Another wonderful NY get-together was had last night. Leading people through the crowds of Grand Central Station to the 6 Train was quite the job. We all got down the stairs just as the correct train approached. Ginny asked how I knew it was the correct train. It was coming in on the local track and we were going to Astor Place, 5 stops away on the local line so it could not be any other train
Larry, Singdaw and Jose, in an attempt to lose us in the crowd, decided to enter the train through another door. They missed Michael Barnum's heroic behavior. He saved a mere slip of a girl from being caught between the closing train doors. We all began talking and she was fascinated by this odd group of people heading down to Little India for food. She recommended a place in the other Manhattan Little India on 26th Street but by that time it was too late.
We arrived at Astor Place, got off the train and began our trek through the much changed East Village. I pointed out the Public Theatre (where Chorus Line began) and
Cooper UnionIt's a very interesting place. Check out the link and learn about some of New York's mid-1800s history.
We then went to Taj Mahal for dinner. While dinner and the company was, as usual, sparkling, the service was not up to par, but still, a good time was had by all. Much food was consumed and much more laughter and witty repartee was exchanged.
The Australian Ice Cream was a great way to top off the meal. We walked over almost to Avenue A on 8th Street. When we entered, there were a couple of people at tables. I guess people just know that Hainsies and Kimmlets know the hot spots because by the time we left the place was hopping. There was a line almost out the door. I had some wonderful chocolate custard ice cream as we walked back toward 3rd Avenue. Oh, yes, we did have a stop at the aforementioned Bollywood DVD/Music store. We got to hear hysterical commentary by Elmore on the Bollywood movie running on the television in the window of the store. Some of us did enter the store to make sure Barnum had not fainted in pleasure at being in a temple of Bollywood. I think the clerk was happy and surprised to find such a knowledgeable young, non-Indian man to purchase his products.
We finally made it to 3rd Avenue and I broke off to walk home while the others got into various cabs to head uptown. Since most of them have posted I assume they all made it home without incident (though there has been no posting by Barnum, I hope the trip to the Boat Basin with the burlap bag wasn't made in the middle of the night by an exhausted Elmore
)
Anthony was glad to hear about the good times but sorry to miss the event. He also missed a wonderful lunch but he will get to see MusicGuy when we meet for breakfast tomorrow morning before MG takes flight back to Phoenix.
Anthony had a wonderful time visiting with his relatives from Florida and though he missed the fun in New York he knows that Hainsies and Kimmlets can't stay apart for long (we're like long-lost siblings) and there will be more chances to see you all again.
It's time to end my novel and do the obvious. Who knows who has come and gone since I began this story.
Later, gaters.
