neighborhoods change, but we're all still the same

it's no secret that new york is alive, but sometimes even i find myself amazed at the rapid, aggressive manner in which the city procreates. maybe that infamous "summer smell" is something of an urban miracle grow?

after spending the two previous weekends on the west coast, i returned to one of my typical stomping grounds in the east village this past weekend, and with some extra time to kill between dinner and a show, i took a little stroll through a cross-section no larger than two avenue blocks by five streets. without exaggeration, there were no less than ten brand spanking new establishments--bars, restaurants, and shops that had materialized out of thin air sometime in the past month. a few formerly abandoned places were suddenly alive, while others had completely changed names, appearances and menus in a matter of weeks, not to mention the condo tower that has risen about 10 stories from the foundation that was there last time i walked by.

change...is good, necessary, vital. it is the nature of the city, however unforgiving, to stay one step ahead of itself, and to the benefit of most of us, it keeps things interesting. most people have to move for a change of scenery. in new york, the scenery will change for you.