The Disneyland of Grocery Stores

At least this is the way Stew Leonard's was described the other day so Paul and I decided to venture into Yonkers to scope it out. Paul had read about this store 25 years ago in Tom Peter's book about excellence in management and had always wanted to see why Peters was so sold on the store. The exterior certainly lived up to the hype of "Disneyland-esque," but I am sorry to say we were somewhat disappointed in the actual products. Yes, there were puppets everywhere, little mechanical figures on swings, and free samples, but we came away almost empty handed. I think if in our life time we had only experienced the crowded NYC grocery stores, Stew's would have been a virtual wonderland for us. But that is not the case. Fortunately, within just a few hundred yards there was a Costco----familiar territory for us---- and we managed to score on a gallon size drum of salsa, a year's worth of toothbrushes in one pack, and 45 pounds of cheese. Nachos anyone?

We made our way to Times Square around 4:00 p.m. on New Year's Eve knowing all along that it would be a short stay. We only got to about 48th and Broadway before it became too crowded to walk any further so we turned around and walked back to our apartment. A simple dinner, a New Year's Eve toast and we were in bed by 9:00. However, the fireworks from Central Park woke us up at midnight so we rolled up the blinds and enjoyed the fireworks display from bed.
It is hard to believe that we are beginning our third year in the city. There are some things that seemed like a big adventure when we first arrived, but they have become commonplace. However, walking through Central Park on any day of the week, in any season, is still enchanting. And that is how I began this New Year. May 2010 be an enchanting New Year for all.