Ruby in the Big City
We just got back from a trip to NY! It was so much fun! Edward travels to NY at least twice a month for work and it's really hard on him being away. Since Ruby was born we talk about going to visit him but the timing never worked out right. Well we decided to take advantage of the fact that I'm not working right now and Ruby and I met him there. This was my first trip solo with her so I was kind of anxious. And since I'm such the planner I literally packed 2 days before our trip and went through the logistics of traveling solo with a baby 17 times in my head. My nanny, Rebeca, and I even tried carrying different baby gear combos to see what would work best. While I was prepared for pretty much any scenario Ruby was a breeze! I almost couldn't believe it. We seriously have some major baby karma. She barely fussed....and we had a 1 hour delay just sitting on the plane! She slept part of the trip and then watched Moana the rest of the time. We did need to get up and walk around so she could get some people interaction but no crying. Like none. I love this girl!
That said, traveling with a baby can be logistically challenging. It's definitely doable but you have to plan ahead. I carried her through security in my Ergo carrier because you need arms to deal with your purse, diaper bag, stroller, and car seat. She had her own seat so we brought the car seat which she sat in on the plane and checked the stroller at the gate. It's a lot of carrying on your own but I found that there are lots of lovely people who will help you. Just give yourself extra time and don't stress out. I seriously felt like Super Woman when I made it on the plane and had us both buckled in ready for the flight. Oh and make sure to bring lots of snacks. Ruby LOVES these Happy Baby Puffs.
Once we got there, Ruby was in heaven. She loved the lights and the people - this girl loves the city. But it was the look on Edward's face when we got to the hotel that was worth the trip alone. He could not have been happier. He was like a little kid almost giddy with excitement!
We stayed at the Gramercy Park Hotel which was perfect as it's in such a good location we could walk everywhere. While Edward was busy working, Ruby and I filled our days with breakfast in the room, walks to the park, naps, and late lunches. She is getting to be a super fun lunch date! While it does take a lot keeping her from grabbing everything on the table, she loves entertaining people so that is fun to watch! We also visited Daddy at work which was a great moment for Edward having Ruby meet all his coworkers. And we even got to see the new fancy 21st floor of the TrueX office which looks beyond amazing! Our nights were filled with early dinners, girls happy hour at Soho House (with Ruby....but she did get fussy here!) and quality hang time with friends that are family.
Traveling with kids is definitely a different kind of trip (we were in bed by 10:30 every night) but I'm so glad we got this first long trip out of the way. I think it's like most things - you get the hang of it the more you do it....and I personally do feel that kids will adjust as well (some just take longer than others). It was so nice spending this time together as a family and watching Ruby explore another city. You could feel her excitement as she smiled and waved to people as we walked through the streets. It was a reminder that it's good for her to see and experience new things. I'm so happy we were able to do it and glad that she traveled well so we can do it again! Until next time NY. :)
