I met Vincent in the Manhattan Diner. I had just finished my breakfast, and was about to go get some more pictures of the luscious architecture that abounds in the Upper West Side. When in walks this man, who sat down beside me in his Hugo Boss and his perfectly tied scarf and beret.
I had to talk to him. But more importantly, I had to get his photograph.
"Excuse me, do you mind if I take your picture? You've got a New York face."
Looking over his glasses at me he replies (with a big genuine smile), "Why I'd be absolutely flattered."
Vincent loves travel. He loves the Portuguese language. He is also fond of his beautiful city.
I will call Vincent this week to thank him for his generosity in posing for my pictures. (Yes, I have his phone number. Isn't this city something?) To top it off, he offered to show Julian and me around the city the next time we go there. Vincent, you were the cherry on the cake of my visit. Thank you, and Merry Christmas!
For the rest of you, a song. Do enjoy!!!
You are so brave. I still find myself sometimes embarrassed to be taking photos of objects, taking photos of people, even in a crowd makes me feel nervous. Great portrait.
Posted by: Kath | December 13, 2008 at 10:35 AM
oh Gilly...I just love you. I haven't had a lot of free time lately. Way too much going on right now but took the time this morning to come visit. So glad I did. You make me smile, always. Love reading about your travels. You make it come to life for me.
Love NYC!! Marc and I went about 2 months after 9/11. We were nervous and scared at first to even step foot in the airport but it only took the cab ride to our hotel room for that fear to be forgotten. Sam, our cab driver, was so funny, welcoming and friendly....although an absolutely insane driver! I am sure there is a yellow cab somewhere in NYC with the imprints of my hands still pressed into the seat lol! It was by far the best holiday we ever had. The city is remarkable, the people even more so. We spent an entire morning in a Starbucks just people watching. We could have stayed forever. You never, ever forget the Big Apple once you've been there. I want to go back so badly. I turn 40 in 2 years...uh in a year and 1/2. I would love to celebrate it there. Marc and I always say we will get there someday to be in Times Square when the ball drops on a new year.
Your pictures are beautiful and your stories so wonderful to read.
xo
Posted by: Lisa P | December 13, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Great photo! And that's one of the things I loved most about living in New York - every day, new opportunities to meet interesting people. xoxox
Posted by: Tara Bradford | December 13, 2008 at 10:53 AM
beautiful photo.....people ARE good
Posted by: Leslie | December 13, 2008 at 11:17 AM
When we take the time to acknowledge others, with a smile and knowing nod, a kind word....I truly believe it comes back double. Some people don't believe that can happen in a bustling city like NY but truly in many ways there is a small town mentality there. You just have to have your eyes and ears open....which you did! How wonderful for you AND for Vincent.
XOXOXOXO
Posted by: Lisa Swifka | December 13, 2008 at 12:12 PM
He does have a New York face! Great photo too.
Posted by: Mary T. | December 13, 2008 at 02:22 PM
It shows what kind of person you are...that allows a person to open up. He does have a NY face...
Posted by: stephanie | December 14, 2008 at 11:51 AM
he is just so stylin' ~ i would love
vincent ~ such a genuine open
thoughtful bright face:)
it is your beautiful heart dear gils
that attracts same~souled spirits...
it's the law of attraction at it's best:)
muah!
Posted by: maddie | December 14, 2008 at 05:01 PM
I feel as if I've been to New York myself, by following these posts!
Pssst, there is a Christmas greeting for you at Word garden, Gillian. :-)
Posted by: Shay | December 14, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Vincent was very approachable. Had he said no, I would have just thanked him and went on my way.
But he welcomed me, and was very engaging. A lovely man.
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | December 15, 2008 at 02:37 PM
...and I just love YOU! It would be fun to go for Christmas and New Year's eve. I think the place is pure magic. Miss you!
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | December 15, 2008 at 02:38 PM
I agree. I met lots of fabulous people, all willing to share their little slice of New York with me. All so proud to be from there too. I really would love to go back in the Spring. xo
(Care to join?)
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | December 15, 2008 at 02:39 PM
Yes, outwardly he caught my eye because of his mannerisms and his esthetic. Really savvy! And then nice, what a bonus.
Well, I attracted YOU into my life now didn't I? Ah the power of the Universe~!
xoxo
Posted by: Gillian daSilva | December 15, 2008 at 02:41 PM
And I bet you stayed at Avenue ..
Posted by: Daryl | December 16, 2008 at 02:56 PM
Oh the characters you will meet in New York, in this world. :)
Posted by: susanna's sketchbook | December 23, 2008 at 05:03 PM
This is wonderful in so may ways...how I wish I could visit my favorite city with someone with your sensibilities. I too love to take photos of strangers..; ) I love to heartheir stories but I also love to create my own about them.
How I have been enjoying catchig up with you.
Love,
Sue
Posted by: Sue | December 29, 2008 at 10:51 PM