Garbage Plates and Family Fun: Fishy Fun In New York

As I sit here trying to write this post, I wanted to note that this is a perfect example of the “not so glamorous” parts of traveling with little ones. I’m squished on the hard hotel room floor in our cozy “family” room, next to Maggie’s crib and Tilly’s giant bed, as Maggie protests bedtime and somehow manages to get her legs stuck in the bars. Meanwhile, Tilly keeps hopping out of her bed, busy with her endless toddler pre-bedtime tasks. All we want is a good night’s sleep before jet lag and a long travel day start tomorrow!

This past week, we’ve had a wonderful time exploring the beautiful, green state of New York, and it completely shattered our preconceived notions! When we thought of New York, we pictured the city, but the lush countryside really surprised us especially with the blue and green lakes! We got to indulge in iconic New York-style hot dogs and some proper Buffalo wings, though we didn’t quite manage to try the famous Rochester Garbage Plate or the Trash Plate (a weird combo of home fries, macaroni salad, baked beans, French fries, and all sorts of meats piled onto one plate). Not to worry, though—we’ve still got time when we swing back through!

We were lucky again to stay with beloved family and spend quality time with people we don’t usually get to see. It was such a great affirmation of why we started this trip in the first place—lots of laughs and bonding time. There was plenty of room for the trailer and lots of space for the girls to run wild. Tilly quickly became obsessed with Rex, the bearded dragon, while Gracie wasn’t so sure about him. The kids had a blast running, scootering, biking, and playing games together, making the most of every minute.

Fishing turned into a daily activity, with Tilly leading the charge, always asking for a fish “big enough to eat!” She rolled her eyes every time we caught one that didn’t meet her standards. Our visit to the Fish Hatchery was a big hit too, with the girls loving throwing food to the fish and watching them leap out of the water for it.

The Museum of Play was such a favorite that we ended up going twice! The girls were totally absorbed by the toys and games from across the decades, and they had endless fun in the mini towns, nurseries, restaurants, farms, and shops, playing and imagining all day.

One of the week’s biggest highlights was our trip to a baseball game. Maggie was in her element, clapping along with the crowd and cheering with excitement. Alice even learned a bit more about how the American baseball system works. And, of course, we all enjoyed the endless treats and snacks that came with the game.

This week has been a fun, family-filled adventure packed with fishing, play parks, and make-believe! As I wrap this post up, Maggie is finally asleep, and Tilly’s trips to the ‘potty’ have slowed down, but she still checks in to ask when we are headed to the airport and when she’s allowed to dig into the surprises that I am hiding in their hand luggage bag. Wish us luck on our big journey tomorrow!