Vacation!

Dennis and I flew into New York Thursday (9/28) afternoon and cabbed it to Erin's apt. Erin graciously agreed to put us for the 4 nights we were in town and even gave up her own bed (pour Erin had a horrible back ache!!). We quickly dropped our luggage and found a neighborhood bar to toast our vacation! Dennis got to pop his subway cherry - he was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't as dark and dirty as the movies portray. After a few happy hour beers we headed to Little Italy to explore and have an amazing dinner. We then hit a couple hot spots, including an awesome roof-top bar that had it's own zebra (stuffed of course)! The first night ended with a taste of NY style pizza!

Friday the weather was amazing, so we ventured to Central Park and took our time hitting all the sites and stopping at the boat house for a beer. We also went to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a special roof-top exhibit, for a spectacular view of the park. Friday's dinner was Mexican, but only after stop at Sushi Samba for some pretty strong drinks (they should be strong for $15!!). We also ventured to the West Village and Meat Packing district! My feet were not happy campers with all the walking in 3-inch heels, but it was fun to check out several hot spots and I loved the people watching.

Saturday we walked across the Brooklyn bridge into Brooklyn. We attempted to get the famous Giramaldi pizza only to passed by a stupid tour group that cut to the front of the line, so we settled for the famous Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory! We then took a taxi from Brooklyn across the Hudson River to Battery Park. There was an insane line (like 2 miles) for a boat to the Statue of Liberty, so instead, we decided to shop! I got to hit my favorite place - Century 21, while Dennis checked out Ground Zero. Saturday night was Dennis' request - sushi. Erin took us to an amazing sushi place and Dennis thoroughly enjoyed the experience! Then it was off to Times Square and the ESPN Sports Zone to watch the MU vs. IL football game. Dennis was on cloud nine, totally his element while we enjoyed the HUGE jugs of beer!

Sunday got started with brunch at a Cuban restaurant with a sangria buffet!! It was great, as long as you ordered food, you had full access to 8 large jars of different sangria! We did a bit of shopping in Harolds Square (Macy's day parade hot spot), went through Grand Central Station and relaxed in Bryant Park. The weather was amazing to be out and about.

We sadly (and sleepily) made a 6:00 am flight back to St. Louis Monday morning after a fun-filled 4 days in NYC! Thanks Erin for the wonderful hospitality and packed tour!

Our Zebra pal!

Water taxi across Hudson

Sangria buffet!