Day 14: Manasquan to Philadelphia

Up at 7:30 to check the computer before coming down for breakfast. Another sunny warm day. Made my lunch after breakfast of a delicious GF bagel. Christa must have ransacked every shop in the whole district. She has it all.

The girls arrived at 9:30 and we set off soon after. This time Christa was staying behind and I was in the front seat. We drove down the same freeway, but going in the opposite direction. One sign that I did notice was at each bridge warning about each bridge having frozen ice. (Apparently the air on top and under the bridge is so cold in winter that any fluid on the bridge can freeze.)

It seemed that the trees were just on the cusp of turning. A few leaves here and there. Probably just after I leave.

It was interesting seeing how much agriculture is still happening in New Jersey. More corn, some fruit trees , some growing on V frames, some draped over semi circular frames and a few flower farms. Despite the GPS there were a few very complicated lane changes up to and including finally getting over the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River into Philadelphia.

Charlie was aiming to get parking at the Independence Visitor Centre. Full. So we found some close by. Unlike Australia only $28 for 4 hours.

Charlie got our tickets for the Independence Hall tour and then we sat and watched a video on the time of the Independence movement. From here we went over to the Liberty Bell for some photos. (security screened, because some deranged person tried to smash it years ago)

Another security check when we went to our 12:45 tour of the Independence Hall to hear about the reason for the separation from England. Always interesting to hear it from the “other side”. Followed by the actual building where they decided on the wording of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. The talk was excellent but too many details to remember.

After a quick toilet break we had a late lunch and walked over to the Philadelphia Mint, where they make coins only- one of three in America. Another security check and no cameras allowed. An interesting process, but the girls were restless here. The process is much more computerised now but still lots to see. On the opposite corner was the cemetery where Benjamin Franklin was buried, but we were there at 3:45 and it shut at 4. So we just took photos outside.

I definitely am going to add Philadelphia to my list of places to return to for a longer visit. One day was not long enough.

It was 4:00 by the time we reached our car and set off following the GPS and the easily confused signage. Finally on the tollway at last, with only one stop for bathrooms. We arrived home at 5:45.

Christa and Oma had prepared a lovely meal and we were joined by the girl’s parents and Sasha’s mum. It was lovely to sit outside and eat the feast. The families left at 8 after cleaning up and I sat down to type and download. Chat with Oma and Christa meant that Charlie finished downloading before me.