The New Normal

Alright, so I'm not commuting much by train right now with my current job, but I wanted to get back in the habit of posting sketches and ideas I have for commuting.  The phrase, "The New Normal" has been applied to many facets of our lives over the past few years.  In this mini illustration, I think I've illustrated a result of our new goals and expectations in our society.  Better yet, this is exactly what happened last summer coming home from my road trip across the country.  The cash lanes at the George Washington Bridge going into Manhattan had no delay, while there was a ten minute wait for anyone trying to use the E-ZPass Lanes - go figure.

It's Not A Commute, It's Cross Country!

Badlands National Park in South Dakota

Hi, a quick update if you're checking in on my commuting blog.  I'm spending the summer driving across the United States from New York City to the West Coast and back.  Check out my watercolor sketches and updates at one of my other blogs: theartofaroadtrip.blogspot.com

I should be back with more updates for this blog in September!  And remember, select prints of my artwork from this commuting blog are for sale at Images of Old Greenwich in southern Connecticut.  Contact Marcos Torno, 203-637-4193 for details!

Evening Acrobatics

It happens every night starting at about 4:30pm.  They come out from everywhere and every direction.  And if you stand in the way you're going to get run over.  Welcome to the evening rush on the Grand Concourse in Grand Central Terminal.  Now, just remember, you still have to make sure you're getting on the correct platform.  

Reflections in the Bar Car

For all you romantics in the world there's still a little nostalgia left commuting home on Metro North.  There are a scattered few Bar Cars left where commuters can grab a drink and chat up their peers or just drink away the day.  Or, you end up buying something from one of the white carts sitting at the top of the platform in Grand Central.  Either way, as you can see from above, there's a certain evolution in consumption as the week passes - we'll just call it preparation for St. Patrick's Day this upcoming weekend.  Cheers!

February Tunes

Ever wonder what your peers are listening to?  Well you probably could care less (especially if you're stuck next to that certain someone who is cranking the volume for the whole vicinity to hear).  But, just for fun I made a few predicitions - do you agree? (Click on the picture to get a better view).

Give me your Thirsty, Cranky, Caffine Deprived Masses

For all those of you in the world who need your second cup before you get into work.

Looking Up and Heading Home

Sometimes they say it's all about the journey.  For the weary commuter, emerging out of the Park Ave. Tunnel and into the fading light splashing against the window panes of Harlem, this would be true.  Tucked away in a seat, somewhere between the office desk and the front door of home, the commuter looks out across the landscape, happy to be in transit, and not quite at the destination.

Peace, Love & Joy

The view from Santa's Sleigh as he flies over New York!

Marathon Commuting

Wouldn't it be nice if you had your own cheering squad to get you home every night?  Normally, just getting out of work is motivation enough to get to the train or bus - but sometimes it can be daunting.  Getting to Grand Central can be a marathon all by itself if you work far from a subway stop or have to change subway lines.  And if you're tired, or it's raining, it can be all the more of a chore.  So lets get some barricades, some cheering people enjoying their Happy Hour, and go cheer on your co-workers as they sprint up Park Ave. South to 42nd Street.  After all, who said the elite runners in the marathon should have all the fun?

Keep On Chugging Along

It's changed over the past week.  The air is sharper, the colors deeper, and you can almost smell the leaves as they start falling to the ground.  And just as the season has changed, so has my commute.  I'm no longer commuting daily by train into Manhattan.  My current job is closer to home, and I admit driving on I-95 is just not the same (but I see some beautiful sunrises). 

I will continue to post images that reflect my current and past commuting experinces.  I also hope to have some new adventures; whether it's trying other commuting methods or just going for a ride.  So keep on checking in, and I'll keep on chugging along....