a short visit downtown

When I first moved to New York, the Lower East Side was one of my favorite neighborhoods to visit.  Going there was going back in time. It felt old, and was so different from the Upper East Side where I lived.  People everywhere.  Stores that looked like they’d been erected at the turn of the century.  And buyers searching for a bargain. I still remember the black leather jacket I purchased for $350, a lot of money in the early 80’s, but still a lot less than I’d have paid uptown.  And when Hazel visited New York many years ago, we went store to store looking at shoes and handbags.  I think she bought several of both.

A few weeks ago, I heard that someone I used to work with ages ago was having an exhibit at a gallery downtown.  I had to go.

Despite an overcast drizzly day, I take the (freezing but fast) Express Bus to the Lower East Side.  

I envision grabbing a bite in some old-world restaurant, strolling the streets, and spending some time at the exhibit.

It’s been a while since I’ve been in this neighborhood and it looks nothing like I remember it. Too many chic stores, hip restaurants, and deserted streets.

 And the exhibit?  The gallery is empty.  There are about nine interesting paintings. 

The gallery-worker looks bored, and makes no attempt at being friendly.  I am there less than ten minutes.  And home in another twenty.