This was my first trip to BlogHer, so I wasn't expecting any special invitations to any private parties. But one day, an email arrived and stated that I was invited on a tour of Ellis Island, courtesy of the Liberty Mutual Responsibility Project. My camera and I joined hands and thought dirty thoughts about the photos we'd get to take and, without hesitation, I signed up for the tour.
This was the first event on my BlogHer agenda. It started out with a bus ride to Battery Park. Our tour guide talked to us about the history of Manhattan along the way.
This is a view of Ground Zero from my bus window.
When we arrived at Battery Park, there were bustling crowds and street vendors, but we got prepared to go through security.
At security, I learned that security sensors are biased toward the large-busted woman. Based on my experience and the experience of others, if you were a DD or larger, you set off the alarms and went through the wand. Nothing like having the wand go off repeatedly for the shape of your lady parts.
Next, we got ready to board the ferry.
The ferry ride was incredible. It was my first time viewing Manhattan from this perspective.
I was particularly delighted to get a far away shot of my beloved Brooklyn Bridge.
Next, it was time for me to meet the Statue of Liberty. I was in awe.
When we got to Ellis Island, our tour began. We went to a lunch sponsored by Liberty Mutual and learned more about the Responsibility Project. I was blown away. First, I think it is commendable that a large corporation would take on a topic like this and bring it to the public in such an unusual way. I highly recommend that you browse their website. Responsibility is difficult to define, but when placed in certain scenarios, it is much easier to view it in context. Their website does an excellent job of placing these themes in context.
After lunch, we went on our tour of Ellis Island.
It is at this point that a giant black thing got stuck on my camera lens and ruined the rest of my photos.
We were able to walk the memorial wall. Sadly, I could not find any of my ancestors.
While the trip was sponsored by Liberty Mutual, I was not asked to go back to my computer and blog about The Responsibility Project. This is my choice and I hope that you take the time to visit their website. There is something there for everyone.
Thank you again to Liberty Mutual for a fantastic afternoon!
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Wow Danielle, you got a lot of great shots. How frustrating that the rest were ruined!
I loved the tour as well and I was also so impressed by Liberty Mutual for creating and continuing such an important campaign.
Okay – FIRST of all…I literally choked on my coffee at your description of those security sensors. As one of those targeted for “wanding”, I have to say you summed up the experience perfectly!
)
As for the photos – GORGEOUS. I believe I have a serious case of lens (and camera) envy.
And I couldn’t agree more with your kudos of Liberty Mutual’s Responsibility Project. To see a company implement such a forward thinking and positive idea is so encouraging! (And the tour and lunch was awesome.
Some truly wonderful photos! So glad I got to be a part of this amazing trip and project from Liberty Mutual.
Excellent pictures, Danielle! I can’t believe that your camera gave out two thirds of the way through! You must have had a super telephoto on to get the torch of the statue! So great to go on that adventure with you!