I asked Anwen, on the bus ride into the city today, if she had ever read
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey. She hadn't, so we made our way to Porter Square Books and read a copy in the children's section, then bought it.
We got off the T at Park Street, walked passed that State House (Mr. and Mrs. Mallard
flew over it) and wandered through Beacon Hill (again, they flew but didn't find anywhere to land). Then we stopped in at my favorite Starbucks for a coffee. After, we walked across the street the Public Garden. There we found the statue of the ducklings and their momma from the book. In Boston the ducklings in the park are often dressed for holidays and all the little kids who visit get a picture with them.
As we began to walk through the Garden we heard music, and reveled in the beautiful day. The next part I couldn't have planned any better. If you've never read Make Way for Ducklings, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard eventually settle in the Public Garden, and call the pond their home.
I pointed out the island in the middle of the pond--the one in the book. Then around came a swan boat and Anwen said, "oh my gosh they're real!" We walked down to the water and there, on the side bathing in the sun, were three little puffball ducklings with their mom and pop.
This little family blessed my heart so much on this perfect day in the city. I can't think of a more magical introduction to Boston for Anwen. Our ducklings eventually made their way back to the island, just like in the end of McCloskey's book. We also took the rest of the afternoon to wander, and ended up with friends for dinner.