In memory...

We had tickets to the 9/11 Memorial this morning, so after a quick cafe breakfast, we headed down to the World Financial Center. Even though the tickets are timed entry, there is still a long line, and major security screening. After 3 days of lots of security checks, it made us all a little sad that we live in a state of times when we have to be so careful. We understand the absolute necessity of it, and we were patient through it all, but it would be so nice for this to be just an open park and memorial.
The memorial is truly an amazing site.

 I don't really have the words to describe how it feels to be here. I was in awe over the size of the area, and speechless when seeing all of the names of the victims around to two memorial pools.

 I have read a couple of books, and watched endless news and tv specials about the events of 9/11, but seeing it all in person is something different. I think the city did a wonderful job of creating a peaceful place for this memorial. I can't imagine how they chose from the 5,201 submitted options, but this one is wonderful.

 Jax was born on 9/11/01, and we all vividly remember watching the events unfold while at the hospital during his birth.

 We took some time to go through the brochure and explain more details to the kids.

 The Freedom Tower (or the new One World Trade Center) building is almost complete. It adds a wonderful feature to the city skyline.

 In the end, several new towers will be built, although none as tall as this one. There is still a lot of construction surrounding the 16-acre complex.

 This is the "Survivor Tree." It was discovered among the wreckage during the recovery effort. The tree had been severely burnt and most of its limbs were now stumps, but it continued to sprout leaves beneath the rubble. One of the city employees helped remove the tree, bring it back to life, and replant it near it's original site.

The large museum is almost finished, and it is a beautiful building. We were able to peak inside through the windows and see some of the artifacts and tridents.

 Since the full museum isn't open yet, there is a small museum and store open to visit. The boys took some time to look through some of the many books about 9/11.

It truly was an emotional visit. The triumph over tragedy is visible everywhere.

 This bronze wall sculpture is across the street from the memorial, and there are photos and memorabilia everywhere.

 Across the street is the St. Paul's Chapel and Cemetery. This church has survived a massive fire and the 9/11 attacks.

Behind the church is the Bell of Hope, which was given to New York by the City of London to show their support for us. It is rung every year on 9/11.

The church is filled with memorabilia from the days and weeks surrounding the attacks.

 It was also the church that George Washington attended after his inauguration, and while he was in New York.

 After leaving, we headed over to the New York Stock Exchange.

 The bronze bull statue was surrounded by tourists, so we just walked by. Let's hope for a "Bull" market!

We stopped at Tiffany and Co.. I got a cute silver Tiffany New York ring. Thanks Mom and Dad!

The boys continued to spend their time jumping over poles throughout the city.

 Mimi took a break in the shade and the rest of us walked the Brooklyn Bridge. It was so incredibly hot and humid, but we wanted to do it, and even though part of the bridge is under renovation, it was still neat to see the architecture of it.

 The view from the top...

 and the kids picked up some fantastic NYC drawings from an artist on the bridge.

 Once we came back, it was time to rest for a bit, the heat and humidity was quite oppressive.

 We stopped for smoothies for the kids. They have been living on these fresh fruit smoothies...anything to try and keep cool!

 Although even in the heat, these boys just don't stop. They've been jumping every pole and rail in town!

 We found this beautiful old Catholic Church...

 and walked through the Civic Center to see the Supreme Court buildings.

 A lot of New York police shows and movies film outside of these buildings. I just love the old architecture.

I am so blessed to have these two...

We quickly walked through Chinatown (it was crazy!) and made our way to Little Italy.

We walked up and down the Mainstreet. The kids loved some of the wall artwork...

 Zoe did some purse shopping...

 After a long week of dance, and a lot of walking today, Zoe was exhausted. Her feet ached, so I gave her a short piggie back ride!

We ended up at an Italian restaurant along the street. Although the inside surroundings weren't traditional Italian, the food was great. We were all beat, and overheated, so it felt good to just sit and enjoy a good dinner. We headed back home after another long, but great day!