yesterday, I got off work at 8, came home and took a small nap. I got up around noon and bought tickets to the Mutter Museum in Philadelphia, for 3:30. I loaded myself up and drove 2 hours over there. It took some city driving and I got in at 3:40. When I walked in to the ticket counter, I let them know I purchased online and they said that there was an issue – they closed at 4PM that day. The online portion let me still purchase a ticket. They attempted to reschedule me, but I ultimately just got a refund. I’m not sure what day I will be able to drive 4 hours round trip to try to experience the museum. It was already too late to attempt any of the other city museums.

So instead, I went to the Philadelphia Christmas Village in Love Park and City Hall. It is flipping huge. I got some mulled wine and wandered shops. Managed to finish Christmas shopping. In about 3 hours, I had completed my shopping. I got myself a little treat of some Avigail Adams hair pins.

I called home and talked to the fam by this gigantic Christmas tree. Cemented that this is going to be a difficult holiday – being away from everyone. The way the schedule fell there is just no good day to try and head back down south. I looked to see if there are any last minute tickets for the next few days and everything was $500 or more. Instead, I spent money on everyone and tomorrow I’m shipping their Christmas home.

I got paid today and sent home the paycheck. It’s for them, it’s all for them. I can try my hardest to distract myself with little adventures and outings, but at the end of the day.. this journey is to promise a better future for them.

Enjoy some of the sights.

K., RN

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