How many of us live away from our families? I know there are millions who do, and there are various reasons for doing so.

I moved away from my family in western Canada seven years ago for two reasons. First, I needed a change in my life because I was feeling stagnant, and this lead to the second reason – a career location change.

In this age of technology, it is easy to keep in touch via email, text, FaceTime, or Skype no matter how far away you are from loved ones. But really, never underestimate the value of a few days of real time together. I just wrapped up a few days of NYC time with my brother, sister in law and 9 year old niece (nephew had to stay home to work). I think to say that we had a lot of fun is an understatement. We spent our days walking and walking and talking and talking and eating and watching people and experiencing many neighborhoods in the city. In three and a half days we covered a lot of ground and I was happy to be part of some irreplaceable memories.

Some of the highlights from the week:

– strolling through Central  Park and the watching very active animals in Central Park Zoo

– eating!!! Dinner at Guy Fieri’s new restaurant, Waffles & Dinges, S’Mac Mac & Cheese, cupcakes from Sprinkles and Baked by Melissa (family also sampled from Cake Boss), PJ Clarke’s, Hill Country Chicken, Brooklyn Ice Cream Shop

– walking the High Line and noticing the interesting architecture

– some shopping at Dylan’s Candy Shop, FAO Schwartz, Toys R Us, Century 21, Yellow Rat Bastard

– taking the short ferry ride to Dumbo and strolling through the neighborhood I started my NYC life in when I first moved here

– walking in the rain

– seeing the Broadway version of Annie

Although this plentiful list of our few days together is incomplete, the best part was catching up! Thanks T, B, and K for coming to my neck of the woods! Imagine if all families got along as well as we do…