Rob and I were back to Boston this weekend. We spent a rainy and cold (49 degrees, yikes!) day having the just the best time walking around the city, supporting the runners finishing the race, celebrating our birthdays and trying (more on that in a bit) to see some of the "To Boston With Love" flags installed at the Museum of Fine Arts. We started with lunch at Jasper White's Summer Shack for lunch... I had crab legs and they were amazing. Rob had a creole dish that I didn't pay much attention to because I was elbow deep in delicious crab. He did say that he loved his as well. We also shared some strawberry shortcake and lots of laughs over lunch.
We then walked to Boylston Street to see the amazingly moving tributes to the victims of the marathon bombings. That day, runners had finished the race for those who couldn't despite the rain and chill. The memorial as well as the runners are such a testament to the spirit of the city and the strength of community. It was so powerful to see not only the sneakers left behind, but also the small messages and poems left from people around the world. It's so difficult to be at that spot and imagine what occurred there just a few short weeks ago. But the words of comfort, the tokens and momentos that fill that space (even small pieces of chimes which fill the air with the sweetest notes) make those spots a fitting tribute to the resilience of the spirit of all who were touched by that day. It is so moving and truly indescribable. If you have a chance to be near the city, do go.
We walked next up to the Museum of Fine Arts hoping to experience the flag installation. The line was around the block as it was free admission into the museum and many had come to see what I've heard is an absolutely powerful and beautiful show of support and love. There are some lovely photos of the flags here, if you haven't seen them. After waiting in line for a while, it was clear to us that we really wouldn't be able to make it into the museum, really take in the exhibit and make it home to attend to our sweet girl, so we reluctantly left with plans to return in the coming days. I can't wait.
On our way back to the T Station, we walked through The Public Garden. Tens of thousands of flags representing every fallen service person from Massachusetts from the Civil War to today were placed (by volunteers and members of the military) in the park. The flags and the sacrifice that each represents are completely overwhelming and so very beautiful.
This truly was such an emotional trip into our favorite city. It was so truly special and lovely taking time to head back to Boston a city we have oh so much love for. I hope your Memorial Day was special and spent with those you love!
