Venturing Out

By Carol

Although we didn't get too much snow this year in the northeast, it's been a long grey winter anyway - or at least we feel that way since we are still getting 45 degree days here in May (!) I started itching for some adventure somewhere close to home. Who ya gonna call? - my photo buddies! Michele (who has written here and is now blogging and teaching at Art of Intuitive Photography in NYC) and Janis, (who is part of our photography family here) are always up for anything, and they did not disappoint! They suggested a day at Coney Island, and since they were willing to drive this country girl there, I was on board!

Of course the park has been world famous since the time of flannel bathing costumes, which by the way, were recommended wear since salt water swimming was still very suspect in 1876. The dress code called for loose fitting and conservative cover, and pamphlets warned ladies of hysteria if they went in too fast. The park has a long and varied history, but a major event occurred in 1893 when George and Mary O'Donnell honeymooned in Chicago at the "World Exposition" and saw the first wheel made by George Ferris. Seeing it as a huge money maker, George came home and raised money to build one on Coney Island. The largest ferris wheel in the world was delivered in 1894 and spurned concessions and steeplechase rides and freak shows ever after. The Coney Island we know from the movies was born

Can you imagine an apartment under the coaster??

The day wasn't as sunny as we had hoped, and we knew we would be fighting blown out skies in our pics, but I love to see a new part of the world - especially an iconic place I had heard about all my life!  (Yes, I realize it's only about an hour and a half away, but I told you - I don't do city and turnpike driving well!) I was surprised at how much smaller Coney Island looked than in the movies. The old Woody Allen sagas, and more recently "Brooklyn" make it look as big as the Jersey shore boardwalks that I am used to, but it is actually very intimate now. However, it more than makes up for its size with icons that have been around since the 1930's. Tillie is looking over you everywhere you go. We saw the parachute jump ride. And then there was the Cyclone -the oldest wooden roller coaster. I cannot believe people ride that thing - but Michele says she does every year. (some comfort zones are not made to be walked out of - at least that's my excuse....)

The park mascot "Tillie" was a "frightful funny face with  44 grotesque teeth." Considered scintillating, it  hinted at impropriety!

The early rides sometimes made ladies ankles show in the wind - a big thrill for the park characters!

The Parachute Jump!

Although we saw the original Nathan's Hot Dog joint, we opted for the equally famous Wahlberger and OMG! - worth the trip right there! Original recipe sauces, pickles, and freshly thin sliced onion rings from red onions! We got an adorable waiter, who couldn't have been more Brooklyn if he was from a movie cast.

We caught some dapper gentlemen, and elderly couples sunning on the benches, and some of the usual boardwalk characters. We came across the Coney Island Freak Show School where you can develop some new hobbies and talents! I loved the sign - "LOOKA_LOOKA !".

Looka Looka!!!

With full bellies and happy smiles, we headed home! Once again, I encourage you to take a vacation near your home and see what this varied country has to offer right in your own back yard. A few hours can make you feel miles away from home and routine!  Do it this week! And send us some postcards in our gallery!