Boston Common

We were very eager to start our exploring on Monday Morning.  We grabbed our scooter and hit the T to Boston Common.  There were a few things on our agenda, but we were content wandering through the Common and discovering as we scootered along.  The first thing we found was the Frog Pond Carousel.  My kids are very passionate about their carousels, and so of course, we had to stop and have a ride.  Blake found a horse that reminded him of Galaxy, his beloved horse on the Central Park Carousel. 

We also found the most delicious (and most expensive) fresh squeezed lemonade. It was just fantastic.  We wandered across the road into the beautiful Public Gardens.  And there was much rejoicing when we saw the Swan Boats.  We’ve been reading lots of Boston books, and one of our favorites is Make Way for Ducklings.  The Swan Boats make an appearance in the book, and the kids have been very excited to experience them first hand. 

Our ride around Public Garden was relaxing and serene.  As luck would have it, there were two beautiful swans near the pond. And one was sitting on a nest.  The kids loved it. 

The kids were also delighted to find Mama Mallard from Make Way for Ducklings and her little babies Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Oack, Pack, and Quack.  We had fun trying to name all the ducklings,observing each one, and recounting the story. 

Next up—Cannoli’s at Mikes Pastry. We used our scooters to transport us the mile from the Common to the North End.  I wasn’t sure what to expect at Mikes, having heard it is mobbed by tourists day and night, and also that there is no official line.  So, I was prepared to elbow my way to the front and put my order in.  But, it wasn’t very busy at all and we easily got our cannoil, boston crème lobster tail, and fudge cupcake.  I’ll have to save my aggressive skills for another day. 

We had passed a cute little park with lots of fountains to play in, so we went back there to enjoy our treats and to cool off in the water for a bit.  I’d say our first day in Boston was a success! 

Steps we took today: