We had to make a quick trip into NYC for some appointments. Now this is not abnormal for us. We have been known to drive from Maine (where we live) into NYC to spend some time with friends and drive back the same day. Most folks look at us like we are crazy, and they are probably right. But it's only a 6 ½ hour drive each way.
Well, we decided to leave at 3:30am and that should have gotten us there in plenty of time. However, can you spell WINTER STORM? We made it through Maine and New Hampshire but the minute we got to Highway 475 around Boston the snow hit....sloppy, thick and persistent. It wasn't until we got to Providence (RI) that the snow let up and the ice and sleet began along with those little pellets of snow...you know the type...little ball bearings bouncing on the car.
It didn't turn to solid, heavy rain until we got to the Connecticut coast (We took the coastal route rather than the inland route.). We made it past New Haven and almost to the New York state line when the traffic stopped...FOR AN HOUR!!!!!...we found out later that there was a major accident. It took us 11 hours and needless to say we didn't make our appointments. However, we called and they worked us in when we got there.
One nice thing...I booked the cheapest room I could at a local hotel...when we arrived, I was picked as the guest of the day (a first for me) and given a bag of goodies and an upgrade to a suite. This suite is as large as one of the floors in our townhouse!!! It has a kitchenette, living room, desk area, bathroom with a shower that can accommodate several folks as well as a giant jacuzzi!!!
I have to say that I am conflicted. You see. I really love living in Maine. I have always had a love affair with New England. However, I really love New York City (even after living there for 13 years)!!! I smile like a cheshire cat whenever I get to New York City...and that silly grin stays on my face the entire time.
Many people don't like New York City folk and I have never figured that one out. It may be because the pace is so fast in NYC (which I love) that folks go about their business in the same way....fast. To some that may seem as not being courteous, but that's not the case.
But one thing that they know how to do is throw parties and decorate!!! I don't remember anything like NYC at Christmas. There's not just one house on the block with decorations....the whole block seems to have them and not just a few trees, but so many lights that it you might want to take stock in Christmas lights. Anyway, the whole city is lit up and you have to admire their love of life. NYC has had some really bad times, but it always comes back. It's like the song....if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.
Enough of my ramblings...tomorrow is full of more appointments and then back to Maine. Hopefully a quicker trip this time.
Thanks for visiting...