A Nice Place To Visit, But...

Just returned from a whirlwind trip to visit my Mom in NJ and spent two days in NYC visiting friends and a college for Anna. The weather all weekend was spring-like. Had a great Chinatown lunch in a small and crowded restaurant where we let Anna order some delicious food for us. It was so nice to see Marcia and Dede again.

We were up early on Monday for our train commute into Penn Station and the subway ride up to 116th Street. I learned long ago the NYC subway system and it really is quite efficient; not to mention the fastest and cheapest way to get around. Barnard College has a lot to offer. Not only is NYC its campus but all Barnard students have full access to Columbia's resources and courses. Had the tour, Anna attended a class and had an interview. The college process continues.

On both Sunday and Monday we took NJ Transit trains into Penn Station. Like the subway system, the greater New York metropolitan area is blessed with a massive train system that daily brings thousands of commuters back and forth to Long Island, Westchester County, Connecticut and New Jersey. When visiting NYC, my advice is to take advantage of the trains and don't bother with the major hassle (and $$'s) of driving and parking. From time-to-time there is a problem such as the train derailment that caused lengthy delays on Monday. We found that out when we arrived at Penn Station around 6:30 pm. There was nothing we could do about it but just hang out and wait like everyone else.

And as for that old saying, I enjoy visiting NYC and walking around the old stomping grounds but it is always nice to come home.