Pittsburgh

     We make up ideas about things all of the time.  We imagine what they will look like or how they will be.  We base them on opinions we have heard, stories, gossip...many different things.  We have also all heard the words, "Don't judge a book by its cover!"...and yet we do it all of the time.  Well, I used to all of the time.  Now I have a strict policy.  No judging.  Welcome the new.  Take it for the lesson and experience what that is.  Enjoy.  It has proven to be a wonderful new method of living.  Why am I saying all of this?  Because in my head Pittsburgh was a grey city of factories and depression.  Books, history, a few people's opinions and ignorance led me to that idea. 
      When one of the coolest people you have ever met invites you to come and check out her city...you go.  Pittsburgh or not.  Boy am I glad I took her up on her offer.   Elaina also turned out to be one hell of a tour guide.  The trip in was almost comical as we battled storms, hail, construction and traffic.  We made it though and something told me that it would all be worth it. 
     First we met a wonderful family and checked out what it looks like to take a building from the 1800's and make it stunning.  I also found a little boy that I would barter a cow for with the promise of a betrothal to my daughter  if only we still arranged marriages.  Then we hit Primanti Bros.  for a true Pitt style sandwich.  I didn't even dare attempt to figure out the points for a sandwich that came complete with slaw and french fries right on it.  Nor was I bothering with worrying about the Iron City lager that I had...we walked plenty that night and probably burned it right off.  A stroll through the city was magical.  I had absolutely no idea about the size and scale of the new and improved city plus we all know how I get about historical stuff...I was in my glory.  A ride on the Mohongohela Incline was a truly unique experience and took us to another magical level of the city.  The skyline and all of its splendor can be celebrated there like no other location.  More time through the city with dancing fountains and lights and bridges made us all fall in love all the more.  Day two consisted of a breakfast fit for one of those shows on the cooking network.  We also hit the Children's Museum but that post is up next.  All the while we got to spend time with the Elaina...funny, witty, intelligent and kind are only a few of her many attributes.  We can't wait for another visit and the bazillion new things we have waiting for us!