Category Archives: Blog

March Winds

It’s been a cold, damp and windy March in the northeast this year. When it’s damp like this, it’s literally bone chilling. Most folks want to hunker down inside and spend the night watching TV, cooking and maybe even retiring early.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles before I sleep. Robert Frost

I take inspiration from poets who incorporate nature into their metaphors. On a recent bitter cold March night, I fought the weather and ventured out on a late evening walk to the Jacqueline Onassis Reservoir in Central Park in New York City.

March winds in the Park

I have a great winter coat that’s literally the size of the Michelin tire character. It’s ridiculous, but perfect for this kind of adventure. It makes you impervious to cold, with its head to toe embrace of warmth! I’ve made it a habit to explore things on the coldest days of winter in the northeast, for just this reason. Once, I spent an afternoon alone at The Bronx Zoo, walking through the nearly empty park. It was fantastic. I had a front row seat to the few animals that could wander out in the cold. This walk the other evening reminded me of that.

The runners are hunkering down at home on a bitter cold night!

There is definitely no other time of day, other than very much pre-dawn hours, that the running track at the reservoir is empty! It’s quite a sight to see and one that I couldn’t resist venturing out to explore on my own. Besides, who else would want to join me on a night like this one?

The Dakotas and reservoir on a cold night

The Dakotas standing tall on a cold winter’s night at the Reservoir

Standing on the abandoned runners’ track…looking west across the water, to NYC’s Dakotas towers, with the dark, dark backdrop of the sky. What could be more beautiful? Bundled up, heavy socks, layers of sweaters, a warm scarf, hat, gloves, wool socks and boots. Sounds like Switzerland in the winter! But what a great way to spend one of the coldest evenings of winter, out in the elements and treating myself to a great moment for “A Table For One”!

Valentine’s Day Is Here!

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I think it’s perfectly fine to indulge yourself with a glass of bubbly, a fabulous homemade dinner and anything else that you enjoy on Valentine’s Day. Just because you’re on your own doesn’t mean you shouldn’t celebrate! As a matter of fact, it’s important to pull out the stops!

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M. Schulz

Have some chocolate!

By now, you’ve shopped for cards, sent them to friends, picked up the roses and done some relaxing reading on the subject of love. The lead-up to the day should be really helpful. I think fully embracing the moment is key. Yes, I can also get pretty sentimental on a holiday like this, when I’m on my own. But that’s why facing it head-on is the best strategy, because either way, the holiday itself is unavoidable!

Sunset

So, as the sun sets on the holiday, set a beautiful table, enjoy your meal and settle in for a fabulous film, like “Love Actually”, or “Something’s Gotta Give”. And be sure to raise that glass of bubbly and salute yourself for having had an unexpectedly fabulous holiday. That’s how to celebrate Valentine’s Day at “A Table For One”.

Reading and Roses

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Second step towards Valentine’s Day on your own. Explore things you love to do. Expand the meaning of the day, to include some of the activities you enjoy most. I love flowers and the way they brighten the environment, even at the many stalls throughout the city. Particularly in winter, I notice them even more, as they burst out against the grey backdrop of the streets and sky. Why not treat yourself to a bouquet on Valentine’s Day? Don’t wait for someone else to give you roses! Challenge yourself to look at things differently.

“Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns. I am thankful that thorns have roses.” Alphonse Karr

Roses, roses, roses

While roses give such pleasure, so do books! Grab your favorite books on the topic of love and tuck into one, in celebration of the holiday. Enjoy a “refresh” on the subject of love. I keep some of my favorite books nearby at all times. A recent addition to my collection is “A Breviary of Psalms, Pictures & Poems”, written by my friend, Father Timothy Brown, S.J. Filled with beautiful reflections, it’s another inspirational and thought provoking book of his that illuminates new ways to understand love and life. Here’s one of his selected poems:

Reading and roses

The Early Morning

The moon on the one hand, the dawn on the other: The moon is my sister, the dawn is my brother. The moon on my left and the dawn on my right. My brother, good morning: my sister, good night.

Hilare Belloc

Incorporate the notion that the world around us offers endless beauty everyday and it’s easy to find ways to celebrate love in many forms. Not just through the people we love, but through the beauty of art, books, music, poetry, prayer, food, even nature itself. Love encompasses all things.

A simply wonderful way to approach Valentine’s Day as it arrives as “A Table For One.”

Here Comes Valentine’s Day

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As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m reminded that this can be a difficult holiday, if you’re not able to celebrate it with someone special. This year, I’ll be on my own, so I thought I’d do something different that I can share with you. I created a plan to incorporate some pre and post Valentine’s Day activities to try out a new way of celebrating being on my own!

“Rare as is true love, true friendship is rarer.” Jean de La Fontaine

Valentine’s Day friends

Strange as it may seem, this strategy, to extend the holiday over several days, is turning out to be very uplifting! On Saturday morning, I set out to buy cards to send to friends. Thinking about reinforcing my friendships by sending messages opened up my mind to the fact that others may be facing the upcoming holiday as well. And I saw an opportunity to touch them with a reminder that their friendship inspires me and makes me feel grateful.

Cards, cards, cards!

Emails and text messages, FaceBook and other social media are great ways to communicate with friends. But sending cards, through what has become known as “snail mail” is more fun on this particular holiday. I think it creates a different impact on the receiver.

Snail mail!

And it caused me to think about my friends, as I wrote notes to them. Getting all of the cards out in the mail shifted my attention from how the holiday will affect me, onto how it will affect them. And it gives me something to look forward to…their surprise when they receive the cards on Tuesday! That’s a great way to approach Valentine’s Day at “A Table For One!

Adieu 2016

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I think we can all say that 2016 shaped up to be a very challenging year. As we’re coming to a close, friends are posting lists of all the many shining stars across all spectrums of industry, arts, media that have been lost.

“Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year”. Ralph Waldo Emerson

This year included the very personal and profound loss of my mother. This holiday season has been difficult, as it is the first without her. She was the inspiration for this blog, as noted in my introduction. Indeed, she was a remarkable role model for me, throughout my life. A true pioneer, she ran her father’s factory in Brooklyn, NY during WWII. She was a thirty-something, when she met my father. A force of love, intellect and immense accomplishments, I don’t think she ever met anyone who didn’t fall immediately in love with her.

My Mother Marion

There wasn’t a topic she didn’t master, an experience she refused, or a single thing she wasn’t willing to try. She is deeply missed and always will be. I am so grateful to have had her in my life for so long. 2016 has been a difficult year, indeed. But her lively spirit, joie de vivre and courage to over come life’s obstacles and find joy in every day and every moment will always inspire me to do the same. And I hope that this blog helps each and everyone of you who reads it. She would love that we are all willing to celebrate our lives too…even when on your own!

Current Events

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Here in the good old USA, 2016 is a big election year! A new President will be elected next month. The choices are a bit daunting and unusual this time around. Perhaps there is no more important individual activity than voting!

“Healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.”

Winston Churchill

I think a large part of what makes a healthy citizen is balance and a really good sense of humor. While taking a walk the other day, I came upon an inspired window display.

Presidential Candidates with Humor

It’s almost Halloween and this is such an eye-catching display for both the holiday and the upcoming election. I had to laugh. I don’t typically take public political stands, but I do consider my vote to be impactful and every citizen’s to be so as well.

Solo obligations

I loved these pet toys on display in a New York City pet store window. They’re fun and I thought they put the dilemma of the 2016 Presidential Election into a different perspective that includes some good humor and relief.

2016 Your Own Vote Counts!

An important aspect of being on your own is remaining open and aware. This is a great example of discovering the unusual by remaining aware to what’s around you. Such fun and so rewarding. Keep your eyes open and your sense of humor close at hand! That’s a great “A Table For One” experience.

Go To The Beach!

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Why not treat yourself to a day at the beach alone? Beach days shared with good friends and family are wonderful. But it’s easy to forget how enjoyable a beach day can be, even when you’re on your own. Give yourself the chance to connect with your soul and take a rest from the formal activities that fill most of your days. Go!

“I have the world’s largest collection of seashells. I keep it on all the beaches of the world…perhaps you’ve seen it.” Steven Wright

Going solo to the beach is a miraculous experience. A day well spent on the beach, can be filled with wonder, relaxation and discovery. It’s like a week of vacation when you’re out there on your own! Unplug. Leave your devices at home.

Toes in the sand!

The first step is to go early, before the hot afternoon sun bakes down, creating a fiery, scorching bed of sand against your bare feet. Drop the sandals, opt for a really great foot scrub of sand and shells and just feel the sand in your toes. Feet feel happy, when freed up and let loose. And one of the only places left where bare feet can still happen safely, is on a beach!

Choose your sweet spot!

Next, carve out a spot that’s yours. Claim your space and set yourself up with a beach chair and umbrella, big towels, a floppy hat, great book, a sandwich, fruit and a large bottle of ice cold water to last the day. Plan to spend your time slipping the day well into a late afternoon of total rest and relaxation. Listen closely to the sound of waves crashing on the shore. Bring along a notebook and pen, to write your thoughts. No devices here.

Take a swim as frequently as possible. Enjoy drying off by taking a nice walk along the shore. Pick up a few shells and colorful rocks to display on a shelf when you get home. It will help to remind you how delicious a day at the beach alone can be. Next time you find yourself with a free day in spring, summer or fall, consider gifting yourself with the super indulgence of a beautiful day at the beach! That’s A Table For One!

The Mark Hotel

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The Mark Hotel, is a real gem, tucked away on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Great neighborhood and great location, on East 77th St. between Madison Ave. and Fifth Ave. just steps away from Central Park.

“A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.” Lao Tzu

Not only do I love traveling, I love to explore my own neighborhood and really take in the surrounding sights as though for the first time! In this case, The Mark Hotel is a wonderful stop on the way to Central Park. It’s got a lot to offer both guests and neighbors alike!

The Mark Hotel

Recently renovated, The Mark Hotel has a more than a new face. It features perhaps the most exclusive hot dog stand in NYC, if not the world! The Mark “Haute” Dog Stand is by Jean-Georges.

The Mark Haute Dog Stand by Jean-Georges

It features high-end gourmet organic chicken and grass fed beef hot dogs served with a special kimchi relish as well as other more familiar condiments. At $6 each, it’s a bit pricey for a hot dog, but well worth it as a unique eat! Highly recommended.

The Mark Hot Dog by Jean-Georges with kimchi relish!

And, after a “haute” dog by Jean-Georges, you’re ready for a ride down Fifth Ave. for a shopping trip to Bergdorf Goodman. The Mark keeps a branded Bergdorf Goodman bike on the ready.

The Mark Hotel’s Bergdorf Goodman custom cycle

Very creative partnerships that enhance what is already a wonderful hotel on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. A great way to enjoy a day exploring on your own.

The Mark’s Bergdorf Goodman Express!

check it out at www.themarkhotel.com. Now that’s a seriously wonderful experience for “A Table For One!”

Memorial Day

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Remembering the fallen and also those who fought and continue to fight in defense of freedom. I think that Memorial Day is a unique holiday of patriotic celebration. It’s even more poignant than the Fourth of July which is so exciting and celebratory.

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” Edith Wharton

I like to think of those who put their lives in harm’s way for our freedom as having had a calling and extraordinary vision. Our present was their future and so I think it’s very important to understand the depth and meaning of their sacrifice. Sometimes, this calls on some quiet time “alone” to meditate and connect to their heroic acts of bravery.

Memorial Day

This year, I was on my own for Memorial Day weekend. And so, I went in search of the largest American flag I could find, to photograph it and express gratitude to those who made the supreme sacrifice. It felt right.

Memorial Day sunset

And a moody sunset goes a long way to a heartfelt salute of the day’s end. If you find yourself alone on any holiday, be sure to find a way to celebrate it and honor it in your own way. It makes for a really memorable moment to treasure! And that’s “A Table For One”.

Central Park’s Conservatory Garden

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At the top of New York’s “Museum Mile”, between 104th and 105th Street on Fifth Avenue sits Central Park’s gorgeous Conservatory Garden. Six acres of beauty, divided into 3 smaller gardens, representing Italian, French and English traditional gardens are a sight to behold.

“How deeply seated in the human heart is the liking of gardens and gardening.” Alexander Smith

The Vanderbilt family built these gardens and the majestic gates leading into them is well known as “The Vanderbilt Gate”. Made in Paris in 1894, the gates originally stood before the Vanderbilt mansion at Fifth Avenue and 58th St. A magnificent, welcoming entrance for all.

The Vanderbilt Gate leading to the magnificent Conservatory Garden in Central Park

The Vanderbilt Gate to The Conservatory Garden, Central Park

This particular gathering place in Central Park is a “Quiet Zone”. Meant to invite meditation, calm and inspiration, the various gardens evoke a special sort of spiritual energy. When traveling on my own, I always love to explore the parks and gardens that populate so many cities. They provide a respite from the noise and hustle that make up city life.

Stunning pink and greens, in Central Park’s Conservatory Garden

Sundays are the most perfect day of the week for these kinds of explorations. On the classic “day of rest”, I always feel free to wander and pick up on a spontaneous whim and go wherever it leads me. Like the Sunday Drive, a good long walk on a Sunday is a luxurious indulgence.

City Gardens, islands of beauty and rest in the city

The memory of that day inspired my recent Sunday outing to the Conservatory Garden, here in New York. A late afternoon stroll was a balm to the soul. I think that we frequently overlook the things that are right in front of us. Sometimes, I try to apply my travel habits to my own home turf and set out on a Sunday afternoon as a “tourist”.

It’s the perfect way to revel in a Sunday afternoon adventure. “A Table For One”.

A TABLE FOR ONE

THE ART OF "BEING" ON YOUR OWN

Category Archives: Blog

March Winds

Valentine’s Day Is Here!

Reading and Roses

Here Comes Valentine’s Day

Adieu 2016

Current Events

Go To The Beach!

The Mark Hotel

Memorial Day

Central Park’s Conservatory Garden