This was a shorter trip than I expected. I'm really struggling with fatigue right now for some, weird reason and suddenly just couldn't go on. Knowing I had a three-hour drive ahead of me, I decided not to push my luck and headed home. Philly, for those who don't know, in addition to being the birthplace of a nation is also the birthplace of Rocky Balboa. At the top of the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the famous steps Rocky runs up in the movies, is a statue of Rocky in his famous pose, fists in the air. I didn't make it to the steps but a famous quote from Rocky came to mind as I was driving out of the city, saddened that I didn't get to do everything on my list.
It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.
Next time, I will keep moving forward. Of course, next time I plan to have company so the journey will be easier. :) It was still a beautiful day in a beautiful city.
There is this wonderful area of Philly called Fabric Row. All this? $14/yard. Seriously! I need to go back to Philly just for the great pricing on fabric. I also need to go back with a plan and a lot of money so I can stock up and make it worth the gas money and toll charges.
Rows of leather. Yes, leather! I want to pick the most unlikely color and commission a quiver. That's period, right? Colored leather?
Independence Hall in all its glory. What a stately building! I didn't get a ticket to go inside but will makes sure I do next time. Oh, I bet these walls could tell stories.
Congress Hall next to Independence Hall. Imagine those trees filled with leaves. Beauty personified.
And who doesn't get excited for the first signs of spring!!!??!!
Cobblestone streets.
I bet this alley is striking in the summer with all the leaves. I love how it is bordered by history, just to dump out in the modern world. Such a peaceful spot.
The railing around the courtyard of the Second National Bank (in full view next picture).
A recreation of an 18th Century Garden. Very English don't ya think? Everything is just starting to green and grow. It is small but will be lovely in the summer.
More spring! Yay for bulbs!
This is a "ghost" house and church in the middle of Franklin Square. The house is roughly where Benjamin Franklin's house would have been. Behind it is the printing office, book bindery, and post office...all businesses in which Mr. Franklin was heavily involved. I had studied Mr. Franklin before and knew of his works, so it was nice to walk to same paths as he did. And, if you have not studied his life, you really should. We owe libraries and fire stations and post offices to this great man. He started so many programs we take for granted today.
The next few pictures are from the Christ Church Cemetary. What is a visit to a historic city without visiting a cementary? I mean, seriously? I'm always amazed at the orderly but uneven rows of headstones and wonder how people were really buried there. Did they have head and foot stones? Or just buried on top of each other? There was actually one vault that had seven names on top, so I guess they are layered a bit. Such history in this cemetary. Five signers of the Declaration of Independence are buried here including....
Benjamin Franklin himself. I love the plaque near his tomb. Not surprised that Mr. Franklin was as particular about his death as he was about his life.
All in all it was a great day. I can't wait to go back and see more of the City of Brotherly Love!
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