Hi Tampa.
You don't know me very well. In fact, you probably haven't even noticed me yet. After all, I've only lived here for a week. But, I've had my eye on you for a while.
First of all, you're beautiful. Like, breathtaking at times. I'm not used to seeing nightly sunsets giving off brilliant colors so you can imagine how it could stop me in my tracks the first time I saw it.
Your weather is warm and when it's hot, at least there's more of a breeze than other cities I've loved. And your water. OMG that water. It's everywhere I look. I was taking my kids to explore you and we actually saw dolphins jumping as we walked down Bayshore Blvd. I mean, come on!
Yeah, okay, lots of your friends complain about your traffic...like, all your friends actually. But, I'm okay with it. I expected it and dare I say...(it's really not all THAT bad).
I come from Orlando, where the 'construction' on I-4 is really more of a permanent condition and to be honest, your traffic in comparison is a breathe of fresh air. (Just don't tell anyone I said that and if you do, I'll deny it)
Then there's your TECO street car system. My 3 and 5 year old kids can't believe they get to ride "Trolley" from the 'Daniel Tiger' show whenever they want...and for FREE!?!? AND it's air conditioned!
Also, you're so CLEAN! Considering you're one of the biggest cities in America, you're so well put together. Any city has dirty areas, but your ratio is pretty darn good from what I can see. Considering I'm a neat freak in my home, it's nice to have that in common with you.
Your people are amazing. So far, I've only encountered the nicest, most helpful people and I feel like I'm home. Your energy is contagious.
We already checked out your Riverwalk and foodie restaurants and fancy malls! We went to the Florida Aquarium and ZooTampa at Lowry Park and Busch Gardens and I knew I would never be able to get you out of my head after that weekend.
So, it shouldn't be a shock to you when I say I started a job here today.
You may have heard of the radio station Mix 100.7? If not, you should. I've been interviewing for the position as the host of the morning show for a while now. And when all other factors were considered when I had to make a decision as to whether to accept the offer, do you know what pushed me right into saying yes? YOU!
Thank you, Tampa, for being so desirable that a girl would uproot her entire family, leave her hometown with her friends and family and support system and move here just to be a part of what you've got going on!
I can't wait to learn even more about you. I can't wait to discover all of your little treasures with my family. Gasparilla is coming up. I hear you should be ashamed of yourself about that. ;)
Even so, I'll be there with bells on. But I'm mostly excited for the Children's parade. My daughter's insisting I get her a hook AND a sword for her pirate look. You've already won her over and let me tell you, that ain't easy! My new radio station will have a float in the parade and I'll be on it...winking at you.
So, just know when you catch a glimpse of my ear to ear smile as I wave to all your friends at the parade, you did that.
I haven't been this excited or happy in as long as I can remember.
Let your friends know, I want to learn all I can about you and them...tell them to email me... lauradiaz@iheartmedia.com or they can message me on Instagram or Facebook.
Sincerely,
The new girl...Laura Diaz
"The Mix Morning Show with Laura Diaz" Weekdays 6-10am on Mix 100.7