It has been a couple of weeks since I’ve written and although I haven’t seen or done anything notable, the time has passed swiftly. I have managed to get out for a walk almost every day, but mostly to run errands. You know, like a real “New Yorker.” As a matter of fact, I do feel like a “New Yorker,” especially on street corners. When the pedestrian sign is red, and there is no traffic, there is NO need to wait. In fact, I can always tell when I am surrounded by tourists. Tourists are quite obedient; they always follow the rules. WHO has time for that?!
Something I discovered a couple of weeks ago (on a walk) is the “Battery Urban Farm.” It is in Battery Park just across the street from me and close to the water. It is an educational farm where students, residents and visitors can experience sustainable farming. Much of the produce is donated to “The Coalition for the Homeless.”
Nearby is the Pier A – North River. The building was completed in 1886 as the headquarters for the NYC Police Department’s Harbor Patrol. The building has a clock tower facing the river and has been designated as a landmark. It had since been renovated into a restaurant (Harbor House), but currently it looks like it is a coffee shop.
On the left is a photo at the 9/11 pools when I first arrived in September and one taken this past week. Fall is definitely here. It’s hard to believe I have been here for two months. I have always been aware how quickly time passes, but this is bordering on ridiculous.
Many streets in Lower Manhattan are still covered with cobblestones and pavers. This, of course, adds even more historic charm to this incredible city. There are several streets in SoHo, Tribeca and West Village that look like this. Needless to say I won’t be wearing stilettos anytime soon… or EVER. I often feel like I am walking on a movie set. It is still surreal to me that I am actually here.
I am also amazed how many times I have been photographed on my walks. Well, ok. Maybe I happen to get in between people with their phone cameras and the landmark. I wonder, though, why people stop to take photos and what do they do with them? Do they make a slideshow and bore everyone who visits… like I do? Do they print the photos, add them to an album then show them to anyone who comes over for a visit… like I do? Why is it so important to take the photo? I believe it is ingrained in all tourists everywhere – as if it is their right of passage to be a “true tourist” and a necessary step in their trip. Personally, they are getting in my way and slowing down my pace. You can imagine how happy this makes me.
One of my favorite walks (already mentioned in a previous blog) is the path from Battery Park to Le District. It is at water’s edge and crosses a multi-level waterfront site. In 1987 the concept of a cove was built on a landfill and provides a scenic. It was created to emphasize experience; to connect the water to the land for everyone. Mission accomplished.
I have grown to love ear muffs. The temperature this past week dropped to the 30s. This is hard to believe coming from me, the southern California girl, but since I’m bundled up, it is actually comfortable to walk in. However, when there is just a hint of wind or a strong breeze, it is BRUTAL! I am thinking about reverting back to wearing a COVID mask just to protect my face from the harsh cold.
Speaking of which, I do see people wearing masks on occasion, but certainly not the majority of the people. It is so hard to believe that just two years ago this City was brought down to its knees and completely shut down. Isn’t it unbelievable that it’s not even in the forefront of our minds these days? Nevertheless every so often you will see this on street corners:
I am now looking forward to Thanksgiving. Anna Marie, Mickey and Ashley will be here as well as Gracie, John and James. We will all be at Pierre and Grant’s home for what I know will be a wonderful day. And then, it’s Christmas. YIKES!!!!