New York, New York

From August 31 through September 2, 2013 nine family members, ages 2-1/2 to 70, gathered in lower Manhattan. The original idea was for Leslie and David to have a “babymoon,” a last vacation before the twins arrive in December, but then the rest of us couldn’t resist joining them. David reserved early and got us good rates at a hotel in the financial district overlooking Ground Zero, where crowds streamed to see the new 9/11 Memorial.

On the streets and in the High Line Park expert musicians shared their talents; in the subways trains screeched. Bakeries and cafés produced tantalizing aromas that almost  overcame the smells of bagged garbage.  Our grandchildren’s hands were soft and warm  in contrast to the the chilly steel of the 9/11 Memorial names. We dined in Little Italy, had lunch in China town and snapped pictures you can see at this link. Memories of previous visits with family and friends surged. Two songs were constantly going through my head: 1) Irving Berlin’s setting of Emma Lazarus’ poem inscribed on the Statue of Liberty:

and 2) Frank Sinatra’s hit, “New York, New York.”

Inspired by the 70th-birthday tribute the kids composed for Steve, I offer these haikus:

New York holiday
For nine Smiths, plus two unborn
Gables pair great guides

Comfy Marriott
Little Italy–yum, yum
Dim sum and then some

High Line, Empire State
Subways, strollers, strong shoulders
Ground Zero pools, tears

Fast ferry to Isle
Long lines for safe Liberty
Many steps, wide view

Central Park’s green lawns
Spacious laps of Alice, Hans
Many blocks, great pix

Kids, Moms sup early
Four others dine, Hudson view
All in bed by nine

Bravo for breakfast!
Labor Day where it began:
Union Square, MoMath

Rain holds off ’til 3:00
AA flies, Delta delays
Buses reach homes first

Thomas, Violet
Stephen, Shelby, Leslie, Dave
Lilli, Martha, Steve

New York minutes flew
Unique sights, smells, sounds and tastes
Big Apple, small bites