New York New York

the damage in NYC

Quite a few people have been asking me about the damage we saw in NYC after the massive storm hit the North East Coast of America. Having never been to NYC before I didn't know any different, but here are some photos of the worst WE saw. By no means was the city unaffected by the storm, the government just cleaned it all up pretty quickly, especially around the touristy areas. The top photo was taken outside of Central Park which was actually closed for the first day we were there. The next two images were taken at the southern end of Manhattan Island (Ground Zero end). The water was still running across the street and there was plenty of trucks there trying to pump the salty water out from construction sites and buildings. The tube down that end was still out of order when we left, however most of the trains were back to normal working order through out the city. We were unable to visit the Ground Zero Memorial which was a little devastating for me (Noah was rejoicing I am sure), but just walking down that end of the island gave me goosebumps. I actually really didn't like being there. The power was out down that end of Manhatten for most of our visit. Jersey was the hardest hit and I should imagine the people there would have been without power for even longer. I do hope they have power now - provided they still have houses.

And then of course the New York City Marathon was cancelled, but just look at all these 'crazys' who still decided to run anyway. The city was engulfed by runners on the day that the marathon was actually meant to be held. Being an international event, I guess those that had travelled so far thought they should still run anyhow. Noah and I planed to watch the end of the marathon in Central Park but I guess it was not meant to be.

So other than a few inconveniences for us - NYC was brilliant. The people there are pretty resilient  - they are a tough group of people who seem to get through all that is thrown at them. God Bless America.

A post for my teacher friends

Just wanted to let all my teacher friends & EA's know how much I appreciate what you do for our kids while they are at school. I have worked at Tammin Primary School, part-time, for seven years now and over that time I have packed many children's bags up at the end of the day with all their work and treasures they have made. I often wondered if parents even looked at the work, where do they hang it in their house, do they chuck it, do they know what goes into planning for such activities? I must admit I was very excited to open Noah's school bag after his very first day at school last Thursday. I hope I stay that way forever - I hope the novelty doesn't wear off too quickly. I know how much work goes into all that 'stuff' they bring home and for that I am grateful. 

Hopefully Santa brings Noah some sort of boy bag for Christmas. Can you believe Noah fell over on his first day of school? Seems to be the way - they all do it.

"Is he really mine? Can we really keep him?"