a pilot's journal: Boston, Reverence and Revelry (Revere too)

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Boston, Reverence and Revelry (Revere too)

I was actually scheduled for this layover long before the bombings occurred. Now I was to arrive nine days after the vicious terror bombings of APR 15th. It was a beautiful Spring day and though still chilly, a great day for a walk. Our hotel was one block from the site of the second bomb. I took a circuitous route, walking towards Copley Square and avoiding Boylston Street as I would walk back that way. The city was alive with blossoms of spring and lots of tourists. There was a reverence in the air and by the time I got to Copley Square, the mood quickly changed as I neared the makeshift memorial created there by the people. Everywhere were "Boston Strong" signs and the somberness of those walking among the memorabilia was so reminiscent of NYC after 9-11 near the site of the twin towers. The street had just been opened the day before and the sites were no longer cordoned off.

Site of first bombing near the finish line.

Second Bombing site

I continued my walk and was able to see the second site. I kept walking on Boylston street with Fenway Park as my destination. I had been there once, many years ago to see a game. I actually lived outside of Boston after graduating from college. Boston is a great town and on prior layovers, I was able to see Old Ironsides and the commons, as well as eat at a terrific oyster bar. The Summer Shack is across from our hotel and I can highly recommend it for oysters. As I got to Fenway, there were preparations underway for that evenings game. I relaxed and decided to get a "Tasty Burger," enjoying it at a table outside. My stroll back was easy as I took in the sunshine, the sights and noted some places to try for future visits to Bean Town, a great place to go, especially in the Spring and Summer months.