Sunday, July 08, 2012

Philadelphia Freedom

I had the fortune of living an hour outside of Philadelphia for the better part of 15 years. There is a lot to be said about being that close to so much history. I am most definitely a history buff, and I appreciate the ability to walk in the footsteps of those that founded my nation.
Like Boston, Philly has some iconic historical locations that are must see:
As an Episcopalian, Christ Church is spiritually important. It was where my church was basically founded. The congregation decided to split from the Church of England and in effect, form the denomination I call my spiritual home (http://www.christchurchphila.org/Historic-Christ-Church/73/). There's this deep connection to history, worshipping in the same space as Brn Franklin, Betsy Ross, William Penn and thousands of others.
Another must see in Philly is the iconic LOVE statue. Seen on everything from postcards to stamps, seeing it in person is quite awe-inspiring.
The Big Man's favorite movie is Rocky. (yo,Adrian), which takes place in Philadelphia. One of the most recognizable scenes in the last 50 years of cinema history is Rocky running up the steps of the art museum (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NubH5BDOaD8&feature=youtube_gdata_player). after the movie was a big hit, a statue commemorating that scene is outside the museum. It's fun to re-enact it too! Plus what's on the inside of the museum is pretty amazing as well. (http://www.philamuseum.org/)
Visiting Philadelphia is a chance to see where our country was formed-from the Declaration of Indepedence to the Constitution and beyond, the city was at the forefront of freedom. Most of the key events, including the aforementioned took place at Independence Hall, which is a pretty awe inspiring place to visit. Nearby also are the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross house and Franklin's Print Shop.
No visit to Philly would be complete without trying a cheesesteak. There are two camps: Pat's (who claim they invented it) and Geno's, who in my opinion, perfected it. Both restaurants are across the street from each other, and are both open 24 hours, so you can sample each and form your own opinion. (http://www.visitphilly.com/restaurants-dining/authentic-philly-cheesesteaks/)
Bringing it home, you can use leftover steak and make a variation that will bring a little bit of Philly to wherever you are.

1 pkg refrigerator biscuits
1 c cooked steak, chopped
1/2 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper (or more) sliced
Provolone or mozzarella cheese
1/3 c wrote shire sauce
1 tbsp minced onion
1 tsp crushed red pepper

Preheat oven to 375. Saute onion and peppers until softened. Mix sauce, onion & pepper. Place biscuits in baking dish. Pour sauce over biscuits, add steak, peppers and onions. Bake 15 minutes. Top with cheese, return to oven until cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

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