Peace in the midst of chaos: Yoga in Times Square

What could be better than welcoming the summer solstice with yoga?  In Times Square?
Yes, it sounded crazy to me too.  I signed up as soon as the posters hit the streets:

New York has given me so many vivid moments, the sort that remind one to be grateful for life, and today's experience was yet another joyful one.  Thousands of yogis joined one or more of the three yoga classes held today, right in the middle of Times Square.  The city cleared several large spaces within the entire stretch of road, and we rolled our mats out in the street.  I will never see Times Square in the same way again.  It was difficult at first-- the roar of traffic, the advertising assault on one's eyes, the general chaos and tourists leaning over the barricades to watch and take photos.  Gradually, I was able to breathe, and get into the flow.

There were people of all ages and abilities.  Some were clearly better than others:

If you have ever wondered what Times Square would look like from the savasana (corpse) pose, here you go:

The end, and sheer bliss....

The Lemon Ice King of Corona

It is not often that I wake up dreaming of the dessert I had the night before.  Indeed, my brain often conspires to help me forget caloric indulgences as quickly as possible.

There was no forgetting the miracle I encountered last night, though:  The Lemon Ice King of Corona.  It is in Corona, Queens, far off the beaten track for me, and I had never even heard of it until last night.  Enter my friends G & E, who recommended that we stop there after a beautiful afternoon at Atlantic beach and dinner at Jordan's Lobster.

Oh my.  I have had ices before, but never like this.  Ingeniously blended with real pieces of fruit, perfectly textured and served at exactly the right temperature.  G laughed at my stunned and dreamy expression when I tasted her peanut butter serving.  I adored my coconut choice.  And E's spumoni was spectacular.  I loved G's flavor so much I ordered a second serving just for myself.

TLIKoC was established 60 years ago by the Benfaremo family.  Apparently they've had offers to franchise it, but have refused. The corner shop is across the street from a small park that features a bocce ball court encircled by lights and flags, and was in use with a multitude of spectators.  Outdoor chess and card games were also in play throughout the park.

A point of pride: Award of Distinction from Zagat:

How to choose??

Cheap ($1.50 for small!), and strict: Don't ask for two flavors!  One at a time...

As soon I got home I looked up the address to see how long it would take to get there again from the Upper East Side via public transportation.  It would require two trains and 22 minutes of walking time; 1 hour 15 minutes total.  For one small serving of Lemon Ice King of Corona's ice?  Unquestionably worth it, and I'm already planning my next trip.