Boston Public Garden

Since reading the book Make Way for Ducklings, I have been promising the kids a trip to Boston's Public Garden.  We were so excited to go there last weekend.

After finally making it through the morning traffic, we enjoyed walking along the Charles River to the garden. What an amazing treasure among all the hustle and bustle of Boston. The first thing the kids saw when entering the gate was the Duckling statues. They had to wait in a line of wiggly kids and photo-happy parents (note to self - always go to popular locations on weekdays, NOT Saturday) but eventually got to have their turn sitting on Mrs. Mallard. They were so cute patting and kissing each duckling and trying to guess which one was Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, or Quack.


We then walked along the beautiful pathway for a while and stopped to feed the ducks - later on we saw signs encouraging people NOT to feed the ducks because it causes them to quit migrating - oops!

The highlight of our day was riding the Swan Boats, one of the few things you can do in Boston with two kids for less than $5. My daughter was facinated to learn that they really are powered only by 1 person pedaling, are steered by simple ropes which adjust the rudder.

After a picnic lunch, listening to street musicians and a lot more walking we decided to head back to the museum. Thanks to my sister we had free passes for the day, so we were able enjoy the rest of the afternoon at the live animal show, lightning show, and looking at the human body exhibit.

And here is what I overheard on the drive home -

Daughter: "When I grow up I want to take care of ducklings."

Son: "I want to be a superhero when I grow up."

Daughter: "You can't be a superhero!"

Son: "Why?"

Daughter: "Because the Bible says so."

Son: "No it doesn't."

Daughter: "Yes it does! In Genesis God says he created animals after their own kind. You have to be BORN a superhero."  (yes this is a direct quote, she really did mention Genesis)

Son: "But I want to be a superhero."

Daughter: "Sorry, Daddy can't fly, so you can't be a superhero."  

Son: (sad whisper) "I still want to be a superhero."

:-)