Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg was definitely the girls favorite part of the trip.  We stayed in a really great hotel,  just across the street from the spa, which included a heated pool (and much to their delight, I packed their bathing suits!).  Elizabeth loves all things colonial, so she was in heaven; Emily surprised us with her interest in some of the trades we saw in action.  The best parts were drinking chocolate (incredible) and touring the Governor's Palace. And the swimming of course!

The Capital building. 

Actual chair from the original capital building, which was saved from fire by a few brave men during one of the many wars that plagued the area. 

Courtroom in the Capital. 

At the tea house. 

Drinking chocolate. 

The printing press. 

Swimming! 

The Governor's Palace. Even though it also burned down, they were able to rebuild it with the help of the detailed plans left behind by one of the governors - Thomas Jefferson.

Map of colonial America, just prior to the Revolutionary War.  Being from New England, I don't think I ever paid attention to how large (and long) the southern states were.

Chandelier in the ballroom. 

Horses everywhere!