Stars and stripes fever

New York is my town. I know you might have heard people say it is their town well I have to say this is not true - it is my town. After seeing Kath in Boston and hearing of her disappointment in New York I tried desperately hard to manage my expectations. As I caught the train down from Boston this was very hard because even the train trip was sensational. This is the best time of the year to visit New England. New England in the fall is incredible. I arrived in New York to see from the train a stunning sunset behind the Manhatten skyline and then to come out of Penn station into Manhatten was fabulous. The energy of the city is fun and the people are friendly. Thanks to some great instructions I made it to the home of my new friends in Roosevelt Island all set for my first day in the Big Apple the following day.
New York is an art deco fun park and I certainly had fun. I spent the first day walking and walking. First I went to Central Park and after a breakfast of a bagel and coffee in the park (I got such a kick out of doing this!!) I wandered around and then made my way into midtown Manhatten. So far, apart from admiring the architecture, I have visited Ground Zero (I was completely unprepared for how upsetting this would be and ended up joining the many others in openly crying as we walked around the tribute area), Ellis Island, Times Square and many other places. They are expecting some light showers over the next few days so I have saved these for gallery days which will be such a treat. I am especially looking forward to visiting the Metropolitan.
I have already met some lovely people (aside from the fabulous people I am staying with) and even met a really nice girl who I am going to have lunch with tomorrow combined with a shopping adventure. The clothes here are cheap and good quality. I have already bought a few things that I have posted home.
Now I should comment on the election. There are tables all around New York with Obama badges and hats with the odd trinket displaying McCain's name. It is a very blue city and unashamedly so. I have found it interesting talking to people here about the election and I think we have had a very select view of the election in Australia. I know it is hard to believe that the media could be biased but there you have it. I think an Obama victory has been predicted but it is certainly lots of fun to be here and watch the coverage.
It is always nice to see friends from home and I am looking forward to seeing Sam and Jane later in the week. We are hoping to see the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Hall. I know it is a little early for Christmas things but I think New York will do it better than anywhere else so it will be worth it.
I know this blog has been way too long but I love this city and wanted to share it!
See you all soon!
Kim