Hello, Reader!

In November 1976, the original Rocky hit theaters. I was six years old.

This weekend, I sat in my local theater and watched (for maybe the thousandth time) Rocky running up the 72 stone steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the 50^th anniversary showing of that original film. I was overjoyed!

But what does that have to do with travel and why am I telling my Wander for Days family about my solo movie date?

Because it’s filled with inspiration.

I’ve always found Rocky’s underdog story inspiring. Whenever I’ve needed a bit of pumping up through the years, “Eye of the Tiger” hits my playlist and I imagine the sheer joy of Rocky pounding the pavement, then stretching his arms in victory at the top of those steps. Gets me every time.

So, when we found ourselves in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a few years ago, I just HAD to make time to stop in Philadelphia before heading home.

Of course, Philadelphia has a lot to offer on its own, but I was laser focused. I wanted to run up those 72 steps.

We got there and I set everything up…

• Cue “Eye of the Tiger”
• Position Todd on the steps and make sure he’s ready to film (I wanted video evidence)
• Head to the bottom of the steps, then start running. All the way to the top. Arms stretched, just like Rocky.

Sometimes the silliest thing brings the most joy. And I was absolutely filled with joy that day.

Sometimes, all it takes is a spark

I’m a firm believer that the most memorable and epic trips can begin with just one tiny spark of an idea that means something special to you. Let the plans grow from there.

Philadelphia was home to Rocky. That was my spark.

It’s also known as the birthplace of America and home to a laundry list of firsts in American history.

But guess what topped our must-do list (in addition to running like Rocky)?

• Eat an authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich
• Go to LOVE Park and find the sign synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love
• Count how many Benjamin Franklin sightings we have (I lost count, but let me tell you, that guy is EVERYWHERE 🤣)

Oh, we did tour Independence Hall and witness the crack in the Liberty Bell first-hand. We experienced the Masonic Temple, learning some of the history of the Freemasons in America, and we walked the streets of Philadelphia entranced by the ornate architecture.

But the pure joy of that day came from the little things, like running up those steps and doing our own taste-test, comparing two of Philadelphia’s most notable neighbors and cheesesteak rivals, Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. “One whiz wit” from each. IYKYK

Find what inspires you, then hit the road

Now it’s your turn. What’s one little thing that could turn into the spark for your next adventure?

Oh! And if you want more details about our “one whiz wit” challenge, just ask. I’ll share my honest opinion and let you decide if a trip to Philadelphia and an authentic cheesesteak sandwich is in your future.

Until next time...

With love,

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