Total Loss

There are many cars parked along our block with a murky film of condensation in their windows--cars that were flooded by Hurricane Sandy. This one has been inspected by the insurer, Geico, and has "T/L" marked on the windshield indicating "total loss."

Subway Musician: Lorenzo Laroc

There is always a musician playing to crowds at Grand Central's lower subway entrance. It's a perfect place to play considering the acoustics are similar to one's bathroom shower. I haven't noticed a "bad" musician there ever. I wonder if you have to audition to claim a space in the subway. I know you have to apply for a permit. I'll check on that.

This amazing performer was playing a homemade electric violin to the background of pop songs such as Led Zeppelin's Kashmir and 50 Cent's In Da Club. You have to hear this guy. Would you like a $10 CD? I'll pick one up for you. Watch Lorenzo Laroc Perform at Grand Central.

Unique Subway Seating

I realize that my entries have been fairly mundane lately. You may consider that strange considering New York City is the best place to experience ancient and avant-guard, world-famous artwork, theatre, music. But to this Midwesterner, just getting out on the crowded sidewalks, taking the subway, spending most of my day walking--these activities are still so new to me even after two years. When I see something interesting, which is almost every day, I snap a picture, and even though it's not necessarily awe-inspiring, it is unique.

Here is a good example. This simple brass tube twisted just so around a steel beam in the subway at Bleaker Street provides much needed, space-saving seating for two people. Form and function! Beauty and practicality! Yes, I sat there until my train came. It was very comfortable.

What Would You Do?

We have lived here almost two years now. Last week we drove to Hampton Bays to spend a night, and as we drove back, it was still exciting to see the jagged horizons of skyscrapers as we approached from the east. 

Prior to that, my husband and I took a detour into the town of Jamesport, where some of his co-workers live. We looked at homes for sale and apartment buildings and got the general feel of what it would be like to live there. This got me to thinking that I need to step up my game and get out more often--we may not live right across the East River from NYC after our lease is up in 2014.

What things would you do if you had a year to live NYC? Maybe I could go there for you and give a first hand report. I invite your comments!

Desperate for Cash

The cops eventually shoed away this man who was fishing for coins in the Bryant Park fountain yesterday in 40 degree weather. 

Theatre: Glengarry Glen Ross

LOVED this play starring Al Pacino! We ordered tickets two months in advance to see him, but the truth is that all of the actors were terrific. I must watch the movie now so I can re-live this gripping story. Best actor was Bobby Cannavale as Ricky Roma. 

The Known Universe at the Museum of Natural History

When I had company last, they wanted to see the planetarium at the New York Museum of Natural History, and what a great place to go! It was my second time, but that didn't matter. There is never enough time to spend to see it all. I recommend visiting this place in the morning and starting at the top floor, having lunch, then staying the rest of the day until closing so you can tour as many exhibits as possible. Here's a link to one of their programs, an amazing video of "The Known Universe." It takes about 6 minutes to view it.