New York, New York

Anyone who knows me knows that New York is my favorite city. I just love everything about it. My first trip to New York was a mere 12 years ago. And I've been going ever since.

One of my very dear friends was about to get married. He's a great friend, like a brother. There was no way I was going to miss this. The wedding was in Piermont, on the bank of the Hudson River, and about 25 miles north of the city. Also, very conveniently, not too far from Pleasantville in Westchester County, where my good friend Tricia lives.

Despite the quick trip, I would be able to do it all. See the city, visit Tricia and her family, and attend the wedding. I head to the city on a Thursday night, with plans to spend Friday figuring out a great adventure to fulfill my May experience quota. But first things first. I had to make a visit to my favorite sandwich shop, in Soho near Sullivan & Spring. And it's a great day for a walk. I arrive at Mellampo, now actually Alidoro, and take my place in the line.

I pull out my phone and see that my sister had called. And then my heart stops. I see an email from her, with two simple but frightening words: "It's Cancer". I immediately dial her number but she doesn't answer. Everything is silent around me. I knew she had just had a biopsy on a lump they found in one of her breasts. But you just never think anything will come from it. As I stand there, I can feel the tears rushing down my cheek. I get a return call, and she gives me the bit of good news nestled amongst this horrible event. It's in the early stages, she will ultimately be okay. But still, she's about to embark on a very unwelcome journey.

I spend the next couple of hours walking around the city. Nothing else seemed quite as important. I found it strangely comforting to be amidst this massive city during a time like this.

The next morning, I pack my things and head for the train station. I'll head to Pleasantville, where my friend Tricia will pick me up. I love the train ride.....ipod on, gazing out the window, pondering the meaning of life. After just under an hour, I get off the train with my two-ton suitcase. I make my way off the platform and notice the huge stairwell ahead of me. This is the moment that I wish I had re-thought the packing. HOW on earth am I going to make it up those three flights of stairs with this thing? I make it up about 4 steps and I suddenly feel my load lighten. Some extremely nice gentleman grabbed the bottom of my suitcase and helped me to the top. But somehow I am still out of breath. I cried. Emotions. Bleh.

The rest of the trip was as good as it could be, sister on the back of my mind. But I managed to enjoy the beautiful wedding, spend a wonderful day in several other small towns around Pleasantville, and simply enjoy time with my friend and her family.

And to Joey and Patty, I wish you both a wonderful life filled with joy and happiness! I am glad I could be part of your day!

At the end of the month, I was also lucky enough to take a quick trip to Sacramento, to watch the new Sex and the City movie with my old college roommate. So, I guess I have two trips in May. That kind of makes up for my lame trip in March. :)