Lexy and Mr. K write about spending the weekend in New York – each in their own style.  First, Lexy’s New York Weekend.  Then - tomorrow – Mr. K’s turn to talk about New York City!

The City.  Growing up, I was the only one who didn’t love New York City.  It’s okay, I thought, but come on.  Heads turned;  I could read their minds.  There’s nothing  like New York City, they said.  It’s The Place, The City, The Yardstick, the only one that counts.  No way, I thought, there’s more out there.  In the end they were right.  Returning makes my heart beat faster.  Who knew?

I had a conference, I booked a hotel, I was arriving late Friday night.  I stepped off a bus into a drizzly whirl of light rain and blurry lights in Midtown.  One block over, into a cab and up to the hotel.

The lobby was crowded, everyone getting  rooms, making plans for the night.  I smiled at the man behind the counter.  He looked at my face and selected a room.  I scored – a great view of the Empire State Building, shining in the night.  Far below cars and cabs streamed up the avenue.  What a city, I thought.  I’m home.

The conference next day was all New Yorkers – their worn rough style, no nonsense, challenging, getting their share, carving their way.  I watched them, I listened to them, I enjoyed being around them.  There’s nothing polite or timid about New York; you have to love it.  I thought again – I’m home.

End of the day and out into the street to unwind at a nearby bar.  The night outside was active, lively.  Everyone heading home or into their evening, excited, animated.  The energy electric.  Saturday night in The City.  It’s the reward for working hard.  Shows, parties, food, music –  fresh and exciting every time.

Into the bar, into the face of a bouncer, and upstairs to the party.  A drink in hand and sports on TV, I talked and joked with friends.  There’s nothing like a bar in New York, you’re never a stranger.   You’re well cared for in a New York bar.  Bartenders keep the mood friendly – one glance and a glass in your hand right away.   Again – at home.

You can leave The City, but it really never leaves you.  You will miss New York once you’ve been.  The style, the mood, its way.  It pulls, it draws you back; you’ll always return.  Coming back it’s there round the clock like you never left.  Waiting for your return.

What do you love when you return to The CIty?  Tell us – we’d like to know!