Morning Reflections: Navigating Life, Creativity, and the City I Love

Because I fell asleep without closing the drapes last night, the morning sun woke me up.

The morning sun is my gentle nudge, an invitation to embrace the day. Its light streaming through my window reminds me of life's simple beauty. Nature often whispers inspiration to me, and today is no exception.

Life hasn’t been without its complexities. I’ve recently navigated an unexpected situation in a space meant for just me, a small apartment that became shared with someone I’m not in love with. My desk was moved out of my living room/work space—a necessary shift to reclaim my creative sanctuary in another part of the apartment. Writing can be challenging when one's surroundings don’t quite align with their energy. Slowly but surely, things are returning to normal.

Take Painted People, for example—a project always close to my heart. Yet, revisions are proving tricky. The wrong character's untimely departure has led to extensive rewrites, and my once-clear outline keeps evolving. It’s a puzzle I’m determined to piece together, as I strive to give this story the justice it deserves.

April in New York is a paradox for me—a cold, breezy month that leaves chills despite its sunlit days. It's not like San Francisco’s mild Aprils or South Carolina’s warmer springs. But this hasn’t deterred me from getting an early taste of spring in New York City most weekends.

New York calls to me deeply. Despite the costs and challenges that come with living there, I sense its inevitability in my future—a city so vibrant and dynamic that it feels like an extension of my spirit. Not this year, with commitments keeping me grounded elsewhere, but someday I’ll step into its pulse and probably never leave, even for vacations.

Through countless photos of the city, each one tells a story—a piece of its soul, a fragment of my connection. As I look to share these moments with the world, I’m reminded that life is an ever-evolving narrative, and cities, like stories, can shape us in unexpected ways.

I require coffee at the moment. Although the espresso I made at home was satisfactory, I desire something not made by myself. Therefore, I am heading out for a walk to Peekskill Coffee House.

Salmon cakes and eggs at home.

One of those inspiring moments on a crowded Broadway Street on a Sunday in New York.

George Cloony is favorite actor I would love to see on stage if I had additional $400 to spare. Where are all those men with benefits from my youth?