i dropped the ball

What they never say on the news at New Years is that all those people in the freezing rain at Times Square have actually been there for 5+ hours. I only learned this fact last night after attempting to enter the area around 9:00pm only to be told to by several police blockades several times to continue north. 40 blocks later I was finally told that no one else was entering the area for the rest of the night and the only way to have a chance in is to start heading that way around 3:00pm.

So after my very crowded and lively walk up 9th ave. those 40 blocks with thousands of New Yorkers and tourist from all over the world I promptly turned around and made it home just in time to watch that silly ball drop on tv!!! hmmm so now I know for further reference. However, I can't imagine ever subjecting myself to 6+ hours in Times Square just to watch a big ball drop in the freezing rain. I guess the tradition of doing it is what makes it cool.....or something.

I do have to say the walk up 9th avenue was an experience in itself that sort of made my futile attempt to reach Times Square worth it. I have never seen so many people on such a major street + taxis + police on horses + lots of ppl selling silly 2006 sparkly glasses + lots of trash + all kinds of other sights moving so quickly toward something (nothing really) in such an odd organized chaotic way. Guess you have to be there to appreciate it, sorry for the rambling. also due to the focused nature of my walk up, I did not take any pictures, but I did manage to snap this one of some fellow turned away from Times Square visitors.

Happy New Year from New York everyone!!