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Creative Wanderlust Prompt: Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan. It’s definitely one of my favorite places in all of New York City, and the area I frequently stay when I visit. When I lived in New York City many moons ago, I rarely went to midtown. I was a student (in graduate school) and midtown catered to the working world. I did go to Grand Central Station frequently as I’d take the train out to Connecticut to visit my sister, but in general, I roamed all the other neighborhoods for my NYC energy, not midtown. Fast forward to today, and I can’t get enough of midtown Manhattan. It fuels me with energy. I’m convinced it’s because of…
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Don’t Believe All That You Read
Below is a fictional travel story I wrote from the prompt: They say _______ but my experience tells me… They told me to be careful, watch your guard, be alert, aware of your surroundings, and your exit strategy. It’s not a safe city. People are rude, brusk and unfriendly. Stepping off the plane I was prepared. My backpack was zipped and secured to my front. My money and valuables safely split up and tucked away in obscure places on my body. I briskly walk to the subway with my bags, head down so as to not make direct eye contact with anyone for fear of inviting submission or being confrontational.…
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Travel Journal: My Favorite Corner in New York City
New York City is like a second home to me. Although I only lived there a short time in my life, the experience was like no other. Here’s a travel journal of my favorite corner in New York City.
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Culture: Shopping – Holiday Window Shopping Traditions
One of my favorite memories during the holidays growing up was getting dressed up and going to “the City” or San Francisco with my mom and sisters to see the holiday windows! I’d have to wear a dress, tights and my mary janes, so I knew it was a big event. Peeking into these imaginative window displays was like entering into a different world – glittery trees, toys, lights, clothes, dressed up manaquins, trains, music and so much more. The windows with animatronics or moving elements were the best! I even had the opportunity to see the holiday windows in New York City one year. How magical! As my kids…
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Art on the Go: Art School: Line Basics – Blind Contour Drawings
A blind contour drawing is where you only look at the object you are drawing, and not at the paper you are drawing on. The purpose of this type of drawing is to have your brain focus solely on the object – to really look at it and see it for all it’s details. Obviously, since you are not looking at your paper, it doesn’t always translate like you expect, but sometimes these haphazard drawings can be quite fun. Blind contours also have the benefit of improving your eye hand coordination. It’s a simple art exercise that does not take much time, but can build your drawing skills and produce…
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Culture: Food – Fresh Farmers Markets in the South and East
When exploring any city, I love to head over to the local farmers market. It’s always a great way to a flavor of the local scene as well as pick up some delicious bites to eat. Here are some must-see farmers markets along the eastern seaboard! Charleston Farmers Market – Charleston, South Carolina Located in the heart of the historic district in Marion Square, the Charleston Farmers Market supports Lowcountry farmers and growers, artisans and crafters, live performers and community groups. From locally grown produce to Southern specialties, residents from the entire Lowcountry region and tourists alike enjoy this farmers market tradition. The Market at Pepper Place – Birmingham, Alabama Serving…
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Culture: History – A Trip to Ellis Island, New York
It should be required that every American take a trip to Ellis Island. It is a historic site that truly embodies the spirit of this country. It is a place that gave hope to 12 million immigrants who passed through its walls between 1892-1954. Regardless of whether you or your ancestors came through here or the Port of Philadelphia, Port of Baltimore, Port of New Orleans, Angel Island or any number of other ports or entry points in America, the museum at Ellis Island captures the essence of how this country has been built. It illustrates how the hopes and dreams of generations of immigrants felt when they first laid eyes on the Statue of…
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Culture: Food – Delicious Delis Across the United States
What defines a truly authentic delicatessen? The concept of a delicatessen dates back to Germany in the 1700’s. It was a place were unusual and foreign prepared foods were made and sold. In the late 1800’s, when a large number of immigrants of Jewish dissent (mostly from German regions) came to the US, they brought the tradition of delicatessens with them. Now over 100 years later, delis are a mainstay in most of our cities and towns. Below are a select few of some of the most famous delis in the US. Katz’s Deli – New York City In 1888, two brothers from Iceland immigrated to the US and started…
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On Location: 9/11 Reflections
We all know where we were when the planes struck. Some of us were across the country, some across the world, and some right next door. We all know someone who was deeply affected- a loved one killed, a friend who died, a coworker who didn’t make it home, a friend who mourned a loss, a hero who helped saved lives. There will never be a September 11th that passes where we don’t take pause, take time to reflect. On a recent visit to New York City, I toured the 9/11 Memorial site. I was not quite sure what to expect. Could a memorial evoke the intense emotions and feelings…
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Free Travel Inspiration Wallpaper: Live Each Day NYC
Everyone needs a little inspiration – inspiration to be bold, to travel, to explore, to live! This wonderful wall art graces the side of a building in Chelsea, New York City. It’s in a perfect spot to view from the popular High Line walk way. It’s bright, it’s bold, it’s colorful, and it definitely makes you inspired to live each day to the fullest. Follow the directions below and use this as your desktop or iPad wallpaper and be inspired to live each day like there’s no tomorrow! Free Travel Inspiration Wallpaper Desktop Wallpaper – Free Travel Inspiration: Live Each Day NYC – 1920×1200 iPad Wallpaper – Free Travel Inspiration:…
