168 HOURS

Exactly 168 hours from now I will be meandering the streets of Man.hattan. To say I am excited would be like saying Gusta.v brought in a bit of rain. I cannot begin to express how badly this trip is needed. With 2 kids in college and having been unceremoniously downsized by my biggest client, going to one of the most expensive cities around is probably one of the most ridiculous things I have ever done. I have managed to sock away droplets of cash and should have enough to bargain hunt in China.town, eat some yummy street dogs, (hopefully not the 4 legged kind if I eat in China.town:) and see some sights. Some of our days BigD has obligations but we are spending a total of 84 hours there so if I limit my sleep, I should have a great time. Like I mentioned before there is another couple going along. I am still concerned about the wife but did have a chance to let her know that they don't need to feel as though they are tethered to us (my very polite way of telling her that we may not want to go some of the places, ie:bars they /she wants to go to) and I am a morning person to her night personality so we may be going in different directions. Honestly I am pretty easy going and I am not afraid to tell them that I am not interested but BigD doesn't like to make waves and once we get somewhere he doesn't like to leave to explore. In past years I have hopped on the sub.way and off I went...it is so much fun. He is just as happy to nap in the hotel or eat in "well known" restaurants. I WILL NOT EAT in a place we have here! I refuse....I want authentic, local food. I may have to take the lead on this trip. I love the Vill.age too. I spent almost 3 hours wandering there and loved the feel, the people and the whole atmosphere. If I were young, single and very rich, you would find me there in a cozy little place above a bakery. I do have tickets to see Liv.e with Re.gis and K.elly which has been fun in the past too. I tried to get them to The V.iew but they book about a year ahead. The studio where LWR&K is shot is a small cozy place and much more personal. One year R.eg came over to me in the audience and when the producers were counting down back to live, he forgot to let go of my hand and started to take me up in front of the camera with him..we both busted out laughing when we realized he was still holding my hand when the count was 5,4, 3... So, if any of you (Dr. Deb, Mel, EVI) have any suggestions or know anyone in Man.hattan that could turn me onto some good food, or play tickets or anything at all....feel free to spill your guts.