New York, New York

(8/5/09)

One of the downsides to living in the swamp is that you can’t get there from here. Whenever we need to go somewhere, we have to go through what is euphemistically called a "hub" by the airlines, probably because of the uncanny similarity to the speed of airline travel to travel in wagons with wheels that turned on hubs. Today’s adventure required a brief stay in New York City.

After a full day of flying (and yes it’s less than a 1000 miles) we checked into the hotel and began our explorations. Nothing of note, so off to bed. Next morning, the first stop was at Dr. Lonner’s office for Mo’s annual post op checkup. Should you ever need a scoliosis surgeon, he’s the one . What he accomplishes is just short of a miracle. As always, a brief but pleasant checkup (in the new office with the latest techno x-ray system) with a finding of all Mo systems a-ok, and we were off to see what there was to see in NYC.

Since our last visit, the only obvious thing that’s changed from the tourist angle is the addition of a Father Murphy Square at 47th and Broadway in Times Square. Who’s Father Murhpy? Part of the street is blocked off and a large step-stadium seat setup sits in the middle of the square. Father Murphy, war hero extraordinaire stands by the bleachers, and for some reason unknown a statue of George Cohen stands at the other end of the square. We’ll have to update this post when we have the time to figure just what this is all about.

We wrapped up the day with a subway ride around 9pm to the WTC site. It’s still a big hole in the ground, but the hole is slowly filling up. Not much else to report there. We found a memorial on the wall of the local fire station for the fire fighters that were killed in the collapse of the buildings on 9-11. Pictures are attached -- a reminder that firefighters do risk their lives, and do so daily.

Back on the subway back to the hotel. Another early departure. Finally on the road to Mandalay.

A traveler’s note: If you want to climb the Statute of Liberty, you can….in October. Since its reopening, reservations have been necessary and for now are way out. Make them online.