The Big Apple

I recently returned from a whirlwind trip to New York City.  Brain had a work conference and invited me to come along.  It seemed impossible, but with the help of awesome friends (thank you Alice, Jeny, Amy and Cindy), I was able to make it!  

It had been about 15 years since I was last there.  I love the energy of the big city.  There is so much to see and do, and I'm pretty sure I walked no less than 10 miles in two days trying to see it all.  Of course, I barely scratched the surface.  Guess I'll have to go back.

On our first night there, we were invited to a private party with Denis Leary for the Tribeca Film Festival.  There was a panel discussion for a documentary Dennis was supporting about Detroit Firefighters called Burn.  They showed several clips from the film and they were incredible.  Most of the firemen featured in the film were at the party.  It was a great night with great food and and incredible views.

On the top of my list of things to do was to visit the 9/11 Memorial.  It was beyond moving.  So many names, and so much open space that was once filled with tons of steel. Photographs don't capture it adequately.  It's so hard to believe it has been over 10 years since that fateful day.  They say that time can heal, but I can't imagine it ever heals completely for the families who lost someone that day.  

I found the name of a friend's brother in law who died that day. 

The Survivor Tree.  The stump of this pear tree was the last living thing pulled from the wreckage.  It was nursed back to health and is beautiful.  You can see the smooth new growth. 

The Freedom Tower

After visiting the memorial,  I walked all the way back to the hotel at 53rd and Park, stopping for the best piece of pizza, window shopping,  people watching and banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery at Grand Central Station.  I was supposed to have dinner with a friend while Brian had a meeting, but she ended up having to work late. So, I walked (again) to Broadway and grabbed a last minute ticket Chicago.  I love Broadway!!!!

The next morning I met my friend Dillon for breakfast and then walked (again) across central park and around Park Ave before meeting Brian for lunch.  I had a great 48 hours in the city, but was ready for a more relaxed pace!  Who am I kidding... I haven't relaxed since having kids.