NYC ILY part 2

It's been twelve years since that awful day in September and going to New York there are reminders everywhere. Flags stand proudly, tribute gardens erected for those lost, stories told of where we were on 9/11. Visiting Ground Zero was a priority on our trip and I am so grateful that I was able to see it. It is a truly beautiful memorial dedicated to those that lost their lives on that day. It is almost near completion - the 9/11 museum will open next year. That will surely be haunting but it is a part of our history that now must be told. It will house the remnants of one of the emergency stairwells, voice recordings, personal mementoes of victims amongst many other items. I can't even imagine. I will let these photos speak for themselves - however it does the memorial no justice.

This man brought me to tears. 

There were a couple of pregnant woman who lost their lives - I am happy they chose to include their unborn children in the memorial

The heart around Harry caught my eye. I imagine he is greatly,greatly missed. 

The plane that found out about the attacks and led an on board attack. I remembered hearing a lot of Jeremy Glick - it was surreal to see his name in person.

This is the "survivor tree". Rescue workers found the tree reduced to a stump of only eight feet tall. The tree was brought back to health in a New York City park and over the last ten years it has grown more than 30 feet tall. It was replanted at ground zero and has temporary ground wires to help it take root. 

 

My mom and I took a photo here that I briefly posted on Instagram. And although hundreds of people were taking photos I realized that I felt it was not right. My face should not be photographed here with the names of all the people lost. So out of respect I deleted it - just a personal thing. 

 

Afterwards we also toured the Trinity Church which is the oldest church in Manhattan. Churches are not really my thing but the stained glass was beautiful. 

That evening we went back to my uncles and enjoyed some champagne on the roof. A nice way to end the evening after a somber day of reflection. 

Proclaiming my love for New York!

 

Final recap coming Monday! 6 days is a lot to cover!