Drive Trip: Phase 1

On August 7th, we embarked on what Mr. B dubbed our "Drive Trip." It evolved from a simple ploy to convince R's parents to come visit, into an epic road trip. We tried to be very prepared--planned rest stops, grocery locations near each hotel, a few new movies for the boys, a bag of dollar-store goodies, and even custom-made travel pillows. All things considered, it went really well.You know you want one just like it!

(And yes, unfortunately, this was posed.
The boys did very little sleeping in the car.)

Here's how it went down.

Day 1: Drive, drive, drive, Bell, and Cheese Steak.

We left almost according to plan, and after filling the tank and the tires, we were on our way.
Estimated drive time: 4 hours 4o minutes from Maynard to Philadelphia (we know, GPS does NOT include traffic in their estimate).

Rest Stop #1 was well-executed. Right off the freeway, sidewalks to run on, ocean bay to see, and functional port-a-potty (if you were fast and held your breath). Not much traffic encountered until the dreaded Jersey Turnpike, but we survived to Rest Stop #2 (barely), a very-crowded toll-road Service Area. Checked in at our hotel a bit later than planned, but quickly back on the road to see the famous Liberty Bell. GPS update failed us and sent us on a very slow, very yellow-light-infused road that did NOT show off the beauties of Philly. Made it to the Bell, saw the Bell, checked it off on the "Things you should see in America" list.
Drove to get some Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches, which were good, but maybe not worth the 45 minute wait and almost-grease-ruined shirt and shorts.
Long drive back to hotel, where we had promised the boys a swim even though it was now late. R took them to the crowded pool while I hit Walmart for Sunday eating supplies. Finally got to bed for a decent night's sleep.

Movies watched in car today: 4
Fights in car: minimal.
DVD included in minivan purchase last year; oh, so worth it.

Day 2: Lovely church and Valley Forge.
We attended a nearby ward and were so impressed by how friendly and welcoming they were. Several (like 5 or 6) families introduced themselves BEFORE the meeting even started. Made us wish we were moving in. I attended primary with Mr. B and we had a fun time together. I always find it nice that many things are so consistent within our church. We have been working on the same songs this year in Primary that these children were. Very comforting and neat to think about children all over the world learning these beautiful songs.

After lunch and a nap for all, we drove to Valley Forge National Historic Park. It really saved our Philadelphia experience for us. I'm sure we are spoiled by historic Boston, but I must admit Philly itself did not do much for me. Valley Forge, however, provided beautiful scenery, interesting things to read and see, and a very peaceful feeling for our Sunday evening. Thank goodness.

Boys are already in "don't want a picture" mode.

It's gonna be a long trip.

OK, I'll smile if I get to climb up there!

Even little guys can sense the ground that soldiers walked on.

A bit of MA, even here.

We were very impressed by this memorial arch.