My New York Adventure

So I am wrapping up my beautiful autumnal 2 week holiday in New York. I have had a chance to see the beach on Long Island, travel all around the city and see the amazing sights, a whole day in Central Park with my lovely friend Mel, and spent lots of time with the family of good friends who invited me into their home these last 2 weeks.

This trip was significant for me because it is the first time I have chosen to visit a city for a holiday. Cities have not held much interest for me, and have in the past been the places I avoid rather than seek out. I dove right into experiencing NYC. Striking out on the 3rd day I was here, I took the hour-long train ride from West Islip where I was staying, to Penn Station. As I emerged from the station I was struck by the cacophony of sounds and smells and sights of one of the most vibrant centers of urban life in the world. I stood still, exactly like a little country girl, and just took it in. Then I set off, exhilarated and excited for my adventure.

I started by walking up to Times Square. At the end of the square there are bleachers set up, so that one can simply sit and watch the flood of humanity wash by. I sat there, reveling in the foreignness of it all.

New York has a particular energy, something I did not expect to feel, or to get so much enjoyment out of. I have always felt somewhat intimidated by large cities, but I felt myself reveling in the sensory experience of being there.

I took in a few more sights that day, then headed back to West Islip. I was glad to be able to travel by train. There is something about that time that creates a kind of natural transition, like bookends on the day. The next day I ventured forth again, this time to meet the family of a student of mine and take a bus tour through the city. Lots of fun! On another day I caught a Broadway show. I saw Annie, which was awesome since it was the first musical I was in as a child. It was a really great production, and inspiring. I love theater, as a participant and spectator :)

Then there was the day spent with my good friend Mel in Central Park. The whole day. It was obscenely beautiful that day, perfect skies, warm, sunshine, and not too many people about. We started out at Grand Central Station, where we got lots of yummy food for a picnic lunch, then just walked till dinner time. We then hopped a subway down to Little Italy and ate the most awesome Italian food, then got cannolis to bring home to the family.

One evening I decided to simply wander around Soho and see what I found. I was initially looking for a poetry cafe where I was going to listen to a reading, but I got lost and turned around and tired and hungry, so I ducked into a restaurant advertising locally produced food.....what an incredible discovery! I had a great dinner with all local food and drink, and super friendly service. A couple of guys from the next table (film crew workers) gave me great tips for where to go and what to see. I was really impressed with how open and friendly the people I met were. Even on the subway, when I asked for directions there was always someone there who would help me out. I like that in a city.

Now I am at the end of the trip. I feel filled with the experience of the city, and the warm companionship of friends. I am grateful for the journey, and everything encountered along the way.