New York state of mind.

I was in New York this week on a business trip and I found myself doing a little bit of reflecting on the New York lifestyle. The glitz, the glam, the over-priced, too-small apartments, the walkability and free to come and go as you please state of mind. I always dreamed of living in a big city, but I just don’t think I’ll ever be cut out to be a New Yorker. I enjoy my space, not only in my housing choices, but also when I’m driving. Try getting more than 2 feet away from any car on the highway.. I dare you. Just when you think you’ve secured a little breathing room, some jerk in a suburban has snatched it up and squeezed his way in. I even witnessed some good old fashion coffee throwing on the highway. Some guy was so pissed that he got cut off, he laid on his horn non-stop for a good minute and then rolled down his window and tossing his cup of hot Dunkin Donuts java and the rear fender. Why waste the coffee you rightfully paid for and obviously need if you’re that testy in the morning?

I also noticed how different being on Long Island is from Manhattan. The big apple is full of busy people everywhere rushing to get someplace and Long Island seems to be on a bit of a slower pace. It smaller towns and quant little houses are quite a switch from the packed in apartments of downtown. Because of the sought after suburban feel to the towns, I definitely see the attractiveness. You can work in the city at some all-important job in your fancy suit and then come home and feel like a normal family living in a small town. It’s the best of both worlds—as long as you don’t mind spending an extra hour or two in traffic to and from work each day.

Overall, the trip was a success and although it was long hours, it was nice to get away for a while and experience a new city. I may never be a New Yorker, but that won’t keep me from loving New York.