The Rodents of Unusual Size

While I’ve never lived in New York City, I’ve been fortunate enough to visit multiple times a year for work and getaways. I love every second. Despite the hearty smells that lurk in the summertime, particularly from the subway vents and piles of trash waiting to be picked up, there is something about the city that makes me feel invigorated and buzzing with life. Maybe it’s because despite being a world leader in fashion, business, theater, and the arts, it also knows how to be self-deprecating and poke fun at itself.

As I turned the corner, headed to brunch last week, I ran into these two rats. Delightful. They practically stopped me in my fast-paced tracks. They are also not that far off in size from real ones I’ve seen in actual parks around the city snacking on leftover food when someone has missed the trash can. Or, who knows, they could have climbed in and retrieved the almost-whole hotdogs themselves. They look strong, and agile. They’ve seen some things. They know how to survive in the concrete jungle. I could’ve watched the park rats for hours. I did not have hours to take in the massive fake rats, as New Yorkers frown upon you standing in the middle of the street to get a good photo, or suddently stopping on the sidewalk when they are right on your heel.

I’ll never stop enjoying what I might find around every corner. One day I might live there, but until then, I will relish these small visits throughout the year and see what else the city might reveal.