Happy holidays!
Christmas crept up on me this year. Matt and I wanted to explore Manhattan a bit because everyone recommended checking out the Christmas markets and decor. We kind of blew it with timing though as we waited until the last Saturday before Christmas – rookie mistake.
Emerson seemed nervous on the subway and held on to her stroller:)
We made our way to Rockefeller center to see the tree, and quickly realized that the crowds were miserable, especially with the stroller. Oh well! We decided to skip 5th avenue and the Bryant Park market and took Emerson to a playground instead.
We warmed up in a Starbucks, and then enjoyed the stroll down to Chelsea for our dinner destination: The Meatball Shop.
We were super early for dinner, but scored a great table right in the window. I’m not a huge Italian food person, but I loved our dinner. The cocktails were fabulous (and strong!) and I enjoyed being able to pick and choose the balls, sauce, and veggies. I went with the chicken meatballs over broccoli and cheddar risotto and added butternut squash on the side. The whole plate was topped off with mushroom gravy. It was rich and delicious, and I didn’t have any trouble polishing off this whole plate (minus the bread and a few bites to Matt).
In other food adventures, Matt and I went out on a date to Colonie! A friend recommended a babysitter, so we had her come over on a weeknight to meet Emerson. We walked a few blocks over to this cozy restaurant and ended up getting a seat at the kitchen counter. I had the most amazing bourbon drink, and we ordered a cheese board to start. This transition was been quite stressful at times, so it was nice to have quiet, baby-free conversation with Matt to unwind.
The food was outstanding. The menu looks standard with veggies, mains, and appetizers, but the flavor combinations are unreal. We had clams stewed with white beans, carrots with smoked ricotta, and a Branzino dish with shrimp bisque poured on top. I was impressed.
Talk soon!
Patricia
December 21, 2017 at 11:29 pmGive yourself time with the transition. Moving to a new place can be stressful. Especially when your husband is busy with a new job. When my children were young we moved a LOT. Even though children add a level of complication to a move, they also can help. Good excuse to get out and get acquainted with your new neighborhood. You’ll find activities that attract other kids and moms. I met some of my best friends through my children. Because my husband was so busy and traveled a lot I chose to stay home. It really was a gift and I feel lucky that I got to raise my own children. I took advantage of drop-in day care so I could takes a class, join a group of friends, etc. When they were older and my husband’s job required less travel I went back to work. I still cherish that time I had with them. And as I’m sure you’ve discovered, it’s not an easy job. It’s likely the hardest job. It looks like you are doing a great job figuring out your new normal.
Laura
December 24, 2017 at 8:02 pmThank you:)
Jasmin
December 23, 2017 at 5:01 pmIt’s my first time commenting on your blog but I’ve been reading along for a few years now. I was randomly reading back through your archives and came across this post which I found quite amusing because you actually did move to New York!
http://www.takingbackmytwenties.com/2013/10/22/celebrating-in-new-york/
Might you go back for that almond latte?
All the best on your new adventure.
Laura
December 24, 2017 at 8:02 pmHaha – def. need to have another one of those!!
Sarah
December 27, 2017 at 6:58 pmCentral Park and downtown are much better for exploring than midtown! West village and tribeca are so much fun and have great playgrounds too. Also the playgrounds in north battery park are awesome …you can even walk from Brooklyn bridge if you want,
Though you may want to wait until spring.
Check out cupofjo’s nyc guide with kids if you haven’t already
Laura
December 28, 2017 at 10:07 amThanks – I def. want to walk across the bridge!