Random NYC Encounter: GMA’s Robin Roberts, the Heart of Times Square

"Heartwalk" in Times Square, the Sculpture was Designed by Situ Studio, it Includes New York and New Jersey Boardwalk Boards Salvaged from the Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy (2013)
“Heartwalk” in Times Square, the Sculpture was Designed by Situ Studio, it Includes New York and New Jersey Boardwalk Boards Salvaged from the Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy (2013)

Two of the reasons I love New York City are it’s consistent yet random. A contradiction, right? I know when walking the streets of Manhattan, specifically through Times Square, I’ll feel a vibrant energy visitors and locals alike embrace. The ball of energy is a combination of sights, smells and sounds – not all pleasant – that make New York unique and I love it. No matter the time of year, spring, summer, fall or winter, I’ll find it.

Although I know to expect the energy, there’s also the unexpected. I never know what new treasure will be waiting for me in Times Square or who I’ll spot on the street. Last spring it was Tracy Morgan in the middle of Times Square. This year, it was the beautiful “Heartwalk”, selected as the 2013 Times Square Valentine Heart. It was designed by Situ Studio and includes boardwalk boards from New York and New Jersey salvaged from the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy (2013).

Yes, standing on the glass red steps behind the heart would have been the best photo vantage point since I would have been elevated to look into the heart but because there was a light rain, law enforcement officials were keeping people off the famous steps.

Ice Skating in Bryant Park, NYC, Feb. 20, 2013
Ice Skating in Bryant Park, NYC, Feb. 20, 2013

I whole-heartily admit I’ve only scratched the surface in all the cool (literally and figuratively) things to do in the Big Apple and thought it was pretty nifty seeing an outdoor ice skating rink in Bryant Park. Best of all, there were a few dozen people enjoying it with a mix of graceful turns and awkward falls. Important thing is, everyone seemed to be having a grand time and it was just past 10:30 in the morning.

Robin Roberts Waves to Fans as She Leaves the GMA Studios Following Her Return After Being Gone for Nearly Six Months to Fight a Life-Threatening Illness, New York City, Feb. 20, 2013
Robin Roberts Waves to Fans as She Leaves the GMA Studios Following Her Return After Being Gone for Nearly Six Months to Fight a Life-Threatening Illness, New York City, Feb. 20, 2013

Robin Roberts Returns to GMA

“Good Morning America” anchor Robin Roberts returned to the desk this morning after being absent for nearly six months to fight a rare blood disorder called myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The crowds came out to the GMA studio to show their support and although the studios were only a hop, skip and a jump, I watched her triumphant return in the comfort of my room at Hilton New York.

Robin Roberts Glowing as She Leaves GMA Studios Following Her First Day Back After Being Gone for Nearly Six Months, New York City, Feb. 20, 2013
Robin Roberts Glowing as She Leaves GMA Studios Following Her First Day Back After Being Gone for Nearly Six Months, New York City, Feb. 20, 2013

I was early for my business appointment this morning which was near the GMA studios. Passing the time, I noticed people standing outside with cameras in hand anxiously awaiting someone. Before I could grab my “real” camera out came one of Robin’s sisters followed by Ms. Roberts! Her smile was bright and broad, spanning from cheek to cheek. Fans cheered, “Robin! Robin!” She waved to fans and I think either signed someone’s book or accepted a book from a fan, then hopped into a vehicle with her entourage.

I imagine she was tired but she really looked great and glowed with happiness. Honestly, I rarely watch “Good Morning America” but I truly admire Ms. Robert’s strength and determination to fight.

Welcome back Robin!

New York City, I love you. Hope we meet again real soon and hope I can spend more than 24 hours experiencing more of what you have to offer…

Additional New York City Related Articles

City Guide: New York City

See New York City Through Eyes of a Local with Context Travel

My Budget Business Trip to New York City

S is for Serendipity 3 in New York City

O is for Old

Mario Batali Brings Italy to Manhattan with Eataly

First 12 Hours in New York for TBEX ’10

Discover Naughty New York with the Lady’s Guide to the Sexy City

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Jenn

Jennifer A. Huber is an award-winning travel and outdoor blogger and writer in Southwest Florida. Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., a hiking trail led her to a career path in the tourism industry for more than 30 years. She spent a decade with a park management company in Yellowstone, Death Valley, and Everglades National Parks. She founded the travel blog, SoloTravelGirl.com with the goal of inspiring others to travel alone, not lonely. The unexpected death of her former husband in 2008 reminded her how short life is. His passing was a catalyst for sharing her experiences with the goal of inspiring and empowering others to travel solo. Jennifer holds a Travel Marketing Professional certification from the Southeast Tourism Society, is a certified food judge, member of the NASA Social community, and alum of the FBI Citizens Academy. When not traveling, she is either in the kitchen, practicing her photography skills, or road tripping with her dog, Radcliff.

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