Reborn on the 4th of July

Fourth of July.  5:45 AM.  Virginie and I are the only two awake this morning so we quickly get dressed and head out on a search for Dunkin Donuts.  While there are many wonderful things to eat in this city, Lily misses Dunkin Donuts the most.  She is, after all, almost 4 years old.  We left the Plaza and headed east.  I figured, Lexington or Third Avenue would be the best bet with the real estate on the other avenues a little too high end for a DD.  The walk was glorious and restorative.  There were very few people on the street as it was the 4th of July and most people, if not out of the city already, were prepping for a wild afternoon and evening of fun, barbecuing, drinking, and fireworks in celebration of our independence. 


New York is so beautiful at this time of day.  I have always loved New York in the early morning hours before all the hustle and hub bub began.  Virginie and I shared this joy on this particular morning, something she has not had the pleasure of experiencing as she was a newborn when we left.  She hasn't ridden in the stroller so much in her life and it is fantastic for her!  Watching the buildings, sculpture, beautiful architecture and city landscape is a new thrill for her eyes and it warmed the heart to share it with her. 


We found our Dunkin Donuts on Lexington and 54th Street and got Lily's donuts and an iced coffee for Mommy.  As we walked back to the Plaza, the sun began to rise above the tallest of buildings and shine down on me.  I feel new again here.  Happy to be alive.  I love for my kids to see me smiling, content, in my element.  I feel, at least I hope, that the old me has been reborn and I will be able to take this energy with me back to Barbados for our final year there.  If not, I will have no choice but to return more frequently.  To regenerate.  To rejuvenate.  And endure.

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