The Big 3-0 in the Big Apple

Before moving to Europe, I always said I wanted to spend my 30th in New York. After our move, it seemed ridiculous to go all that way for a birthday, especially since we have lots of desirable destinations within reach. I started to think of other big cities, like... birthday in Berlin! Nothing had the same ring to it. So, when Ryan surprised me with this trip, I was ecstatic. He got lucky, really. He needs to be in New York for work the week before my birthday, so including me and extending his stay was a no-brainer.

We are now in the planning phase. We tend to have a "make every meal count" attitude while on vacation, so restaurant choices are first on our list. Second, we're headed to Broadway (How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying). And third, shopping! My friend, Kim, introduced me to the wonderful world of sample sales, and for this, I am eternally grateful. We're travelling with Ryan's Swiss colleague, so these are certainly not our only plans (they're just the one's I'm most excited about). While Ryan and Rene are at work, I'll be hitting the streets... walking for hours, by myself, in a big city, might be my favorite thing ever (except for when I get lost).

Amazing food, a 1960's musical (I'm thinking Mad Men in concert), and new clothes - it's a birthday trifecta! Seriously, it doesn't get better.  Ryan has set the bar high... planning his 30th is going to be impossible (Berlin?).

P.S. - Here are a couple pictures from our last trip to NYC. It does not disappoint.