Meet the partners…
by CandyJ on 19 November 2008
Mothers on the Verge are old hands at the Metrotwin thing now. They instantly got the concept and their first lists have proved very very popular.
Their blog is an addictive read, and is written by Manhattan Mama, and YummyLondonMummy. As you may guess from their monikers they live either side of the atlantic and blog about life as mothers in both cities. Their expertise is wide ranging, whether writing about Sweet (Candy) shops, Beautiful boutiques, Great places to grab a bite without breaking the bank, or places to pick up an economy present they’ve been absolutely fantastic so far. We caught up them to ask them to famous Metrotwin Five:
* How long have you been writing your blog?
Yummy London Mummy and I started the blog one frustrated September in 2005.
* Why did you start?
MM: We hoped it would curb our long distance phone bills if we started sharing our snarks and thoughts with each other online. I think we each felt that there were stories to tell from our experiences across the pond – they were surprisingly similar despite our living in different cities, and countries. Also, we were both a little worn by the pollyana approach to mothering. Clearly, no one else seemed to have the trouble with, for example, (s)mothers as we did – and we felt it was our mission to share. The first time we realized someone was actually reading us, was the icing on top.
YLM: MM and I met when she lived in London in the early 2000’s and become friends instantly. Then she had the cheek to abandon London (and me!) to go live in New York so we were emailing each other all the time. The blog became an extension of all those emails, yet another way to keep up with each other’s lives. The fact that we both love writing and are interested in technology and emerging trends was also a factor - we wanted to get in on the blogging action and see what all the fuss was about. We were hooked as soon as we started.
* What do you love about London and/or New York?
MM: I love that New York is a constant blaze of inspiration. It’s where people clash together and through those connections spark new directions, new ideas. What I love about London is its depth and history, its mystery and magic. There’s nothing more alluring to me than walking along its streets — any street — and knowing the history. Personally, I was a little too intrigued by East London and the Jack the Ripper stories.
YLM: I’ve lived in London my entire adult life and I love the fact that I always feel so comfortable here. I also love that even though it’s a big city it feels as if it’s made up of lots of villages - you can go from one area to another, sometimes right next to each other, and encounter a totally different type of people, architecture and vibe. My favorite example is Archway and Highgate Village; they’re next-door neighbours yet Archway is a bit scruffy and rough around the edges while Highgate is sedate (or tranquil, depending on your viewpoint), well preserved and stuffed full of expensive independent shops. I love that contrast.
• What’s your fave place in London and/or New York?
MM: In London? Besides Rococo chocolates (which saved me my first homesick month when I lived there) I’d have to say the courtyard at St. James’s church in Piccadilly. Many days I’d buy some incredible cheddar at Paxton & Whitfield, and pick up a café au lait, walk over and just sit and pinch myself that I was living in London.
In New York? Simple. The sculpture garden at the Museum of Modern Art. The Rabbit can run around (as long as she doesn’t touch!), and I can lose myself in the murmur of people and love that I’m raising my daughter here. Plus they sell gelato in the spring and summer – so really, it’s an easy choice.
YLM: That’s a really difficult question as I have so many favorite places - for gloomy days, to cheer me up, when I’m feeling poor, when I’m feeling rich… the list is practically endless. But if I had to choose one place it would be Kensington Gardens, not only because it’s a beautiful park but because it holds so many happy memories. My husband proposed to me in front of the Albert Memorial and we’ve spent many a lovely afternoon there with the kids over the years, feeding the ducks on the Round Pond, eating ice-cream and strolling along the Serpentine.
• Where would you recommend for a first-timer?
MM: In London? Walk along the Thames near the BFI . To see the city this way, is to me, perfect. Then grab a cab to Rococo on the King’s Road to dispel any preconception of British chocolates.
In New York? I think Central Park is a great launch point. Meander along paths. Definitely grab a hot dog. Maybe row a boat on the lake. Then grab a cab (again) downtown to Schiller’s Liquor Bar for a steak frites and walk along the lower east side to check out the indie designers and new galleries popping up it seems almost daily.
YLM: Take a walk along the South Bank which runs along the side of the River Thames. Stop at the Tate Modern for a culture injection, then carry on walking (stopping for a quick gawp at the the various street performers and Shakespeare’s Globe) until you get to Borough Market where you can stuff yourself silly with delicious food, followed by a swift pint at one of the local traditional pubs. Perfect!
Keep an eye on the site for more great lists from the Mothers, and check out their site here.
