New York, New York

I spent a beautiful time on Long Island. Prayed, relaxed, retreated from the busy city. I think to myself that I would love to live here one day - with a family, a dog, and a car! It's funny how that when you are in New York City, you're dying to escape its chaos. But as soon as you leave, the first thing that you miss is the chaotic New York City. I've learned over my short, fast-paced years spent living here that there really is no other city like NYC. In fact, I'll narrow that down even further by boldly stating, there is no other place like Manhattan. I can't think of a better love-hate relationship than what I have with this cracked-out urban oasis. It's quite an oxymoron you know, to hate being there, but miss it dearly at the same time.


After leaving Long Island, I set off for the weekend to Florida. When sitting on that runway waiting for the plane to take off, you just keep thinking,
"Come on! Let's go, I can't wait to get out of here and hit New Smyrna beach in Florida!"
Then, the plane takes off. You sit in a chair approximately 20,000 feet in the air and slight moment of panic sets in.
"Did I finish everything at work? I'll miss that party tonight..it sounded fun... I wonder if I ran all my errands. What if the city takes off without me, and I miss my big opportunity? My next step in life?!"

The plane touches down in a foreign place.
"It's quiet. It's warm(er). Is that the sky I see? Wow it's so blue! So, open! It's.... it's... Florida!"


The first day is just filled with fun, relaxation, there's a handsome man next to me ;P and by Sunday... It's full panic mode.
"I need to get to NYC NOW!"
Planes are canceled, delayed, and full.
"Oh sweet Jesus, what have I done?"
I can hear my boss yelling at me already 3000 miles away I vow in silent prayer that I'll never leave the city, again!

I kiss Florida (and the handsome man) goodbye - and arrive at the airport in horror. There are people laying everywhere! It looked like a disaster shelter. I couldn't even roll my suitcase because of the tired bodies that stretched across the tile. I clutch my carry-on suitcase handle tighter in my right hand and grip my treasured Chloe bag in the other.
"Would you like to check your suitcase?" the stewardess asks.
"No, thank you. [I plan on exiting the plane ASAP, getting in a cab, and making sure my boss has NO clue that I was away in the sun]." I reply.
"We put you on a different flight, because yours has been canceled," she continues.
[No s***], I think.
"To make it up to you, we put you on first class on the next available flight."
"Thank you. [At least Floridians are nicer than New Yorkers]"



After 2.5 hours of taking advantage of first class, the passenger next to me nudges my arm and points toward the window. There she is, New York City. Dressed in a glitter gown, glistening in the clear sky, proudly wearing Empire State Building on her sleeve. Then, it hits me. I am living in New York City. What a blessing. How beautiful! It was love at first sight all over again after almost 6 years. I can't believe I've been here all this time. I can't believe I've been HERE all this time!



[Frank Sinatra sings New York, New York for me in my imaginary background]

Love,
Jo