And to think that I saw it on Mulberry St.

For the first time in my life, I actually walked on Mulberry St. I didn't actually see anything of note, but I couldn't resist using the title.

So we hopped on the bus this morning, and headed to Liberty Island. What's that, you say? Weren't we supposed to be at Staten Island? Yes indeed, we were. So after a brief tour of Liberty Island and a lovely view of the back of the Statue of Liberty, off we went for Staten Island. The ferry ride was uneventful, and it was kind of neat to see the statue from the front this time.

Following this we walked over to the Jewish Heritage Museum of New York. My group was led by a woman who was actually a Holocaust survivor, who has been back to Europe a few times looking for signs of her family. The kids were probably not as into the museum as they could have been, but it was some very interesting stuff.

Following that, we headed over to the South Street Seaport, where the kids enjoyed free time for lunch and shopping. I have to admit - I don't know that anyone bought anything at Brookstone...unlike last year.

We then walked thru the financial district, culminating with a few minutes at Ground Zero, a sombering experience for all. There seemed to be a lot more construction underway this year.

Following this, it was off to Chinatown for some shopping. A lot of kids (and a few teachers) were very proud of their purchases, along with their sharpened negotiation skills. Unfortunately for me, the one thing I tried to buy didn't work out - the camera lens guy wasn't into negotiating, at least nowhere near as low as I wanted to pay. For some reason, Jinnah and Tyler decided to stay with me the whole time...and we mostly struck out on our purchases.

We then walked over for dinner at Puglia's, which was delicious, and very very very very loud. Nothing like 68 kids in a narrow, brick room. We finished off the day with a quick drive thru Soho and Greenwich Village, and then at the request of a number of people, we returned for about 90 minutes at Jersey Gardens mall. I gotta be honest here - I'm finished with that place. I had a good time the first night.

A personal message for Klaire - Mommy says hi!

So the kids are all in bed (ok, in their rooms - sleeping, I doubt) and we're getting rested up for a big, long day tomorrow. Lots to do and see!