On a warm Saturday in late May,

I drove to pick my friends up in my little Corolla,

I was ecstatic as soon we were going to get our nails done for Prom.

But even moreso, we were going to drive over the hill that I love so much.

The hill right by Chestnut Branch Park-

Where if you drive over it on a clear sunny day,

At just the right moment you will catch a glimpse

Of  the beautiful Philadelphia skyline.

My friends hop in the car, one quickly calling shotgun,

We flip on the radio and jam to music from our childhood.

We drive down the old winding roads while we sing along to “Party in the U.S.A.”

Finally we see the sign for Chestnut Branch Park, and I crack a smile.

For I knew we were almost at the hill.

My car glided up over the hump,

To reveal Philadelphia stretched out before me,

I took a moment to contemplate.

There was where I was born.

There in my young childhood was where I spent late afternoons,

Playing with toys in my grandpa’s offices,

There I visited many museums,

Enriching my knowledge,

Discovering my love for history,
As I wandered the old city streets,

Where our country was born.

I remembered trying Pat’s for the first time,

My grandpa reminding me to tell them if I wanted my steak

“Wit or Witout” then later going to John’s

Where my grandpa claimed had the best water ice.

I remember visiting all of the iconic restaurants and landmarks in the city,

I remember running up the Art Museum steps with my brother,

And throwing up my hands like Rocky in the movies.

I thought of the countless parades and events I went to,

Mummer’s Parade being one of my favorite Philly traditions.

I couldn’t help but feel how lucky I am to live so close to this amazing city.

We reached the bottom of the hill, Philly fading in the distance.

When my friends and I begin to talk of college.

I mention how excited I am to go to Drexel University.

Right in the heart of Philly.

Then I realize,

As my childhood fades away,

Philadelphia remains in my heart

As my adult life begins

In the city I cherish so much.