The Simple Scents of Life

Virginia has always been the favorite state in the McDonald household. For years, we tried to think up reasons to visit, and try to find ways to move. It's a state with so much history, there are stories of the early colonists, there is such a passion for why America fought for freedom, there are markers and historic sites from the War Between the States, and there are great cemeteries, where those who fought for a worthy cause have been laid to rest. The homes of our great forefathers are there. Their stories can be told by just visiting the places they lived. Not only that, Virginia is full of beauty...lush green mountains on one side, the Shenandoah Valley, and the great ocean on the other side.

We've been to Williamsburg a few times during our trips to Virginia, and each time feels like the first. We spent all day Friday there, in costume and had a wonderful day together - learning, sharing, and experiencing life during the 1770's in Williamsburg. The reenactors do a fabulous job portraying their characters. There are Patriots, Tories, invigorating speeches, tragic stories, and so much more. One day, when we're all grown, we plan to have a family reunion in Colonial Williamsburg...our love for this great town will be shared with our children. :) So, enjoy the few pictures below!

A patriot and his daughter.
Yes, her dress used to be much longer and yes, she loves her flip-flops.

Taking a ride on the bus which would bring us to our destination.

The little ladies in the gardens at the Governor's Palace.

The family in the gardens.
Photo Credit: A kind gentleman we met on the bus.

The cute parents who were also in the last post, but will not be in the next.

William adores his Em.

The McDonald gentlemen with Patrick Henry.

Shopping for household wares, gifts and I do believe mom is looking at a drum. Do you think we ended up buying it? :)

William found a Colonial boy doll.

Setting type at the printing press.

The little McD children with the printer.

The wig maker informed us of the latest fashions and tried to convince us to shave our hair off and wear wigs.

We talked with Gen. Lafayette for a while before the Declaration of Independence was read. Abby and Em enjoyed petting his horse.

Nap time?

The town nuisance. She was hilarious!

The traitor Benedict Arnold tried to convince us to side with the British.

Dad and one of the gentleman in town.

"And the band played on..."

You see William beside Grace? He's begging to get in.

So he got in...only he didn't really like to put his head in...

I think he liked this better.

Orders were shouted and the men were ready to....

Fire!

Now, the guns were pretty loud, and some of the kids thought that was enough. These guys didn't.

After the shout to "Ready yourselves!", the guys beside the canon would lean over, plug their ear and the canon boomed. Pretty impressive.

Our midshipman, inspired to fight for freedom.

Jessica, inspired to make new dresses for next year. :)

Dad, mom and some of the kids on the lane.

Next post: Virginia Beach!