Now that I'm back to an empty nest, there is a greater need to fill time on the weekends. Which means more relaxation and fun for the wife and me. We went into the city for a walking tour through Central Park. I get to walk it whenever I want, since my office is only a block away and lunchtime strolls are normal. I found out she had never been to Strawberry Fields, so that was a stop along the way. In addition, we walked through the zoo and saw the seals, the statue of Balto, Literary Walk, The Mall, the statue of Balto, and a host of other sights which require only the time and energy to walk for 2 to 3 hours.
There were two things which I don't see much of, though. The first was a street show on The Mall. About 8 young men exhibiting their athleticism, performing gymnastic feats for a crowd they'd assembled. They must practice a lot, they were all perfectly timed, in great shape, and their sales pitch was hilarious and frequently done in unison. I was plucked from the crowd, along with 8 other men for a supposed athletic feat. I had a feeling it was as much a shakedown as it was my being part of the show, and I was right. I was fine with it, though. After all, I was part of the show for 15 minutes, and I spent another 15 minutes or so watching them as part of the crowd. I figure they collected about $400 for all 8 of them after a half hour of work. Lots of people handing over 10's and 20's. They aren't earning a living doing this, but it's a good way to fill time and make spare cash. We enjoyed watching (and being part of) their performance, even if it cost us $20. I'd have spent more at a comedy club or at the US Open (which I won't be attending for the first time in several years).
Then there was this guy (or gal - not sure), and I realized "walking the park is so much fun...you just never know who you're going to see." I think I'll leave defining normal to others. The pumps are a nice touch.
