Every year, when the 9/11 anniversary passes, I am always amazed at how long it’s been. I distinctly remember waking up to the horrifying news that the United States had suffered an unfathomable terrorist attack — and being glued to the TV and radio stations all day. I remember the amazing surge of patriotism that flowed through my peers and myself, completely changing our generation and bringing us closer together in the wake of a tragedy. Now, eleven years later, I look at my children and pray that they never have to live through a horror like we did on that day. I also look forward to the day I can take them to visit the 9/11 memorial and teach them what it means to be an American.

Here are some of my favorite images of NYC from my trip there in 2008:

I was pregnant with Zachary in this photo!