This past week showed me that 13-year-old me still isn’t over One Direction. Heck, 20-year-old me is still wholeheartedly obsessed and willing to get up before the sun does just to get a glimpse of any one of the boys. They’re each going their own separate ways pursuing solo careers and it seems like the opportunities to see them in smaller and more intimate settings are multiplying. The boys are constantly doing promo and lucky for me, a lot of it takes place in NYC.

This past week I got up at 3 A.M. to see Niall Horan (my absolute fav) perform songs from his debut album “Flicker” (go buy it/have a listen, it’s incredible) on the TODAY show.  Running on three hours of sleep, I was operating on pure excitement. I had my internship that day too, but thankfully all these fun things happen right down the street from where I work so I’m able to pull it off. Lots of caffeine and coffee was definitely needed (holla Starbucks). It was a fun time. I’m still catching up on my sleep.

Niall soundchecked three of his songs that he was performing that day before playing them for TV. At this time, it was probably close to 7 A.M. and still dark out, the city was barely awake and his beautiful voice was echoing all throughout Midtown in Manhattan. It was like nothing I’ve ever experienced, and I’ve been to a lot of concerts. I got to hear some of my favorite songs rehearsed and performed multiple times, he sang “Flicker,” “Too Much To Ask” and “Slow Hands.” It was an absolute blast. I’m still living.

There were a ton of people who showed up. Some fans even camped out overnight starting at 2 P.M. the previous day. If I didn’t have class and work commitments, I might have gone even earlier to get a better spot. Despite how early I did go, it was challenging to see at times during the taping (we were far back and I’m so short and there were banners in the way)… but I guess it’s all part of the New York experience and concerts out here, so you just make the best of it. :)

I’m glad I went and was also able to finally see the TODAY show. Niall was so adorable (as always). I love seeing him and would do it again in a heartbeat. He’s currently on tour promoting his new album and I get to see him again in New York on 10/31… Seeing Niall twice within one week? Seriously only happens in NYC. I live for these moments.