Kate Cataldo

I may have been born here, but now I’m the new girl in town.

Just a couple months ago, the thought of moving back to Warren had never crossed my mind, but here I am.

It’s been 18 years since attending St. Joseph catholic school and running around these streets. There is a sense of nostalgia for the childhood spent here and the years visiting family members during holidays.

But, it’s different this time.

This time I’m here to stay, at least for a while.

I have found that being in Warren — surprisingly — has its perks. First, the slower pace of Warren, in my opinion, is easily preferable over busy Pittsburgh. Unlike the city, Warren is quiet and peaceful. The perfect place for a new adventure and to focus on my photography.

Secondly, I get to spend more time with my family. I found myself missing them when I moved out on my own. Seeing my family more and getting back to my roots is my favorite part of being here.

I also favor the challenges the move presents. There is something about chasing something new that thrills me. Doesn’t matter what the goal is as much as the action it takes getting to the finish line. I believe challenges are important for growth, and there can be a lot of value found in personal development.

One of the challenges I face as the new girl is not knowing anyone. In the city, I was acquainted with a lot of people from all around. I haven’t been the new girl since moving into the dorms at The Art Institute in the summer of 2011. Over eight years, I built a life in Pittsburgh that I now have left behind.

If you would have told me a year ago that I would start 2020 with a new job writing for a newspaper, I simply wouldn’t have believed you. If you would have told me the job is in Warren, I would of rolled on the floor laughing. But again, here I am.

I’m definitely out of my element here, but by landing a position at the Times Observer, I am able meet people, share new experiences and, most importantly, propel forward.

I’ve always loved writing and have done some creative writing in school. I just didn’t imagine I would make it a part of my career. But, when applying for positions in the area I thought, “why not?”

Why would I have to be a photographer, or a graphic designer?

Why can’t I push myself and learn new skills that still use my creativity?

Why am I limiting myself?

Regardless of the position, I knew I was keeping my photography and design in my life because those mediums are my passion, and my true creative outlets. When looking through all the job opportunities, this one stuck out to me. The voice in my head told me to apply, and I could not be more excited with the outcome.

I have a new town, a new home, and a new job, so I asked myself what other aspect of my life can I re-new?

My conclusion — the limit does not exist.

We can be whatever we want to be. We are limitless.

My resolution is to take each day one at a time, and be truly present with each detail. Each day is a new day, a new self, and I plan to live each one to the absolute fullest.