Mary Oliver

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do

with your one wild and precious life?"









Thursday, July 14, 2016

Alone in New York

I thought I had published this last week, but somehow I didn't. I'm home now, awaiting a root canal, so not much else going on. Better late than never.

July 6 post:

I have been coming to New York on a regular basis for over three years now, ever since my oldest daughter moved here. I come to visit her, but I also spend a lot of the time on my own, as the trip often involves pet sitting so she and her husband can go somewhere without boarding their dog and cat.

When I first started coming up here, I had lists of places I wanted to visit on every trip, including knit shops and places I had read about online, as well as one or two tourist sites, like the High Line or an exhibit at a museum.

This time though, I didn't have an agenda, and I was wondering why, when I read this essay about traveling alone on A Cup of Jo. And it kind of nailed it for me. Being alone in another city is such a luxury for me and I truly enjoy it. I enjoy having conversations with strangers, I am comfortable eating in restaurants by myself, and I love doing exactly what I feel like doing without considering anyone else's wants or needs. I walk more here than anywhere else, and I like how strong it makes me feel. As I'm an extrovert, it has surprised me to learn how much I enjoy solitude on these trips.

 

 

The window display at Lion Brand Yarn Studio is always a joy to see.

 

 

I ended up at Purl Soho the day I walked across the Williamsburg Bridge, although I didn't buy any yarn.

 

I love the use of color in this garter stitch blanket.

I'll post the last of my photos next time.

6 comments:

  1. I love the look of the garter stitch, I think, more than any other stitch. It looks rustic and cozy and warm.

    I know you enjoy NYC each time you go, whether alone or with family. It's a city that speaks to you.

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    1. I agree about garter stitch, it's the coziest looking fabric, as well as the warmest. And I agree about NYC; I would love the opportunity to live there for awhile, although I am grateful that I get to experience it as much as I do.

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  2. I grew up in Weehawken, just across the river, and sometimes miss the energy of the city. Love your pics and can relate to enjoying the solitude. Enjoy!

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    1. Thanks for commenting! It always surprises me when I enjoy solitude, since I'm an extrovert. Not sure if it's the job I do or getting older that is affecting me. I guess it's all in the balancing.

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  3. I think being on your own is lovely. You can do things on your own schedule.

    That blanket is truly lovely! Wonder if that is one of their patterns?

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    1. Yes, the pattern is a PurlSoho free pattern.

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