July 4, 2014 – Day 4

Our last day in Philadelphia started early and we were off to see the largest Catholic Church in town, the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.  It was between Masses so we were able to walk around the entire beautiful church.

Then we took a bus to the Eastern State Penitentiary which was the first true Penitentiary in the country.  It was a prison where you were sent to do penance.  In other words, you were kept in a cell alone without any human contact for 24 hours a day.  It stopped being used as a Federal prison in 1971.  It was an interesting tour.

Next we took a bus to the historical section of the city to the City Tavern.  This restaurant was re-created on the site of the original City Tavern.  We split a pork chop that probably was the best that I had ever had – very thick and very tender.

We walked around to see a couple of old churches that we had missed, but they were closed when we got there and by then it was time to go back to the hotel and pack to leave for New York.

Our train to New York left right on time and Jeff and Vera were in the lobby of Penn station when we arrived. We had wanted to visit them ever since they had first invited us so this is a very special trip.

We first took Jeff’s car to their new city apartment.  WOW – was it really something.  It is on the East side, looking over the East River on the 4^th floor of this lovely building.  They totally gutted the apartment when they bought it and it is fantastic.

We took their car to a restaurant that they frequent, right in the heart of the entertainment district called Tony's.  A family Italian restaurant since 1957 that was wonderful.  Jeff and Vera knew the managers and the ownership so it was great fun.  We had a huge meal, drank some wine and just laughed and enjoyed each other’s company.

We then drove out to their lovely home on Long Island, met Jeff’s mother and their dog whose name is Puppy, sat around for a little bit and then everyone said good night.

We are looking forward to living their life with them over the next couple of days before heading home.

Night from New York and the home of Jeff and Vera – our two very gracious hosts.

the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul

 

Eastern State Prison

Inside a cell block

Jeff and Vera's apartment

A seafood platter being served family style

What's for dessert?