FROM THE FRONT PORCH con't. next column FROM THE FRONT PORCH con't. next column FROM THE FRONT PORCH con't. p.34 FROM THE FRONT PORCH continued FROM THE FRONT PORCH continued Off to NYC by Rebekah Sykes From Michael Phelps’ historical wins at the Olympic games, to the Zika virus, Syria and “What is Alepo?” to floods down South and fires out West, from Chicago’s shootings to commemorating the 15th anniversary of 9/11, America has mourned great loss this year yet found greatness in her people. However, the biggest story of the year? We most likely will agree that the preeminent story of 2016 is the U.S. Presidential elections. As the long time NYC tycoon and previous NY Senator dual it out on the news channels, social media platforms, and debate stage, we will breathe a sigh of relief once the November elections decide the winner and see who’s off to NYC... or DC. Less than a year ago, our family was off to NYC for a get-a-way with the boys. I remember the day well. Clients rang the doorbell looking for Brian who was at business meetings; truly the irony of their wanting to get in as we tried to get out was not too humorous for the boys as they were getting more frustrated by the minute. Our projected 10AM departure time had now rolled into the indefinite afternoon. Of course, there’s never enough time for me as I tried to hold it all together, pack the last few almost forgot-ens, and clean up after the pack up. Securing external hard drives, backing up media, reconciling Quick Books, making deposits—closing two businesses for a few days requires almost more effort than its worth. But then again, being off to NYC, is so worth it! Brian finally made it home to an eager houseful ready to burst the seams. With luggage loaded and one more potty break, we pulled out of town 4PM sharp, well no one cared about the exact time anymore as all day of keeping up with a minute by minute play book had exhausted any accountability. We settle in for the ten hour car ride with ear buds, books, and of course, the cooler full of snacks was opened the second we rounded the traffic circle. I guess the pent up anticipation zapped all energy; we needed fuel. The delay in leaving, much to our delight, worked out for our benefit as we zoomed through Richmond, rode the perimeter of DC, and saw our beautiful Capital’s landmarks brighten the night sky. The Washington Memorial stands strong as we travel Hwy 95. We have avoided all rush hour traffic in our delays. As NPR airs a Republican debate featuring 17 eager contestants who desire to win the White House, we pass our beloved Washington and wonder. Those men, along with Carly, were our lively entertainment on our adventure. After marking the state lines from NC, VA (calling all lovers), DC, MD, DE, PA, NJ, we stop short before NY as we decided to stay in Jersey at the Homewood Suites and ride the train in and out of the city. We pull in at 2AM, and the minutes begin to matter all over again. From the front seat looking back all 5 children are sound asleep, well in our dreams... all “normal” children would have crashed by now! Seeing as they didn’t want to miss anything, no one dared fall asleep. Now getting everyone settled became top priority. After a bountiful continental breakfast, we found the train station and headed out on our very own Polar Express. Romance on the rails soared as little Wesley got his ticket punched in the shape of a smile from the conductor in classic uniform who came through the train car bellowing, “Tickets!” Pure delight! Under the tunnels, over the bridges, and to Grand Central Station we arrive. Bustling through, we take the steps up and watch our little men’s eyes grow huge! Welcome to NYC boys! The sites, the sounds, the taxis, the homeless, the wall of buildings before, and we were off! First stop —food, of course! Constant re-fueling is a must with six guys in tow. We find a Chipotle and enjoy salads, wraps, chips, and salsa while we plan our first move. The Empire State Building is the first landmark. We enter and begin the ascent as the elevator counts 86 floors. Together we greet this brave new world on top of the world and circle the observation deck as each step offers a new panorama of the city. From this vantage point, we map our destinations from Central Park, the Hudson River, to the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square where the giant Snoopy welcomes shoppers to Macy’s. When we see our fair Lady of Liberty, we return a wave. Our walk down 5th Avenue led past designer shops to Rockefeller Center where ice skaters swirled; Christmas lights twinkle as lovers pass hand in hand, and shoppers rush with arms overloaded. How fitting that Trump Tower is next door neighbors with Tiffany & Co. We enter both. Curious about the beautiful, variegated columns of strength, the boys admire Trump Tower. As the golden water fall flows downward, we ride the elevator up to Starbucks and order peppermint mochas topped in whip. Next door, the Tiffany blue awnings with a crystal spray of lights above the gold-trimmed doors enchant dreamers inside to crown life moments, celebrations, engagements. Making our way, we round the cases, and learn that the higher-up the floors, the lower the prices. Enjoying the moment, we remain on first; I dream, “One day.” A walk to remember led us to Central Park where embellished red carriages follow white horses in plumes. Surrounded by city, the branches gleam in the sunset’s red and golden glitter and wave a welcome of solace. We walk the paths leading to vendors selling goods, artists drawing caricatures; another ice rink hosts friends as the trees twisting bare branches reach upward a mere fraction of the towering buildings that scrape the sky above. The streetlights flicker as the boys climb the welcoming boulders scattered throughout the park. We parents smile in thinking of the city children who race to climb, crunch the fallen leaves, and breathe in the fresh air as we favor their park in the city. We find a Russian who is selling matryoshkas, Russian nesting dolls. As I choose a favorite, I ask if he is a spy. Neither confirming nor denying, we find humor in the contrasting cultures found in the purchase. As the sun sets, the lights of the city awaken; never does NYC shine brighter than during the Christmas season as lights dance in tune with the carols. From Madison Avenue and Dylan’s Candy Bar where the steps feature candy and celebrities autograph their favorite sweet, to Serendipity where the crowds line the entrance and settle for the hour long wait for a table. Of course, the guys find the Apple store and travel the clear winding steps. With magic around every corner, the Lego store draws in our little architects as the heralding angels lead a return to Rockefeller Center. We near Radio City and the Tonight Show and feel as if we are the stars Wesley's special ticket. Ice Skating in Central Park. No. 124 The Pinehurst Gazette, Inc. p.3
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