Wow, catching up on the blog is difficult - that will teach me to go to work instead of writing!
Friday, Mark and I hopped the train to NY to meet up with Jen, David and the girls. Our annual holiday weekend celebration. This year, the National Treasure Tour, featuring the downtown area near Wall Street, as well as our visit with the "real" Santa and a view of the "big" tree!
On our way up to our hotel, we stopped in the Times Square visitors' center where we were able to catch a glimpse of a "ball" used in Times Square. We were also able to catch a glimpse of the wall of hopes and dreams. The wall features small, colorful pieces of paper, filled with the wishes of hundreds of people. These wishes will become a part of the confetti dropped at midnight when the ball rings in the new year.
As we arrived at the hotel we literally ran into the rest of our entourage. A quick visit to our rooms and then immediately back out to see the big man. A brisk walk south on 7th Avenue led us to the "train" that would deliver us to Santa. The line was much longer this year but Santa, he was well worth the wait.
We made a quick visit to the windows along Herald Square, which featured the story of "Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus." Then, a hop, skip and a jump up 6th Avenue led us to a fun little Italian restaurant. Jess joined us for dinner and the girls were thrilled!
After dinner we ventured back to the hotel, again via 6th Avenue where we walked past Bryant Park. The girls loved the skating rink, I loved the tree and Jen loved the little shops.
After spending a little bit of time relaxing, Mark and I headed out to take a peek at the big tree in Rockefeller Center. Amanda came along and we had a great time. The area was crowded, but not too bad. Amanda loves to watch the skaters and me, well I just love everything about New York at Christmas. The big tree, one of my favorite things!
So many of my holiday memories feature New York, it is wonderful to have the opportunity to go back, remember, and create new memories. I love New York!
