Colonial Williamsburg, VA

 Three days after the family left from our Thanksgiving gathering, we got on the road with our friends Tim and Kay for a long weekend in Colonial Williamsburg. It was a scramble to get away. Those three days before we left were packed with laundry, meetings, and two Christmas parties. We had to leave the Christmas tree outside in a tub of water and forego any decorating for the time being. It was a mad rush to get away but it was worth it. 

The weather in Williamsburg was bitterly cold and clear and wonderful! The town was decorated in historic Williamsburg fashion. It was only a little crowded but the crowds are what made it feel festive. We began our weekend with a morning of antiquing followed by lunch. Then, we spent the afternoon and evening in and out of the shops at Williamsburg. We took an evening stroll up and down the length of  town until well after dark. Early the next morning, we returned to Williamsburg for the Farmer's Market. We again walked up and down the length of town, browsing the little historic shops along the way. The shops feature items related to colonial times like candles, children's toys, housewares, decor, etc. We ducked into a side alley bakery for hot cups of cider and coffee to warm ourselves. While on the back street we studied the architecture, outbuildings, drains, chimneys, etc. Every nook and cranny of Colonial Williamsburg is meticulously maintained. Then, we drove to a wonderful deli for lunch after which we continued on with more antiquing and an important stop at Liberty Hill Needleworks. Our husband's knew not to wait around for us at a cross stitch shop. So, they dropped us off there and went to a local brewery for themselves. After this, the guys wanted to rest for the afternoon. Kay and I dropped them off at our rental and we drove a couple of miles to the Premium Outlets. I do not enjoy shopping malls but we had fun popping in and out of stores that were of interest to us. There was nothing pressing that we needed to buy so the whole experience was laid back and enjoyable. We ended the day with a dinner out, of the guys' choosing. We packed up and drove home the following morning. I could have spent at least two more days exploring the historic parts of town. But, we needed to be be home. It was time to prepare for Christmas!

The main street in Colonial Williamsburg- Duke of Gloucester Street

 

A warming bonfire in the center of town.

A live evergreen in the town center.

The ice skating rink is set up in the middle of the road.

Everything in Colonial Williamsburg is beautifully landscaped. Christmas music played from speakers for the skaters.

Christmas time in Colonial Williamsburg is all about the natural decor!

The door and two windows were hung with signs that read, "Peace", "Hope", and "Love".

I wished I had read some of the papers. All were hand written and one appears to be a prayer.

We asked the garden tour guide about this large, unusual basket. She said it was found in an antique shop for twenty-five dollars.