We were delayed because of an accident but we did arrive in New York City about 1:30pm only to be halted before going into the Holland tunnel (which goes under the Hudson River). During our time underwater we didn't notice any leaks! Arriving at a nearby parking garage near the 911 memorial the walk began. We all visited the memorial--so sobering. Some of us walked around for a while and some just sat and watched people. There are truly amazing buildings in that area. An old one that we read up on and were amazed by was the Woolworth Building. Then some decided to go up into the New World Trade Center Building (tallest building in the Western Hemisphere) at 103 stories. The view is amazing--a highlight of the trip. We had a big fiasco getting New York Pizza (at Joe's) but it was good and tided us over until dinner. Then some wanted to see Times Square, so we drove there. We were able to cruise through the myriad of narrow streets at about a mile every 15 minutes. There was one thing we learned. Not all honking is negative. Some honks say something like, "Go ahead and come over into this lane ahead of me." Or, "You're clear to change lanes." Anyway, we saw Times Square and then left the city. Our rental house was in Elizabeth City, New Jersey.
Our house was beautiful, unique and old (built in the 1920s). It had a swimming pool and hot tub which were newer than 100 year old house--tall ceilings, and 3 fireplaces on 3 floors. The stairs were steep. We were all very tired as we didn't get there until 9pm. A long, busy 14 hour day.
Day 32--June 5--Sunday. We have been on the road a month today. How did we spend our one month anniversary? On land and sea! We had ferry tickets to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty scheduled for noon. We arrived at the terminal at 11 but it was a long walk to where we boarded. We also had to go through security--where we were required to wear masks (the only place our entire trip so far). And security took about 3 minutes.
Someone had heard about "seafood boil" and so we found a place with good reviews so went in search of this new 'find'. It was quite an experience. The seafood you choose, along with potatoes, corn and spices are boiled in a bag. You are given plastic gloves and bibs and fancy utensils for cracking your crab. Those that had it were very satisfied and glad for the experience. Then there was also those in the group that were thankful for other menu options.
Needless to say, we didn't get back to the house until almost 9pm. Long, fun day.
June 7--Tuesday-today. We spend a solid 2 hours packing and then the rest just visiting and hanging out. There was laundry and packing. Tomorrow morning Bob and Patty will leave for the airport at 6am. We will hang out for a while and probably pack some. Then we will leave and the Ritters will spend their last night in Virginia together. We are starting to head west.
Runnin' with the Ritters is quite an experience!!