When I woke up this morning I thought I was in Astoria, Queens for a split second, but I haven't lived there in over a year. I can't quite explain it, but the angle of the sun cutting through my bedroom window brought me right back to my old apartment and made me nostalgic.

When we first moved to Astoria from Manhattan, I was worried there wouldn't be enough balance between "city" and "suburban" living, and after six years of living on the big island, I was ready for a little more outdoor peace and quiet. Yet I still wanted easy access to everything that makes New York City incredible. The ability to walk out your door and have the world at your fingertips - restaurants, bars, shops, unique businesses, parks - inspired by people and cultures all over the globe is truly a gift that should never be taken lightly. Astoria exceeded all expectations and we spent two years there loving every minute, but eventually our jobs took us a little north and luckily I've learned to appreciate my new neighborhood too.

But this morning I'm thinking about Astoria, so I wanted to share a few of my favorite photographs which depict some of its natural and industrial beauty. While Astoria is a burgeoning neighborhood popular for good reason, it's not exactly known as an aesthetically pleasing neighborhood. Many of those with "classic" charm (think brownstones, maybe even some cobblestone streets if you're lucky) can be found in parts of Brooklyn, but I still found some stunning spots that I think deserve attention. Hope you enjoy.

(this bridge was the view from my old bedroom)