Philly, Valley Forge, and King of Prussia

Hmk, so first thing's first: I'm kind of miffed at the fact that Google Directions sucks at some points, but I think PennDOT is much more to blame because of a roadway that was under water, and another road that was blocked off for no apparent reason. Nevertheless, I made it to my destinations in one piece.

First on the list for today was Valley Forge, which was gorgeous. If you haven't been there, it is a must see. An excellent place to jog, run, walk, bike, or drive. Of course, after my 15 mile hike in Gettsyburg, my legs needed a rest, so I was lazy and drove. The forest floor was covered in vegetation that was bright green, and it made me want to stop, get out and frolick to my heart's content, but I held back. I visited Washington's headquarters and the inner and outer defense lines, among other things.

After this, I went to King of Prussia mall. Nothing really exciting here except the fact that it's one big ass mall. Lots more walking, and lots more idiots. Moving on to Philly:

I went to the Museum of Art, or Modern Art, not sure, but it's where Rocky went up the stairs. I also saw the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and just as I was hoping to go into the Mint, I realized it was Sunday and they were closed :( Hopefully I'll get the chance to go tomorrow.

Tomorrow, God willing and the creek don't rise, I'll re-visit Philly for the morning, then go to Ben and Julie's to see their son, and spend the night with them. I'll update later, but for now, enjoy these pictures!

Hershey and Gettysburg

I spent a fun-filled morning in Hershey Park, more so at the Chocolate World than the Park because I'm not much of a roller coaster fan, especially when I'm by myself. Still, had fun, almost bought a 20 dollar t-shirt, but thought better of it. I kind of wish I had bought a few things there so I could bring people souvenirs, but to be honest, I think it's a waste of money. Matt, I'll buy you a bunch of seeds when I get back (not pot), Belanger, I'll get you a couple of beers, God knows you and I both need them anyways. Everyone else, I'll think of something.

On to Gettsyburg. This place is amazing, as always, and they built a new Visitor Center since I've been there, back in 1998 I think. I decided it would be a good idea to hike the entire length of the national park, from point to point, which I did, taking a break at noon to get food. My feet have huge blisters on them, and I have awkward tan lines from trying to roll up my sleeves, but other than a throbbing pain in my feet, I had a blast!! R2D2 was kind enough to come along for the ride. I got a lot of calm, peaceful time to myself wherein I reflected on the magnitude of this battle, and it made me sad that so many people had to die in this war, many brothers or friends killing their brothers and friends. Civil wars are some of the hardest ones to heal over, even taking centuries to bury the past. I'm glad that we aren't ashamed of what our forefathers did, or why.

In summation, I'm about to shower, head out to Lancaster for some dinner, which will consist of some damned good barbecue. Speaking of food, I had a sausage biscuit this morning, with an apple and a peach, and for lunch I had a ham sandwich, with an apple and some canteloupe. Whatever works lol. Hope you enjoy the pics!!

To Hershey...and Beyond!!

Today I begin with Hershey Park, then Gettysburg, where I will be staying for the evening...as long as no Union soldiers stop by for a visit; Rebels are welcome. Just a random thought about what I've learned so far whilst here: it's amazing what people miss when they are no longer looking. Conversely, when you stop looking for things, you often find that they come to you. Will update later, hopefully.

First Day, Maybe Second

Well, I made it to PA, finally. When I went to pick up the rental car, the lady waived the underage fee (200+ dollars) because I talked to her about buying foreclosed homes. Don't ask, and I sure as hell ain't telling. I set off on my first solo flight, and it was a doozie. I spent some time in NC, and as a result, did not have adequate rest to complete the journey and was forced to stop at some random rest area not 10 miles down the road. But I am certainly not complaining...AT ALL. :) I slept for about an hour, and woke up and have stayed up until now, and I'm going to pass out shortly.

I went to Green Dragon to secure their famous soft pretzel which I'll spend countless hours trying to run off, but also ate some scrambled eggs, thick sliced bacon, and surprisingly, biscuits, there for my breakfast. Lunch was an affair of fruits and vegetables, while dinner was supplied by none other than Isaac's delicious delicatessen. Traffic was a bitch around D.C. and Baltimore, but no other issues so far.

Reading has been a blast from the past, going to the Pagoda, along Skyline Drive to the Fire Tower, through the parks, up to school. It's been a tremendous walk down memory lane and I'm glad to say I've lived here...minus the idiotic drivers. Hopefully these pictures illuminate my day. Love you reader.

Pre-Road Trip

I'm not too sure on whether or not I'll be updating this, but hopefully I'll be able to get online daily to upload pictures and experiences. The plan is this: Head to PA to visit Philadelphia, "City of Brotherly Love", continue to Reading where I spent five mysterious years of my life. After Reading, I'll be going to Hershey, then Gettysburg. On the way back down, I will stop in D.C. and see my brother, sister, and their son, my nephew. It'll be the first time I go by myself anywhere for such an extended period of time, but I'm hoping that with no one around me, I can be free to think and not inhibit myself for the sake of others.