Jane's Carousel

The first time we went to Jane's Carousel—a ride built in 1922 that was recently restored and now resides in Brooklyn Bridge Park—I forgot to check if it was open. Of course, we went on a Tuesday, the only day it's closed. Nico and Leo were bummed, but still had a blast running around the pier and being so close to the water. They even threw in a few pile-ons. Brotherly love is the best.

When we went back last week, we skipped the subway and walked all the way from from Park Slope to DUMBO. We made our way down Union Street, through Gowanus, stopping to admire a sidewalk speckled with cool tiles near what Nico likes to call The Stinky Bridge. We strolled on Smith Street in Carroll Gardens and I thought about places like Halcyon and Sur that have since closed and all the new places that opened up. We made our way to Clinton Street into Brooklyn Heights and I pointed out the first block in Brooklyn Daniel and I lived on and when we reached the Promenade, it took my breath away, just like it always has. Sadly, the gaping hole where the Twin Towers once stood didn't feel quite as strange anymore. A long walk with two little kids might not make much sense to some. But looking back on our day, it was one of the best parts.  Showing such familiar streets to my little boys and telling them about my life before they were here, was both surreal and amazing.

As expected, the carousel was a big hit. It's beautiful and spinning around on a fancy ride with the Brooklyn Bridge, East River and Manhattan skyline in the background was pretty cool. I'm sure it's even prettier at night. We rode around a few times, trying out different horses and the frilly chariots. Seems like Friday mornings are a good time to go since we practically had the whole carousel to ourselves. Bonus: Kids 3 and under ride for free.

On the way home, we played at Harry Chapin Playground, a cute spot that's at the top of a hill Daniel and I used to run up during our jogging days. It was just as torturous pushing a double stroller with two kids in it. After a quick stop for some pizza, Nico and Leo eventually fell asleep and I was treated to another long walk along some of my favorite streets.