Choo choo!!

A beautiful Wednesday- we made it to the Train Show at the New York Botanic Garden in Bronx. It was the first time for both of us- although I was aware of this famous holiday show, I just never thought about it as important thing to see until I had a boy. Even a girl would definitely enjoy it, but the boys and trains! They are just so inseparable. Anyway, the show is totally breathtaking and incredible it is truly worth seeing it with or without kids. All kinds of cool trains run around the beautiful garden and amazing rendition of New York landmarks constructed with twigs, barks, and leaves. There's bridges and waterfalls, and I would imagine it would be even more amazing in the evening. Taiyo was of course totally enchanted and ran back and forth chasing the trains, chanting "Chaka chaka choo choo!" I was also glad that we beat the crowd- I assume that they get really busy in the next two weeks during the holidays.

Back in the neighborhood, we dined at Frankies on Clinton. They are usually too busy and I know they have very small tables, so this is usually not among our choices to dine. But it was early enough and there weren't many other diners. Taiyo was somehow very enthusiastic entering this cozy restaurant. Although it was pretty empty, they offered us the tiny table in the middle. I preferred one against the wall or something bigger, but Taiyo decided to take it. We enjoyed a crostini with avocado and pesto, lentil soup, and homemade gnocchi with marinara and fresh ricotta. Oh, boy, we enjoyed them! After a crostini, Taiyo asked for more. Both lentil soup and gnocchi kept him in his seat quite a long time until we finished them all. Food-wise, this place really give you the best for the money. Everything is so simply but beautifully executed and they taste so fresh and honest. I would go back more often if it was set up a bit more kid-friendly. There aren't much room for strollers- fortunately it's walking distance for us. There's no high chairs and talbes are small and very close together. I won't go there unless it's less than half empty, which is very early in the evening. Still recommended- and service is wonderful.