I struggle—but that doesn’t stop me.
I struggle—but it doesn’t change me.
I struggle—but days like this remind me exactly who I am.
Like I mentioned in my last post, this part of the story deserved its own space:
My solo trip to NYC.
A lot’s been going on lately, and looking back on that trip feels like hitting pause on the chaos—a reminder of the moment I did something bold. It might seem like no big deal to most, but for me, taking a solo trip to New York City was a dream come true. An opportunity. A win.
I had a goal—and I made it happen.
I’ve always loved train rides (blame Thomas the Tank Engine), so Union Station was the only way to start this journey. I had a plan. I was ready. This was my first time going to NYC alone without meeting someone on arrival. Last time, my friend and editor Josh Bradley was my guide, showing me cool spots and helping me get my bearings.
I remembered those places—so that’s where I headed.
First stop: Liberty Bagels, near the Apple Store.
They’re famous for the rainbow bagel, so obviously I had to get one in breakfast sandwich form. Now I was ready to walk the city.
Now, this meant more to me than just a tourist moment. After going through gallbladder removal and hernia surgery not long ago, walking NYC on my own felt like a major victory.
Next: the subway.
(And no, not the sandwich place—I just ate, silly.)
This was my first solo ride, and while Google Maps helped, I still ended up in Brooklyn by accident… but more on that later.
From Liberty Bagels, I headed to one of my favorite spots: The Strand Bookstore. I love books. I love the vibe. I could live there.
Before the trip, I had made a bucket list—
Grammy.
Publish a book.
Meet Collective Soul (again).
And… visit the Seinfeld diner.
So I mentioned it to the counter gal at The Strand and she said it wasn’t too far on the subway. That’s when my Brooklyn detour happened—but shout out to the two kind strangers who helped me get back on track. I made it to Tom’s Restaurant—the real-life spot behind that iconic sign. Worth. Every. Second.
After that, I had to hustle back across the city to meet my good friend George Usher. And somehow—like a true New Yorker—I made it just in time. We met at White Oak Tavern, and I’m so glad I got to see him again. George is the real deal: a rock star, a NYC legend, and someone I deeply admire. That moment mattered to me.
Then it was time.
The Bowery Electric. A live show. And meeting A. Michael Collins—my insanely talented producer—in person for the first time.
I got there early, saw the door cracked open… and I don’t usually do this, but something told me to walk in. Glad I did—because I caught soundcheck for Gene Loves Jezebel (yes, that legendary ‘80s band). Michael was on drums, surrounded by rock stars, and there I was—just taking it all in. He waved me over and next thing I know, we’re out on the street grabbing pizza.
(As a Connecticut guy, I have to say: our pizza’s still better. Sorry, NYC.)
We took a photo in front of this apartment complex, and Michael told me it was the building from Led Zeppelin’s Physical Graffiti cover… and the one from the Stones’ “Waiting on a Friend” video. Mind. Blown.
The show itself? Unreal. Every moment.
Hanging backstage was something I’ll never forget.
Big shoutout to Johnny, Nick, and Michael for the hospitality.
And A. Michael Collins—I’m so damn glad we finally met.
Fernando Perdomo—you’re next.