#3 on the list

sometimes it can seem as though this city is a sleepy little town. moseying through the streets. the parks. mindlessly windowshopping. lingering over coffee at the sidewalk table of a cafe. sitting in a dark corner booth of the local bar, having a pint with a friend.

other times . . . things can really move fast.

other times . . . it seems as if the whole city is running on this sense of urgency, and it's everyone's job to keep up. or lose out.

you learn to be undeniably quick to the draw. but concisely analytical.

incredible things happen here all the time. and you must be ready to make the split-second decision to either take part. or not. to go along with the insanity. or sit at home. to take an opportunity. or let it slip by.

and you must learn to be ok with whatever decision you make.

no matter how much you feel as though you are - at times - living in a whirlwind.

and so . . .

suddenly . . .

everything can change . . .

and your life takes on new definitions.

and addresses.

no vacancy

the hardest thing about being single in new york is that it simply limits your real estate options.

sprung

when spring finally comes around, the entire city seems to explode with enthusiasm. springing into action. buzzing with vivacity. and exhaling with relief.

each person strolling, lingering rather than hunching over, scurring to some indoor destination.

streets are filled with smiling faces.

the city's backyards that are its parks become swarmed with people and puppies and musicians and ice cream vendors. frisbee and whiffle ball. lovers napping on benches and blankets. seeming very in love. possibly more in love. possibly falling in love. the strumming of guitars coming from here. and there.

absolutely everyone looking as though this just may be their first day out of some kind of prison.

which, in some ways, is kind of true.