I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: travel is one of my TOP “love-languages.” (Even though I know that travel isn’t technically a love-language (as defined in the famous book on the subject), it really is one way that God uses to speak love, grace, truth, and refreshment to my soul!) Any chance I have to get-away and experience a new (or even a familiar place), I’m inspired and renewed! That’s why getting away a few times in the past few months (Tennessee, Colorado, and most recently, Pennsylvania) has been such a blessing to me this year!
A couple of weeks ago, I had the wonderful opportunity of road-tripping to Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, for a week-long work-related conference. I wasn’t sure what to expect going out there, given I’d never been before, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised with all there was to see and do there. Philly is a city filled with so much history and culture, and exploring it with some fabulous co-workers made for sure a great time! Here are some of the things I got to see on my travels …
The Liberty Bell
Another National Park checked off the bucket list!
Independence Hall
Being a “freedom-girl,” I LOVED being immersed in (and reminded of) the history of our nation’s journey to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Elfreth’s Alley
This was probably my FAVORITE area to explore! Aren’t the houses darling? If I was a city girl, I think I’d choose a place just like this to call “home.”
The Betsy Ross House
Christ Church
The worship site of many Presidents and Revolutionaries, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Betsy Ross. So cool!
Korean and Vietnam War Memorials
Head House Market and Square
Brick, cobblestone, budding trees, and windows filled with flowers for blocks… be still my heart!
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Amor Statue
“Love Park” is under construction, so we weren’t able to see the notorious site, but we ran into the sign that is replacing the famous “Love” sign on our walk through the Museum District – introducing “Amor!”
Rocky Balboa Statue
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
Reading Terminal Market
This gem of a place was on the corner right across the street from our hotel and boasts numerous eateries, shops, and vendors. I loved the displays of fresh flowers, fruit, veggies, and the COFFEE – so delicious! Made a couple of stops there to get my daily dose of caffeine before heading into conference sessions for the day.
And plenty of other places full of architecture, beauty, and fun!
Overall, my co-workers and I walked over 17 miles (thank you Fitbit) in the city and truly had a great time getting to know each other more, experiencing these sites together for the very first time, and learning from and networking with others at our conference! It was great and I’m so thankful to have had this experience!
I’m not exactly sure yet where I’ll be traveling to next, but I do have some plans in the works and look forward to more adventures in the months to come! Thank you, Lord, for opportunities to see and experience this beautiful country!