Eastbound

Up in the wee hours of the morning to celebrate Sylvia's milestone birthday (a month early to avoid inclement weather).

Five years of saving Aeroplan miles gets us a return flight to and from New York City in business class. The difference in comfort is palpable. And the food is actually really good...

Sylvia's wanted to visit New York for years, and I'm delighted to bask in her excitement. A five-hour stopover in Toronto does little to dampen her enthusiasm.

The last we'll see of Canada for a few days.

Our first glimpse of New York City: LaGuardia airport, in Queens on Long Island.