Yup! That about explains it all. NYC on a summer's day in the subway. Prior to having a child, I actually didn't mind the subway. When I was in school I did most of my reading and homework while riding the train from one location to the next. I conquered many great novels (and No not the chick lit variety, but actual novels). I planned my days, my schedules, and my cases (when I was a therapist). I knew which train went where, and could basically tell anyone how to get anywhere. Next to walking (which I still love) riding the subway trains was oddly relaxing. In summer they were cool and in winter they were a welcome warmth.
All that has changed. I now judge a train by its direct connection, elevator accessibility, and number of stops. I now see the wooden benches as bed bug collectors and poles as grease magnets. I can see danger in every corner of the platform. I am aware of every rodent and insect. A 15 minute trip feels like hours. All this because I have a beautiful little child who thinks poles are for dancing, seats are for licking, and platforms are super cool to look down over and spot rats.
So when I needed to take the train this past weekend and the trains were running on their Holiday/Weekend/Summer schedule I decided to wait it out on the Union Square platform where the artist, Tom Otterness has designed several sculptures of "the man at work". Isa and I explored all the sculptures along the platform, and the photo above was definitely a favorite for her. His work can also be viewed in Battery Park which Isa also has explored and climbed upon.
I still can't quite relax on a subway anymore, but at least motherhood has forced me to explore things I may not have in the past.
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