Following the election, a short respite was in order. Despite flying from one blue (in more ways than one) city to another, seeing my sweet children and grandchildren brought renewed hope and refreshment.
On my first day in Brooklyn, while the adults were all at work and the children in school, I took a long, restorative walk in the historic Green-Wood Cemetery and botanical gardens. Surrounded by thousands of plant and wildlife species, beneath the tall trees overlooking the vistas, the birds sang their beautiful songs, oblivious to politics or the future.
Green-Wood is, of course, first and foremost a cemetery, founded in 1838. Many famous people are buried within its over 400 acres, ranging from Civil War soldiers, politicians, musicians, publishers, sports heroes, and more. There are simple grave stones, and extensive family plots, including obelisks, crypts and private chapels. The wealthy were buried in style, and all enjoy the lush greenery.
Its myriad roads and pathways have names, usually of a botanical nature. The complimentary maps, however, include only the names of the main roads and pathways, so wandering through the pathways can bring slight disorientation and unexpected discoveries. Four lakes are scattered throughout Green-Wood, each with its own character.
Though I personally have no ancestral connection to Green-Wood, I am attracted to its peaceful quiet, history, and beauty. It is a reminder of how much can change in a lifetime. Undoubtedly, those young soldiers who died in the Civil War fought for unity and the future of the country they loved.
Brooklyn is a large and populous borough, larger than many states at 69.5 square miles, and I am familiar with only a small part of it. That part is ultimately very walkable, close to shopping, restaurants, and Prospect Park, with good public transportation close at hand.
This visit included a trip to Manhattan with my 5-year-old granddaughter to visit the American Girl doll store near Rockefeller Center. We started with a hot dog and lemonade on the plaza to fortify ourselves for the excesses of the store.
We came armed with a Samantha doll, dating back to my daughter’s childhood. Samantha is an early 20th century period doll, but her historic accessories have been mostly phased out.
But there are endless new things to buy, including contemporary clothing, doll beds, cars, planes, books, and more. There is even a salon (appointment required) for doll hair styling and pampering. Fortunately, today’s clothes still fit yesteryears’ dolls. We escaped with a new doll dress and handbag, and lots of gift ideas.
My short respite, however, included more than sugar and spice, considering that there was boy time as well. This included a baseball clinic for my 8-year-old grandson, plus a violin lesson, and attendance at his last baseball game of the season. His spectacular catch of a fly ball in center field left me with damp eyes.
Industry City, a series of outlet stores, restaurants, bars, and more provided the ideal space for adults and children, including music, food, and cocktails. Outdoor play areas divided the buildings, ideal for all three of the grandchildren.
My 2-year-old grandson, who traveled up by train with his parents from Washington, D.C., was enamored with the toy tractors to ride. His older cousins enjoyed the green space for kicking and throwing balls and meeting new friends. There even was birthday cake.
Here is my advice to enjoy a short respite. Shut down the endless news, and go somewhere that includes green space. Better yet if it includes family, and grandchildren.
