Why we still go to a pediatrician in Manhattan

Yes, we still go to our original Manhattan-based pediatrician almost four years later. Even with two kids. I've thought many times about finding a doctor closer, but I like the practice, they never make us wait and it's a stone's throw from the best burger in NYC (Shake Shack at Madison Square Park).  Don't even think I'm joking about the last reason.  So, for all those reasons and the ones you see below. We stick with it.  And since Elisa had to have her throat checked out today because she's been running a fever on and off for a few days, this is what we did before and after...

First stop, Hill Country Barbecue on 26th Street. We'd been to Hill Country Chicken a few times after other visits, but today was a more meaty kind of day. So we checked it out and I have to say, the ribs, chicken and brisket did not disappoint. But I wouldn't give them bonus points for the bizarre "meal ticket" idea. It's kind of cafeteria-style with the setup which makes it feel like more work when you have two kids to seat and manage. I just want the food brought to me.  But nevertheless, we made short work of the fixin's and next time I'll have to get some pie.  Elisa didn't eat a lot with her sore throat, but man, Carolina chowed down on some cornbread. It was sweet and crumbly and she made a total mess, but it was fun to watch.  Lately our dining out has been almost pleasurable with Elisa's quieter antics and Carolina's silent munching. The girl just keeps shoveling it in which is great since it frees us up to concentrate on our meal. Imagine that...actually taking the time to eat without worrying about either child. It's baby steps still, but the progress is palpable. And sometimes, gasp, we manage to have a conversation.  Afterwards, we walked back down 26th street, past this gorgeous church. Elisa loved it and wanted to know if Santa lives there.  The red door on the charming office might have thrown her off. But no, I said, I think Santa is still in the North Pole. "Let's go there. Tomorrow." Hmmmm...on to the park...

We stopped briefly by the park on the way to the pediatrician's appointment before doubling back and hanging out in Madison Square Park for a bit. Nacho somehow miraculously got this baby girl to fall asleep in the stroller while I took Elisa to get checked out. So by the time we had the verdict (not strep thankfully!) we were back to let Elisa run around fever-free at the playground while Carolina dozed away. It was a beautiful, mild day after this morning's rain and the flowers and smells wafting around were a reminder that spring is still hanging on for a few more weeks. With two sets of visitors coming to town this month, I think we'll be doing lots more city runs as long as the weather allows.  And if today was any indication, there's potential here for some real enjoyable family time out of the house and out in this big, beautiful city.