9/11 . . . a sad day in history . . .

Today is the day we reflect on the tragic events of 9/11/01. It is a date that will live on in the hearts of Americans forever.

I can remember the exact moment when I learned what was going on. I was standing in my classroom looking out into the hallway and saw a strange look of Patti's face and knew something was wrong. Her husband had just called her to tell her about the first plane crashing through one of the Twin Towers. It was just a little after 8:00 AM that morning. I remember being numb - and in shock and couldn't focus on the lessons I had planned for the day. We were not allowed to talk to our students about it - and we tried to function that day as if nothing was different. I remember wondering if my students could tell that I was different. I couldn't wait to watch TV at 10:00 (my first break) to get more information. I was horrified to see the towers collapse. Still can't believe it today. Tonight I have been watching the replaying of Katie and Matt of the Today Show as the news played that day. Still touches my heart.

I talked to my students today about this day. My students were only three years old and would not remember much - only what they have been told. I saw an innocence in them today as they asked me questions about the events of that day. I could see them trying to process what I was saying - and they seemed to be struggling a bit. Very sad.

This picture is the museum that will be built on the site where the Twin Towers once stood. I look forward to returning to NYC someday when that area is completely finished. I'm glad I saw the remains of the kaos this summer (lots of construction), and look forward to seeing the beautiful memorial that will one day be in its place.

May we never forget those innocent lives lost on that day . . . a sad day in history.