A Glorious Spiritual Weekend, An Early Morning Stroll and an Adventure to the MET

Steve and Marj Bennion invited us to spend Saturday, October 4, watching two sessions of General Conference interspersed with a lovely roast beef, potatoes, gravy (Steve was in heaven) and all the trimmings. Previously, determined to use all the varieties of apples we had previously purchased, I made an apple (crumb topped) pie which contributed to the dessert portion of the meal. Terry and Mabel Grimley, our friends and associates and "greenie" missionaries to NY like ourselves, were also invited. What a special occasion to share hearts and comments with dear friends.

After sitting for the good part of two days and needing significant exercise, I ventured out at 6:00 am (still dark in the city) to walk the streets. (See some of the store fronts below). Also, while strolling 'downtown' (south), I looked across the street to Columbus Circle and viewed a magnificent monument. Curious, I crossed the street from the high-end mall and realized this was a monument to Christopher Columbus. Ironically, I have been reading Clark Hinckley's new book on his life and have been significantly stirred by the spirit and life of this great explorer. Ironically, in Nephi I and II, Nephi only mentions two men, i.e. Christopher Columbus and Joseph Smith. I wonder if I chose to be born on Columbus's landmark date, October 12? How I admire this man!

High-end shopping mall down the street from our apt.

In the dawning light, I looked westward, and crossed the street to examine this magnificent monument.

My hero, Christopher Columbus is honored here on Columbus Circle

Of course, a walk wouldn't be complete without the interruption of the Trump Hotel (one of his many "monuments" staring Christopher Columbus in the fact (directly across the street).

Almost home--the Manhattan temple front door (apt bldg. is just 50 feet around the corner).

Lest one think that visiting the Met is attending a baseball game or a symphonic concert, not so. In NY, the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art is lovingly referred to as the Met and greets a mere 6-7 million visitors per year. Our second solo 'flight' included the subway AND the crosstown bus--we departed and arrived in tact and were only approached twice for money, etc. What an incredible museum! One could spend months exploring and being educated. After walking the halls for 4 hours, our legs and minds were exhausted..the Met warrants many return trips. See below some of our particular interests...