In August we took at trip out to Nana's (I think she was worried Marama might forget her and since everybody loves Marama, we could not have that.) It also meant, that once again we have pictures, since Nana could now be the photographer. We had lots of fun and everyone ended up being quite spoiled. Among the activities we enjoyed were several beach trips. The kids loved playing at the beach despite that fact that even in August the northeast seems a bit cold for water play to all of us desert dwellers.
The kids also enjoyed learning about and seeing the abundant history to be found in the Boston area. Here are some pictures of the kids exploring the USS Constitution a.k.a old iron sides and the corresponding museum.
Her nickname came from one of her early battles, when the British commander order his crew to fire on the USS Constitution. Her unique construction in combination with the thickness of the dense oak wood used, provided her with a hull that was near indestructible, particularly in comparison to the ships of the day. Consequently, upon firing an astonished British sailor observed the 18-lb. iron cannonballs, bouncing harmlessly off USS Constitution's 25-inch oak hull, and he cried out, “Huzza! Her sides are made of iron!” Henceforth, USS Constitution carried the nickname “Old Ironsides.”
And although history is foggy on if there was really a winner of the War of 1812, what is indisputable is that old iron sides went undefeated. Indeed after a few battles with her, the Brittish forces would no longer engage an America ship in battle unless they had multiple ships with which to attack.
After visiting the USS Constitution we took a ferry ride to the downtown Boston.
There the kids were able to see the old state house, which was the location of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere's house and the North church (where the lanterns were hung to warn of the British movement). They also enjoyed some more modern attractions such as lunch and Mike's Pastries.
Later they had another beach day
And on another day we explored the liberty trail, including the North Bridge, Lexington Green and the Minute Man Museum.
Other outing included visiting the Boston Tea Party Museum and Boston Children's Museum, but alas, we do not have pictures from those outings.
1 comment:
In the midst of minus degree temperatures that cold Atlantic ocean is looking pretty good right now. It was such a fun time (even though I was sick for half of it) and welcome more visits from grandchildren!
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