New York....it had been way too long. I promise not to let that much time go by before my next visit. As we drove into the city and stepped out of the car, feeling excited and happy that our day got off to an excellent start by finding a free parking space, I was instantly transported back to a different time. Those carefree days before kids. I love my life, but it's nice to be able to step outside of it every now and then. It gives us perspective, helps us appreciate all we have. And it gives us a break!
I spent the day with one of my best friends. We started the day with massages, which is an excellent way to start any day. We met two other friends for lunch and had the best time relishing our freedom. We moved at our own pace, reminding ourselves how different that is from the everyday at home, when we are responsible for moving at the speed of our kids. We of course talked about our kids and husbands, but we also talked about life, work, movies, home, and how much fun we were having. An uninterrupted adult conversation is a beautiful thing.
We saw 'Once' on Broadway, and it was spectacular. I was moved by the play and awestruck at the amount of talent displayed on the stage. So amazing. We ended the night at a karaoke club with another group of friends. If you've only done karaoke a few times as I have, each outing will prove to be so memorable and hysterical that you will remember every song. As familiar songs were chosen, I was instantly reminded of other nights. Alanis Morissette brought me back to college, singing at a house party with my little sister. Guns 'N Roses brought me back to my older sister's bachelorette party.
We got a few hours of sleep before getting up, enjoying a New York bagel, and heading back to our families. My cheeks hurt from smiling, my throat hurt from singing/screaming, and my heart was full from spending time with friends. It was a beautiful weekend, and the perfect way to begin the 40th celebrations.
I forgot how bright it is in Times Square.
I don't know what I'm going to do when I move and Bryan's parents are 6 hours away. I've become so dependent on them keeping Emma every other weekend so that I can feel like an adult. I digress! I'm so glad you had a fun weekend. :) I've never been to NYC, but I'm hoping this year. The good thing about moving to the middle of nowhere for lots of money is travelling.
ReplyDeleteAwwww! That was awesome Mare! Made me feel like I was stepping back in it, too. I was hoping you'd post a pic of you on your about-to-turn-40-celebratory weekend. Or, are they really just too embarrassing? ;)
ReplyDeleteIt sounds wonderful Mary, am very envious!
ReplyDelete"Once" is one here in London too & I hear it's amazing.
Good for you for getting away, there's nothing like girl time is there?
We have booked our stay in Amsterdam next month....can't wait! I will let you know how our apartment works out. I found a great "family map"....if you go, I must send you a copy Xx
Hollie - sounds like you're just trading one benefit for another. Traveling is awesome! I hope you get to visit NYC...it's as cool as you think.
ReplyDeleteDawn - I totally missed you the entire time. We didn't really take many pictures, and my phone camera sucks. We took a couple of us - I think one ended up on Facebook - but no, nothing from karaoke. Although wait...I seem to remember Ali taking some video. Oh god. :-)
Simone - I definitely recommend seeing Once if you ever get the chance. And we just booked our trip to Amsterdam too! We're going to Barcelona and Amsterdam in mid-August. I can't wait either! We will be staying with friends, but I would love to see the family map and hear about the fun things you do while you're there!