New York City: Chelsea
I had almost forgotten how turbulent the decscent into LaGuardia can be. My crochet hook had not ceased twirling and looping through chocolate colored yarn as the scenic rollercoaster ride that brought is into New York pitched and heaved. The biggest boys looked completely green by the time the wheels touched down.
As former residents, we aren’t familiar with being visitors of New York City but Chelsea felt like the ideal hub to ping around the Big Apple.
Based on a friends recommendation, we stationed ourselves at The High Line Hotel. Walking distance to the Chelsea Market, where the children had the pleasure of selecting lunch from a variety of countries all in one location.
Half flocked to a taco stall.
The other half to a French crêperie.
After dessert, we walked a portion of High Line park to get a view of the city and happily plant our feet more firmly on the ground as such a difficult flight. The boys leading us on through the blistering cold. Our five-year-old traversed park benches and launched herself from ledge to ledge. When a suitable climbing area couldn’t be found, she balanced one foot before the other on the old rail ties fixed into the path.
Eager to step in from the cold and snuggle down into a booth to fill our bellies, we snagged a last minute reservation at I Sodi.
We were certain a two hour advance reservation for six people would probably have never worked any other time of the year but it was a regular wintery Tuesday. We were only among New Yorkers tough enough to love the city even when she’s tough to love.
That’s just how we like it.
Skipping the fuss of antipasti, we went vigorously after all the handmade pasta specials to replenish from a day of traveling. Lasagna, truffles, meat sauces, green risotto clustered on overlapping platters down the center of the table.
A suggestion for a side of vegtables was met with laughter.
A counteroffer of Brasato con Polenta was well received. I suppose, ground corn is technically a vegetable. We toast the beginning of our New York days with Burnello and Negroni.
The company was pleasant. Before long, forks and knives clinked atop empty plates. The serivce team cleared dishes with pleasant smiles, knowing every bite was thoroughly enjoyed by all. We parted after the girls offered hugs and many thanks. Bundling into peacoats and scarves we were ready to once again face a cold walk to the hotel.
The children acclimated to city lifestyle over the course of the day. Grumblings over walking distances and commuting times gradually waned. Zachary always ready to keep the little ones minds off their aching toes with a game or sport to make a jolly walk.