A Fairytale in New York Christmas 2016 - Day 8 Shopping

[Melbatb]

This could be the most boring day ever to read We went shopping - mall shopping.

A bit if context here. When we were in Dubai in April F discovered Build-a-Bear. We convinced her she didn't need one! However, since then she has still really wanted one and asked for one for Christmas.

As we thought there was a shop on 5th Avenue, we agreed. However, it closed down. I found one in a mall in Long Island - so a day at the mall was born.

J and I nipped out to recharge the weekly passes. We added another week even though we are only here for three more days! 12 rides make it cost efficient and as we had done 32 in the first 7 days we thought it would be the best option.

The trip out involved 2 subway rides (an easy change) and a bus (45minutes) but it all went smoothly. We had chosen the ideal day to go as it was pouring down!

The mall was very good - Hollister, Hot Topic, Garage (a Canadian store), Yankee Candle and of course Build-a-Bear! We fid some clothes shopping (except for me - I hate buying clothes). Then we headed to the food court for lunch. O had a veggie sandwich and fries, F a mac n cheese grilled cheese and me a felafel puta. J wasn't hungry.

Then it was time for the main event. J and O found comfy sofas and went on their phones.

There was a promotion of 2 for $35 and as F's first choice was $29 we decided she could have 2 (with no thought as to how we will get them home! )

She loved the whole process (even though she is 12 she still loves her cuddly toys! )

Presenting Glitzen ...

and Tinsel!

Two cloaks, shoes and roller skates were added to the basket. $98 later we were done!

It was still pouring do a mad dash was made to the bus.

With a glorious sunset as the rain stopped!

We got back at about 5.30pm. It had taken about 90 minutes each way but we all thought it was worth the trip - the shopping was easy.

At 6.30pm we decided to take the subway in the other direction to Astoria to a local diner. It was a bustling area - but local.

J had a spinach pie with greek salad.

The kids and I had eggs with either home fries or hash browns.

Dessert for the kids were sundaes - J and I shared some pancakes!

It came to a reasonable $63 (including a beer! )

We headed back and were soon in bed.

Numbers for the day: steps 14,893 (11.4km)
Subway - 4 rides and 2 bus rides.