-- --

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Tomorrow's New York Giants

Peewee Football
Photo by myself, at the soccer fields in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

Not all city kids play stickball or basketball. There are public parks and fields ready for sport.

During a game of peewee football, these fellows looked like gladiators.

--

Mark and I revisited the food carts in Red Hook, unable to keep ourselves away from watermelon juice, fresh tacos and grilled chorizo.

In a nearby field, a peewee football game was starting up. Just above was the elevated highway.

There were crowds of adults, cheerleading squads and linespeople. Later as play started, there was serious yelling going on about an off-sides call.

This was a serious game, and it turned out that the players were only 8 years old. Mark and I were flabbergasted.

Peewee Football

Peewee Football Warm Up

Tomorrow - a photo from New York's sister city, Budapest!

Related posts: On the Superbowl and Fancy Living, More on Sport and A La Carte.

Read more...

Saturday, August 30, 2008

More of the Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge pier
Photo by myself of the Brooklyn Bridge.

The piers and cables of this bridge are so striking.

--

Mark and I had gone to a park along the Brooklyn waterfront last weekend to take some photos.

We were close to the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and you could see the 59th Street bridge in the background. Most of the iconic bridges are on the East Side of Manhattan.

The George Washington Bridge is to the east, but way up North beyond Harlem. The Lincoln Tunnel links Manhattan to New Jersey.

The view was panoramic. The view at night, though, is really spectacular. Next time we'll have to go at sunset with a tripod.

Related posts: From Under the Bridge and Bridge and Tunnel.

Read more...

Friday, August 29, 2008

What Goes Around Comes Around

Bus Stop
Photo by myself on Lexington Avenue, around 26th Street.

A small stretch along Lexington is known for Indian restaurants and spice stores.

--

This photo reminds me of the 60s, from the woman's silhouette. I actually took it a couple months ago.

Speaking of fashion, there's a wonderful article about the legendary Marc Jacobs the September 1st 'Style' issue of The New Yorker.

Around the same time each year, the New Yorker publishes an issue chock full of articles on fashion and shopping. The timing coincides with New York Fashion Week, when fashion designers show their work in big tents in Bryant Park.

The article on Jacobs is wonderful and honest. Until recently, Jacobs dressed in a shlumpy way. Now after a lifestyle overhaul that includes daily 2 1/2-hour stints at the gym, he is buff and handsome.

I can attest to this. Only a few years ago, I saw him walking around Soho with big thick glasses, white sneakers, long hair and baggy jeans. He was the epitomy of 'geek chic'.

It's nice to know you can emerge from your cocoon in your 40's. Here's to not-so-mini makeovers!

Related posts: Schmata, or the Annual Warehouse Sale, The Latest Thing , Fashion Accessories, Coming Soon, Fashionista Not and Wednesday Portraits - The Sartorialist.

Read more...

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Swimming Upstream

Flags on Fifth
Photo by myself looking up Fifth Avenue, around 40th Street.

It's been gorgeous out, cool and sunny. New Yorkers suffer through the humid summer and brutal winter for days like this.

The city is overrun with visitors, while many people are out on vacation. It's the last gasp of summer.

--

One of the projects I've been working on has been ramping up.

It's a medium-sized apartment on Central Park West, with a couple bedrooms, a study, library, kitchen, living and dining rooms. There are his and her dressing rooms and several bathrooms.

Anyway, the schedule is ambitious, as always. Every client wants their home done right away.

I don't blame them. The design process is involved and emotional. It's a commitment on many levels. You're giving a big heap of money to someone and trusting that it will all turn out all right. Then the first thing they do is demolish your apartment.

The project manager on the construction side, Roger, is the son of the owner of the construction company. All this time we've been waiting for approvals and a permit, so I've been talking to him on the phone.

On several occasions I asked, 'How do you think we're doing with the schedule? If we get all the paperwork next week, will we still make the deadline?'

Roger was repeatedly vague, but expressed 'cautious optimism' that we were still on time. I wrote emails to the client - Roger says this, Roger says that. In Roger's opinion, we'll just make it.

Finally this week I met Roger on site. Roger turns out to be 16 years old! Well, he looks 16. Perhaps he's a youthful looking 17?

Ahhhh!

Related posts: Lower Fifth Avenue, On Eating Chicken Sandwiches in Montreal and Blah Blah Blah Work Blah Blah Blah.

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Wednesday, August 27, 2008

From Under the Bridge

The View From Brooklyn
Photo by myself, from the Brooklyn waterfront.

A city worker takes a moment to admire the Manhattan skyline. Above and out of frame are the Brooklyn Bridge and one of the temporary waterfalls, an urban installation by Olafur Eliasson.

--

This past weekend, Mark and I drove to the park near the Brooklyn waterfront, for some photos.

It was early and slightly overcast. The city was just waking up.

Street vendors were setting up their stalls nearby. Under tents, they stacked fresh vegetables and flowers from nearby farms. Meanwhile, the waterfall below the bridge was running at full force.

A couple people walked their dogs or jogged by. No one was around, but Mark and I spoke in quiet whispers.

It was like the few of us had the whole view of Manhattan to ourselves.

More photos of the Brooklyn Bridge, to follow.

Related posts: The View from on High, Different Vistas and The Sky is Falling.

Read more...

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

The Hipster Olympics

Subway newstand
Photo by myself on the subway platform.

Not every subway platform has a newspaper stand. Sometimes they're outside the gate, by the tollbooth. Sometimes they're above ground.

They're great for getting a snack, a pack of gum, the latest celeb gossip. These stands can be good company during late hours, when you're all alone on the platform, waiting for the train.

--

Did anyone catch the credits for the Olympics Sunday night?

If you stayed awake late enough, you were in for a treat. A montage showed the highs and lows of the Summer Games.

You can see the awesome video here.

I was struck by the lows, by far. There is so much focus on the winners, and for every three winners, there are dozens of competitors who don't make it to the podium.

For the New York version, here's a video of the 'Hipster Olympics'. Hipsters are the breed of young folk who stroll around, their hair rumpled and bed-headed. Mark calls them 'Hipster Douchebags' because they bother him so.

The clip has some classic shots of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, where hipsters are in their natural environment:



Related posts: Where The Kids Are - Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Hipster Douchebags, and Cheers.

Read more...

Monday, August 25, 2008

Sharing a Moment

On the Sidewalk
Photo by myself, in Brooklyn.

I took this photo somewhere in Carroll Gardens, as Mark and I drove home from our lunch on Saturday.

A woman and her patient little dog were enjoying some time together. The usual city litter decorate the bench and sidewalk.

--

Mark has his heart set on getting a puppy.

He was told about a recent litter of Boston Terriers, the breed he's now in love with. There was a photo of a recent batch, all black and white and helpless looking.

We'll see what happens. I don't like the idea of pure bred cats and dogs, when so many are neglected and can't find homes, but this is his thing, and I won't stand in his way.

Photos to follow, of course.

Related posts: Keeping Your Dogs in a Row, Our Four-Legged Friends On The Train.

Read more...

Sunday, August 24, 2008

A La Carte

Red Hook chow
Photo by myself, near the soccer fields in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

You can sample foods from various countries every weekend between May and November from parked food carts. Central American, South American and Carribean foods are represented: chorizo on a stick, roasted corn, ceviche, tacos, pupusas and various fruit drinks.

You can read an article about the weekly event, here.

--

Mark and I lunched with friends Saturday, in Red Hook. We sat out on the grass, sampling delicious foods from the numerous trucks parked nearby.

We wolfed down a couple pork tacos wrapped in fresh corn tortillas, a spicy red ceviche with shrimp, and a cool watermelon drink.

After a short break, we shared roasted chorizo on little slices of bread, and pupusas - fried pancakes, stuffed with pork and cheese, with a side of slaw.

Mark was so entranced with everything, he's pledged our next several weekends to return visits. Delicious!

Related posts: More is More, On Japanese Food and Fish and On The Menu.

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Saturday, August 23, 2008

The Sticks

White tent
Photo by myself in upstate New York.

Not exactly New York City. The photo above is from our trip upstate last weekend. Mark and I attended a party a couple hours north of Manhattan, in Columbia County, New York.

Being among acres of greenery and a spring-fed pond hit the spot. The nice thing about New York is that given a set of wheels and a little time, you can get out to nature quite easily.

--

I hope everyone is enjoying the last precious bits of summer.

Day trips are easily accessible destinations just outside the five boroughs of New York City.

Read more...

Friday, August 22, 2008

Step Lively

Human sign
Photo by myself, in Midtown, on Sixth Avenue.

Part of business is just getting the word out. Some people dress in costume, others hand out fliers. Walking down the sidewalk is very much like an obstacle course, especially during rush hour.

--

The sidewalks are teeming with people, much, much more than usual.

Europeans must be getting great deals, with the exchange rate. Whole families with little kids saunter down the street next to harried business people and commuters. Often, I will look across the street and see a mass of people surging in one direction or the other.

The sidewalks are overflowing. People walk along the street edge, tempting fate with traffic speeding by. The crowds push forward, impatient for the traffic lights to change.

So far, I haven't seen any accidents (this year). Knock wood.

Related posts: How's About A Ride?, Times Square, NYC, and A View from the Streets.

Read more...

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Metal to be recycled at the Scrap Yard
Photo by myself, of the metal scrap yards near the Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn.

Cars along the overpass above, are headed into Manhattan.

--

I'm assuming all this metal is going to be recycled and reused.

Metal is like that. Steel, especially, since its strength remains unchanged after being melted down.

In Manhattan, believe it or not, not all the office buildings recycle paper. The recycling bins might be there, office workers may dutifully separate their trash, but if the maintenance company for the building doesn't support recycling, all the waste will be mixed up again and placed at the curb.

In the last couple of offices where I've worked, this has been the case. It didn't help to lobby, plead with or bribe the cleaning crew.

Related posts: Building for a Greener Environment

Read more...

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Rent

Liquor Sign in Park Slope, Brooklyn
Photo by myself, in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

Brownstone buildings are typical of the neighborhood. On the main streets, stores, restaurants, bars and cafes typically populate the ground level.

--

Yet another friend of mine is finding herself priced out of Brooklyn.

The largest of the five boroughs, Brooklyn is located across the East River from Manhattan. Commuters like me take the subway below ground or over bridges to get to work each day.

I lived in Manhattan on the Upper West Side for more than ten years, but I somehow feel more attached to Brooklyn. It's mellow here, down to earth, rich with diversity, restaurants and goings on.

I suggested Jersey City and Hoboken to my friend, on the other side of the Hudson River, as less expensive alternatives. She'd be living in New Jersey rather than New York, but there are tons of young people out there and a busy real estate market.

I'm reminded of a coworker who moved home to Texas, after doing some math - she found that she earned as much in New York after paying her rent as she would if she were working in McDonald's in Texas. Except here, she was working crazy, stressful hours in a major design firm.

I hope she's happy back home.

Related posts: The Cost of Living Here, The Rat Race, and Through The Roof.

Read more...

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Just Desserts

Ices
Photo by myself in Brooklyn.

Here's another photo from our walk around the neighborhood this weekend. On the summer streets, you can get a serving of shaved ice with flavored syrup to cool yourself off.

--

Speaking of street vendors, there was a report last night on the local news of a couple kids and their lemonade stand in Battery Park City.

The stand was temporarily shut down by a city park guard because they didn't have a permit (!!!!). (I was trying to find a link to the story, but it hasn't made it to the internet).

The kids told the reporter they'd offer the mayor half price on their lemonade. Eventually, the police recanted and they were allowed back to business.

This city can be a little nuts.

Related posts: I Scream, You Scream and On Japanese Food and Fish.

Read more...

Monday, August 18, 2008

I Scream, You Scream

Park Slope ice cream
Photo by myself in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

There are a few Uncle Louie G's in Brooklyn, ice cream stands with a window out on the sidewalk. Each features a huge variety of ice cream, Italian ices, shakes and other treats.

--

Sunday, Mark and I took a nice long walk around our neighborhood, Park Slope.

It was a gorgeous summer day, cool and sunny, resembling mid-September more than August. The whole neighborhood seemed to be sauntering about too, enjoying the day.

We passed by organic vegetable stands, outdoor cafes and stoop sales. There were places serving Peruvian food, French food, falafel and ribs. Couples were out pushing baby carriages, or walking their dogs. Others walked about hand in hand, smiling into the sunshine.

Related posts: It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood and Trees Do Grow in Brooklyn.

Read more...

Sunday, August 17, 2008

The Majestic Ansonia

The Ansonia
Photo by myself, of the Ansonia, an established apartment building on the Upper West Side, at 72nd Street and Broadway. This building has a glorious history of guests, including Arturo Toscanini, Igor Stravinsky and Babe Ruth.

For more information and photos of this elaborate landmark, click here.

There's something about dusk and the streetlights in this photo that reminds me of the holidays.

--

Mark and I got home late Saturday, from a full afternoon in 'the country' for an office picnic.

It took nearly 3 hours to drive each way to Columbia County, an area of rolling hills and farmland. It was great to get out from the hustle and bustle to fresh air and a thousand shades of green.

It's hard to believe it's mid-August already. Soon I'll be posting photos of the first snow and holiday shopping.

For now, though, we'll just enjoy the last breath of summer: barbeques, hot dogs, kids running around, too much wine and good conversation.

Related posts: Happy Christmas Eve, and Christmas Shopping

Read more...

Saturday, August 16, 2008

We Don't Do Windows

Soho reflection
Photo by myself in Soho, on Grand Street and Lafayette.

I love the sheer quantity of detail that is found on buildings in Soho. Each building seems decidedly different, with columns, moldings, generous old windows and elaborate cornices up top.

If you like architectural details at all, visit this neighborhood and look up. It's all too easy to be distracted by the hip boutiques, street vendors and cobblestones at street level.

--

It's hard to believe that people live in Soho. Many of the buildings have enormous double hung windows, like the ones shown above.

This morning, a friend and I were chit-chatting about windows. She was saying you might leave one open, only to return to a thin layer of grime on the sill.

Not much stays clean. At my old apartment on the Upper West Side, I'd leave the window open and find a layer of dirt mixed with the tiny fluff of pigeons (urgh!).

So yeah, when they call the city 'gritty', that be true.

Related posts: Behind The Curtain, The Apple Store, Continued, The Latest Thing, and Our Four-Legged Friends.

Read more...

Friday, August 15, 2008

A Peek at the Planetarium

The Planetarium
Photo by myself, of the Hayden Planetarium at the Natural History Museum, at 81st Street and Columbus Avenue.

You can see the trussed structure within, that supports the exterior glass and models of planets. The larger curve is a part of a huge spherical theater inside.

Visit the museum to view a giant simulated night sky, movies showing a moon walk and photos from space.

--

I have to admit I've never really been to the planetarium shown above, since tickets are so costly.

The entrance fee alone is $15. Then to see the huge screen, IMAX movies, it's 24 bucks. Special exhibits held at the Museum of Natural History, next door, are 24 bucks. I mean, geez.

I'd once been invited to see the exhibit on Petra several years ago. My host and I had been seduced by the advertising, which used the classic image of an Italianate facade carved entirely from a rock face.

The exhibit turned out just okay. Pretty dry.

(Note to self: don't fall for pretty pictures!)


Related posts: At the Brooklyn Museum - The Dizzying World of Murakami, and East (Side) Versus West (Side).

Read more...

Thursday, August 14, 2008

More on Sport

Public Courts, West 4th Street
Photo by myself, from the public basketball courts at West 4th Street and 6th Avenue.

Several games and practices going on in these two, small courts this weekend.

--

The Olympics are going on right now, and it's hard to tell whether the coverage we're watching is distorted toward the Americans.

Mark asked me this morning though who came in third for the women's team gymnastics competition. I had to admit that I didn't know; the focus last night was on the Americans versus China.

For those living in countries other than the US, what's the coverage like on television? Are there interviews and in-depth histories of athletes from countries other than your own?

Mark and I have been especially mesmerized by the swimming competitions, with the swimmers' distorted bodies and the underwater cameras.

'Weird looking!' I'd say, regarding the hulking shoulders and insanely small waists. Often too, the

'No ears. That's why they look strange.'

I suppose. With the ears pinned back, a tight cap, goggles and a unitard, who could look normal?

Related posts: Going for the Gold and Going for the Gold

Read more...

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Going For The Gold

Trump sign
Photo by myself, outside the Trump International Hotel and Tower, at 59th Street and Central Park West.

This shiny sign and shiny building symbolize less class and sophistication than sheer bling.

--

Tonight (Tuesday), Bob Dylan is playing in Prospect Park, his first Brooklyn concert.

Tickets went on sale in June for 7,000 seats, ranging between $55 to $100 dollars. Reports said that some tickets were being resold for over $550.

Mark and I didn't go, though. He's still recovering from working the weekend. We've been glued to the television at night, watching the Olympics, like everyone else. The camera flit between the synchronized diving, swimming and gymnastics.

Whew!

Read more...

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Life Goes On, Almost

Tile wall close up, the village

Photo by myself, in Greenwich Village.

Hand-painted tiles are hung along a chain link fence at 7th Avenue and 11th Street, in The Village. Tiles of various sizes with painted inscriptions and sent from all over the world.

--

This impromptu memorial is quite moving, with its handwritten inscriptions fired on clay tiles.

I paid the fence a visit, while en route to Gansevoort Street on the west side.

In New York, we go around our busy lives like nothing ever happened. And then sometimes it all comes back.

Like the other day, I was on the subway and for whatever reason I had a strange feeling. I started panicking about the other subway riders and what I couldn't see. What was under that guy's seat? What's in that person's bag?

And then the subway stopped. We'd reached the station.

I got out and lost myself in the crowd.

Tile wall close up, The VIllage

9/11 Tile Wall, The Village


Related posts: On Looking like a Tourist on Holiday, Welcome to New York and Six Years Ago.

Read more...

Monday, August 11, 2008

Buying in Bulk

Bag Seller, 14th Street
Photo by myself, on 14th Street, just west of Union Square.

Part of this street has somehow resisted gentrification. It's still spotty with discount stores and older buildings.

--

Today I took a walk around the city, while Mark worked.

Actually, I went on a little shopping spree, around the West Village walking up through Union Square to 23rd Street. There are tons of summer sales going on (woohoo!).

Happy Monday, everyone!

Related posts: Schmata, Or the Annual Warehouse Sale

Read more...

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Shooting (Film) in the Park

Bethesda Fountain, CenA Vtral Park
Photo by myself near the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, around 72nd Street.

This open area is a major gathering place in the park among many.

Tons of events go on in Central Park, often at the same time - people run around a man-made reservoir and many roads and paths, horse-drawn carts pull visitors, weddings take place in the Conservatory garden, kids visit the zoo.

--

I was in Central Park the other day, where my boyfriend Mark was on a shoot for a commercial he's working on.

He's filming Friday through Sunday, working full days, coming home with a sore back and feet. The work on film or video shoots can be tough - waking up at 5 am, standing around for hours at a time, waiting for a cloud to shift and the light to change.

Working as a freelancer is feast or famine. Luckily for Mark, it's been the former. He's been going from project to project at this one office for a couple months. It's high stress work though, with no room for error. He's always on the phone, checking his emails at all hours, working out schedules and logistics.

By 9:30, he's pooped, falling asleep on the sofa next to me.

Poor kid.

Related posts: The Latest with Mark and Me.

Read more...

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Now on Center Stage

International Center of Photography, NYC
Photo by myself in front of the International Center of Photography, at 6th Avenue and 43rd Street.

The modern black structure set in the midst of an urban plaza looks like it could be anything - part of a bank or a small pavilion.

It's actually the entrance to a photography museum, the bulk of which is housed underground. Besides exhibits, the International Center of Photography also holds classes, a lecture series and other public programs.

Currently showing are an exhibit about Japan, and another on late American photographers Diane Arbus and Richard Avedon.

--

Tonight, Mark and I were mesmerized by the opening ceremonies for the Olympics in Beijing.

I'm sure many of you saw the same sequence, of 2008 performers acting in unison with astonishing accuracy. It reminded me of scenes from The Lord of the Rings, when gajillions of Orcs were being created; beautiful, synchronized and huge.

Not to say that China is that bad guy in the least. For the last couple months, The New Yorker Magazine has featured China somewhere in every issue. In fact, China seems to be mentioned more often than New York.

I don't blame them. The current situation is fascinating - the development and growing pains of an enormous country in a very public arena.

It's like standing in a plaza in the open air, surrounded by tall buildings. It's a lonely place. And all eyes are on you.

Related posts: On Six-Word Memoirs, in Print, Lost in the Crowd and Come and Get It.

Read more...

Friday, August 8, 2008

The Latest Scoop

Fancy Ice Cream
Photo by myself, of the Van Leeuwen Artisanal Ice Cream truck. There are a few of these in New York - one in Soho, one in the Village, and another that circles around, and docks anywhere.

--

I didn't have time to grab a taste, but from the looks of the truck, this stuff must be good.

It's also pricey. A large cone cost over $6, and shakes were over $7. But it's organic and hormone-free, served in biodegradable cups.

Everything about this ice cream sounds intriguing - its creator is a 24-year old ex-Good Humor driver, some of its profits go toward saving the planet, and the roster of flavors includes Red Currant, Ginger and Peppermint and Chip.

There seems to be a trend in places that serve fancy, edible indulgences, like Grom gelato, Pinkberry shakes, and Rice to Riches rice pudding. The economy might be hurting, but folks can't give up their small indulgences!


For more about Van Leeuwen, click here.

Related posts:
On Seeing the World from a Different Lens and Come and Get It.

Read more...

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Whiling Away the Summer

Summer Nap
Photo by myself in Madison Square Park, during the free concert there Wednesday evening.

This fellow may have just gotten off a plane and is recovering from jet lag. Either that, or he should wake up and get off to the airport!

--

It's hard to post such a photo and claim it's from New York - there's not a hint of asphalt, steel or glass anywhere to be seen.

I'm going through a little rough patch with my picture-taking. Perhaps it's growing pains or a summer slump. Work has been stressful as usual, and there are days when I just don't feel like taking pictures.

But then I'll be walking along like tonight, I'll see all these little things worth sharing with my internet buddies. One click leads to several.

Most of the photos aren't worth keeping. I'll be lucky to have one keeper. But just by taking the photos, I feel better. I forget my work day and I'm more engaged with the world.

I want to thank everyone for being so consistently appreciative here. I really love sharing my bits of New York and other places. It's been my little carrot dangling at the end of the day - dig up a photo, write a little something, and hit 'Publish'.

Related posts: Inspiration

Read more...

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

Along the West Bank

Riverside Park
Photo by myself, in Riverside Park, around 72nd and Riverside Drive.

This metal structure supports part of a street on the Upper West Side. Below, are basketball courts and a long, paved jogging path that continues virtually the length of Manhattan.

The path has some bumpy and iffy parts to it, cutting through parking lots and streetlights. You can theoretically run from the Upper West Side, past the piers, through Chelsea, all the way down to Battery Park City.

--

There was a time, a few years ago, that I thought I could rollerblade for exercise. Only I never did it before.

Anyway, long story short, after many wobbly, frightening attempts, I made it down to Battery Park City from Riverside Park in the 70's.

It was fun, but after a rather embarrassing fall in front of a long line of tourists at the battleship Intrepid on Memorial Day weekend (flailing hands, falling forward and bruising a knee), I took a blading break.

Now everyone can walk on the streets a little safer. Hurrah!

Related posts: It's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood, Sundays in the Park and The Hills Are Alive in Prospect Park.

Read more...

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Music to the Ears

Accordian Player
Photo by myself, in the subway station at 42nd Street and 6th Avenue.

Yet another (slightly blurry) character entertaining the masses. You gotta love him.

Accordian, cello, violin, guitar, drums, xylophone, banjo, erhu, harmonica, sax, plastic bins. You can fashion just about anything to entertain others.

--

The greatest thing about musicians in the subway is that they don't mind your taking their photo.

Well, they don't look like they mind. And they can't really escape. I usually leave a tip in the bucket as a thank you, which helps.

In a city where you can be fined for getting out on the wrong side of the cab, panhandling, not picking up your dog poop, jaywalking, not having a license to drive or man your food cart, it's nice to know you can still play music and be paid money for it.

Related posts: All That Jazz and Recovering From Friday Night.

Read more...

Monday, August 4, 2008

Tied Up

Elephant
Photo by myself on Broadway, around 28th Street.

Not the most photogenic image, I admit, but I thought the content was kinda funny.

You have to lock up just about anything you don't want taken. Bikes, benches, even bronze elephants outside trinket stores.

--

Mark and I have been watching The Wire (we're on Season Three now), and I am a jittery mess because of it.

Vandalism and disappearing property, I can understand. Pushy people on the subway, trash on the sidewalk, bad parking jobs by neighbors that leave your bumper dented.

But drug wars and violence?

No thanks!

Related posts: The Rules, My Kingdom for a Working Payphone.

Read more...

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Lower Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue
Photo by myself on Fifth Avenue, around 18th Street.

I'm not overly nationalistic, but I'm a sucker for a flag. They are such recognizable, graphic symbols that bring movement into a photo.

Fifth Avenue is almost always busy with shoppers, open stalls and shops.

Related posts: Confronting Reality on TV, and Time Flies.

Read more...

Saturday, August 2, 2008

What's on the Walls, Underground

Chinatown subway
Photo by myself in the Canal Street subway station.

Several walls of the station are decorated with large, playful, graphic symbols.

--

Friday night I found myself at a happy hour, celebrating with ex-coworkers. One of my friends was leaving the office for new prospects, and we were talking about workplaces in general.

There have been layoffs at some of the bigger offices. Not a good sign. Architecture usually lags behind the economy, compared to other fields. Real estate is a slow-moving industry. It takes years to find a property, buy it, develop a design and build a building.

Typically the economy might be doing badly, but architects will still be busy, since developers or owners have already allocated funds for a project and don't want to stop midway through.

Despite the mortgage crisis and an insecure future, many of my architect friends are looking around for better opportunities. Perhaps it's New York, and the naive belief that this city is immune to a lack of work. Perhaps it's a generational thing. But these guys are not playing it safe. They refuse to compromise.

I'm curious to see what happens next.

Related posts: What Makes Your Skin Crawl and Code Yellow.

Read more...

Friday, August 1, 2008

CDP Theme Day - Metal

Metal Globe at Columbus Circle
Photo by myself of the large metal globe sculpture at Columbus Circle, at 59th Street and Columbus Avenue.

This sparkling sculpture is at least 30 feet wide and is held above the ground by one big, chrome column. All around, people are rushing by to board the subway, tour the fancy shops at the Time Warner Center and saunter in Central Park.

The above photo was inspired by this month's Theme Day, held by the City Daily Photo site. Blogs all over the world are also showing photos featuring the theme metal, today.

--

There is a lot going on right now.

Coworkers and friends are changing jobs, even in this uncertain market. Construction in the city is going at a mad hum.

In the building where my main project is situated, a brand new condo building, there are 90 renovations going on. That's nine-zero projects that are starting up, in full gear, or wrapping up.

You wouldn't think there's a real estate crisis going on.

Click here to view thumbnails for all Theme Day participants.

Albuquerque (NM), USA by Helen, Aliso Viejo (CA), USA by Rodney, American Fork (UT), USA by Annie, Anderson (SC), USA by Lessie, Ararat, Australia by freefalling, Arradon, France by Alice, Aspen (CO), USA by IamMBB, Athens, Greece by Debbie, Auckland, New Zealand by Baruch, Auckland, New Zealand by Lachezar, Austin (TX), USA by LB, Bandung, Indonesia by Harry Makertia, Bandung, Indonesia by Eki Akhwan, Bandung, Indonesia by Bunyamin, Barrow-in-Furness, UK by Enitharmon, Barton (VT), USA by Andree, Bellefonte (PA), USA by Barb-n-PA, Bicheno, Australia by Greg, Birmingham (AL), USA by VJ, Bogor, Indonesia by Gagah, Boston (MA), USA by Cluelessinboston, Brantford (ON), Canada by Nancy, Bucharest, Romania by Malpraxis, Budapest, Hungary by Zannnie and Zsolt, Budapest, Hungary by agrajag, Budapest, Hungary by Isadora, Buenos Aires, Argentina by Karine, Canterbury, UK by Rose, Chandler (AZ), USA by Melindaduff, Château-Gontier, France by Laurent, Chateaubriant, France by Bergson, Cheltenham, UK by Marley, Chennai, India by Ram N, Chesapeake (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Cincinnati, USA by Erik Laursen, City of the Blue Mountains, Australia by Richard, Corsicana (TX), USA by Lake Lady, East Gwillimbury, Canada by Your EG Tour Guide, Edinburgh, UK by Dido, Edmonton (AL), Canada by , Evry, France by Olivier, Folkestone, UK by Piskie, Forks (WA), USA by Corinne, Fort Lauderdale (FL), USA by Gigi, Gabriola, Canada by Snapper, Geneva (IL), USA by Kelly, Greenville (SC), USA by Denton, Grenoble, France by Bleeding Orange, Gun Barrel City (TX), USA by Lake Lady, Hamilton, New Zealand by Sakiwi, Hampton (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Haninge, Sweden by Steffe, Hanoi, Vietnam by Jérôme, Helsinki, Finland by Kaa, Hobart, Australia by Greg, Hyde, UK by Old Hyde, Hyde, UK by Gerald, Jackson (MS), USA by Halcyon, Jefferson City (MO), USA by Chinamom2005, Jerusalem, Israel by Esther, Kansas City (MO), USA by Cate B, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Edwin, Kyoto, Japan by Tadamine, Lakewood (OH), USA by mouse, Larchmont (NY), USA by Marie-Noyale, Las Vegas (NV), USA by Mo, Leipzig, Germany by weltbeschreiber, Lisbon, Portugal by Sailor Girl, Lisbon, Portugal by Maria João, London, UK by Ham, London, UK by Mo, Lynchburg (VA), USA by June, Mainz, Germany by JB, Manila, Philippines by Heyokity, Mashhad, Iran by Meead, Melbourne, Australia by John, Melbourne, Australia by Mblamo, Menton, France by Jilly, Mesa (AZ), USA by Mesa Daily Photo, Mexico City, Mexico by Carraol, Middletown (MD), USA by Bernie, Milwaukee (WI), USA by karl, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Mitch, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Scott, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Greg, Misawa, Japan by misawa mama, Molfetta, Italy by saretta, Monte Carlo, Monaco by Jilly, Monterrey, Mexico by rafa, Mumbai, India by MumbaiiteAnu, Mumbai, India by Magiceye, Nancy, France by yoshi, Nashville (TN), USA by Chris, Nelson, New Zealand by Meg and Ben, New Delhi, India by Delhi Photo Diary, New Orleans (LA), USA by steve buser, New York City (NY), USA by Ming the Merciless, New York City (NY), USA by • Eliane •, New York City (NY), USA by Kitty, Newport News (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Norfolk (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Norwich, UK by Goddess888, Ocean Township (NJ), USA by Josy, Oklahoma City (OK), USA by ananda.tashie, Orlando (FL), USA by OrlFla, Owasso (OK), USA by Jennifer, Palos Verdes (CA), USA by tash, Paris, France by Eric, Pasadena (CA), USA by Can8ianben, Pasadena (CA), USA by Petrea, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia by Murphy_jay, Petoskey (MI), USA by Christie, Philadelphia (PA), USA by Stephanie Craig, Phoenix (AZ), USA by Cheryl, Phoenix (AZ), USA by Sharon, Pilisvörösvár, Hungary by Elise, Port Angeles (WA), USA by Jelvistar, Port Vila, Vanuatu by Mblamo, Portsmouth (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Prague, Czech Republic by Honza03, Pretoria, South Africa by Sam-Ruth, Quezon City, Philippines by ann pablo, Quincy (MA), USA by slim, Ramsey, Isle of Man by babooshka, Rancho Palos Verdes (CA), USA by Sarah Adams, Riga, Latvia by Riga Photos, Rotterdam, Netherlands by Ineke, Rouen, France by Bbsato, Saigon, Vietnam by Simon, Saint Louis (MO), USA by Strangetastes, Saint Paul (MN), USA by Kate, Salem (OR), USA by jill, Salt Lake City (UT), USA by atc, San Antonio (TX), USA by Kramer, San Diego (CA), USA by Felicia, San Francisco (CA), USA by PFranson, Schenectady (NY), USA by Buck, Seattle (WA), USA by Kim, Seattle (WA), USA by Chuck, Seguin (TX), USA by Thien, Selma (AL), USA by RamblingRound, Sequim (WA), USA by Eponabri, Sesimbra, Portugal by Aldeia, Setúbal, Portugal by Maria Elisa, Sharon (CT), USA by Jenny, Singapore, Singapore by Zannnie, Singapore, Singapore by Keropok, Sofia, Bulgaria by Antonia, South Pasadena (CA), USA by Laurie, Springfield (IL), USA by Aubrey, Stanwood (WA), USA by MaryBeth, Stavanger, Norway by Tanty, Stayton (OR), USA by Celine, Stockholm, Sweden by Stromsjo, Stouffville, Canada by Ken, Subang Jaya, Malaysia by JC, Suffolk (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Sunshine Coast, Australia by bitingmidge, Sydney, Australia by Ann, Sydney, Australia by Sally, Sydney, Australia by Julie, Székesfehérvár, Hungary by Teomo, Tamarindo, Costa Rica by David, Tempe (AZ), USA by angie, Terrell (TX), USA by Jim K, Tokyo, Japan by Tadamine, Torun, Poland by Torun Observer, Torun, Poland by Glenn, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina by Jazzy, Twin Cities (MN), USA by Slinger, Victoria, Canada by Benjamin Madison, Vienna, Austria by G_mirage2, Villigen, Switzerland by z, Virginia Beach (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Wailea (HI), USA by Kuanyin, Washington (DC), USA by D.C. Confidential, Wellington, New Zealand by Jeremyb, West Paris (ME), USA by crittoria, West Sacramento (CA), USA by Barbara, Weston (FL), USA by WestonDailyPhoto, Williamsburg (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Willits (CA), USA by Elaine, Yardley (PA), USA by Mrlynn,

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