I’m finally back in New York.

I’ve lived in a few places, from the Philippines, to the Bronx, to Richmond, Va., to smaller cities in Virginia for internships, to a quick stint abroad and most recently Fredericksburg, Va. The one place I always identified with was New York. After leaving the metro area at 13, I’d stayed connected to the city by keeping in touch with friends, visiting and reading New York papers.

I moved unexpectedly or belatedly, depending on how you look at it. It certainly didn’t happen in the circumstances I’d envisioned (though there were many versions in my head). But hardly anything does.

Before I left Richmond, I took a friend and a camera downtown to capture it in pictures.

Just in case I miss it.

Everyone needs some green in their lives.

Soul Ice. It was unusually hot that day, but no one was buying.
“You want some?”
“No, but can I take your picture?”
“Ok.”

A lively part of town.

Guy with guitar marches on. Lots of musicians in Carytown.

He settled on a spot beside the theater. I tipped him afterward.

The State Capitol. Lots of suits dining outside.