I didn't sleep too well; I was anxious about the coming flights and wasn't looking forward to spending a day in airports and sat in planes. When I did wake, I packed and washed. It was a bit of a down day, for obvious reasons and even Sam wasn't her usual chipper morning self... oh wait.
We eventually toddled off to get my tickets which I had printed out at Sam's office and after a quick stop off at the store, It was off to the airport.
It really was hard to leave, Sam was red eyed once we had finished our last smoke together and as she wiped her eyes, we said our goodbyes. I almost started bawling myself. I knew I had a long day of airport sitting and plane rides ahead of me and I knew I was going to be tired. The journey was as to be expected... tiring.
While on the plane, it felt like forever that I had been in New York State. I was so glad that I had managed to be able to save and go. I saw American life that we only ever really see in films. Sam was a fantastic guide and an exceptional hostess. She provided me with memories of friends and events that will never leave me.
It was a great idea to spend a week in Upstate New York before hitting the city, to become acclimatised to America. Get to know Sam on a more personal level. We spoke most days on skype but it's always so different to actually meet in person. I feel like I came to America to see a friend but left with a big sister.
It was more than a holiday. I had met people I had spoken to online, Sam and Nina and got to know them more as actual friends. I met other people too, Rocky and his family, who welcomed me into their home for thanksgiving and I tasted a true American Family atmosphere. So, I'd like to think it was more of a life experience than a holiday.
As I sat on the plane, leaving JFK, the skyline of Manhatten splayed out in front of me, the huge city, I was immersed in a few days earlier now crammed into the tiny window of the plane, I knew I'd never miss a city as much as I'd miss this one. It's reputation is only half of what this city is. Again, Sam and Nina were a big part of that.
The plane took off and the lights of New York got smaller and smaller, I mentally waved to everyone I know below. I was saying good bye but a part of me felt like it was forever; I have no idea if I'd ever be going back. I'd love to but the way things change, who knows? I started to well up just as the plane levelled to cruising height and we headed for Blighty.....
The lights of the South Coast met me nearly 6 hours later, welcoming me home and as we flew past Southampton I smiled to myself. Normal service will soon be resumed.
I got home at about 9ish UK time and immediately sought out my cats. The poor things were hid under the sofa and were reluctant to come out. I think they were a little upset that I had left them for so long and they were a little jumpy. Scamp has acquired a pitiful 'sore throat' style meow. Almost like a little cry. I think she missed me the most. Although I suspect they were a little annoyed at being left for so long. I went to bed and slept for about 5 hours. They eased their way into the bedroom and when I woke up, had a coffee and sat down, Scamp gingerly made her way onto my lap. I'm home kitties.
That's it. It's all over. I'm home. It's done. Save one thing....
I put together a slide movie of my time in New York. Its long, I'll warn you. It includes so much more than what my blog did, so please, enjoy my Tribute to New York.
Blog video part 1
Blog video part 2
And that's it, That was my New York Adventure.
Fin
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