A New York State Of Mind

 Sometimes in life, crazy things can happen.

2 years ago, I randomly got the opportunity to write for a website called: hollywoodjesus.com. It started out just writing reviews for the music section. I would write up my opinions and viewpoints and in return I would be able to keep up on current music, and feed my itunes addiction. I took the job and said, "you never know what it can lead to."

I enjoyed writing reviews, and also worked on my book in my spare time. But then, one day last spring I was offered the opportunity to go on a press junket with the website for the movie, "The Lucky One" starring Zach Efron.
It was a crazy ride going to L.A. and interviewing celebrities. I enjoyed the experience, and saw it for what it was: A Once In a Lifetime Event. I returned to my normal life, just happy to have had the chance at something new. Cut to October when I got another chance to take an incredible trip to New York to visit the set of the new movie Noah, starring Russel Crowe.

I had to pinch myself several times. And I kept thinking, how did this happen? One day I was wiping butts and cleaning dirty dishes, the next, I was jetting off to New York, and dining with movie executives atop the Trump Tower. I couldn't believe how far the Lord had taken a small opportunity.

I was able to visit the most fantastic set in Brooklyn. Where, in an armory, they transformed an empty space into a life-sized ark. The visit was incredible, and I cannot wait to publish what I've written about it. I also got to meet Russel Crowe, who was incredibly friendly even after working a grueling schedule. It was truly an incredible experience.

I admit, I only have a few things on my bucket list. One of those things, was visiting New York in the fall. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be able to do something like that so soon. I joined 2 of my newly-made writing friends on a New York excursion. We took a taxi and hit up Times Square, Broadway, Juniors, and Rockefeller Center. I was able to see things I had always wanted to see in a span of 4 hours, and it was life-changing!

We stayed in the soho district and I found myself just walking the streets that last morning, taking in the scenery and reflecting on the wild adventure I had taken. There is something so freeing, so empowering about going to a big city by yourself. It makes you more confident in yourself. I wasn't Elijah's mom, or Tim's wife, or anything but just Erin Warkentin, writer. It felt so good to own an identity; to have people see me for exactly who I am, and listen to my opinions because they mattered.

I've always loved to write, but I never dreamed it would take me anywhere. This New York trip  taught me a lot about taking the opportunities God gives us. You just never know where they can take you!