In a New York Minute

Well folks, here she is. The inaugural entry of a humble blog in which I will record various thoughts and adventures of my time in Strasbourg. Given that I am likely related to the majority of my audience (and the rest have probably seen me in my underwear), I will not try to enlighten you with any great revelations lest I receive an e-mail from a sibling telling me to cut the crap. Nope, this blog is simply to help us keep in touch and let you know what I’m up to over here. Ready? C’est parti!


My first stop on the journey to Strasbourg was for a visit to some friends in New York City, Andy and Jennifer. Andy (a friend from Truman) was hired in March at the Apple Store on 5th Avenue and has since become their top salesman! Jennifer is an alumna of Julliard and beginning to make a name for herself as a cabaret artist in the city and beyond. (Don’t miss her at Savor in STL at the end of September.)


Andy and Jennifer each graciously took a turn at hosting me for two nights in their Manhattan apartments and let me taste life in the Big Apple. As it has long been a dream of mine to live in Manhattan, I was thrilled to have an insider’s view. Having previously visited the major sights of the city, the highlights of this trip included a ramble through SoHo and Chinatown, a tour of the United Nations, eavesdropping on “regulars” in a neighborhood café, the Museum of Natural History, a delicious Thai dinner, live music and street performers in Central Park, meals and dessert on Jennifer’s rooftop patio, wandering through an art show and trying on hats, riding bikes through the park, etc. etc. etc!


I am so thankful to Andy and Jennifer for opening up their lives to me and letting me step in for a few days. I certainly enjoyed visiting the city, but especially spending time with these two wonderful friends...minus all of Andy’s Seinfeld quoting. : )

My favorite part of a city is seeing life happen all around me. If you sit long enough in one place you are sure to observe all different kinds of people doing all different daily activities: working, playing, grocery shopping, commuting, disciplining their children, mailing a letter, walking their dogs. I love the constant reminder that life is not simply my daily routine; it includes everyone else's also. :) I couldn’t help but smile at these snapshots of daily life in New York.