Why Williamsburg?
Definitely not for the historical part of it. There were zero history buffs on this trip. It was more of a place we felt we should see and experience because we are not knowledgeable on anything history related. Maybe Matt, but definitely not the rest of us. We needed a place about half way between NC and MD that had time shares available. We are fortunate to have two mothers with time shares, so we each got a room using their points.
Let me say the more time I spend away from teaching, the less I miss it. The grass is definitely greener not being a teacher. Yeah teachers get a lot of time "off", but when is that? During the hottest months of the year AND when all the kids are off too. Being able to travel during the school year, during beautiful weather days of the fall is fabulous. Our weather was absolutely perfect for everything we wanted to do. And it was us, retired couples, and parents with young kids. I LOVED my first vacation "on the other side".
Some highlights:
Full Day #1: Yorktown
We took a lovely drive on Colonial Parkway from our resort in Williamsburg to Yorktown. We parked near the Riverwalk and strolled along the river and through some of the historical buildings. I challenged everyone to be able to share at least one thing they learned from reading all the signs. Yes, ONE thing. That was difficult for some people :) The weather was in the mid to upper 80s this day, so the beach area was occupied by families sunbathing and wading in the river. Luke felt the sand for the first time while Evie ran along the docks. We enjoyed a yummy lunch outside on the river.
After naps (adults and babies alike), we went to the outdoor pool. The water was chilly, but luckily there was a 2 foot wading pool perfect for our sensitive bellies and small tikes. Evie learned she is tall enough to walk in 2 feet of water and thought that was pretty cool. She also though running along the pool deck and proceeding right into the pool was fun. We have to work on stop before you jump to mommy or daddy. No injuries or drownings...
Day #2: Shirley Plantation
We split up on Sunday since we wanted to check out different places. My little family drove out to Shirley Plantation on the James River. We picked Shirley over the others since it is still a functioning plantation with the 11th generation living there. It was a great choice for us. There was plenty of room for Evie to walk around and it was interesting to hear about the history of the place. I thought the "floating staircase" in the house was fascinating. Sorry, no pictures allowed in the house. Jason liked knowing Robert E. Lee was part of the family history of the Hill Carter genealogy. Evie liked the goats the best.
After naps (just babies this time), we went to the biggest Yankee Candle Store EVER. Even though I could easily buy the same stuff at home, I felt the need to buy tons of fall scented candles. The Christmas section was festive and engaging for Evie. However, the Christmas ornaments were at toddler height... bad idea, Yankee Candle. After our senses were maxed out, we dressed in our PA football gear and went to a sports bar to watch the Steelers and Eagles.
Day #3: Williamsburg
Jen and Matt were our tour guides for Colonial Williamsburg. They participated in the ghost walk the night before and regurgitated back the guide's knowledge of the area. We walked around the grounds, did a little bit of shopping, and had lunch.
While the babies napped, Jen, Matt, and Jason went to Go Ape. I was very happy to have a legitimate excuse as to why I didn't want to go besides my fear of heights. The three of them zipped, tight roped, and navigated through the woods from many, many feet up. Jason had a great time. Good thing because I will NEVER do this with him. I instructed Matt & Jen to share a Bachelor/ette moment and say how close they feel now that they zip lined through the forest together.
Grandmom and I took the kiddos to the playground and got dinner ready for the apes.
I think we picked a pretty good place for vacation with a 16 month old. She was very well behaved and I enjoyed having a 2 bedroom place for our family. The simple things, like reading in bed, you can do when you don't have your child in the room with you! I actually came back from this vacation feeling somewhat refreshed!
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| Williamsburg trip 9.21.12 |
1 comment:
Sounds like an EXCELLENT vacation! I would looooove to go to Williamsburg some day.
Lest I forget, I am shouting out a resounding AMEN to the glories of travelling off-peak. Who's anxious to get back into the classroom? NOT US. That's who. :)
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