Yesterday I spent the day in NYC.
It started with meeting my brother Fred for lunch. It was really great to catch up with him. He is an awesome brother.
Spent most of my afternoon walking around with one of my Russian colleagues. We bought some phone stuff he needs to work remotely. Then wandered around – saw Time Square (i have not been there in 20 years, it used to be a sex and drug filled dump – now it’s just one giant corporate advertisement – if i never go again I will not miss it).
We walked over to the Empire State Bldg where we talked about lots of landmarks and little spots. Then took a cab to Columbus Circle and walked around Central Park. That was excellent and totally relaxing. We left the park at “Strawberry Fields”, near the Dakota where John Lennon was shot. Ended with an Italian nearby.
I wanted to go hear Bill Frisell at the Village Vanguard, but I’m just not a night owl. Big ideas, no follow through. By 9, I’m pretty well winding down. It’s the 3rd weak-assed attempt I’ve made at hearing Mr Frisell over the last 8 years. I guess we’ll just leave it at the recordings.
I was born in Manhattan, but my family split in 2 and my half moved to Connecticut when I was really little. After that, I used to go in on weekends to visit my father fairly often. But I never lived there as an adult.
When I see it, I’m always struck by the awesomeness of it. For me that awesomeness is generally positive. I get a similar feeling when I see Chicago from my roof, but it is of course milder. Certainly going up the Empire State is a great reminder.
I feel comfortable there. Don’t know, but I think many people don’t like it, but I do.