First Lessons in the City

I have been in the city one month and have already learned a great deal, and in some ways been reminded of things that I forget.

I have learned DMV doesn't just suck in California, it sucks everywhere and New York is definitely no exception. It is one of the most disorganized place for chaos in the city. After 3 hours of spending my times in lines (thankfully they have some spotty wi-fi) I surrendered my CA State license in exchange for an interim license as I await my NY State license to make it in the mail... which leads me to...

The dependability of knowing the Postal Service also sucks. It has been a battle sending and receiving mail. Many of my letters out are delayed, while others get them in record time. Also, not receiving mail that is being sent directly here and not being forwarded from California. I think the mail is like the lottery and there is a chance I may not get it. You would think with the reduction overall of people sending mail with everyone emailing, tweeting, facebooking, and alike that there is less mail for them to process, which in turn simplifies the task. Apparently not the case.

I am learning that in New York, that while you have everything and anything at your disposal from grocery stores, shoe stores, FedEx, clothing stores, churches, cabs.... some things come with a trek. Target, a great experience in and of itself requires a 40 minute trek just to go about 2.2 miles. Ikea in Brooklyn involves subways and ferries with the completion of home delivery because you can't have three girls bring a dresser back on a boat, then a subway, and then up your 2nd floor walk up.

I have learned that delivery time frames... are just that... frames. When they say between 5-9... they mean... see you at 8:45pm, but don't really tell you that so you can give up your evening of things you could be doing like laundry, grocery shopping, gallivanting.

I have learned that grocery shopping here is actually better for the budget. While it is said it is slightly more expensive to buy food here... I am actually buying what I will be using. Since I don't have a car to load up with weeks worth of groceries, I must buy wisely and walk it home.

I have also learned that routines can be key, and this includes making sure you have a good pair of headphones for walking or running around the city, or even on those commutes on the train. I have learned running in Central Park makes for a great workout and just walking to work 40 blocks down (2.2 miles in 40 minutes power walking).

I am also learning the real greatness of facetime, skype, and facebook.... to be connected to those who I can't be with here in New York, and it makes them feel just that much closer :)

I am also realizing that no matter how big New York is... God is just that much bigger!