Happy Last Day of School!!

It's my last day of work for the summer and I couldn't be more excited. Here's a little something to put a smile on your face!

Happy summer!

- Lindsey

A New York State of Mind

On May long weekend, husband and I had the privilege of visiting one of the greatest cities in the world! It was an incredible, adventure-filled four days and here is my take on some of the places we visited.

#1. Top of the Rock observatory.

This is one of two places that tourists go to see New York from above (besides going on a helicopter tour). The other place that people often go is to the Empire State Building. It is much more well known that the Top of the Rock building (thanks to Sleepless in Seattle and King Kong), but apparently the theme of that building is "wait". Wait in line to get in tickets, wait in line to go up the elevator, wait in line to go up to the second floor, and then once you're finished with the view, you've have to wait all over again to get down. Not for me.

What we loved even better than not having to wait, was the fact that our pictures of the New York skyline included the Empire State Building in it!

Win.

#2. Brooklyn.

We did not spend the amount of time here that I would have liked to, but what a cool place. If it was it's own city, it would be the fourth largest city in the States. It's the birthplace of so many artists, from authors, poets, painters, musicians, you name it. There is also an amazing pizza place in Brooklyn called Grimaldi's. YUM!

#3 Times Square

The first time you see Times Square you think it's quite cool. So big, so flashy. The 2nd, 3rd, and all other times you have to come across it, whether to transfer to another subway line, or meet up with a tour group, it becomes quite annoying. Do yourself a favour and go there once, look around, go for a walk around the block, buy something tacky, and then determine that you never need to go back.

#4 Central Park

Central Park really is a beautiful park. Set right in the centre of the city, it really is an iconic New York attraction. So many movies have filmed scenes here, and it's easy to see why. It's a garden oasis from the busy New York streets. Rent a bike, go for a walk, plan a picnic. Plan a visit to Central Park in the middle of your trip so you can take a minute to breath and relax, while the rest of the city moves 100mph around you. 

#5 The Museum of Modern Arts (MoMA)

If you're super into all things art, you could probably spend a whole day here. However, if you're like me and you just kind of enjoy art, make a list of your favourite pieces at the MoMA, blitz through the museum to find them, stand back and enjoy for a minute or two, then head on out of there because there is so much of New York still to see!!

The above picture is a piece by Andy Warhol.

Below is Van Gogh's Starry Night

Monet's Water Lilies (LOVE this one)

#6 Yankee Stadium

My husband and I LOVE going to baseball games. It's just so different than watching a game on TV (which I find to be quite boring actually). Going to a Yankees game is pretty expensive, especially if you plan on eating there. I think we spent $10 on two hot dogs... eek! But the atmosphere in that place is so exciting. If you go, don't worry about getting a good seat, anywhere in the stadium is a good seat. Get into the game, sing the songs, stand up for a home run, buy a pennant. Don't just sit there, get into it!

#7 9/11 Memorial

This one doesn't need a lot of explanation. It's a very humbling experience. They built fountains where the two towers stood, and the rushing water is supposed to drown out the sound of the city. The names of the deceased surround each of the fountains, and if they were from a certain fire hall or paramedic team, that info is included as well. The fee to get in is by donation, with a suggested amount of $10/person.

#8 Statue of Liberty - Harbour Cruise

I was SO surprised how small the Statue of Liberty was. I remember hearing about it, but it's kinda crazy when you finally see it in person. The harbour cruise is beautiful and relaxing. 

Ok, hubby and I are on our way out the door. Maybe more later!