Lady Liberty

This morning we were up early once again. Abbe was awake at six and us shortly after. She headed to Chicago for the week, and we headed to see Lady Liberty. We took a taxi to Battery park. It was early and there weren’t many people. The park was filled though. The lawn was covered in flags, one flag to represent each person lost on 9/11. The flags were on poles that stood six feet tall, so their presence made a large impact because you could truly see how many people were lost that day. They were everywhere, on every lawn, in every direction. It was heartwrenching. We took a moment to observe the flags, the globe structure that used to be at the trade centers (it is now badly damaged) and the eternal flame that was lit in honor of those lost that day.

 

We were the first ferry to the island that day and it was perfect. The weather was great, the crowd wasn’t too terrible and security moved quickly. Before we knew it, we were on the island exploring the home of one of the most recognized sculptures in the world. The museum in the pedestal was very interesting and the statue itself was breathtaking. The green patina of her copper shimmered in the sun light. We weren’t able to go into the crown (fine by me) but we did explore the top of the pedestal. It was great.

 

The ferry took us to Ellis Island next. Kevin was looking forward to experiencing the place that his ancestors traveled through to begin their lives here in America. The island was beautiful and the building was stunning. There is an audio tour that takes you through the immigration experience, with photographs along the way. It was a very emotional display. I is truly amazing to think of what people went through, making the grueling journey to the United States, some only to be turned away. We spent quite some time exploring the island and the building but eventually made it back to the ferry bound for Manhattan.

 

We grabbed a couple of slices for lunch and explored Wall Street. We had quite the architectural tour of the financial district seeing the Stock Exchange, Federal Reserve Bank, Woolworth Building, City Hall and Trinity Church. Then we made our way up to Canal Street, through China Town and Little Italy before catching a cab back to the house.

 

We were able to nap for a bit before heading out for the night. Kevin walked Coco (if Abby, Sophie or Chance ever find out what we’re doing on this vacation, I think there will be hell to pay!) while I got ready and then we both headed to Birdland Jazz club. Tonight it was Natalie Douglas performing classics by Nina Simone. She was fabulous. The food was delicious and it was a perfect way to spend the evening.

 

We meandered through Times Square and shopped a bit before calling it a night. Once back home it was one more walk for Coco (not a word to my dogs!) and then the three of us headed up to the roof top terrace to take in the lights before heading to bed.

 

 

Pictures

(click to enlarge)