OUR TRAVELS

Not only does Philadelphia have many historical sites that tell the story of the birth of our nation (pictures later) but it is also home to the nation's largest public art program - over 4000 pieces, many of them murals.  Started as an anti-graffiti program in 1984, the program has become part of a larger program to repurpose public spaces and create positive dialog in communities.  Here are some of our favorites. We did squeeze in some historical stuff (Don's words).  The Liberty Bell, originally known as the State House Bell, summoned members of the Pennsylvania Assembly like Ben Franklin to meetings. The first version of the bell cracked almost immediately. The second version was retired from active duty in 1846 after repairs made its crack worse.  Abolitionists in the 1830s changed the bell's name from the State House Bell to the Liberty Bell.  They along with others started using the bell as a symbol of equal rights. Carpenters' Hall was the site of the first Cont

Over the years, we have traveled and lived in many major cities.  New York City is like no other.  As we got off the escalator upon arrival at the Amtrak Station, we were struck by the sheer number of people and all of the NOISE!  The people everywhere weaving between cars, bikes, and scooters to cross the street on a red light, the horns honking, and the sirens blaring overwhelmed our senses.  Such craziness!! We've crammed a lot in a week - some of it standing in line for free or reduced price tickets.  The time spent was well worth it.  While standing in line, we chatted with people from all over the world - people with varying views and perspectives. We stood in line twice for Jimmy Fallon and The Tonight Show.  We reached the front of the line once - only to find out there was only ONE ticket left - Don had a lot of fun.  We did get in to see Late Night with Seth Meyers and The Amber Ruffin Show.  We laughed so much our cheeks hurt!  No photos were allowed, so this is all you

In addition to sightseeing here in Boston, we decided to go on a brewery crawl with a pub thrown in for good measure.  Before your mind goes to a day long drunk fest, it took us three days to visit three breweries and a pub.  It was a lot of fun, though we are "beered-out" for a while. Democracy Brewing Trillium Brewing Harpoon Brewery - enjoying the UFO flight with homemade pretzels It was exciting to take the Amtrak Acela train from DC to Boston - six and a half hours.  Donna took two Dramamine but survived.  Don liked the quiet smooth fast ride better than flying. We took a Freedom Trail tour with the guide dressed in period wear.  It started at the iconic Boston Common. Granary Burying Ground is where many prominent Bostonians are buried, including John Hancock, Paul Revere, the five Boston Massacre victims and Samuel Adams.  The Beantown Pub across the street is the only place where you can drink a cold Sam Adams brew while viewing a cold Sam Adams (not responsible for b