Now that I’m almost officially done with my full-time job, I can start in on that list of things I haven’t been able to do for the past twelve years. I wake up every morning and add something to the list. The top contenders at the moment:

1. Anything on Saturday.

Do you know how many fantastic cultural events in NYC only take place on Saturday? I do, because I’ve been able to go to a grand total of none of them for the past twelve years. Here I come, Mermaid Parade. Can’t wait for the Brooklyn Comic Festival. Prints Gone Wild? Good thing I don’t have to get up early the next morning.

2. Galleries

I kind of hate galleries, for many reasons that many people understand and sympathize with.  But they do show art there, for free, and I like art, and I like free, and sometimes that art is even worth seeing. And it’s easier to do now that I don’t have to be at work during all of the hours that galleries are open.

3. The High Line

The High Line is a sweaty packed freeway of tourists during most of the times that I have had the time to visit. But Wednesday mornings? Perhaps there’s hope.

4. Going on the Lam

Those of you who know me know that there’s nothing I like more than wandering around aimlessly in a new city, taking pictures and talking to no one. Much easier to do when you’re not expected to be at work the next day.

5. Afternoon runs 

You know what sucks? Forcing yourself to get up at 6am in the winter, in the dark, to go run 5 miles. Yes, I  know I don’t really have to, but you know what happens if I don’t run? I’m like one of those large breed dogs that starts biting the kids and chewing its fur off if it doesn’t run around on a regular basis. 2pm sounds civilized, it really does.