But, on Broadway's crowded sidewalk, I had my expressionless "walking face" on, as did everyone else. I found myself keeping up a brisk pace behind a tall, young woman, whose "look" could not escape my attention. Her height was enhanced by high-heeled, thigh-high boots. She wore a short, short mini skirt, and a short red leather jacket. She had un-natural red hair that was straight and cut in a severe bob. It was probably a wig. She wore huge hoop earrings. I never did see her face, but I'm sure she was wearing lots of makeup and maybe even false eyelashes! I felt short and funny behind her, carrying my over-sized bag and wearing flat shoes and conservative clothing.
To our right, there was a man handing out flyers. You've seen the type. They, too, always keep a straight face. They often make a noise with their papers to get you to look at them, and then they try to give you whatever it is they are handing out. I've mastered the art of saying, "No, thank you," without breaking my stride. At least I'm polite and don't ignore them, as most New Yorkers do! The woman in front of me ignored this man. When it was my turn, I said my, "No, thank you," but then locked eyes with him and smiled. He was going to move on, stone-faced, to try to hand a flyer to the next person, but first, he quickly and broadly smiled back at me. Without uttering a word, it was our way of saying, "Get a load of HER!"
I smiled all the way to Eatily, and then on to Penn Station. That moment made my day, even more than the cannoli. I love New York.
