"In our search to obtain relief from the stresses of life, may we earnestly seek ways to simplify our lives. May we comply with the inspired counsel and direction the Lord has given us in the great plan of happiness. May we be worthy to have the companionship of the Holy Ghost and follow the guidance of the Spirit as we navigate this mortal journey. May we prepare ourselves to accomplish the ultimate purpose of this mortal test- to return and live with our Heavenly Father."

-L. Tom Perry

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Spring Break Part 1

Our spring break vacation was packed full of driving and sights to see. It was so much fun and the kids did awesome! The first sight we saw was in Vicksburg Mississippi at the Vicksburg National Military Park.



We were also able to visit Gettysburg. I had always wanted to visit Gettysburg. It was neat to walk through the museum they had there.  This was also a place to drive through with memorials set up along the way. 








Below are some pictures I snapped while driving through some old towns in Pennsylvania. Some of the homes and buildings there were amazing!



 Annie deserves to get an award for "Best Baby while traveling"  She really was amazing from day one! I was a little worried about us all being cooped up in a motor-home for almost two weeks but she did great! She would nap when she was tired and she'd fall right to sleep at night when we were ready to go bed.  She was happy and content to just sit and watch and absorb everything around her! I was so relieved!


Part 2

We were able to drive north and spend some time in Amish country.  It was beautiful. My only regret is that we couldn't make it when the trees were blooming and the grass was green. It was so neat to see their simple lifestyle and their gorgeous farms!


 We stopped in a town called Bird in Hand at their little bakery.  It was so fun and they had way too many yummy things to choose from. We loaded up with goods and headed on to the next town. 




 This Market was after we went to Hershey. We heard about this market from a local and couldn't wait to check it out. From first appearance it didn't look like much.  We made our way inside the building and my thoughts were changed. It was amazing how many vendors were there and how many different products were being sold. I wanted to buy everything!! We ended up buy some yummy chocolates ( I know, like going to Hershey PA wasn't enough) some handmade soap, homemade potato chips, doggie treats, jerky, and some fruit. I really wish I couldn't taken this Market home with me!







The whole gang (minus Chad's parents who had to stay back at the RV camp for some repairs)

 Going on this trip I didn't realize just how close to Hershey PA we would be.  When I found out we were staying within a half hour or so from there I knew we had to go!  We only made it to chocolate world (they have a theme park but it was closed for winter)  They did have a cute, FREE, little ride (it reminded me of the little kiddie rides at Disneyland)  It went through the process of how they made their chocolate.  The kids LOVED the ride and fortunately it wasn't crowded so we got to ride it a couple times. Plus, they gave you free chocolate after the ride.  I ended up going home with a T-shirt and sweatshirt (I'm a sucker I know!)


Part 3

We were able to spend a day in Washington DC.  I have to be honest. It wasn't my favorite. I'm not much of a city girl so the hustle and bustle of DC was about enough to do me in, but.....It was cool to see.  Looking back I wish we would've been able to see the Lincoln memorial and Washington Monument (up close) but, we did get to visit the Capitol Building and walk around the Smithsonian.  It was cold so I probably would've enjoyed it a little better if we weren't all freezing!





The pictures below are some I took while driving around DC.


The DC Temple
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The next day we drove down to Charlottesville VA.  We visited Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's home.  They take you on a tour through his house and you can walk all around the property.  The house itself was really interesting. The library he had was amazing! Again, it was a cold day so being outside wasn't the greatest but we managed to snap a few shots. 


Part 4

Our last stop was on the Mississippi River. The city of Natchez MS.  We pulled in and stayed at an RV park across the river.  We went to dinner that night at a cute little restaurant right on the river. It was a long walk but the view was great!




 After dinner we were able to ride on a horse carriage downtown Natchez.  They take you on a little tour explaining the history of some of the old homes and buildings. It was quite interesting.  The kids really enjoyed it. Annie was so determined to see the huge horse that was pulling us.



 pre-Civil War Cannon






The End.
The whole trip in itself was amazing. We saw and did so many things it was quite overwhelming. I think in total we drove through 11 different states!
 Our kids were troopers and really did great through all the traveling. 
It was fun! Can't wait till next time!