Lori and I enjoyed our annual long-weekend jaunt down-state where we visited with Stella who expertly (and fearlessly) drove us in to Manhattan on a couple days for touring, museum-watching, eating and drinking. New York City seems to be in a frenzied building boom every time we visit. We explored some of the more recent projects including The Shed, The Vessel, The Oculus, and the World Trade Center 9/11 Memorial.  Then it was off to old-favorite museums and new-discovery restaurants.  What an amazing place.

The Vessel nesteled between high-rises as seen from Hudson Yards.

The Oculus, replacing the PATH station destroyed on 9/11.

The Oculus viewed from the 9/11 north tower Memorial.

The Oculus interior.

Lori and Stella at South Street Seaport in front of the Wavertree. Built in 1885, it was the last sailing ship built of wrought iron.

Rembrandt self portrait at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, displayed as part of the Dutch Masters exhibit.

The American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Stella poses with “Reaching Jaguar” by Anna Hyatt Huntington. Señor Lopez of the Bronx Zoo was the real-life jaguar model for this sculpture.

Stella emerges from shopping at Zabar’s, a must-do on the West Side.

Lori dodges the paparazzi on Riverside Drive.