I bought this mug in college, and it has always been my favorite; I eventually also purchased the corresponding magnet. I attended college in Manhattan, and shared this world view - all that was important in the world ended at the Hudson River, and everything beyond that wasn't relevant to my life. Even though I currently reside in New Jersey, I refer to myself as a New Yorker living in exile. One day I'll return to the state of my birth, if not the City itself.
And yes, the Twin Towers are an important part of that world view. When I worked in lower Manhattan, they were my compass; I could always orient myself by looking at them. Later, when we moved to New Jersey, I always knew we were close to New York when I could see the Towers peeking up over the skyline as we drove up the Turnpike. Even nine and a half years later it seems inconceivable that they no longer exist; they will always remain part of the New York that I love in my heart.
I'm heading into the City today, and wanted to take my project photo before I left. I decided to photograph this mug and magnet, because of everything they symbolize for me.
