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Not Quite a Hallmark Movie: My Altoona Interlude

When I told friends in New York City that I’d be spending a stretch of time back in my hometown of Altoona, Pennsylvania, I got a lot of raised eyebrows—and more than a few Hallmark jokes. “Are you going to fall in love with the hometown guy and ditch the big city for good?” they asked, half-kidding. (Or maybe not.)

It’s a fair question, I suppose. A big-city girl returns to her roots, reconnects with small-town charm, rediscovers what really matters… cue the snow gently falling on a lovingly restored town square. But let me set the record straight right now: there was no flannel-wearing lumberjack, no surprise inheritance of a struggling bookstore, and no last-minute decision to stay forever.

But what did happen was something unexpected—and honestly, really lovely.

At first, I worried I’d be bored. (Sorry, Altoona, but I’ve got to be honest!) The last time I spent a significant chunk of time here, I was 18 and counting the days until I left for college. Back then, the town felt a little too quiet, a little too slow. I thought I might feel stir crazy again.

But this time around, I was met with open arms, familiar faces, and a whole lot of heart. Meals at my favorite restaurants—Al’s Tavern, Lena’s Café, the Blairmont—weren’t just delicious, they were comforting. These places are steeped in memory and full of people who have loved me for my entire life. I didn’t have to try to be accepted—I just was.

Even strangers had a warmth that caught me off guard. At Levity Brewery downtown, the smiles were easy and the vibe was relaxed. Tennis courts were available without a wait. Running errands took half the time. The slower pace, which once felt limiting, now felt luxurious.

And while it wasn’t a typical Hallmark movie… no, I didn’t fall in love with the hometown guy and decide to move back. But I did appreciate my hometown in a whole new way—something I had resisted for a long time.


For example, my best pal Kelly—My built-in big sister, no DNA test required—showed me her Altoona life and folded me into it seamlessly. She welcomed me into her work (Kelly's Kollections Boutique), her family, her everyday rhythm. Being around her reminded me how good it feels to be deeply known and effortlessly included.

And in the quiet of this season, I found space to reimagine my next steps. This fall, I’ll be starting my second master’s degree in Visual Arts Administration. Originally, I thought that meant charging headfirst into the NYC arts world. But now? I’m thinking differently.

Maybe the next chapter doesn't require the noise of New York. Maybe it looks like building a creative life in Pittsburgh—a city with a thriving arts scene, full of people I love from my Heinz North America days. It’s still got the energy and culture I crave, but with a little more balance, a little more breathing room. And best of all, it’s just a short drive from my family (+ extended family definitely including Kelly).


I’ve always known the value of living around people who love you—but this trip home reminded me what that feels like. While I’m not quite ready to move back for good, I’m absolutely ready to come back more often.

No Hallmark ending required.
Just a grateful heart, a full belly, and a new perspective.


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