Got to my son's apartment in Astoria around 9:00 AM yesterday (Saturday) morning. This young man is about the least domesticated person I know so the fact that he followed through on my request that we eat a quick breakfast at his apartment was amazing. I figured his grandma would be so thrilled to see his NY apartment for the 1st time and have breakfast there. The quart of OJ, yogurt, fruit that he bought at a little deli right near his apartment and fresh delicious bagels he picked up at the local bagel shop before we arrived was perfect. Along with the cookies Grandma baked for him and brought, this was the most food he has ever had in his refrigerator.

The drive to NJ wasn't too bad at all; after all I am used to summer traffic from north of Boston to Cape Cod. After looking at Google maps we decided it didn't make sense to try and fit in Island Beach State Park and then make our way to Neptune to check into the Residence Inn there, in addition to dinner and an 8:00 PM show in Asbury Park. So, instead we went straight to Ocean Grove. Thanks to all of your advice on my post, it was a fantastic suggestion.

The weather yesterday couldn't be more perfect; sunny, warm and a slight breeze. We parked and walked all around town. We loved seeing the tents, that was so fascinating. I couldn't help but peek into a couple that were locked to see how they were set up. A 10 year waiting list to rent them and they stay in the family for the most part. The Auditorium, the great shops and the beach were all wonderful. The auditorium was being set up for an evening performance of Paul Anka. I don't think I have ever seen a beach where in order to step on to it every person has to pay.

As we headed back to our car we were all hungry and walked right by Nagles Apothecary Cafe. We took a look at the delicious looking sandwiches and ice cream people were eating and backed our steps up and grabbed a table out front. We were all very happy with our meals and we loved watching the parade of people. The restaurant itself is so quaint and historic; it was a lot of fun to see. My Mother - in - law was so thrilled to see that she could order off the kid's menu and nobody would mind.

We were all hot and needed a break before the night time activities. Checked into the Marriott Residence Inn Neptune. We were all very happy with our rooms. I wished they had an outdoor pool; I would have loved to have cooled off with a swim, but no big deal since we didn't have too much time anyway. My husband, 25 yr. old son and myself met my Mother - in law in the lobby and we went to Asbury Park. We walked the boardwalk and really enjoyed it! A lot was going on from a wedding being set up on the beach, to a fabulous art exhibit, seeing the historic convention center, 2 Batman full size cars there for viewing, etc.

Upon the request of my son's, we had dinner on the boardwalk in Cubacan. The restaurant is lively, very stylish and bright. They have outdoor seating but we were inside. I was worried about my Mother - in law because she doesn't eat spicy foods but she also eats like a bird. She loved the bread and had a ceviche appetizer for her dinner which she really enjoyed. She also liked the "nice looking waiter."

From there we walked to the Carousel to see ReVision Theatre's production of Spring Awakening. It rivals, and many consider it is even better than the Tony Award winning Broadway production. It's showing again for final performances this Wednesday through the weekend. We all loved it, the audience had lengthy applauses and stomping with delight.