The urban obstacle course

As if it's not enough that I work off Fifth Avenue and therefore must navigate through hordes of European tourists every morning (many of whom, let's face it, are not as svelte as the media would have us believe), I am also in peril as I walk up the street from the sidewalk itself. Particularly in the warmer months.

Yes, fellow not-tall women, I am sure you know what I'm referring to: the dreaded heel-snag in the cracks of the sidewalk. Anyone who wears heels that are at all narrow has likely had this happen to her (or him, I don't judge). There you are, casually strolling along, when suddenly -- what's this? I am still moving but my shoe isn't? Ah, yes, that is because my poor heel had become wedged in the mystery substance used in the sidewalk gaps, which for some reason has a slightly rubbery consistency that softens in the heat. It is fairly embarrassing to have to spin around, hopping to avoid the frightening thought of putting one's bare foot on New York City pavement, and pluck your shoe from the crack. Ugh.