A Trip Down Memory Lane

A trip to Colonial Williamsburg was virtually inevitable -- it's a longish drive, but much too close to resist! I've been singing its praises to Pablo ever since we got married, so visiting with him was such a treat. To my delight, he approved. But then again, what's not to love?  

Williamsburg feels like such a part of my life -- I've visited there several times since I was little, though my most recent trip was almost nine years ago. Little has changed, though. The same fragrance still wafts out of the shops on Duke of Gloucester Street, probably my favorite fragrance. Something like a mix of soap, beeswax, leather, and spices. 

We only had a few hours on this visit, and since Pablo's brother was visiting from out state we tried to hit up some of the highlights. But now that we have annual passes, more visits will be forthcoming!

The fifes and drums were a big hit with our little ones (well, Laddie was indifferent. But then again, he slept most of the time!).

The gardens, as always, were perfectly lovely -- despite the sweltering temperatures!

An afternoon of sight-seeing was a bit tiring for the smaller members of our group, but it was such a treat to see them experience Williamsburg for the first time. So many things to see! Horses, cannons, carriages, streams, and even the Marquis de Lafayette (who gave a most rousing speech).

 Pablo remarked that Colonial Williamsburg strikes the perfect balance of visitor involvement -- you can enjoy the town on your own, or you can find various tours and activities to participate in. It's engaging without being overwhelming. And really, Colonial Williamsburg has it down pat; they know what they're doing, and they're very good at it.

Bruton Parish Church is a favorite of mine -- my family attended Christmas eve service there once, so again, more memories.

I bypassed the milliner's shop on this visit, since we had limited time (and I was outnumbered by males!), but I couldn't pass a snapshot of this seamstress at the window:

 There's still so much to explore there: museums, trade shops, gardens. I haven't lived this close to Williamsburg since my infancy (at which point I was understandably oblivious to its charms), and goodness me, do I plan to take advantage of it! Though perhaps we'll wait until the weather cools...