Is that a map of Brooklyn? Or France? (hee)

My subject stayed nice and still, but I got nervous that she would realize
I was just inches from her, stealthily taking this shot. Oops, blurry. I moved.


But I got a clear shot before the V train arrived. Phew.

I pursued the 'Brooklyn Map Tote' and my subject to the end of the V platform at 23rd Street. I had half a mind to ask her where she bought it, because I kind of want one. But I didn't. Why spoil the wordlessness of our interaction.

Water tower wallpaper currently in all the Brooklyn Industries stores.
They have trademarked the water tower. Good idea.

The water tower makes me spend money. I have purchased an I 'water tower' BK shirt from Brooklyn Industries, and I would purchase the wallpaper if they start selling it. I live across from the water tower depicted. It is our apartment's signature water tower. It is our good luck charm. It watches over us. Word has it, Brooklyn Industries may start selling the signature water tower wallpaper in the near future. It was produced for all the store displays, and apparently people have been inquiring.

Below you can view the inside of my great new woodgrain tote. I was so excited that the lining is a map. I thought it was a map of Brooklyn. Or at least of Brooklyn's look-alike, France. But no. Strangely it is a German language map of Japan. There are so many great pockets inside the bag, that I have no idea what I will put in the outside flap pockets. The red topstitching is also a great feature. It is possible that the woodgrain tote will become my signature.

I moved into my bag immediately. We are very happy together.
Sadly, because of the snow, I had to use another bag today.
But when I get back home, I am reloading it.

I live in the Calais of Brooklyn. Aren't I fancy.

Conversely, the Calais-ites live in the Greenpoint of France.

France's Strait of Dover is our East River.
Paris=Bed-Stuy (hee)
England=Manhattan
Switzerland & Italy=Queens
Corsica=Rockaway Beach

Apparently, I am not the only one to see the similarity between the map of Brooklyn and the map of France! I have been telling people this for the past year. I was so pleased to see this sign [below] on the door of the Williamsburg culinary supply store, The Brooklyn Kitchen, when we bought our rolling pin, Christmas tree cookie cutters, and parchment paper. [see urge to bake]

Continuing my "Ghosts of Subway Advertisements Past" series, I found this one on the Manhattan-bound E platform. You must visit this piece before it gets papered over. It delights me that others appreciate the abstract remains created from ripped off subway posters.


Map of the U.S.A., artist unknown, 2007; photographed in sections so you can see the details.