53 Years, 65 Stories

This Wednesday, my parents will be married 53 years. Like most people who've been married that long, my parents have enough things. This stage of their lives together is about keeping things simple, rather than complicating matters with more objects around the house. So, Paul and I treated them to something different. Something to which they'd never treat themselves:

Brunch at the Rainbow Room, at the very top of Rockefeller Center in New York City.

As one might expect, there was something for everyone. What stood out to me, though, was the seemingly limitless varieties of fish. I don't think I've ever eaten this much seafood in one sitting. The upside of consuming mostly fish is that it's not a terribly guilty meal. In fact, except for a thumb-sized roll and the tiny crepe I had for dessert, it was also a low-carb yet still enjoyable experience.

My parents had a little of everything, and now well into their 70s, that's what they should be doing. At the end of the meal, I think they were in food comas (although not so food-comatose that my mother didn't stop at a street vendor to buy a hot pretzel "for later").

I think the food is really a side benefit to dining at the Rainbow Room. The main reason to go is the view.

There is something instantly calming about being up 65 stories high, with panoramic views of New York City and way, way beyond. It's a wonderful way to experience a meal, I think. I've been to Top of the Rock, which is the observation deck of Rockefeller Center, just above the Rainbow Room. Also a breathtaking experience, but nowhere near the same.

Even though the lighting is not optimal, I like how this photo from the lobby turned out:

I really do appreciate my parents. And days like today.