N.Y.C.

14 years ago, in November 1994, Rob and I went into NYC to see the holiday display at Rockefeller Center. It was fantastic and we vowed to go as often as we could. We've been back several times since then but our trip this weekend was the most fun. We took the train into Manhattah, and although it was too early for the holiday display, we still had a great time exploring the city.

FAO Schwarz was our favorite stop. Here's Ella tossing pennies into the fountain just outside:


We arrived just in time for the toy soldiers to come outside, play the trumpet, and roll out the red carpet. As we walked inside, all the employees lined up and cheered for us. Don't worry, this wasn't special treatment for Ella, they do this every weekend when the store opens.


Note the nasty look Ella's giving; there's a person in a huge blue stuffed monster costume off to Rob's left.










Ella called it a walrus and was afraid of it in the store but talked about it all weekend long.


The Lego Chewbacca and Darth Vader were more her style.












as were the Lego Hagrid, Harry, Hermione, and Ron.

What an exhausting day of exploring!