New York City Spring Break

We wandered around the island for a little bit, but there really wasn't much to see because the main attraction, as you all know, is residing atop a 154 foot pedestal. We waited in line for a ranger-guided tour, which was the only way that you could go into the statue. After going through another security checkpoint, we were led into the lobby and shown the original torch. The guide gave us some quick facts on this piece of history that were quite interesting. When first constructed, it was supposed to serve a dual purpose as a monument and a lighthouse, but it never panned out. In 1984 they replaced this torch with a gold plated one while doing repairs for the centennial celebration.

In the museum they have a facial replica of Lady Liberty, and oh my my is she a cutie. I give her a kiss mostly to thank her for all of the work that she has done over the years representing our country and our way of life. I'll be darned if that copper face didn't blush when I planted a big wet one on her cheek. Although she didn't say anything, I know that she liked it.

I then massage her weary toes, which have been exposed to the elements for over 100 years now. True these are just replicas, but I know that she appreciated the effort. Again, she didn't say anything, but the look on her face told her true feelings. If I wasn't afraid of the Jolly Green Giant, I'd ask her out.

Since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, visitors are no longer allowed access to the viewing area in the crown. It's not because they are afraid of someone blowing it up from inside (I've already told you about the multiple security checkpoints) but because of the lack of escape routes in the case of an emergency. As you can see in this picture, they only way up and down is a spiral staircase that is only big enough for one person to walk up/down. There is no plan to ever reopen the crown, as their simply isn't enough space to build a proper emergency staircase within the statue. Plus the statue is getting old, so unnecessary tampering with it could structurally damage the framework. They have installed glass panels so that you can look up into the magnificent craftsmanship that went into the construction of this giant, so at least you can look up and imagine what it would be like to ascend the stairs and look out into the world.

This is my first look at the statue from the highest point that you can ascend to and my umpteenth look at the downtown area of New York City. Both bring tears of joy to my eyes as I weep for the first time for a city other than Milwaukee. I feel bad for revealing emotions for a city other than my own, but sometimes emotions just cannot be controlled. I will be the first to admit this before speculation emerges - I heart NY. And I have the t-shirt to prove it . I don't know if I could live here, but I'll certainly visit here any time that the opportunity presents itself.