A Very Special 10th Birthday!

For the kids’ birthdays, I always try to create a special day which takes them out of their usual daily routines and activities. With so many attractions, and so many events going on in New York City on any given day, staycations have become a favorite pastime for our family of five; so when I asked Ryder what he wanted to do for his 10th birthday (a big birthday!), he asked to go to a hotel. Living in Battery Park, what better place to spend a night that at the Four Seasons Downtown.

With all the time we spend traveling as a family, the kids have already developed opinions about some towns and resorts. Having been fortunate enough to spend a weekend in the Fours Seasons last year, we had three little youngsters eager to return. During our first trip, they loved the layout of the room, and befriended some of the staff in the lobby that they say hi to every single time we pass by, and their indoor is pretty incredible too. Regardless, we were ready for a good time.

Our one bedroom suite was fantastic. To think we could have all that room to ourselves in downtown Manhattan. Jason and I shared the bedroom, and the pull out sofa bed was made up, awaiting the kids arrival. On the dining room table, the staff left some sweet treats and drinks for the kids, to celebrate the birthday boys big day. As they noshed on their snacks, Gemma looked up to the notice that the window had been painted and decorated to add to the festivities. What a nice touch, Four Seasons style.

Part of our Staycation Birthday celebration package included tickets to One World Trade Observatory deck, along with a trip the SeaGlass Carousel.  The Observatory is less than a five minute walk from the hotel, and a must see if you are visiting New York City. Jason had yet to take a trip to the top since its been open, so I think he may have been more excited than the kids. You can see all the way to the tip of the island, it’s pretty spectacular. Our next stop…the SeaGlass Carousel. Most of us are acumstomed to traditional carousels, with horses with silly expressions on their faces. Well, the SeaGlass Carousel is far from that. Fish and cool chambers replace the traditional carousel horses, and their opaque iridescent finish resemble that of seaglass, which has been its namesake. In fact, it was the location of Gemma’s birthday back in March.

The Four Seasons pool is incredible and indoors so it can be used anytime of year. Ryder and Jason swam some laps, and the girls played catch across the pool. Siella and Gemma kept dipping under to listen to the music that plays underwater in the pool. Far from tiring out from our jam packed day, we headed to Ryder’s favorite Churrascaria spot for his birthday meal!

Unfortunately, during our brief stay, I couldn’t sneak away for some alone time, but I am obsessed with The Four Seasons Spa. I live in the neighborhood, so ever since the hotel opened 2 years ago, I have taken full advantage of the spa for a massage and facials, but they offer so much more.

Needless to say, the birthday boy had a blast, and his sisters didn’t complain about having to tag around “to one of their brother’s silly requests.” From now on, I just may have to ask Ryder to make all of our birthday party plans!

Also check out this great article on celebrating special golden birthdays!