Down but not out on Interstate 87

A trip to upstate New York showed me how big this country really is. Passing the Appalachian mountains on a coach made Ben Nevis look like a mere pimple on the earth's surface.

The mountains were flanked by vast forestry and the occaisional small town. I was surrounded by a family that had been evicted and were literally moving everything they owned, or at least could carry, with them further north to where some friends had agreed to put them up.

The malls had long since disappeared and it was fairly obvious there was little work available to these people. Coupled with the downturn which had further turned the screw on them, they had no choice other than to join the exodus to a bigger city in order to take up a kind offer.

This made me feel lucky to be in a somewhat secure position. And at least not have an entourage of children to worry about.

In total there were four kids. All of whom had stuffed their favourite toys and clothes into a clear bin bag. The father and mother had also done the same. It seemed to be an awful predicament. But they were upbeat. It could be worse right? I was impressed by their outlook on the situation.

The kids found the whole situation incredibly exciting. They played, laughed and smiled. I was being used as a motorway for the youngest son's toy car. He sat beside me and had no inhibitions about being my friend.

His mother kept apologising to which I told her it was fine. Being an uncle I know my place when the toys are out.

Meanwhile, his baby sister spent the whole journey either sucking on a bottle or staring at my beard. She appeared incaptivated by it. Until I'd look at her that is. Then she'd hide her head in shame of being caught. Perhaps she was just shy. So I pretended not to notice her watching me out of the corner of her beady young eyes.

Soon we arrived at a downtown bus depot. I was reading at the Empire State literary festival. Upon arrival I noticed their hall of fame included no other than Walt Whitman and JD Salinger. I was in good company.

The auditorium seated 400. I felt like an ant sat up on stage. But was warmed by the heartfelt reception my poems received.