So we're on spring break last week and we take a trip to New York. My kids, who've never been there (except our oldest who was technically there in utero), and they're very excited to see the Big Apple. At the top of the "must see" activities is a trip up the Empire State Building. The boys are eager to see the vast views from the top.

Our experience at the skyscraper gives whole new meaning to the phrase Tourist Trap. How were we to know that we'd chosen the only sunny day in what had been a week of clouds and rain? How were we to know that everyone in North America decided to visit the building that day?

Our first inkling was the line that stretched out the door and circled the building on the sidewalk. Still, we were hopelessly optimistic. After all, how long could it take? It only took 45 minutes to make it to the door. We were well on our way.

Uh, huh. Once inside, the line wound back and forth as far as the eye could see. To make matters worse, I needed a ladies room. "It's on the next floor", I'm told. The only way to get there is to wait until we progress in line. I survey the mass of people and wonder if I can make it.

A half hour later, we've arrived to the second floor. I made it!

"Where are the restrooms?" I ask.

"On the other side of that wall," I'm told. P
I follow the line of her long, pointy finger. Past the incredible long line snaking through the huge space. Another half hour later and we reach the other side of the wall. I rush to the ladies room while Kevin buys tickets. Then we're directed to another room full of bored, tired people. And did I mention there is no one in line who speaks English? We can't even commiserate with one another. A half hour passes, and we reach the elevator. Hallelujah!

But this elevator only takes us to the windowless 82nd floor for another half hour line. We're thinking they should have paid US for this experience.

Finally, FINALLY, we get to the top where it's very crowded and hard to find a spot for a view, much less a photograph. We're all hot, tired, aching, and eager to escape the building. Unfortunately, we didn't count on the fact that all those people herding in would have to be herded out. One more line and forty-five minutes later, we were finally outside in the fresh air.

Never, never again. Sometimes fantasy just doesn't live up to reality.