On My Own

It used to horrify me to consider doing things alone. What would people think, seeing me eating or shopping by myself? Who would I talk to?

But now, taking time to do things and go by myself is one of my favorite indulgences. Today, I had to run to the Mac lab at Lincoln center to work on a graphic design project. Afterward, I rewarded myself for going out of my way to be a good student by taking a whole afternoon to explore the city on my own. I wandered into C. Wonder, J. Crew, H&M then across the street to T.J. Max, and suddenly I was walking across Central Park south to the upper east side and Bloomingdales. I found myself enjoying a cappuccino in a coffee shop and then some fruit and cheese at Whole Foods. I even sat and read a little on my Kindle. It was such a good day.

Instead of worrying about what people would think, I enjoyed the quiet and my own independence. Walking all over the city gave me time to think and relax. I could poke around Bloomingdales for as long as I wanted without worrying about holding up my companions. It was liberating.

How fortunate I am, to be able to take a day and wander around Manhattan, just because I wanted to.

I also might have treated myself to some new accessories and a scalloped tank ;)