We the people...

I think every American should have appreciation and respect for the radical decisions and actions our founding fathers took in order for us to enjoy the freedom that we have today. History makes my heart all aflutter and I can easily get lost thinking about what it was like back then, how life would be different and whatnot. I've always loved history and this is an amazing city full of it. To walk the same streets, to be in the same room, and to eat at the same place as George Washington, John Adams, Ben Franklin and the like is just cool. I felt the same way in Rome. It's just incredible to experience it. Our stops included The Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Christ's Church, Ben Franklin's grave, Besty Ross's house, Military Hall, Carpenter's Hall, Washington Square with the unknown soldier (along with 11,000 other bodies who died in the revolution, from yellow fever, or other random life altering events)The Constitution Center, and the Franklin Institute. Below is Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Constitution was created and where congress met.

We took a "Ride the Ducks" tour. People at work said it was fun and even though your not a kid, you recieve a "quacker" and make duck noises with it. The kids were the least of my worries...mom and dad and every other couple found them incredibly entertaining and were worse than a 3 yr old. Thankfully once the tour gets going you start listening to the history and paying attention to what's around you...including passing the home of Larry of the three stooges, singing "south street" and boys II men. Also saw the condo Will Smith bought for his Dad. And since it is a true DUKW, we drove on land and went into the river. Below is Delancey Street. This street was long considered the most beautiful street in America and people traveled from all over just to see it.


Among seeing all the historic sites, we decided it would be fun to take a tour through Eastern State Penitentiary. This was America's first prison created by the Quakers who believed that inward reflection and complete isolation would correct your mind, you would turn from your evil ways and return to society as a good citizen. Great thought...creepy place. It opened in the 1800's and was used until 1971. However, it was one of the most interesting places I have visited here. The audio tour used voices of actual inmates and guards which adds to the experience. This is a picture of a cell with the same furniture that was left there from 1971. After walking through that place, it's about the last place I would ever want to live.

A view of a two story cell block. The second story had to be added due to the number of growing inmates.

This is a picture of Al Capone's cell...apparently since he "gave generously" he was allowed the comfort of a sitting chair, desk and radio that he used to listen to the waltz. In my opinion...he was still a prisoner, participated in illegal activities and overall didn't contribute anything good to society, therefore he should have been held responsible and treated as such...too bad money talks.

This was our reaction...ok not really, but I think it's a funny picture.

Of course, how can you come to Philly and not run the Rocky Steps? Dad and I went up the 72 steps and took a few pictures. Below is a picture of Rocky and I...I had to act overcome. I've never actually seen any Rocky movie...and I'm ok with that. "Yo Adrian!", you can have him! =)

Mom and Dad left today and made it back to Dayton in one piece. Tomorrow I head to Ocean City, NJ. I haven't been back since going there on a mission's trip when I was in 7th grade. My friend Amanda should be joining me and we may meet with with Kara...should be fun!