City Skyline

Last weekend I had the opportunity to visit the great city of New York. Scheduling to fly out of Charleston, connecting in Charlotte, NC then jetting to La Guardia Airport I met some very fascinating people (yes, before I even got to the city I made friendsJ). Danny, whom I had the privilege of sitting next to on my first flight was an older man-retired fighter pilot. We made light conversation and before I knew it we were talking about all kinds of things, such as his longing to get back to Texas and my love for Charleston. His wife had a business trip and he was going along for the ride (the “ride” being a cruise around the Mediterranean!) I mentioned how he must visit Capri, Italy. People have told me it smells like lemons and the beaches are surrounded by bright blue water. After we landed in Charlotte he commented quickly while we were departing the plane how I reminded him so much of his daughter, that I’ll do great things and I shouldn’t worry about what will come. I left that little hopper of a plane with a smile thinking how wonderful it was meeting such a great person.

         Getting to the city I decided to take the subway from midtown to China Town where the hotel was. While waiting for the 6 train with my leopard suitcase and a bottle of Finger Lakes finest, I was content  being surrounded by the early Friday evening of rush hour.  Having been away from the city for so long it was an incredible feeling of how everything came back to me. During my twenty minute train ride I observed as people got on and off at each stop how I felt so comfortable and at ease. It was like I never left, as if I was just getting home from a long vacation.

Later that evening I met up with one of my best friends from college, Mike. Arm in arm to an old bar we walked and talked about the transition from school to work, moving away and relationships. I hope I won’t have to wait another year to catch up with him again (love you Mike). 

During my short time in the City I was able to experience a lot of firsts that I've brought back to Charleston to cherish. Some of many, watching the city wake up at 5am over pancakes or if you have a preference, gourmet sandwiches ;) Visiting the newly constructed WTC,  and being able to explore the beautiful area of West Point for a wedding. So, all in all it was a pretty darn good trip and weekend for that matter. One of these days I'll make it back again- and to share it with good company again too!