Six years ago this week, I wrote my very first post as Single Gal In The City. Today marks the final installment here.

As I look forward to starting my next chapter in the blogosphere, I find myself also looking back at everything I’ve experienced on and offline since launching SGITC.

Back in 2008, when my good friend Carla finally succeeded in convincing me to share my musings about dating and relationships, I was 34 and rediscovering the joys of being single. Starting this blog renewed my ability to view singlehood as an adventure as I explored all that my hometown has to offer.

Along the way, I have connected with amazing single men and women, appreciating in a deeper way that when it comes to searching for a mate, we can all learn from each other. In more than 1,100 posts, I’ve shared many of my defining moments in life and love. I’ve blogged about the bloom of new romance, the heartbreak of ended relationships and, of course, my dating blitzes across the U.S. and Europe.

One of the questions I’m most often asked is – what will you blog about when you’re no longer single? As I like to think this blog has shown, a writer never runs out of things to talk about. It’s why, over time, SGITC has evolved from being a dating blog to a memoir about life in and with my one true love–New York City.

I’m excited to continue in that same vein over on my new blog, New York City Gal. Because even though I’m still a single gal in the city, ‘single’ is not the label that defines me. It is simply a part of the shared adventure of life here in my exhilarating, frustrating and singular hometown.

Among the greatest lessons I’ve learned from being a single gal in what is arguably the toughest dating market on Planet Earth–never give up. As my favorite TV hero from ABC’s Castle once said–

“What’s a great love story without obstacles to overcome? Every fairy tale has them–terrible trials that only the worthy can transcend. But, you can’t give up. That’s the deal. We want the happy ending. We can’t give up.”

Finally, I want to express my tremendous gratitude for your support as readers of Single Gal In The City. As any writer will tell you, a little encouragement goes a long way. I’ve been very fortunate to receive plenty of it over the last six years. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

–Melissa

I’ve often said that, for all its convenience, texting has become the death of romance. The flip side—it also makes it much easier to detect when someone you’re dating isn’t a good fit.

Two recent dates with two bachelors I met on HowAboutWe illustrated this fact.

After going out twice with S, I wasn’t quite sure if the chemistry was there for me. Still, at this stage of dating, I usually give it three dates before making a determination. After all, chemistry can take a little time to develop, right?

So I schedule date #3 with S. When I reach out (yes, via text) day of to confirm, he says he ‘totally forgot’ we had plans and asks to reschedule. I’m not impressed but grudgingly say yes. On the rescheduled day, S initially texts to say we’re on for dinner. Then, a few hours later, he texts again, saying–

“You’re not going to believe this, but I have close out a business event tonight so I have to cancel. L”

I honestly wasn’t sure if I believed him. What I was sure about was that S probably felt my reticence and was accordingly blowing me off.

Bachelor #2, Randy, was very obviously from the get go just looking for uncomplicated fun. The chemistry was definitely there and so was a mutual appreciation for 80s music. Nevertheless, I set some boundaries after date one, declining Randy’s offer to have our second date happen at my place.

After a fun evening of dancing the night away at Pyramid Club in NYC’s East Village, Randy continued texting me. His only invitation to get together, though, came late on a Friday night.

“Wanna watch the Late Show together?”

I declined, later telling him I enjoyed his company but wasn’t interested in a fling.

“Where did you read the words hookup in my text?” he wrote testily “I didn’t say anything and it’s not right to assume anything.”

True. It’s not right to make assumptions, especially with a medium like texting that’s makes miscommunication an all too common thing. Sometimes, though, it communicates incompatibility loud and clear—and, fortunately, very quickly.

Last weekend, I enjoyed the rare pleasure of being reunited with two of my oldest and dearest friends. Their visit coincided with picture perfect weather—ideal for strolling around NYC and playing tourist.

The festivities began on Saturday, with the arrival from Toronto of beloved galpal Jackie and her boyfriend Jim. After a visit to the M&M’s store and delicious lunch at one of my favorite greasy spoons in Midtown, we ventured up to Top of the Rock for spectacular 360-degree city views.

Jackie and me at Top of The Rock

From there, we walked to Rockefeller Center, where we were treated to an only in New York sighting: a trio of guys dressed as Ghostbusters photobombing a bride.

Only in NYC!

Then, it was off to FAO Schwartz and Central Park before heading back to my place. We were then joined by another BFF, London-based Steve. Over a home cooked dinner, we enjoyed lively conversation about everything from cohabitating to 80s music favorites and career crossroads. I savored every second of being with two cherished friends that have both been a part of my life for more than two decades now.

Steve, me and Jackie

Sunday, Steve and I met for brunch in Union Square. We were at the restaurant when I realized I had – eegads! – forgotten my purse back at Starbuck’s. We dashed back over there to find it right on the chair where I left it. With the cash, credit card and ID all there.

My faith in humanity sufficiently elevated, I was beyond relieved as we returned to Petite Abeille, a charming little French bistro more than deserving of its many onl