Virginia for the New Year!

Almost a year ago, we started talking about what we were going to do for my mom's 70th birthday. Although she loves parties, she was adamant that we should not throw her a big party. And we could tell she was serious in this request! For the last few years, she has traveled to Williamsburg, VA to be with my Aunt Jean over her birthday. So, we decided we should tag along for her 70th birthday as well and throw her a party with all of our family who lived there. 

We arrived in Virginia after a l-o-n-g car journey (14 hours)! Both of our girls traveled really well, given how long the trip was. Aunt Jean was an excellent host and then the next night we moved into the hotel (Moira loves hotels). All of my cousins' children had arrived as well, and Moira began to have the time of her life. She could not get enough of all of the little girls in her world!

Playing twister with Ryan and Mackenzie

Playing a memory match game

In the pool with Grandpa


In the pool with Leila, Kendall, Mariah, Mackenzie, Ryan, Uncle Marty and Grandpa

Aunt Jean and all the kids

Isn't she adorable?
The next morning, Alan and I stole away with Hannah and Scott to visit Jamestown. Alan is a bit of a history buff, so it seemed a safe bet that he would enjoy seeing the oldest colony in America. However, we were all pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed the ranger's tour of Jamestown. It is still an active archaeological site, and the ranger was very passionate about the work that they have been doing to uncover the original site of the colony. It was really interesting!

Hannah enjoying the lovely weather

Statue of Pocahontas

Statue of Captain John Smith looking out over the James River

On the original site of the colony
In the afternoon, we went to Busch Gardens and their Christmas Town. Although the place was mobbed with people (again the weather was pretty mild, so everyone was out in droves), we had a great time walking around, and Moira had a particularly amazing time with all of her cousins. Some of the highlights are below.

All the grandchildren

Sesame Street--Moira *loved* the show

Clearly, she was excited about her day out!

Mackenzie and Moira were so cute together


Hannah and her dad

Bundled up on the Hot Air Balloon ride

Moira and Ryan...and the giant Penguin

Beautiful lights

Over-the-top lights and decorations...pretty amazing!
It was a great day seeing the sights in Virginia. Stay tuned for more on mom's 70th birthday celebration!

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