*12*

Before we even had kids, Nate had said that he wanted to take each child on a birthday trip for their 12th birthday. At first, he was going to take the boys, and I would take the girls. That sounded like a great deal until we ended up with three boys and one girl. I was feeling a little cheated as Treyson was getting closer to his 12th birthday and the two of them started talking about where he might want to go. Lucky for me, they said I could tag along :). Treyson decided he wanted to go to NYC, which Nate and I were both excited for because we both love the city. As we got planning the trip, Nate realized that Trey's beloved Red Sox would be playing at Yankee Stadium the day after Trey's birthday, so that fact cemented the deal. We were able to leave on Treyson's birthday (August 8th) on a red-eye out of Las Vegas. Because Nate travels so much, we were able to upgrade to first-class for free!!! Nate's use to it, but Treyson and I were in awe!

We landed bright and early and luckily were able to check into the hotel a little early and catch up on some much needed sleep. I headed off to do some shopping and the boys jumped on the subway to see the game. Nate was able to score some amazing third row seats (leather, I might add!) along third base line. The tickets included all-you-can-eat food and beverages, so they definitely took advantage of that and ate until they were sick.

The next day we headed down to Ground Zero and walked through the museum there and then got on the ferry to ride over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Nate and I hadn't ever got off of the ferry to see the statue up close and personal, but I'm so glad we did. The statue is huge! Seeing it from the ferry and standing up next to it are two different experiences. It was also our first time to visit Ellis Island. The history that is in that building was so fascinating! I loved seeing the pictures and the items left from immigrants as they entered this country.

On our final day there, Treyson and I went to see "Wicked." It was so fun to watch Treyson throughout the play...I don't think the smile left his face!

At the NBA Store, Trey was able to see how he would match up to Kobe Bryant.

Rockefeller Center

A birthday shout-out on American Eagle's jumbo-tron in Time Square!

We scored again on the way home when we were upgraded to first-class again. Not a bad way to fly, I've decided! The rest of the kids were so excited to see Treyson and the fun surprises that he picked out for each of them. The others are already starting to talk about where they want to go for their special birthday trip. I can't wait!