To Pittsburgh and back

Last week we returned to Pittsburgh for a visit. AJ was invited to contribute to a text book, and the various authors were meeting there to move forward on the project. It was the perfect excuse for a long overdue visit to a city we happen to love and miss greatly. We visited our "family" at Friendship Community Church and many gracious friends welcomed us into their homes for yummy meals and a chance to catch up. One evening we spent with AJ's colleagues over dinner. They insisted we bring the kids, which we did with hesitation and because it was the only way to join them. Although quite nerve-racking for his parents, Jonas ate off china and drank from crystal with ease! During the day while AJ worked, the kids and I spent time with friends visiting parks and the Children's museum- a highlight.

There are so many things we miss about Pittsburgh. As we drove through the Fort Pitt tunnel and the city opened up before our eyes, our hearts were stirred. Right there two rivers join to form the Ohio and the hills weave a maze of city streets. Although Indy and Pittsburgh have similar populations, Pittsburgh has much more of an urban feel. I cant quite put my finger on it. I think the ethnicity of the various neighborhoods has something to do with it. Each neighborhood has a very strong identity, many of them European. There are so many landmarks, places to enjoy the company of friends, and places that are being restored. Its a great city.
We dont miss the traffic though, or the rage of the drivers.