart. For showing me that my words, ideas, and platform are a necessity for your daily life. That there is joy gained or inspiration felt from my posts, messages, or stories. My brand and business would not be possible without all of you. I'm here to especially thank: my amazing graphic designer, Billie Sue, my intern Sai who always has a way with words, my close friends and family who always show up to support, and my incredible roommate and best friend, Tori. I have no idea what I did to deserve such an incredible support system, but know I am here to support all of you whenever you need it. 

To end, here's a friendly reminder that my email and DMs are always open. Hungry Grl has always aimed to embody the themes of perseverance, hard work, and being a kind human who spreads good vibes. I am bursting at the seams with creativity for new projects and goals and growing an audience to spread this vital information, and I am sincerely wishing you and your loved ones are staying as well and healthy as you possibly can. 

Stay Hungry,

Hungry Grl

Cover art designed by Billie Sue.