Getting Out
On Tuesday, the last day of Kathleen's winter break, I went over to the West Side to have lunch with her at Café Lalo. Kathleen has spent some pleasant half-hours at this palace of sweets, and she wanted to introduce me to it. When she told me that the tables were "very small," I ought to have known better. Well, I did know better. But I wanted to indulge her, frankly. So even when the tables turned out to be smaller than small, and the menu turned out to be so not a me kind of menu (at least for lunch), I was a good sport and didn't complain. Now I can say that I have done Café Lalo, and henceforth leave it to the high school students who keep it busy in the middle of the day.
This afternoon, I treated myself to a croque monsieur at Restaurant Demarchelier, one of three neighborhood croqueries. I'm fondest of the ones that they serve at Jacques, on 85th Street, but when I was there last week they weren't making croques, for a reason that remained veiled to me despite persistent questions to the waiter. I like Demarchelier very much, but does sit athwart Park and Fifth Avenues, and I'm happier with a slightly scruffier clientele.
Sometimes I'm restless, and I simply have to go out, but it doesn't happen often. Neither today nor two days ago was it the case. What drove me outdoors was a sad truth that has percolated through my dura mater in the two and a half years that I've been reading Édouard's Web log, Sale Bête: I need to get out more. From his lair in the Village, Édouard ranges far and wide, frequently engaging in interstate travel, and he always has his camera handy. I have observed, although not to Édouard himself, yet, that while I always photograph New York scenes from the sidewalk, Édouard shoots from the middle of intersections. I pray that this will not lead to an untimely demise, but it does make for better pictures. Inspired by his example, I took this picture of Demarchelier while standing on the double yellow line in the middle of 86th Street.
Comments
Cafe Lalo looks lovely from the outside. I like the warm colors.
I too have a daily costume, one I've gradually developed since I've gotten older and am a bit heavier. A jumper (pinafore dress) in different colors with a pretty top underneath. It's comfortable.
E.M.
Posted by: Ellen Moody | January 4, 2007 03:54 PM
Faites attention !
By the way, I've been staying indoors more, and my camera's acting up, to boot.
Happy 2007 !
Posted by: Édouard | January 5, 2007 04:43 PM
Hello there!
Coming from someone who doesn’t chance upon the city as much you do, I think the Big Apple possesses a unique charm that makes even photographs of hotdog vendors stand out.
By the way, I came across your blog through my friend Migs. He mentioned that you once helped him out when he had a case of writer's block.
Cheers!
Kirby
Posted by: Kirby G. | January 7, 2007 09:40 AM