Every week since 1976, Metropolitan Diary has published stories by, and for, New Yorkers of all ages and eras (no matter where they live now): anecdotes and memories, quirky encounters and overheard ...

At age 10, about to turn 11, Evie Riski received a diary from her father as a Christmas gift. A few days later, Evie made her first entry. “Grandmas were at our place,” the 10-year-old began in ...