That Little Island

We had qualms, I'll freely admit. A two-year-old who is not familiar with large cities is like a minefield. But then there is Grace. She's the perfect age to experience New York City for the first time.

See, there was a National Conference of Insurance Legislators meeting in New York, at the Times Square Marriott Marquis no less, and Joe needed his continuing legal education credits. Our bosses would pay room and board (to a point). When would we get this chance again? We decided to brave it. The compromise was finding a hotel away from the hustle of Times Square that was comparable in price (a little less actually) that could offer a suite with a kitchenette. Not as glamorous, but a practical choice, and it paid off.

We decided not to worry about nap time -- as you can see that took care of itself.

We quickly realized that the subway was too hot, loud and confusing to deal with while toting a toddler. But we we love to walk, and found cabs to be pretty darned affordable.

The first day, we arrived in the afternoon. I thought a ferry ride would help give Grace an idea of the size of this great city, and Joe and I really enjoyed the historical background that was provided by our guide.

It also was a nice way to beat the heat.





We met my good friend Beverly, who works in Manhattan and lives in Hoboken, for dinner and Eva didn't embarrass us too much, so that was nice. The next morning, Joe was off to the conference and Bev and her husband, Matt, joined us joined us for lots of walking, including a trek through Central Park.
Even though Eva is crying in this picture (because I stepped away from the stroller), most of the time she seemed to really enjoy the fast pace and all the people. Grace had to adjust a little to all the walking, but it wasn't long before she had picked up the city-dweller gate.

At the end of the day we met Joe at the Marquis for drinks. Expensive, yes, but the view can't be beat.


Bev and Matt were very patient with our kids -- spoiling Grace and not cringing at Eva's antics.

The next morning, I took Grace to the American Girl Place. This is a phenomenon I had not been aware of, but once I learned about, felt it would have to be part of a little girl's New York Experience. Of course I gave in and bought her a doll (which is just the beginning of what you can buy there. Believe me when I say that it was clear to me that I was on the low end of the socio-economic scale of these shoppers). We brunched at the Cafe, where everything was pink and girly (note the waiters' aprons).

Even Grace's pancakes were shaped like flowers. There were something like five dishes to choose from, and I could have even had a champagne cocktail. These folks know what they're doing.

The little box contained questions that Grace and I could ask each other to make conversation. "What was the best birthday party you've ever attended?" "What do you think you'll be doing 10 years from now?"

Chocolate mousse and a flower sugar cookie for dessert. Too much!

The last day, Bev and I took Grace to see the Broadway musical "Wicked." I hadn't even heard of the book/show until I planned this trip, but Bev correctly guessed that it would be entertaining for Grace ... and us. I thought the red eyes here were appropriate.

On our way out of town, Bev and Matt served us brunch at the lovely apartment with a great view of Manhattan. A really great trip that would not have been nearly as fun without them to guide us. Thanks guys!