Stillmeadow Friends

Dear Susan...

This weekend found us on the go the entire time. Friday was monumental for me. I took the train into the New York City all on my own. I would tell you that I felt completely empowered by my newfound independence, however it's basically a straight line from the station to Grand Central Terminal. Considering that I had to call Erik after I arrived in the city or simply stay at the station indefinitely, my independence had real boundaries. Meeting friends for the evening, we toured the newly opened Rubin Museum of Art on West 17 Street. It's a fabulous collection of Himalayan art; some of the pieces being centuries old. I think what struck me most in each of the paintings was the incredible attention to detail; every inch being alive with color.

Dinner was entirely fun. The restaurant was crowded, loud, bustling and smelled wonderful. We were escorted down one set of stairs, then a second until we were in a little room with oddly matched high backed sofas and equally odd soft chairs. Each of the little tables held a flickering candle--the only real light there was. Our meals were delicious.

The train pulled into our station just before midnight and then the weekend began.

Saturday found us celebrating Rebecca's 7th birthday. We had planned her "birthday tour"!! Lunch was spent with two little friends of the girls, and then we travelled to Long Island to visit Uncle Nik. We ended the tour at Aunt Mimi and Uncle Bob's house where the cousins and Erik's Aunt Gale and Uncle Charlie were waiting to celebrate the Birthday Girl's 7th. It was a fine day filled to the brim.

Today was slow and comfy and quiet. The girls busied themselves with Legos and a trip with Daddy to the park. Rebecca was convinced that a coat wasn't necessary. Daddy won that one in the end. Cassandra climbed the Infinity Climber at the park.

At dinner tonight, we talked about the Birthday Tour 2005, and Spring and how far away Christmas is.

Love, Shelley
Ossining, New York