Fly Eagles Fly

On Sunday, February 4th, 2018, the Philadelphia Eagles won their first super bowl! I am super excited! The team played well throughout the season, even in the face of serious set backs. More important, they played fantastically during the Super Bowl. I yelled and cheered when the game clock reached 00. Everyone at our party hugged and laughed. I only wished I had remembered to bang pots and pans. Maybe next year!

I did not go to the parade. But, I heard the experience proved well worth the crowds. I did see parts of the parade on TV - what a great party! This week, the Eagles made Philadelphia history and I'm glad I witnessed it.

So, why Philadelphia? The first answer is easy - I grew up right outside the city. My parents took me into Philadelphia for special occasions. We'd eat Chinese food, dressed in our best outfits. (When I was a little kid, Chinese restaurants were not as common as they are today - going into the city for Chinese food was a treat.) We'd ride the train and see the Wanamaker's Christmas light show and then be treated to lunch afterwards. My family took trips to the Philadelphia Zoo. Heading into the city always meant something special, something fun and I have many wonderful childhood memories there.

Second, my Mom grew up in Germantown. She told me tons of wonderful stories about her own childhood in the City of Brotherly Love. Mom loved the city and passed that love onto me.

Third, as a grown-up, I love the city's history, it's arts, and it's sports. Philadelphia and our nation's history walk hand-in-hand. See the Liberty Bell. Visit Independence Hall. Walk down Elfreth's Alley. I saw The Nutcracker at the Merriam Theater and ate at Le Bec Fin and Beau Monde (fancy French restaurants). I have eaten at Pat's Steaks in South Philly and am ready for a trip to try Tony Luke's. I've been to baseball, football, soccer, and lacrosse games. I loved each one - even when the Philadelphia team lost.

Fourth, I now get to share my Philadelphia pride with my kids. Just this past year we went into the city to see one of the last Barnum and Bailey's traveling circus shows. And, yes, we went out to lunch afterwards, just like my parents took me when I was a kid.

To see the Philadelphia Eagles win their first super bowl felt like my city became more alive and more memorable. I am proud of the Eagles and proud of the city I call my own. Congratulations Eagles. Congratulations Philadelphia.

Philly, Philly.