Janhattan

Big Blue

2012-02-09T14:49:00.004-05:00

I consider myself a sports fan. Win or lose, I was always a loyal Burley High Bobcat fan. I have also been a loyal to the BYU Cougars, Boston Red Sox and the Celtics. I climb on the bandwagon when the Bruins are winning and I have even been known to cheer for UT and UVa. It is rare that I don't have some team preference for any sporting even that I am watching. This year's Super Bowl was no exception. While I really like both teams, my heart was with the Giants. What's not to like about Eli Manning? But that wasn't why I was cheering for the Giants. I wanted them to win so I could stand in the Canyon of Heroes for their ticker tape celebration parade. And that is where I was on Tuesday morning. I jumped on the subway which was already packed with Giants fans and we headed down to Park Place. Right away I noticed that I was a little bit different from the other parade goers. First of all, I wasn't wearing a Jersey nor was I speaking 'Jersey.' Honestly, I am pretty sure I didn't hear one sentence that didn't contain the "F" word at least once. And second, I didn't have beer with my breakfast which seems to have been a common breakfast "juice" for most of the guys I met along the way. We waited pressed together for an hour before the first of the players floats came by. During that hour I saw two people chased, brought down, and cuffed by the police and one fight which resulted in a guy being taken away for stitches. Honestly, the crowd was fascinating. The parade lasted about 15 minutes, confetti streamed down from the windows of the office buildings, the players waved as they rode past us on big trucks and for a brief moment I was a true Giants' fan. They won the Super Bowl in an incredible game, I live in their town, Eli's such a good ol' boy, and they made it possible for me to stand in the Canyon of Heroes. A wonderful New York moment.

Where were you?

2012-01-06T16:44:00.003-05:00

I suspect each of has a story of where we were when the planes flew into the towers of the World Trade Center. Our friends who were in the city at the time have shared some of their experiences and the things that they have learned since that horrible day. We will always be mindful of those whose lives were lost and for those families who are now without beloved family members. Long time New Yorkers do mention that after 9/11, there were changes that occurred in the city and chief among them was that people became nicer to each other. While I have nothing to compare it to, I have to say that I have found many of the people in New York to be generous and helpful.
With this said, I just wanted to share a few photos from our visit to the 9/11 Memorial. It is a beautiful, sacred place. Our son-in-law had an app on his phone which allowed you to type in the name of a person who died on that day and it would pull up a photo of the person with a short bio. We typed in a couple of names and it was very emotional to read about a person whose life was cut so short in a needless, horrific event. I hope that even though many of us weren't in the city at this time, that we will each try to become just a little bit nicer.

It's Christmas Time in the City

2011-12-07T11:27:00.002-05:00

No city does Christmas like New York. You just want to sing "Silver Bells" each time you step out on the street. Store windows are festive, colorful, and amazing. Every other block features a Christmas tree stand like the one pictured and the evergreen fragrance permeates the air. If you can read the sign, the Christmas tree stand in our neighborhood is the ORIGINAL Christmas tree stand. We caved in when we moved here and purchased a fake tree which has proven to be all right, but had we known that the original Christmas tree shop was right around the corner, we might still be enjoying the fragrance of a fresh evergreen Christmas tree.

Signs of Winter

2011-11-14T17:53:00.002-05:00

I have blogged about how New York dresses up for winter by putting on winter doors. But there is a more beautiful sign that the season is approaching. Many of the sidewalk trees are surrounded by short decorative metal fences and during the holiday season they are either filled with pine boughs or my favorite, winter cabbages. My errands last week took me to the Upper East Side and this is what I found. We are enjoying the beautiful Autumn weather and bracing for winter. And while we can, we will enjoy the blending of the two seasons.

It's a jungle out there

2011-10-17T15:03:00.006-04:00

I saw four new sculptures in my neighborhood today. Two elephants are at Columbus Circle, a bear is at 67th & Broadway, and I spotted Donald Trump's hair at Lincoln Center. No one will fault me for calling that piece of work on his head a sculpture. The wind was blowing about 15 mph and his hair didn't move. I think he must pay someone to "style" it for him and someone to tell him it looks good. I only caught the back of the Donald because I couldn't get my phone out of my backpack fast enough and the security guards wouldn't let anyone on the plaza while the Donald was filming his commercial. Or maybe I was stopped because I yelled out, "Hey Donald, nice rug!" Who knows?
At any rate the other sculptures are lots of fun. (see this website for more details http://www.themorrisongallery.com/woytuk_bio.htm)

Life does exist outside of NYC

2011-10-14T16:43:00.004-04:00

This blog was to document my activities in NYC, but recently I had such a great experience that I wanted to share it. I will justify this by saying that everyone in the photo has been to NYC since we moved here. My sister and her husband recently returned from a two year humanitarian mission to Turkey for our church and to celebrate their return, all of my siblings and our spouses gathered together in Salt Lake City for a reunion. We went to two amazing shows, went to the temple together, ate some great food, and also were able to have a reunion with all of my aunts and uncles and cousins on my father's side of the family. I can't even express how delightful it was to spend time with family. I am grateful for family members who spend more time figuring out ways to love one another than to criticize; I am grateful for in-laws and a husband who just go with the flow; I am grateful that we will have eternity together because it is really hard saying "good-bye" at the end of such wonderful visits.

Deuce

2011-09-13T17:52:00.004-04:00

We had so much fun a couple of years ago at the US Open, we decided to repeat our experience----only with better seats. Paul wrangled us such good seats I felt like I was Roger's doubles partner. A friend who was sitting with us leaned over and said, "It is taking every bit of self control I have not to yell out, 'Roger, I love you.'" You can understand where she was coming from even if you are married to the most handsome man in the world (and I am).
It was a great day and there is a good possibility we will return next year.

Earth, wind and ......

2011-08-28T15:20:00.005-04:00

This past week we had an earthquake that lasted 10 seconds and a hurricane that didn't even last that long. We were prepared, however. The mayor did a great job getting everything buckled down in anticipation of Hurricane Irene's arrival early Sunday morning. Paul and I had our 72 hour kits ready, we had filled our bath-tubs with water in case we lost power and they couldn't pump water to our apartment, and we had two bags of M&M's. We went to bed Saturday night thinking that we would wake-up to trees and cars floating around the flooded city streets. Nothing happened. We had lots of rain and there was some wind, but nothing as strong as they had predicted. Battery Park City, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx and places in NJ and CT certainly took the brunt of the hurricane. They had one reporter stationed near where we live and she had the audacity to report that the upper west side was in great shape. This after many of our friends and family had called and sent emails saying that they were praying for our safety and even suggesting that we were very brave to have stayed in the city when we could have fled. Please don't tell them that we hardly noticed the hurricane and actually we didn't even feel the earthquake either. Don't worry, Mother Nature, we still hold you in high regard.

The photos attached show me out on the pier just an hour after the worst of the storm had passed---see if you can tell if the wind is really blowing. The other photos are of the booksellers tables that sit on the street day and night. They were simply wrapped with tarps and rope and seemed untouched by the night's storm. These tables have been of interest to me for a long time. Each night, the booksellers just wrap the tables as shown and then the next day they show up and begin selling their books. From what I can tell no one bothers these tables during the night; this is a mystery to me and it also delights me.

Three Year Anniversary

2011-07-26T10:29:00.006-04:00

While we have lived in New York City for three and a half years, we have only been in our condo for three years, as of July 26. I went back and looked at the photos from the very beginning of our journey to settle into the condo. When we first found this place, it was filled with all of the construction materials for the apartments below us, but that didn't deter us. We fell in love with the views and decided that this was the place for us. Buying a condo in New York is interesting, especially in a new building. You can set a closing date, but whether or not the building management company actually meets that deadline is pretty random. We had four closing dates and it would get to the day before we were supposed to close and they would cancel. Then I would have to re-schedule the movers, arrange to stay in our temporary housing for a little longer, and cancel all other appointments I had set up with utility companies etc. It was frustrating. Finally we get to July 26 and our attorney calls and says that he thinks it will really happen, but to sit by the phone. I wait and wait and then he calls and says, "be downtown with your certified check in 30 minutes." I scramble, run to the bank where they have the check waiting, grab a cab and turn the corner and the traffic is totally stopped. The cab driver turns around and says trust me? I nod and he turns around and goes in the exact opposite direction we needed to go. I kind of scream out, "I have to be at 100 Broadway by 1:00!" He turns around and smiles and says, "trust me." After going 15 blocks in the wrong direction, we hit the FDR and there is no traffic. He zips along, exits, winds through some tiny streets, and before I know it he turns around and says, "good luck." I jumped out and ran into the lawyer's office just as the clock struck one.
After the closing, I jumped on the subway and met Paul at our new home. The next day we moved in and the rest is history.
We never get tired of the views and find ourselves staring out the windows rather than doing our chores. While smaller than our other homes, we have managed to host many parties and family dinners and accommodate our children and grand children when they have come to visit.
It wouldn't be hard to fill up the guest room every night and for the first year, we were very willing hosts. With so many requests to stay at our place, we finally had to adopt a guest room policy which consists of three rules. 1. Family first. 2. We have to have met you before you can stay with us. 3. We have to be here. (Sorry, but if you aren't coming to see us you can't stay)
It's been a wonderful three years and I'll never forget my taxi driver who helped make this all possible.

River to River Festival

2011-07-20T11:12:00.002-04:00

Each summer the city hosts a festival celebrating venues between the East River and the Hudson River. Saturday Paul and I ventured down to the World Financial Center to see a performance by two groups. One was Australia's Strange Fruit and the Three Belles. These women came out and climbed up these long poles mounted on a base that allowed them to sway back and forth to music. Talk about needing rock solid abs! The performance was so much fun and made all the better by the nonchalant attitude of the women.
The second performance was by STREB and extreme action company. "Inspired by the Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas, Human Fountain involves performers leaping from as high as 30 feet from a three-story, open, honeycomb structure in order to create cascades of airborne liquid muscle. The outcome is a mixture of slam dancing, exquisite and amazing human flight, and wild action sport, which captures kids, adults and the general public's hearts, minds, and bodies." Wasn't it worth reading just to get to the part about "liquid muscle?"
We managed to fit in all this fun and even did some shopping and put in some miles on the bikes. A great Saturday.

And the rockets red glare.....

2011-07-13T17:47:00.005-04:00

Paul and I celebrated the 4th of July by riding our bikes down to Battery Park to salute the Statue of Liberty. It was a foggy morning so look carefully and you will see the lovely lady standing in the harbor. I remember my mother getting choked up every time a flag was raised or each time the flag was carried at the front of a parade. She cried whenever we saw something patriotic----memorials for soldiers, etc. I didn't understand when she tried to explain that she was crying because she was grateful for what the flag represented. And I assumed she was crying because my dad had served in two wars and she was grateful that he had returned home safely. As I teared up looking at Lady Liberty, I thought of my mom, and I now I understand.

After a day of reading and hanging out, we decided to stay home and watch the fireworks from our apartment. Six barges were in the Hudson River and perfectly timed fireworks were sent skyward from each barge. We not only had a great view, but it was air conditioned! We could see fireworks from several small towns in New Jersey, the Bronx, Harlem and somewhere on the east side. It was a delightful day.

Go ahead, make my day

2011-06-29T07:16:00.004-04:00

Equinox, not the event, but the name of my gym is where you will find me most mornings. I leave about 6:00 each morning and walk the seven blocks to my gym for a spin class. The photo is evidence of how I look on the walk home----sweaty and not so cute. I walk past a senior living center on the way home and even on the cold days, several elderly people are sitting out on the sidewalk sipping coffee and socializing. One elderly man is always dressed very nicely and insists that I stop and shake his hand. His name is Bob. Without fail, Bob always says, "may I tell you that you are looking lovely this morning?" I know I don't, but I do notice that when I walk away I have a little spring in my step and a smile on my face. Today a new guy was sitting with them and he had to add his two cents by saying, "I like that wet look you have goin on."

It doesn't take much, so go ahead and make someone's day.

And the Tony goes to.....

2011-06-27T13:32:00.002-04:00

As mentioned in the previous post, my sister Karen and her daughter Kira were here for a few days celebrating Kira's recent high school graduation. We were able to do so many things in the days they were here, but I think a highlight for Kira was standing outside the Beacon Theater (which is just a few blocks from our apartment) while the Tony Awards ceremony was being broadcast. We positioned ourselves at the back door of the theater and every award winner had to walk past us to go to another venue where they had the press and the actual award was given to them. They would then walk past us again, proudly holding their Tony, and walk back into the theater. Kira's great hope was that Daniel Radcliffe would walk by, but sadly he didn't appear. However, Bono did make an appearance along with Al Pacino, Robin Williams, Sutton Foster, all the winners from "The Book of Mormon" musical, the dancers from "Anything Goes", "Nunsense", "Memphis" and "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert", and the horse from War Horse. We saw lots of people who acted like they were famous, but we didn't know them.

Locks of Love

2011-06-27T13:23:00.002-04:00

I walked the Brookyn Bridge two times this month. Once with my cousin Carolyn and her friend Patty and then again with my sister Karen and her daughter Kira. I am no stranger to the bridge because I have walked it a number of times and biked across a few times. And I have even read David McCullough's book about the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. The Bridge celebrated it's 128th year this past May. However, there is something new on the bridge I had never noticed before----hundreds of locks attached to the wire fences, benches and bolts. We were curious as to why they were there and a little research turned up this result. Couples come to the bridge with a lock that has their names on it, they lock it to the bridge and throw the key into the river, forever locking their love to the bridge. So romantic! I am on the hunt for the perfect lock and before we leave this great city, Paul and I will lock our love to the Bridge. I get a bit weepy thinking about it.

Fleet Week

2011-06-27T13:02:00.002-04:00

A few times each year, NYC hosts Fleet Week. On the first day, the ships glide up the Hudson River to the George Washington Bridge and then return to dock in the harbor for the week. This is just a glimpse of one boat as it floated past our apartment. We see the sailors walking the streets of New York in their bright, white uniforms. Some are appear startled and perplexed by the big city and bright lights. Others seem quite at home and are having a great time. And then there are those who are looking for love in all the wrong places.

Adventures with friends

2011-05-02T17:37:00.002-04:00

Yes I have friends. A group of us have set aside the last Wednesday of each month to explore something new in the city. A few weeks ago we drove out to Teddy Roosevelt's family home on the north shore of Long Island. This month we were able to catch the Brooklyn Botanical gardens in full bloom. We have a list of things we want to do, but there was a hearty response to the idea that we explore the Short Hills, New Jersey Mall on our next outing. Crazy that a trip to the mall could seem like an adventure. With me driving, it will be an adventure for sure.

2011-04-12T12:42:00.003-04:00

February 1 Paul celebrated his three year anniversary of living in New York. April 4 marked my three year anniversary. We have loved being here and look forward to a few more years in the city, although as Paul likes to say, "we will find someplace warm to grow old." Living in the city presents some unique challenges, but I am learning to deal with those. I am often asked the question, "what do you like most about New York?" I am sorry, there is not a short answer to that question. I love the neighborhoods in the city. I love that Mr. Tom at the dry cleaners knows my name. I love Central Park. I love bike riding in the city. I love that I know how to drive in this crazy city. I love that I don't have to drive in this crazy city. I love plotting out my trips on the subway. I love spring time in the city. I love living close to the temple. I love seeing friends on the street in the neighborhood. I love the old man who always waves to me when I walk to the gym and yells, "you're lookin' swell this morning!" I love discovering new shops. I love watching families navigate around the city. I love seeing famous people in my neighborhood. I love the views from my apartment. I love meeting Paul every night to walk home with him from work. I love that our grand kids love New York. I love the carousel. I love watching the boats on the Hudson River. I love our friends. I love having a doorman and a super. I love living in New York with Paul. Not a day goes by that I don't giggle and say, "I live in New York City!"

Spring Training

2011-04-05T18:23:00.002-04:00

One way to survive the winter is to go someplace warm for a few days. Feeling the sun on your face and being able to run around without being bundled up is such a relief. Our spring training trip this year involved time in Austin with three of our families and then a week in Phoenix watching spring training baseball. Paul was able to connect with a few of the players from the past.

Sorry, cameras prohibited.

2011-02-14T15:50:00.002-05:00

I want to say it was nearly 25 years ago that Paul introduced me to a singer named Michael Feinstein. Michael plays the piano and sings wonderful old songs and Broadway melodies. He opened a supper club in the Park Avenue Hotel, Loews Regency Hotel, and we have always wanted to go there. This year we made it our Valentine's celebration and went to hear Brooke Shields perform. Okay, I know what you are thinking, BROOKE SHIELDS?? You are right, she can't sing that well, but for some reason the whole evening was very entertaining. Her band was very good, she can tell a great story, and she sang some good songs---just not that well. The room is very intimate with seating for about 75 people. About ten minutes before the show was to begin a group of people walked in and there was immediate attention paid to them. They swept by our table and yes, I could have reached out and touched Joan Rivers. I was a little hurt that she didn't stop and at least criticize what I was wearing.
Sorry I can't document this with photos, but cameras were not allowed.

Extra, extra, read all about it!

2011-01-22T16:22:00.005-05:00

The congregations that meet in our church building take turns shoveling the snow from the sidewalks when it storms. We knew a storm was coming so Paul and I planned to get up early and go shovel last Friday morning. We got to the church which is right across the street from Lincoln Center, at 6:00 a.m. and began shoveling. The street vendors were setting up their carts for the day and even though it was snowing and cold, many people were out getting their morning coffee and newspaper. The newspaper vendor on the corner by the church had to cross the street to do something and asked if we would watch her papers. I stood by her wire stand of papers and brushed the snow away and then noticed a gentleman standing a few feet away. He had a cup of coffee and I looked up and said "good morning." He then said, "I'll take a copy of the NY Times and handed me $1.50" So I handed him a paper. Right after that someone walked up and wanted a copy of the Post. She handed me 50 cents and I handed her the Post. I had a chance to make one more sale before the "real"vendor came back. Selling papers on the street corner was a once in a lifetime experience and now what's next....singing on Broadway, riding on the Zamboni at the Ranger's game, sleeping on a subway vent, walking the runways during Fashion Week....the possibilities are endless in this great city.

PBR in MSG

2011-01-14T17:43:00.003-05:00

You have to be a true fan to know what the title of this blog means. Paul and I spent last Saturday night in Madison Square Garden watching the Professional Bull Riders. As Paul likes to say, "It's five action packed minutes stretched into three hours." At least we got to wear our boots and Paul broke out his open road cowboy hat for the night. Alot of people stared at him on the subway and believe me, there were stranger people riding in the same car with us. I suppose they just hadn't seen such a handsome cowboy in the city before.

A city full of surprises

2010-12-15T10:34:00.002-05:00

The other day I was shopping in our neighborhood and stopped in to see if the North Face store had a warm hat that would look good on me. The answer to that is a very firm "no," but as I was trying on hats, I looked over and noticed that the guy next to me was dressed like Elvis. Not just Elvis hair, but the Elvis white jumpsuit, white shoes, gold belt, and Elvis sunglasses. I desperately wanted to take a picture but couldn't find a way to do it without drawing attention to myself and Elvis.
Elvis may have left the building without being photographed, but take a look at the Santa's trying to get to work on the subway last Saturday. Santa and his helpers must be in demand this holiday season.

Post without photos----BORING!

2010-11-30T15:49:00.003-05:00

I hope to add photos to this post at some point, but I will have to get them from Paige because she took all the photos while her family was visiting for Thanksgiving. We had such a great time with them. We were able to see the Macy's store Christmas windows, play in snow for the filming of Mr. Popper's Penguins, watch the balloons being inflated for the parade, eat at some fun restaurants and just enjoy being with Tyson, Avery and Payton and Paige and Brent. The weather was perfect and even too warm one day for coats!
Lat night Paul and I walked through our neighborhood where they were celebrating Winter's Eve. Bands were playing, restaurants had sampling tables out, jugglers were juggling, Christmas trees were glowing as we made our way from Columbus Circle, to Lincoln Center and home again. Christmas is in full swing in the city and it is a magical time to be here.

Fore!

2010-10-24T08:57:00.002-04:00

Each time we have visitors, I try and show them all the familiar sights and then I try and add in at least one thing I have never done or seen. When my sister Ranonne and her husband came last weekend, the "something new" was hitting golf balls at the Golf Club on Pier 59. It is a multi-story structure with a net 200 yards out to keep the balls from going into the Hudson River. With my golfing abilities, no net needed. However, it was lots of fun and I did manage to hit a ball 150 yards if you count the distance it rolled.

Celebrating John Lennon's 70th Birthday

2010-10-11T13:48:00.002-04:00

Paul and I decided to Come Together with hundreds of others in Strawberry Fields Forever to celebrate John's 70th birthday. You didn't even need a Ticket to Ride to play your guitar or violin or even to sing along. It was crowded and I did cry for Help a few times as we squeezed through all the people. With a little Instant Karma we were able to find a good place to stand. In My Life I have never thought that I Am the Walrus, but I do Imagine a world where we Give Peace a Chance and All You Need is Love.

Somewhere over the rainbow

2010-10-11T13:42:00.002-04:00

This photo was taken out of our dining room window one evening after a rainstorm.
We were a little bit panicked at first thinking that the end of the rainbow (and its pot of gold) was sitting in Yankee Stadium, but we quickly determined that even Mother Nature wouldn't play such a nasty trick on us.

On the Avenue

2010-08-19T17:14:00.002-04:00

Three weekends each summer the city closes Park Avenue to traffic from 72nd Street south to the Brooklyn Bridge. It is open to bikers, skaters, walker, and runners. Paul and I donned our cute bike helmets and hopped on our commuters (Paul prefers to call them "old people bikes) and rode the city streets. It really was lots of fun to cruise down Park Avenue around Grand Central Station, through Union Square, Soho, City Plaza, to the Brooklyn Bridge. Along the way, vendors were out hawking their fitness products and good food. One event that attracted lots of attention was the dumpster diving. The city had converted several huge dumpsters into swimming pools. We didn't get to take a dive, but we did get close enough for a photo.

Yankees spelled backwards

2010-08-18T18:11:00.002-04:00

A true Red Sox fan knows that Yankees spelled backwards is "I-l-o-v-e-S-a-t-a-n," and even with that knowledge firmly implanted in our hearts, we decided we needed to see a game in the new Yankee Stadium. It is huge, gaudy, elaborate, and exactly what you would expect of the Yankees and with apologies to all our die hard Red Sox friends, we liked it.

Unconditional Surrender

2010-08-17T17:31:00.006-04:00

August 14 was the anniversary of Japan's surrender after World War 2. Hundreds of men and women from the armed services had gathered in Times Square and as the announcement was made, a sailor grabbed a nurse who was standing close to him, bent her over and planted a kiss on her as a way of celebrating this huge event. The kiss was captured by a photographer and made it's way onto the cover of Life Magazine. In commemoration of this kiss, a statue was commissioned a couple of years ago and was temporarily installed in Times Square this past week. Saturday, August 14, the city sponsored a re-enactment of the kiss. Sailor hats were distributed to all in attendance and everyone kissed at 12:00 noon. Paul and I were in Times Square earlier that morning and had our kiss sans the sailor hats.

A room with a "clear" view

2010-08-17T17:17:00.002-04:00

I was sitting on the sofa reading one morning and I heard a noise like someone was tapping on the window. Since we live on the 27th floor, it seemed unlikely that someone would be tapping on the window. But to my surprise, not only had I actually heard the noise, but I saw the guy making it. It was a window washer and I hope that by taking his picture, I didn't throw him off balance!

Looking Back

2010-08-05T12:41:00.005-04:00

We recently gathered in South Carolina for a family reunion. The entire McKinnon clan gathered in the small beach community called Isle of Palms. It just so happened that the only week we all had open was from June 12-19. I tell you this to say that it was so generous of Meredith and Eric to spend their first wedding anniversary traveling to the family vacation. It then occurred to me that perhaps I never blogged about their New York City wedding on June 12, 2009. It was such a wonderful event and certainly fits my blog requirements of describing what I do in the city. Therefore, here are a few photos from the big day, which actually was about four days of fun with everyone here.
And since I mentioned the family vacation, it would only be fair for me to post a few pictures from that event even though it didn't happen in NYC. We spent most days in the pool or at the beach, but with Fort Sumter just a short ferry boat ride away we definitely needed to go take a look at this historic site. Paul was sure the little ones would love the ferry boat and the adults would be quite thrilled to see the place where the Civil War began. The trip over to the fort was quite pleasant but we soon realized why the phrase "hot as Hell" has been changed to "hot as Fort Sumter." This very small island in the Charleston harbor still has some of the barracks and cannons from the Civil War in tact. Interesting for a brief time under the best of circumstances. But try and find shade or a drinking fountain and you come up empty. The day we went to Fort Sumter I believe the humidity and temperature readings for Charleston were both in the 90's. I think we all came away convinced that had the leaders of the North and South met at Fort Sumter with the direction that they couldn't leave until they had solved their differences, it wouldn't have taken them long to come up with a solution. Perhaps on another day in the middle of winter we would have come away with a more favorable impression of the fort. For now, it is just the great story of how grandpa forced everyone on the "hot as Fort Sumter" boat tour.

So many friends in the neighborhood!

2010-07-21T18:14:00.000-04:00

Paul and I were having dinner last night and had chosen to eat at a table outside on the sidewalk. it was about 7:30 and lots of people were hurrying home from work. The sidewalk was crowded, but not too crowded to be able to look at each person walking by. A woman caught my eye because her hair was so blond and full. She was texting on her phone as she was walking so her gait was slow. And then it hit me. I know this girl. She just wants to have fun. Yes, you're right, Cyndy Lauper was just hanging out in the neighborhood. She actually lives on the upper west side, but this is the first time our paths have crossed.

Piano Fun

2010-06-27T07:00:00.001-04:00

Megan and Blake came to visit and FAO Schwartz was just the place to hang-out on a rainy morning. Blake had a wonderful time playing with nearly every toy in the store. He also demonstrated his great skills on the "big piano." Had they only stayed a little bit longer, Blake could have played one of the pianos that have recently been installed throughout the city. This is an arts project and pianos have been placed in random places all over the city. Paul and I stopped to listen to a performance at one piano placed in Lincoln Center. Anyone can perform and as we discovered, lots of people are willing if not able. If someone is playing a song you recognize, feel free to stop and sing along.

Cycling in NYC

2010-06-26T15:21:00.000-04:00

If you were so inclined, you could bike around the entire island of Manhattan and be on a bike path or dedicated bike lane nearly the entire way. With our recent purchase of bikes, Paul and I plan to take advantage of these beautiful bike paths. Just today we took our maiden ride along the Hudson and completed a 15 mile ride past the GW Bridge and back.
However, owning a bike in NYC isn't totally without responsibility.
Here are the NYC rules for bikers.
1. Cyclists must obey all traffic lights and signs.
2. Cyclists should yield to pedestrians
3. Cyclists may NOT ride on the sidewalk.
4. Cyclists must ride in the direction of traffic.
5. Use lights at night.
6. Wear a helmet--Even if you look totally geeky!

Memorial Day

2010-06-08T14:31:00.000-04:00

Fleet week coincides with Memorial Day each year. During the week, there are several ships that cruise up and down the Hudson and numerous fly-bys of helicopters and interesting aircraft. I was able to capture one of the ships that was cruising down past our building. The men and women from all branches of the military descend upon the city for a little R&R. Paul and I decided to take in the sights at Battery Park on Memorial Day. (The Battery is named for the artillery battery that was stationed there at various times by the Dutch and British in order to protect the settlements behind it.)Battery Park is also the place where you can take the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
We visited a few war memorials and then sat and watched all of the people. Most interesting was a gentleman who was fishing off the pier. Paul started up a conversation with the guy and was asking if he had caught any fish. He claimed to have caught three or four 30 pound blue-fin tuna earlier in the day, but while we were watching him, he didn't have any such luck. He said the tide was low and the fish had already eaten for the day so they weren't biting. Guess we will have to get there earlier next time if we want to see him hauling in the big tuna. And if you are wondering, yes he does eat the fish he catches. Think I'll pass.

Law and Order

2010-05-27T15:51:00.000-04:00

I was summoned for jury duty and not once does it mention on the instructions that you have to show up for two days! That is the requirement in New York and if you are assigned to a trial, you obviously have to see the trial through to the finish.
I mistakenly thought that "business casual" would be appropriate attire. There was a handful of us dressed in slacks and jackets and the rest of the crew had on Yankees jerseys or some kind of t-shirt with a slogan on it. During the Q&A portion of the instructions, most people were trying to get out of serving. One guy raised his hand and said, "Uh, I just served last August, can I serve again?" When they told him he could be dismissed he kind of sunk down in his chair and said, "But I want to do it again." They let him stay.
I have to figure out a way to make it more fun tomorrow. We can't have any food in the waiting area, but they didn't say anything about not having a dance party!!!

My Super Hero

2010-05-11T17:13:00.000-04:00

New York City is one of the safest cities in the country. Okay, except for the attempted car bombing attempt in Times Square last week, it is a very safe city. At least Paul and I feel very safe in our neighborhood. Paul runs in Central Park every morning at 5:30 a.m. and I am often out by 6:30 a.m. walking to my gym. Even walking home late at night from the theater or a church meeting we feel very safe. You may be wondering why we feel so protected in what others view as a very dangerous city. When you walk out of your home/apartment, is Batman patrolling your streets? I think not. He is too busy keeping those of us on the Upper West Side safe from the evil that lurks out there. Thanks, Batman. I'll sleep better tonight knowing you are on duty.

No longer a stranger

2010-04-20T18:14:00.000-04:00

Central Park has suddenly come alive with flowering trees and bushes and tulips and daffodils. Paul and I strolled down the lilac walk one Saturday morning and couldn't help but bury our noses in the fragrant blooms of the lilacs so reminiscent of what I remember about spring in my childhood home of Burley, Idaho. Wanting desperately to win the approval of an elementary teacher, I would pick some lilacs and wraps the stems in aluminum foil (thinking that was attractive) and present them to her before class started. I'm not sure but I think that is why I managed to be selected to play the coveted role of Sacajawea in our 4th grade pageant.
Back to Central Park. Something I recently learned is that it has 20 gates or entrances and each one has a name. For example, there is the Warriors Gate on the north end and the Artists Gate and Artisans Gate on the south end. Each gate was named to try and represent the people who would be using the gate to enter the park. The Children's Gate is at 76th and 5th Avenue. The Strangers Gate is at 106th and Central Park West. Having past our two year mark living in New York, it is so nice to say that we no longer qualify to enter at the Strangers Gate. I've been trying to find a complete list of all the gates to see which one best suits Paul and me. What I do know is that we no longer have to enter in at the Strangers Gate.

Climbing out of winter

2010-03-23T14:17:00.001-04:00

Not long ago I posted about the signs of winter and just a few months later we are heralding the signs of spring. A visit to Central Park on Saturday was a testament to how excited New Yorkers were to have a little sunshine. Every lawn that was open was filled with people. Children were chasing each other, parents were relaxing on blankets and the brave were exposing their very white bodies to the sun. The not so brave tried to walk by without staring.
Even Times Square was celebrating the approach of the new season with an outdoor spring concert featuring Mary J. Blige. I just happened to be walking by when the concert started and stopped to listen to just one song. The good news is that the concert was being sponsored by Dial Deodorant and I came away with coupons for my next purchases!

A visit to a "Pop-up" store

2010-03-10T15:00:00.000-05:00

Target has come to Manhattan for just three days. They were previewing their partnership with Liberty of London. I had some errands to do and decided to walk by and see what all the buzz was about. Much to my surprise the line to get into the store stretched for two blocks, but it was moving fast, so I stepped in line. Once inside there were dozens of articles made with Liberty of London fabrics---pillows, purses, dresses, pajamas, umbrellas, dishes, storage bins, bikes, boots, underwear, swimsuits, comforters. Women were filling their bags like they were contestants on Super Market Sweep. It was an amazing thing to see. I walked out empty handed knowing that on Monday all these same things will be in a Target store in every neighborhood in America. Even though we have only been in the city for two years, I identified with the frenzy of being able to buy Target merchandise without having to go to New Jersey.

And that's a good thing

2010-03-02T16:17:00.000-05:00

A good friend and I went to see the Martha Stewart Show. Inspired by others who had attended, we got tickets and were very excited about the possibility of coming home with a bagful of Martha treats. On the application for tickets it asked about ones interest in crafting, cooking and gardening. I have minimal interest in all of these things and said that I just wanted to see how the show was produced. That was the wrong answer. There was great care in seating everyone and it was obvious by our placement in the back corner that we hadn't impressed Martha. During the commercial breaks, a lively fellow named Jay ran through the audience handing out some of Martha's favorite things. He always ran out just before he reached our back corner. The production of the show was interesting and it was fun to see all that happens backstage to make it a successful show. If there is a next time, I may have to tell a few white lies such as "I wear my glue gun in a holster 24/7,"I only eat what I grow in my garden," "I love spending a couple of days making my own gift wrap for my homemade gift, or "I am an avid follower of the blog titled 'Oops, I craft my pants!'"

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

2010-03-02T16:06:00.000-05:00

We had 30 inches of snow in Central Park last week and it was beautiful. Snow is so much better when you don't have to drive in it or shovel it. New York has an amazing system for cleaning the streets after a snowfall. The garbage trucks are equipped with plows and rather than pick up trash, they head out and plow the streets. It is illegal to have snow on the sidewalks in front of buildings, so the even the sidewalks are shoveled clean before you have to go outside. The threat of snow doesn't even bother us, but we won't complain when we see signs of Spring.

The Year of the Tiger

2010-02-22T13:19:00.000-05:00

My church assignment takes me to a different ward in our stake several times each month. Sunday I headed down to the Chinese Branch in China town. The subway seemed to be much more crowded than normal and with each stop as we got closer to Canal Street, the crowd became excited. As we emerged from the subway I began to understand the excitement. It was the Chinese New Year parade and thousands of people had come out on what was a beautiful Sunday afternoon to participate. There were balloons and fireworks and dragons and floats. Several of the streets I needed to cross were closed off so I wound my way through China town only to discover that part of the celebration included throwing confetti at each other. I was covered with confetti sparkles by the time I made it to church, but felt like I had appropriately welcomed in the Year of the Tiger.

Goodnight Moon

2010-02-01T15:15:00.000-05:00

Paul and I live on the 29th floor of our building and while it's not the tallest building in our neighborhood, we still have some unobstructed views of the city. Last night the full moon was practically sitting on our window sill and I managed a poor attempt at capturing this amazing sight. Observing the night sky from our vantage point never gets old.

The Disneyland of Grocery Stores

2010-01-24T08:52:00.000-05:00

At least this is the way Stew Leonard's was described the other day so Paul and I decided to venture into Yonkers to scope it out. Paul had read about this store 25 years ago in Tom Peter's book about excellence in management and had always wanted to see why Peters was so sold on the store. The exterior certainly lived up to the hype of "Disneyland-esque," but I am sorry to say we were somewhat disappointed in the actual products. Yes, there were puppets everywhere, little mechanical figures on swings, and free samples, but we came away almost empty handed. I think if in our life time we had only experienced the crowded NYC grocery stores, Stew's would have been a virtual wonderland for us. But that is not the case. Fortunately, within just a few hundred yards there was a Costco----familiar territory for us---- and we managed to score on a gallon size drum of salsa, a year's worth of toothbrushes in one pack, and 45 pounds of cheese. Nachos anyone?

2010-01-01T13:52:00.000-05:00

We made our way to Times Square around 4:00 p.m. on New Year's Eve knowing all along that it would be a short stay. We only got to about 48th and Broadway before it became too crowded to walk any further so we turned around and walked back to our apartment. A simple dinner, a New Year's Eve toast and we were in bed by 9:00. However, the fireworks from Central Park woke us up at midnight so we rolled up the blinds and enjoyed the fireworks display from bed.
It is hard to believe that we are beginning our third year in the city. There are some things that seemed like a big adventure when we first arrived, but they have become commonplace. However, walking through Central Park on any day of the week, in any season, is still enchanting. And that is how I began this New Year. May 2010 be an enchanting New Year for all.

Long live Albania!

2009-12-29T10:17:00.000-05:00

Our son-in-law, Matt Mullins, served his LDS mission in Albania. This is a country you don't hear much about, however, Paul and I joined in an Albanian celebration the day after Thanksgiving. We were actually visiting Little Italy in the Bronx when we saw a gathering of people, draped in red and black flags singing and cheering. We walked down the street to see what was going on and found ourselves surrounded by Albanians celebrating their liberation day. We cheered along with them, hummed along as they say their national anthem and shouted after the poem of the flag was read. Children were dressed in the national dress and performed an Albanian dance. Paul and I proceeded to do our shopping for an authentic Italian dinner we were hosting the next day, but the Albanian festival continued with young men driving their cars around the blocks with loud speakers attached playing Albanian music while they honked and waved and demonstrated their true Albanian spirit. Albanian Pride is alive and well in the Bronx.

Time flies.....!

2009-12-16T12:54:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving seems like it was yesterday and here we are already counting down to Christmas. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving week with a visit from our dear friends, Larry and LaDawn Gibbons. Along with some friendly competition in the evening playing board games, we watched football, ate, laughed, ate, watched the Macy's day parade, ate, and laughed some more. We had about 12 friends for Thanksgiving dinner and then hosted our annual Thanksgiving Day Bingo game for about 30 people. There were hundreds of fabulous prizes won and several pieces of pie eaten. It was a great New York Thanksgiving.
And now we are in full swing getting ready for Christmas. Merry Christmas to all.

And here's what's happening in our neck of the woods!

2009-11-13T18:15:00.000-05:00

Big doings in our neighborhood this weekend. The new Apple Store opens on 67th & Broadway tomorrow at 10:00 and when I walked by tonight at 4:30 and a guy was already sitting by the front door, wrapped in a blanket so he could be the first one in tomorrow. I stopped to chat with him and as you can imagine, he was somewhat geeky so our conversation was very short. "You mean you are going to stay here all night to be the first one in? Nods head. "Why would you do that?" Shrugs shoulders. Okay, that about wraps it up. Then while I was doing my grocery shopping at Whole Foods in the Time Warner Shops, they lit up the Christmas Stars that are synchronized to light up as Christmas music plays.
It is pretty amazing to be able to walk to so many shops and stores. You just have to remember to only buy what you can carry home or hope the store has those two favorite words plastered on the walls of the store---WE DELIVER!

Signs of the Times

2009-10-20T18:04:00.000-04:00

In preparation for winter squirrels gather nuts, bears put on weight, rats start to grow fur, and cardboard boxes become a hot commodity for the homeless who use them for shelter. In New York we turn our playgrounds into ice skating rinks and put winter doors on our restaurants. While I am not ready for winter, I am getting ready for winter. I'm gathering more nuts, putting on weight, growing fur, etc.

"Playbor" Day Weekend

2009-09-12T09:55:00.000-04:00

Friday evening found us kicking off the Labor Day Weekend canoeing in Central Park. Then we had an early start for the tennis matches at the US Open. We were able to see Federer vs Hewitt, Oudin vs Sharipova and Roddick vs Isner. Sunday was a big day at church and then my sister Marilyn arrived from Utah for a visit. We had a nice dinner and then walked over to the Lincoln Center for the outdoor televised opera. Monday found us taking a four mile walk through Central Park, a subway ride down to Union Square and a loooong walk over to the Highline Park. After putting in nine miles of walking that day we decided a quiet evening at home wouldn't be all that bad. All in all, it was a fabulous Playbor Day weekend.

Saturday is a special day

2009-08-25T16:53:00.000-04:00

Saturday is the day you will find Paul and me in Central Park. We get up early and run (I walk) in the park and then come home and shower clean up for the day. Once the newspapers have arrived, we pack up our bag with newspapers and books and head back to the park to read. At least that is our intent. Mostly we watch the other people in the park. It is quite amusing to see parents walking briskly through the park while reading from their travel book and then to see the children about ten paces behind looking like they would rather be back at the hotel playing video games. Musicians are out trying to earn a few dollars playing for the tourists, squirrels are posing for photos, and Paul and I observe all of this while pretending to be totally absorbed in our books. It is a great way to spend a Saturday morning.

On the Hudson River Line

2009-07-27T20:45:00.000-04:00

We were invited to join the 50th birthday celebration of a friend and boarded a yacht and cruised up and down the Hudson River for a few hours. It was a picture perfect night as you will be able to tell from the photos. Paul and I were so excited when the boat cruised right up to our neighborhood because we had never seen our apartment building from that angle before. It is the glass building behind the first group of tall buildings----kind of in the middle of the photo.
The highlight of the evening was cruising very close to Lady Liberty just as the sun was setting. She looked as beautiful and majestic as ever. FYI: they have now re-opened the Statue of Liberty to the public so you can climb up to the top again. It's been closed for about six years.

Mid-summer night swing!

2009-07-26T16:55:00.000-04:00

Imagine this. Paul and me. Okay that was easy. Paul and me and the Lincoln Center. A little more difficult, but still imaginable. Here goes, Paul, me, the Lincoln Center, Paul and me dancing!!! That's right. It was Rockabilly night at the Lincoln Center and we were able to break out the Texas Swing. I won't say we were the best dancers on the floor, but the night was hot and humid, so we were the best dancers who had totally sweat out their shirts. It was a fun New York crowd. Some people looked like they had stepped out of the 50's, others had dressed up like they were from the 40's and then there were those who had on black shoes, black socks and shorts. However, no matter how they were dressed many of these people could flat out dance and it was fun to be among them.

2009-07-20T07:17:00.001-04:00

Manhattanhenge

2009-07-13T08:31:00.000-04:00

Sunday was one of only two occasions this year when the Sun sets in exact alignment with the Manhattan grid, fully illuminating every single cross-street for the last fifteen minutes of daylight. Paul and I walked down to 56th Street and stood with a few other observers and watched as the shadows moved across the buildings and at exactly 8:25 the sun was exactly in line with the street. While a very simple thing, it was one of those things that only happens in New York.

Top of the Met!

2009-06-24T19:59:00.002-04:00

My new son-in-law Eric keeps me posted on many of the unique and interesting things happening in the city. Today I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see the new installation on the garden roof (thanks for the heads up, Eric) of the Met, but I also got to see Michelangelo's first painting completed when he was about 13 or 14. The newly renovated American Wing is fabulous. And I have to admit, that rather than spend the $2.00 on the crosstown bus I walked home through the park and spent my bus fare on a hot dog-----I'm sorry, but they are so good!

2009-06-24T19:59:00.001-04:00

2009-06-22T16:17:00.000-04:00

Across the street from our chapel is a small park right in the middle of a large intersection. We crossed the street to walk home from church and saw a group of people sitting in a circle in the park square. At first it didn't register what they were doing and then we heard this wonderful ukulele music. About 20 people had gathered to play and sing together. We listened for about 30 minutes and were tempted many times to join in as they were singing "My Girl", "Route 66", "Houndog" and other oldies. There were older people playing and younger people playing, serious ukulele players and struggling ukulele players, all having a great time. It was enchanting.

Get me to the church on time!

2009-06-22T15:57:00.000-04:00

June 12 Meredith married Eric Boam in the Manhattan LDS temple. They wanted to have a small, family wedding and that is what they got! Eric and his family spent the week before the wedding taking in the sights of New York. We loved getting to know them better and are so grateful to be sharing Meredith with them. We welcome Eric into our family with open arms.
It had rained all morning on Friday, but just as we were ready to go to Central Park for photos, the rain stopped and we were able to be outside without too much hassle. A dinner and a dance at Tavern on the Green finished off the day and we sent the happy couple off on their honeymoon.
Paul and I didn't expect to have the wedding bell blues, but they really set in once all the kids and grand kids had left. We know they need to go and build their own lives, but sometimes it seems kind of crazy that we aren't doing that all in the same place. We count ourselves lucky to have had so much family time in Austin and look forward to making that happen again somewhere, someday.

Opening Day

2009-05-03T18:32:00.000-04:00

Another first in NYC was attending the opening game at Citifield and watching the Mets come awfully close to beating the Padres. The new park is beautiful and we hope to attend a few more games this season. We can catch the subway and take it all the way to the park so getting to and from is really very easy. A special treat on the night of the game was the appearance of Jackie Robinson's widow, Rachel. She had come to celebrate the opening of the field and the beautiful entrance/rotunda named in honor of her husband. She is certainly a gracious woman. In the photo you will see Sheri Garber, a friend of ours, me, Rachel and Paul. Sheri's husband was on an errand and missed the photo op, but he returned with hamburgers and shakes from the Shake Shack which is one of the vendors at the new stadium. He was also one of the heroes of the night.

A year in the life

2009-04-04T21:08:00.000-04:00

It's been exactly a year since I arrived in New York City. You probably didn't know that there are hundreds of songs written about this great city i.e, Broadway Baby, Downtown (yes, Petula Clark's song), Down and Out in New York City, Easter Parade, New York State of Mind, Only in New York, Silver Bells, Stay'in Alive, just to mention a few. There are other great cities, we've lived in many of them, but there is something about New York that inspires this sort of creative homage. While we haven't yet written our own song, we have loved our first year in the city. When we moved here we committed to doing at least one thing each month that you can only do in New York. For example, this month we will see West Side Story and two nights later we'll attend the opening game of the Mets. Here is just a quick list of some of the things that I love about the city. Perhaps I'll put it to music one of these days.

Central Park--in every season
Watching the George Washington Bridge light up at night
Nodding to our neighborhood Jewish families on Saturday as they walk to their synagogues and knowing that they probably understand our devotion as we pass them on our way to church on Sunday mornings
Knowing how to get around on the subway
Filling up the gas tank in the car about every three months
Having family and friends visit often
Discovering small and interesting shops in our neighborhood
Being asked for directions (like I"m a native)
Picnics on the Hudson River
Meeting Paul almost every night after work and walking home together
Sharing this year with Paul
And there you have it.

Emergency Essentials

2009-04-01T14:25:00.000-04:00

How many times have you heard the cry, "Mom, we're out of toilet paper!" or "Honey, where are the peanut M&M's?" And then you drag yourself out to the car and fight the traffic to the grocery store. This problem was recently solved for me when the retail space of our apartment building was converted into a CVS. That's right folks, we are living above the CVS and we are taking full advantage. Now whenever someone needs something I can reply, "Run down to the basement and pick it up" This solves all of our food storage problems----we have plenty of snacks and drinks to last a year----in the basement. How great is that?!

Bag Lady

2009-01-21T16:43:00.001-05:00

My kids are making sure that I have all the cutest bags so I can be "green" doing all of my grocery shopping in the city. These are just a few of the ones in my collection and they do come in handy. Somedays you are out on the streets for a long time and you have to be able to carry around lots of stuff i.e. dry cleaning, groceries, books, newspapers, extra shoes, camera, city map, umbrella, etc.

We're faking it this year

2008-12-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

After 33 years of picking the perfect fresh Christmas tree, we broke down and bought an artificial tree. This, inspite of the fact, that on every street corner in New York there are Christmas tree vendors. We just weren't sure a fresh tree would live more than seven or eight minutes under the hot air vent in the living room.
We don't have that smell of fresh pine, but I think the tree looks pretty authentic.
Our next challenge will be to find a place to store this beauty. Perhaps in our rooftop garden?

The not so impossible dream

2008-12-03T18:25:00.000-05:00

I have dreamed of watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in person most of my life and this year, Paul made that dream come true. He secured VIP passes for us and we watched the parade from start to finish. The Spongebob balloon was a little bit scary, but I knew Mere would like this photo. Pat and Mer and Kendall, Berkeley and Emery were able to join us for Thanksgiving week and helped make our first Thanksgiving in New York extra special.

Octoberfest!

2008-11-07T08:24:00.000-05:00

October was an amazing month of travel and fun houseguests. We started the month out in Utah, came home to a week long visit from Paige, Tyson, Avery, Megan, Blake and Mere with a hint of Brent (he was only here a couple of days) We had lots of fun discovering all the kid parks in the neighborhood,riding the carousel in Central Park, playing in the playroom, going to the Bronx Zoo,and more! Then we had a couple of days to wash towels and sheets before Randy shared his vacation with us. I believe that Randy and I broke the one day record for distance walking while we took in the sights of the Brooklyn Bridge, Chinatown, Time Square, Rockerfeller Center, but we made time for a hot dog in Madison Square Park. We also had a wonderful morning in the MET and with Randy's help, I have finally found a huge interest in Egyptian Art. With reluctance we sent Randy on his way, but boarded the plane for a trip to Montreal to see Joel and Genean. We were treated to a trip to Quebec City where we participated in Zone Training for the missionaries. This is always so much fun. Then we spent a night in the historic Hotel Frontenac with the only disappointment being that the Beaver Tail was closed for the season. Apparently this is a pastry place worthy of a future visit. We also got a glimpse of the 20 miles of underground shopping in Montreal. A visit with Joel and Genean always makes us appreciate the huge amount of work it takes to serve as a Mission President and Mission President's wife. We came home exhausted and yet Joel and Genean were anxious to get back into their routine of travel, training, speaking, counseling, cooking, cleaning, etc. etc. The fun doesn't stop there. We arrived home with a few hours to spare before Karen, Jana and Dallin arrived for the Halloween weekend. Once again, I donned my walking shoes and showed them the sights of the city. They managed to see a ballet, Hairspray, Mary Poppins, and the MET. That's not to mention a temple session, a visit to a jazz club, the Halloween parade in the Village, walks through Central Park,and of course, the stop at the Shake Shack for the world's best hamburger.
Thanks for the October memories.

Hedging your bets

2008-09-30T14:27:00.000-04:00

The economy has everyone scared. Lots of people are taking on second jobs if they can find them. Case in point, check out our new neighborhood pretzel vendor. He gave me extra mustard because I knew his name.

The J Quarter Circle finds a home

2008-09-23T11:58:00.000-04:00

With this in our doorway in Austin we were often asked "What does the J stand for?" Some thought it was for Jan and many thought it stood for Jesus. I wonder what our New York friends will think it represents? The Jets! The Jiants! or maybe The Jankees!

Home Sweet Home, finally...

2008-09-08T13:02:00.000-04:00

Paul and I celebrated Saturday night by actually sitting on our sofa for the first time in four weeks. All of our furniture has been covered during the painting and crown moulding project in the condo. The last of the painting was completed Saturday night and now we can begin cleaning up and unpacking. The construction dust is everywhere so it will take a good week to get that cleaned up, but at least we are walking on wood floors and not drop cloths, sitting in chairs and not on our bed, and the best part, I don't have to go down to the gym to go to the bathroom during the day.
We did have a problem finding window treatments, but came up with the best solution and they look great. Let's just say that if the stock in Velcro went up last week, we can take credit for that. Finding the right furniture is our next challenge, but we are up for it. Once we hang up the J Quarter Circle brand, you'll know we have finally made it our home.

North Carolina on my mind

2008-09-08T12:41:00.000-04:00

Paul and I spent Labor Day Weekend with Pat, Mer, Kendall, Berkeley and Emery Jane. Emery was given a beautiful blessing on Sunday by her dad and then we just a great time with everyone. We went to a local parade,visited the library which has books AND dress-ups, bonded with Emery, sent Kendall to her first week of kindergarten, read books, played games, made cookies, visited Berkeley's pre-school, and basically had a great time. Paul helped Patrick with a few out door projects and now rain gutters are flowing freely and dead bushes have been taken away by the trash guys. Thanks for letting us share some wonderful days with you.

I didn't even cry

2008-09-08T12:33:00.001-04:00

Paul and I went to get our new driver's licenses today and to register our car in NY. Paul's admin was joking about notifying our next of kin when we didn't return for two weeks and our doorman asked if I had a sleeping bag and can of bean with me when I told him where I was headed. Well, let me tell you, we were finished with everything in 45 minutes! We stepped up and they said, need your application. Got it. Need your original social security card. Got it. Need your old driver's license. Got it. Need your passport. Got it. And this is where they thought they had us. Need a letter from Texas with your driving record. Got it!!! I also had taken our birth certificates and our citizenship grades from elementary school. Appreciated, but not necessary. Look at us being New Yorkers!!!

Utter chaos

2008-08-25T10:04:00.000-04:00

For those of you imagining that we are living in the lap of luxury, let me just put that myth to bed. Yes, we did move into the condo and had a few short days of peace and quiet. Then the carpenters and painters moved in. Their two week project has turned into four weeks, but we knew that would happen. Turns out working eight hour days is just too strenuous for these guys. However, when they are finished, we will have crown moulding, casings around all the doors and painted walls. I know, you probably thought like we did that this should be included in a newly constructed condo. Wrong!!! So we are living with the construction mess and while I am trying to be a good sport, I have had my moments of despair. The photos tell the story and I am only showing you the rooms that look the best! Soon, maybe not today and maybe not tomorrow, but soon we will have a place for you to stay.

I'm so glad when Meredith comes home, glad as I can be

2008-08-25T09:44:00.000-04:00

Meredith came home for her break between semesters and we had the best time together. We explored the thrift shops in the East Village, checked out the craft and accessories shops in the fashion district, visited the Frick Museum and the Guggenheim Museum, sat in Central Park, shopped, and ate food from the street vendors. It was all great. We worked on a couple of projects and spent time in the media room of our building avoiding the painters and carpenters. We loved having her at home.
Paul was able to take a couple of days off while she was here and we had even more adventures. We rode the carousel in Central Park, watched the Dark Knight (very dark, I might add), and rode the train to Coney Island. We didn't have a hot dog eating contest, but we did visit the site of the annual 4th of July event and of course we had to have a hot dog. What is it about hot dogs that makes them taste so good? We also knew that we couldn't leave Coney Island without riding the Cyclone. This is one of the oldest roller coasters in the country and according to Meredith one of the scariest rides she has ever been on. Perhaps a ride that discourages you from riding if you are pregnant, have heart trouble, have ever had back or neck trouble, and don't like being thrown around like a rag doll, should be avoided. We chose to ride. And while it was scary and we did get thrown around and were stiff and sore for several days after, we loved it! And we loved having Meredith at home for a few weeks. Thanks for a great time.

New York State of Mind

2008-08-08T16:45:00.000-04:00

In the last month we have had eight visits from friends and family and we feel grateful that some of those fit into both categories. You decide where you fit. Each set of visitors has inspired us with their enthusiasm for sightseeing and making the most of their time in NYC. Paul's sister Susan and her family had just two days in the city but managed to take in the Staten Island ferry tour, walk through Chinatown and Little Italy, catch the lights at Time Square, with time to spare for swimming at the hotel. The next day they arrived to say "hello," park their car and hop on the train to get to Yankee Stadium for a tour of the ballpark and ball game. They were gracious enough to delay their five hour drive home to have dinner with us so we could all catch up and it gave me a good excuse to buy cupcakes from the Buttercup Bake Shop. Other visitors have taken in Broadway shows, walks through museums, more baseball games, and tours of the city, etc. This past weekend Sam and Jolene Bodily introduced us to a new way to see Manhattan. They rented bicycles and rode from our home at 70th down to Ground Zero, to the Brooklyn Bridge, through some of the sights in Brooklyn, back across the Manhattan Bridge, up to the United Nations and across Central Park back to our place. That was just the first day! The second day, they biked from here up into Harlem and back. It must be mentioned that they also took time out to go to church with us, visit several museums along the bicycle route, take us out to dinner a couple of times , have lunch with other friends, and we still had time for some nice, long visits while we stared out the windows watching the boats float by on the river. They were kind enough to leave all their maps and rental information behind for future visitors who are so inclined. I have only known New York as a tourist so on the days when I have to clean or do laundry, I have to remind myself that I am not on vacation anymore. I LIVE HERE! Wow, it still amazes me. (Photos include the Gates Family--Richard, Susan, Sam, Will, Emily & Rachel Sam and Jolene Bodily-in front of the Dakota where John Lennon was shot. Not their most exciting adventure in the city, I might add)

2008-08-08T16:44:00.000-04:00

Attitude of gratitude

2008-07-28T20:40:00.000-04:00

I would be ashamed of myself if I didn't take a moment to share a few words of gratitude for the all the help we have received in making this transition to New York City. We have certainly felt the Lord's guiding hand and are so grateful for His influence in our lives. We had many wonderful friends who helped us pack up a storage pod that was left behind in Austin (Thanks to Palmers, Hazens and Soelbergs), the Hazens babysat our car until we found a place to keep it here, the family who bought our home couldn't have been nicer about helping us get our tv shipped out here, and our new friends in New York have been very gracious to welome us to the city. A special shout out to Paige and Brent who helped with those last minute moving details, always the hardest part of the move. And thank you to all of our kids and our family members who offered so many prayers on our behalf. And there was evidence that our parents were looking down from the heavens watching us and wondering what in the heck we were doing, but we also felt of their strength and confidence in us. There were some discouraging days in this process, but one day I was reminded of my ancestors who left homes far away and traveled to this city, landing on Ellis Island. They didn't have jobs, homes, some had left family behind and some didn't even speak English. But they came because they wanted to join their fellow Saints. They didn't stay long in New York, but were resourceful and found ways to travel across the country in wagons and handcarts experiencing difficulties beyond my imagination. Our arrival in NYC was very different---we had a job, a place to live, we spoke the language (with a touch of a southern drawl), but we had one thing in common with our ancestors. We arrived with great faith and a desire to find fellow Saints. This is going to be a great adventure and there is none better to do it with than Paul.

Up, up in the sky, where the little birds fly

2008-07-28T20:17:00.000-04:00

We made, we really did it, we are in our new home! It hasn't been without its ups and downs, but now we are up, up on the 29th floor. Our closing had been postponed three times, but Friday I got a call saying "we are 80% certain it will happen, but don't get the certified check yet." So I wait and wait and then get a call at 1:00 saying, "we're going to do it!" I email my banker who is on email speed dial, he gets the check ready, I literally run to the bank which is 7 minutes away, grab the check, hop in a cab, and ask the cabbie if he knows how to get to the address? He can't understand me, I can't understand him and we are 20 minutes before the closing is to start and getting no where. Finally I explained where I thought we should go and he turned around and said, "will you trust me?" What was I to do? So I said "yes" and he turned around and went 14 blocks in the opposite direction. We hopped on the FDR, zipped down the east side of the island, past the Brooklyn Bridge, hopped off the FDR, went down some crazy side streets and at 1:59 he stopped and said, "there's your building." Wow, we'd done it! I dashed into the attorney's office and found not just our closing, but six others going on at the same time. We were each in a little cube with two attorneys and the title company representative and the paper signing began. It was like one big assembly line, and six of us walked out two hours later hoping we had made the right decision. I met Paul at our new home, we picked up the keys, he carried me over the threshhold (that would be a virtual carry) and we did a dance in the living room. Saturday the movers delivered all of our things from a storage facility in New Jersey and at 4:00 we bid them a fond farewell and began the process of moving in.
We are officially New Yorkers, but always and forever Red Sox Fans.
We would love to have you come and see us and share our lovely views of the Hudson River, Central Park and the NYC skyline.

We need a "guy"

2008-07-22T08:52:00.000-04:00

We mentioned to our banker that we were going to buy suits for Paul and his immediate comment was "I have a guy." Then we mentioned to someone else that we needed a carpenter and he said, "I have a guy." Everybody seems to have "a guy." And let me tell you right now we need "a guy." Our closing on the condo has been postponed twice because the city can't seem to find time to issue the occupancy permit. We need a "guy" who can get this done. We are now scheduled to close on July 25 and really, really hope it happens. Our investment adviser called the other day to ask if we wanted to have him make some calls on our behalf to see if he could make this happen. He's not sure he has a "guy", but he is going to see what he can do. Anybody out there have a "guy?"

Pumped up

2008-07-09T16:53:00.000-04:00

Today I timed my work-out in Central Park to coincide with the first annual "High heel-a-thon" sponsored by Regis and Kelly to benefit the March of Dimes. Over 600 women (and 11 men)lined up in 3 inch or higher heels and ran 150 yards to compete for a prize of $25,000.00. And when I say "ran" I mean it. It was amazing to see the four or five women in the lead tearing down the street in their heels. I didn't take any photos, but I'll bet YouTube or the Regis and Kelly website would have the race if you wanted to watch it. And yes, I did get within handshaking distance of Regis and Kelly.
Even the Goodyear Blimp was on hand to monitor the event. I guess you could say, watching events like this is another reason we are "soled" on New York. (I had to do it)

Do you speak English?

2008-07-09T16:48:00.000-04:00

Four simple words you should always ask your hair stylist. A picture's worth a thousand words.

Make new friends, but hang on to the old ones!

2008-07-07T16:47:00.000-04:00

We had a happy 4th of July weekend and celebrated with the best kind of friends---old friends. Paul's missionary companion, Bruce (Sporto) Nelson and his son Spencer joined us for the weekend and were gracious enough to join us in our wanderings around the city. The night of the 4th Paul and I walked just a couple of blocks to watch the fireworks from FDR Drive and we were not disappointed. Lots of good explosions lit up the night sky. Saturday we visited the Upper West Side and showed off our new digs then made it back in time to catch the subway to Yankee Stadium where we watched the Red Sox lose is a very close game. Andy and Karen Esparza from Austin had invited us to join them in the luxury box they had purchased in honor of Andy's 50th birthday celebration and it was great fun watching the game with them and their friends and family. A weekend of friends, what could be better!

Put on your rally caps!

2008-06-29T18:11:00.000-04:00

In a couple of weeks, NYC will host the baseball All-Star game in Yankee Stadium. For those of you who don't follow baseball, this is the last year games will be played in the old Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Apparently this is rather significant for Yankee fans (of which we are not) and many people are coming to New York this summer for one last chance to see the Yankees play in their old stadium. Every Sunday for the past few weeks we have had visitors who have come for just this purpose. Paul makes it a point to make these families feel welcome and when he finds out they have come just to see the Yankees play, he looks at the kids and says, "you know what Yankees spelled backwards is?" Paul hesitates and then answers, "Satan." You can see the kids furiously working this out in their little heads until they realize that Paul is joking. It's a joke that always works. This week, Paul's former missionary companion, Bruce Nelson and his son will be here for the weekend to watch two games. Paul and I are going to the game on Saturday with friends, Andy and Karen Esparza from Austin. Ordinarily we wouldn't be so excited to see the Yankees play, but they are playing the Red Sox. Should be an exciting time. In celebration of the All-Star Game, Lady Liberty has gotten on board. See photos. We are still searching for the Red Sox Lady Liberty, but suspect she must be under heavy guard or already demolished by Yankee fans.

Killing me softly.....

2008-06-24T06:53:00.000-04:00

We spent our Saturday exploring Central Park and came upon a group of kids playing guitars and singing. Upon closer inspection, we discovered it was the "graduation" of the kids from the Roberta Flack School of Music. And guess who was in the house? That's right Roberta and me!!
She agreed to have a photo with me just after we sang our duet of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." I'm not sure she knew we were singing a duet, but let me just say, it was good. You just never know who you are going to meet in the Park.

Seattle's Best

2008-06-18T16:13:00.000-04:00

Megan and Matt have so many entertainment options right out their front door. The Seattle Art Museum is across the street and this fine movie theater is right next door.

Visiting the International District doesn't even require a passport. In the days before we were so politically correct, I believe we may have referred to this area as China Town.

Blake and I had a good time at the children's library, but it was hard for him to understand that we were limited to just one hour on the computer per visit.

Megs, Blake and I took the water ferry to West Seattle and not only discovered a fun beach, but a very fun bakery. Unfortunately the photo does not do justice to the cinnamon rolls. Just imagine that each one of these is the size of your head and then you get the picture. Yes, we did indulge and I would highly recommend taking them up on the offer to heat it up before you eat it.

Pike's Market was an adventure. Flying fish, flowers of all varieties, fruits and vegetables fresh from the farm and grandma's riding pigs were all part of the fun. I suppose you could say, I went hog wild in Seattle. Thanks to Matt, Megan and Blake, truly Seattle's Best, for making it such a wonderful week.

Red light, green light, red light, green light.....

2008-06-11T17:23:00.000-04:00

This is why we don't drive in NYC.

Laughter is the "breast" medicine

2008-06-05T13:54:00.000-04:00

It has been fun getting acquainted with the different neighborhoods in the city. For example, if you live by the Flatiron building, you are in the Flatiron District. If you are east of Central Park, you would say that you live on the upper east side. Right now Paul and I are living south of the park, but east of it so we are on the east side. Our new condo will be on the Upper West Side. Other neighborhoods are Battery Park, Lower East Side, Downtown, Harlem, Chelsea, Union Square, Times Square, Hell's Kitchen, etc. I had a meeting on the Upper West Side today and decided that while I was there I would explore a little bit and see what businesses and shops would be in our new neighborhood. I was delighted to find that one business had a particularly good sense of humor. I walked past and had to back up and read the sign again because it was an imaging center and it was called Upper Breast Side Imaging Center. It somehow seemed a bit awkward to stick my head in and ask if I could take a photo so I didn't. But as I was walking along I began to wonder if for those of us with a few years on us and a few more years with gravity doing its trick if we would have to go to the Lower Breast Side Imaging Center.

It was "frick'n" good

2008-05-30T16:53:00.000-04:00

Today I visited the Frick Museum which is housed in the mansion of Henry Clay Frick who made his fortunes in the steel industry. It is a wonderful collection of several artists and just the right size so you can enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed. A few years ago I saw a painting by Whistler and was blown away by it. Lucky for me he had several paintings in the Frick Museum and I was similarly impressed.
When your feet are weary and you need a little break, you can walk across the street to Central Park. As you can see, several people had the same idea. Paul and I have spent many hours in parks around the world and we both agree that Central Park is one of the prettiest urban parks we have found. We run in the park every morning. Okay, I lied. Paul runs in the park every morning and I walk in the park. We try and get at least four miles in each morning and on the long runs which take us around the reservoir, we clock about five miles or a little better. Every day I discover a new path to take and it leads me to a different child's playground or another statue or like last Friday, to the front door of a castle. I love it. Every day a new adventure.

Building Bridges

2008-05-27T09:00:00.000-04:00

``````

There are lots of bridges, i. e. the London Bridge, Bridge Over the River Kwai, grandpa's bridge, bridge over troubled water, but only the Brooklyn Bridge was celebrating its 125th birthday this week. In honor of this great achievement, Paul and I walked the bridge on Memorial Day. At the time it was built, the tallest building in NYC was six stories high. You can imagine the delight, the fear, and the amazement of the people in NYC and Brooklyn when they crossed the East River on this massive bridge and stood much higher than they had ever stood before. We were similarly amazed. From the bridge you can see Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, Fulton Fish Market, a spectacular view of Manhattan, the busy East River. Certainly a great adventure and one I would recommend when you come to visit.

The other "man" in my life.....

2008-05-26T16:46:00.001-04:00

Mr. Softee. I love these trucks. They are everywhere on the streets in NYC and the people standing in line for the treats are as varied as the delicious items on the menu. You have Wallstreet bankers, school children, homeless people, moms & babies, doormen, and policemen. When Mr. Softee calls with his alluring music, he is very hard to resist.

These are a few of my favorite things....

2008-05-26T16:32:00.000-04:00

Patrick, Meredith, Kendall and Berkeley were our first out of town visitors and we had so much fun showing them around the neighborhood. While they were here we visited our new condo, went to the Today Show (and made it on TV), went to the Top of the Rock, walked and played in Central Park, went to the zoo, rode the carousel, visited Paul at work, and even had time to see the movie Horton Hears a Who and Pat and Mer were able to see Wicked. Whew! All that in just four days. Sitting at the dining room table and doing puzzles with Kendall and Berkeley was one of my favorite things. Hearing the word "grandma" was another favorite thing. Sharing the adventure of living in NYC with those we love is probably my favorite thing.

There is beauty all around.......

2008-05-22T16:34:00.001-04:00

If it works, I will be posting photos of our three Boston homes. The first one is on Vincent Avenue in Belmont, the second one is on Hurd Road in Belmont, and the last one is our Oak Street house in Needham. A couple of weekends ago, Paul and I took a drive down memory lane. We visited each of our old neighborhoods in Boston and couldn't believe how unchanged they were. The only thing that was different was that the houses seemed soooo much smaller than we remember them. It is hard to believe that in each house we hosted our annual New Year's Day chili-bakeoff, multi-family Thanksgiving dinners, the neighborhood Halloween Party, Christmas caroling parties for the neighborhood, family Christmas talent shows, 4th of July lobster/clam bake and baseball game. It seems as if each house was filled with wonderful friends and family most of the year. None of the houses could have been over 2200 square feet, if that, and yet we always managed to squeeze in lots and lots of our dear friends. The kitchens were small, but we produced some pretty memorable meals in them----food to feed an army. Never once did we say, "can't do it here, our house is too small." And our friends were the same way about opening up their homes to us. One neighbor hosted all the kids and made sugar cookies each Christmas, we had a blow-out New Year's Eve at another house, and many, many game nights with friends. Such fun times, and we hope to recreate those in our New York City condo which may rival all of them for being the smallest. I hope the lesson we have learned over time is that size really doesn't matter!

Toasted or plain?

2008-05-20T10:20:00.000-04:00

It really doesn't matter. The New York bagel has many things to recommend it. First, all bagels are advertised as "jumbo." Second, the seeds are on the top AND the bottom so it doesn't matter which side you choose to eat first. Third, at our bagel place, a "baker's dozen" is 15, not 13. How great is that! I won't even go into how wonderful the cream cheese is because there really aren't words to describe its creaminess. Words echoed around our apartment nearly everyday, "Let go of my bagel!" Sorry Eggos, you are history.

(For you readers, this post was re-created since I lost the original bagel post. Blogging isn't as easy as some of you have led me to believe. But I am working on it.)

Help!

2008-05-19T17:33:00.000-04:00

How in the heck do I attach a photo to a blog! This happened by accident after an hour of uploading, transferring, searching, eating a bag of chips, and almost swearing. At least my feet are comfortable.

These Shoes Are Made For Walking

2008-05-19T17:22:00.001-04:00

And that's just what I do. Today I walked over four miles for my work-out and then put in another two just doing the local errands. Walking in Central Park is wonderful and since I walk at the same time everyday, I am seeing many of the same people each morning and that makes me feel even more at home. I have great running shoes, but until Mother's Day, I really didn't have any great walking shoes. Paul bought me these great shoes made by Ecco that are so comfortable and while kind of dorky, they are kind of cute, too. We also walk to church so it is handy to have a pair of shoes that will tuck into my handbag when I change into my dress shoes. I know this is a boring post, but I have already spent an hour trying to figure out how to download the photo of my shoes. So I am frustrated and not feeling too clever. I'll do better next time. Happy trails.

Where everybody knows your name

2008-05-14T15:12:00.000-04:00

I cried three times today. Once when I went into the temple and two people recognized me. Once when the guy at the post office handed me my package and said, "it's nice to see you, jan." Third, when I earned frequent shopper points at the Duane Reed (drugstore). How can you be feeling lonely when people know your name! That's great and I earned a $5.00 coupon on my next purchase at the Duane Reed.
On my way back from the temple I stopped and picked up a few things at Whole Foods, sat in Central Park and ate part of my baguette, listened to my IPOD, and thought, "look at me living in New York!" Cheers!

Running, but not catching up

2008-05-13T10:09:00.000-04:00

I was going to try and recap the whole month that I have been here, but it is impossible, so I will start from tomorrow and maybe then I can stay ahead of the game! Actually, I need to share our weekend travels. We took the train to Boston and spent two days there visiting old friends, old homes, old towns, old memories. And it was great. It is amazing to return to a place and find that friendships have only grown stronger even after a 23 year absence. We drove through Needham and discovered that the ladies are still living in our Oak Street house. The peonies that I planted are still going strong, but they took out the huge hedge in the back. Our Belmont houses on Vincent Avenue and Hurd Road look very similar, just a change in paint color is about all we could detect. Linda's donuts was closed, but we are still carrying around the evidence of our many stops at her place. The ride home down the coast was beautiful and I was reminded once again how much I love New England.

You know you are in New York when....

2008-05-09T13:01:00.000-04:00

You are standing on the corner waiting to cross the street and you hear the honk of a car horn, then more honking, and then yelling. The cab driver gets out, grabs a baseball bat and starts beating on the other guys car. No one really looks, no one even bats an eye. The light changes, the cabbie jumps in his car, and we all cross the street as if nothing had happened.

Start spreading the news

2008-05-09T12:48:00.000-04:00

I arrived in the city on April 5, 2008, having bid a fond farewell to Texas. My landing was much softer than that of my ancestors who made their way here over 150 years ago. Paul had already set up a temporary apartment for us and had filled the fridge with water, soda, milk, butter,and cheese. Bread was on the counter and I had brought tortillas from Central Market in Austin. We were set for the weekend.
It was General Conference weekend which allowed us to watch church in our pajamas which is always a special event. Monday morning dawned, Paul ran in Central Park and I walked the neighborhood before the sun was up. Delivery trucks were arriving from all parts of the city and neighborhood stores were slowly awaking and beginning the process of preparing their goods for the day. Bagel shops, bakeries, diners, and retail shops surround us.
After cleaning up I ventured out to explore the upper east side. Nail shops and hair salons dot very block as do pet stores, shoes stores and delis. I walked about 30 blocks up 2nd Avenue and returned down 3rd Avenue. When you can navigate the stoplights and enter the street BEFORE the "walk" sign appears, then you could be viewed as a native.
It felt like any other large city that I had been in, but this was different, this was "home." The question tossing around in my head is, "how do I make this my town?"