Back to Life

Well- we returned to little 'ol Belpre Ohio Monday evening. New York was everything I had imagined it to be. I know to some of you, going to New York is no big deal. Hell, some of you live there. But to me- it was huge! I've seen the 'IT' cities on both coasts now and I can boast that a little.
It kind of felt like it's were I should've been. When I was in High School, I'd entertained the idea of saving up $500 or so and taking off to LA or NY. I can tell you right now that I don't think I'd have regretted going to NY. I don't know that I'd be a Broadway star... I'd probably be waiting tables still- but who cares? It would be New York!!
We got to the hotel Thursday afternoon (right on the waterfront in Jersey). Saw the Statue Of Liberty Friday, then Jason and I got into Manhattan Friday night- we walked out of Port Authority and the New York Times building was right across the street. We walked most of the way with our mouths hanging open. When I realized I looked like a total dork tourist- I closed my mouth only to plaster on a perma-grin for the rest of the walk. We watched "Wicked" which was awesome! Jason even liked it. Maybe he'll even read the book now.
We had a hell of a time getting BACK to the hotel via bus. Port Authority is confusing as all get out! We got on the LAST BUS to Jersey. I wasn't worried- there's more than one way to get somewhere in NYC. But the husband gets a little freaked anxious when things don't go smoothly. I PREFER things a little interesting. It's how you learn.
Give me a week in NYC alone- I'll have that place figured out.
Saturday we went to Central Park and took the girls for a carriage ride in their pretty dresses. Had a vendor hot dog, then went to FAO Schwartz. We couldn't really get too far past that with all the bags we were carrying- so we took a pedi-bike (or bike rickshaw) back to Port Authority- then bus- then hotel. Room service for dinner.
Sunday- we were toast from all the walking. I ended up in only sandals from Friday afternoon on- ankle blisters were hating on me. We got started late-which I found out is a BAD thing on a Sunday... EVEN in New York.
We took the subway (Jason says "The Sub" like he's all cool- LOL) to Ground Zero. Sobering. You can't really say anything there. You just shake your head a little, take pictures and stare.
We walked around town after that- I actually got to visit a shoe store. Bought one pair. That was the extent of my NY shopping. Guess I'll have to go back for more high fashion. hee hee.

When we got back to the hotel Sunday night- I got bad news from home: Our dog, Boss Man, died in his sleep Saturday evening. He was an old dog, very neurotic and nervous. Every time we left him we were afraid he'd have a heart attack from anxiety. He was staying with a friend of mine and her son. Her son evidently latched right on to Boss and gave him lovins and attention. He was buried right next to my Whirlie Girl on my Dad's property. While it is heartbreaking that we were not there for him in his last days- it is comforting to know that he was getting attention and good care (and roast beef) before he went. And it is a relief to know that he went peacefully. We knew he was getting old and worried that we would have to decide between a $3000 vet bill and poor quality of life or euthanization. I don't like making those decisions. He went the best way I think he could have gone.
Rest In Peace, Big Boss Man. You were a good dog. You and Whirls are missed terribly.


Got back home to more reality Monday night. Laundry... the bane of my existence- really. I have too many "eh" clothes and not enough "WOW" clothes. But too many clothes overall.
Somehow- the girls' room seemed messier than when we left. Probably because I refused to see it and feel the need to clean before we left. No matter.
So after less than 24 hours home I started reviewing the stuff I'll have to do for surgery. Time to crack down on getting organized as far as who will have the kids- who will stay at the hospital with me- who WON'T be there until later- what the hell I'm gonna do in Maryland for a week after I'm discharged and such.
Lots to do... is there enough time to do it?