And while no vacation is ever perfect. Ours taught our kids the importance of practicing lockdown drills and how to stay calm and think positive during stressful situations. On Thursday 4/7/22 shortly before 6pm Blake and I were exiting a roller coaster and the boys were about to board. We were told that the ride was closed and the ride attendants did not know the circumstances. Once exiting the ride we found out other rides closed as well. Thinking that it’s almost 6, maybe the decided time close the park early. Disappointing, but we rode everything and had a great time. Then we were told to quickly make our way to the front of the park and then redirected to the back of the park. We ran into 3 kids that came from the water park and their mom had run to the car to get something and they were separated. Oldest being a teenager. She had her mom on FaceTime and we didn’t know what was going on and told her mom that we would look after them until she could get to them. Sadly their mom witnessed the shooting incident and then ran all the way to the park. When we got to the back of the park no employees were there yet and people started running out the back door. People started screaming at them to shut the doors as we didn’t know what exactly was going on. Word started trickling though that a shooting occurred in the mall. It was unknown at the time if it was an active shooter situation or an isolated incident. We learned most of the information from looking at twitter post and local news sites. About 2 hours after being in lockdown, heavily armed police officers made their way to the back of the park where we were located and told us that the situation was under control and we would be escorted out momentarily. A little bit later we made our way to the front of the park and got cut off right as we were about to go up the escalator. They had to stop us and we would be the second group to be escorted to our vehicles. We had to wait another hour plus. Keeping in mind that this is the 2nd largest mall in America and we weren’t the only ones in the mall at the time of the shooting. Employees passed out candy to the kids and brought out as many chairs as they could and did their best to keep everyone calm and happy. It was eventually our turn to leave the park. We all funneled into 1 stair case and 2 escalators. It was a lot happening at once but it was a controlled chaos. When we got to the top of their stairs we were met with lots of heavily armed officers and escorted to another escalator to get to the parking deck. Once in the parking deck there were police cars and ambulances everywhere. We got in our car a little after 9pm. It was an experience we will never forget but we are very appreciative of all of the employees and the diligent law enforcement that got us all out of harms ways and provided us a safe exit to our cars. We told the kids not to remember this incident as the Nickelodeon Universe experience but to focus on all the fun they had and know that we were going to do everything to keep them safe. We went back to the mall the next day for the water park and they were happy to go back. We did find out the next day that the incident was an isolated incident between 2 people that knew each other. The latest information we had on the shooting victim was that he was shot in the chest twice and was in surgery.
Chaos
Before we were in lockdown Isabella met a boy that wanted to ride rides with her and thankfully during the lockdown we were able to meet up with him and his family. Isabella enjoyed her time with him during the lockdown and they exchanged phone numbers in hopes to stay in touch.
We did our best to stay busy during the lockdown.
This was a very scary and emotional time for all of us. We are happy we were all safe and felt very well protected. The mall staff, security and all of the law enforcement did a fantastic job and we made sure the next day to let them know. We were also impressed the next day at the mall when we had to go to a couple of stores, the security was going around to all of the stores checking on employees and trying to make them feel as comfortable as possible.
With everyone a little hesitant to go back to the mall after the shooting and lockdown the night before, we went back. This was also important because it shows the kids that even when in a stressful and scary situation you have to face your fears and cannot live by fear.
We checked in for the waterpark, had our picture taken and then walked into the changing room. Once you walk in, the area is separated into family changing room, men’s changing rooms and women’s changing rooms. Once guest finish in the changing rooms, you can get a locker if you want and then you are separated by men and women. This area contains showers and bathrooms. Then you walk into the water park.
As soon as you get into the water park there is an attendant that will height check the kids and give them a wrist band and a life vest if needed. The wrist bands are supposed to help when you get on rides but clearly that was not the case because poor Arianna couldn’t get on half of the rides because she was showing too short for some and 48 inches for others. Thankfully she did get to ride everything. It just depended on the lifeguard and how they held the measuring stick.
Being this is a water park, we didn’t get as many pictures as I am used to getting. Oh well, we had so much fun.
DreamWorks Water Park is the largest indoor water park in North America. Such a fun and vibrant waterpark with natural light. Meaning you have to wear sunglasses because it gets bright in there.
Blake got the seats together for the day and I went off with the kids to ride rides. Isabella and I headed straight for Thrillagascar & Jungle Jammer. These 2 body slides are the world’s tallest trapdoor capsule slide that is 14 stories high. As we are climbing the stairs, we keep climbing and climbing and climbing. We finally reach the top and I felt that I was going to die. So much so that the lifeguard asked if I needed water. Izzy and I get into the capsule and down we went. This ride is very intense. I was very proud of her for doing it.
The next ride we went on was Toothless’s Trickling Torpedo. The world’s longest hydromagnetic rocket coaster. This water coaster went around the entire water park. We had such a blast on it. The only downfall is that when going up hill on the coaster, water blast you in the face and it makes it hard to keep your eyes open.
We also raced down Dragon Racers before I went back to switch with Blake to watch Taylor. Dragon Races uses a mat to get down the water slide. The slide starts with dark tunnels and then opens as you get closer to the finish.
Blake and I kept taking turns riding rides with the kids and watching Taylor. The park is massive but unfortunately does not have much for toddlers. In order to ride the kiddie slides you have to be a min. of 36 inches. We kept playing with Taylor in the Wave Pool and Lazy River. Taylor had a blast in both of these. In the Bubbly Lazy River, Taylor enjoyed going under all of the bucket drops and fountains.
We spent a lot of time playing in the wave pool. The waves are awesome. After the water park is closed for the day, it turns into Skudin Surf, an indoor freshwater surfing time.
We continue to rides all of the rides the park has to offer.
Shrek’s Sinkhole Slammer – a family raft rides that plunges into a funnel.
Swamp n’ Splash – a family raft ride that also has multiple funnels and lots of twist and turns.
Dragon & Donkey’s Flight – a family raft ride that opens into a large spiral bowl with lots of drops and zero-gravity moments.
Lemur Leap – 2 person tube ride with a giant bowl and lots of drops
Lemur Leap
Tube It – 2 person tube ride
Speeding Frenzy – 2 person enclosed flume tube ride.
The Carnivortex – Trapdoor capsule horizontal loop body slide.
Surfari Slider – World’s tallest indoor speedslide that includes a trapdoor.
Mad Flush– body slide that has a bowl and then drops into water. (I have been on one of these slides at Ocean Breeze Water Park and it was very smooth. This one hurt, I cut my foot and hit my heal hard when making the turn to the drop).
Kungfu Panda Temple of Awesomeness – multi-level play area with a tipping bucket, multiple body slides and splashing fun.
Forbidden Waters – hot tub
Zany & Zanier Zigzag – Body slide (Poor Arianna got stuck and had to inch her way down)
Penguin Plummet & Majunga Jump – 2 high speed body slides that drop 5 feet into 10 feet of water. All of the kids (with the exception of Taylor) did the slides. We were very proud of them for being able to drop into the 10 foot water and not have any issues.
The park was fairly empty and we got to slide as many times as we wanted. The kids had a blast.
Ethan and Nick in line for a slideEthan and Nick
We didn’t expect to stay at the water park from open until close but we had so much fun that we ended up staying until they closed. The park closed at 7 and the mall closed at 9. We were going to try to go back to Nickelodeon Universe but everyone was tired and we just walked around to the mall until it closed.
Located in Augusta County (Mt. Solon), VA sits the beautiful site of Natural Chimneys. The chimneys themselves sit on a site within a campground. The Chimneys are limestone formations.
Upon arrival, we thought we would have to take a hike to the site, however Natural Chimneys sits just past the parking lot.
Natural Chimneys
The first thing the kids wanted to do was explore the caves within the chimneys. A few small/not very deep caves are open for viewing.
CavesCaves Description
The kids did a little rock climbing around the chimneys.
Climbing the rocks
I had to snap a picture of Blake and Taylor from the rocks.
We enjoyed reading the signs located around the rocks.
The chimneys are beautiful and I, of course had to take lots of pictures.
Hole within a ChimneyNatural Chimney’s
On the opposite side of the parking lot, there is a 1/4 mile Over-Look trail that leads to the top of the chimneys.
We are human and forgot to bring a carrier for Taylor resulting in Blake carrying her to the top of the rocks.
We took some pictures from the top of the rocks and Taylor did a little rock climbing by herself.
Taylor practicing Rock Climbing
Daffodils were in peak bloom during our trips and they were absolutely gorgeous.
Daffodils
And…sometimes you have to stop and smell the Daffodils.
Taylor and the Daffodils
Next to the parking lot sits an actual old homestead site chimney and a Little Free Library.
Old Chimney
Once we were done exploring the area, we sat and had lunch at one of the many covered picnic tables next to the parking lot.
Our visit to see Natural Chimneys was fairly quick and we wanted to take advantage of the time in the area. I went to Google to see what there was to do close by.
Unfortunately, luck was not in our favor. We attempted Grand Caverns for a tour and they were sold out for the day. I then found the Frontier Culture Museum. Blake went inside to check and see the approximate time it takes to tour the museum. The employee said it takes about 2-3 hours. It was 3:30 at this point and the museum closed at 5. We figured we didn’t have enough time and I kept searching. Eavers Antique Car Museum in downtown Staunton seem like a pretty cool place from the pictures. We then head to Staunton to check out the museum. We parked next to a bakery and attempted to get hot chocolate since today is very cold, they were closed for a honeymoon (Congratulations to them). We got to the antique car museum and guess what!!??!! It as also closed. We just kept striking out. We walked around the area for a few and then went into the visitor center to see if we could find something else to do.
We purchased a red flight and a white flight as this Winery still has not resumed their in person wine tastings. We also received a paper containing wine notes. We enjoyed most of the wines, a couple being a little too sweet for our liking but that is just our preference. All of their wines are pretty affordable which is always a plus. The wine fights also include a tasting glass to take home.
Rockbridge Wine
We passed some wonderful mountain views with a little bit of snow still on the mountains.
Located at the Yankee Horse Trail parking area (MP 34.4) along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a 30 foot roadside waterfall called Wigwam Falls. The location is also the site to an old logging railroad with the tracks still in existence.
Taylor enjoyed putting her hand in the water and got mad when we pulled her away.
Daddy and Taylor
The kids enjoyed walking along the train tracks.
Old Logging Railbed
Before heading home, we stopped by The Fishin’ Pig for dinner. This has become one of our favorite restaurants when we are in the mountains. Fantastic food, service is great and an upbeat atmosphere. The tables also have paper on them for kids to color on.
Being the day before Taylor’s Birthday, the employees sang Happy Birthday and gave her a piece of chocolate peanut butter cake. She ate almost all of it.
We had a fantastic day trip even with the few hiccups.
Three years ago, Blake, my kids and I went to D.C. to see the Cherry Blossoms that we read online were in “peak bloom” (not so much).
A few days before Sunday, we saw pictures people posted online and were very hopeful that the trees would still have petals if we went. Due to Austin’s birthday party Saturday, we couldn’t go then. We had no plans for Sunday and it worked out well for us. We had the kids get their clothes out the night before and I packed the car with things we would need.
We left around 8:15, fully aware it would going to be a cold, windy and overcast. We were fortunate enough not to have any traffic into D.C. I reserved a parking spot on the SpotHero app. We drive to the street where the parking garage is located and police had both entrances to the street blocked due to a race in the area.
We pulled over to try to find another parking garage and one just happened to be a right ahead of us and only $12 for the day.
The kids played for a few minutes while we got everything out of the car.
Parking Garage
First stop, front of the White House.
White House
We stopped by a National Park Services tent set up and got some information about the festival and Jr. Ranger for the festival.
On our way to the Tidal Pool we stopped by the WWII memorial.
WWII Memorial
The beauty and tranquility of the Cherry Blossoms is indescribable. Even on a gloomy day, the pink and white colors shined bright. As my kids said, “It’s as if we are walking through an enchanted forest”.
***Warning***
Photo Drop Overload…..
Jefferson memorialWashington Monument
We made a stop by the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
I made sure to get my National Park Cancellation Stamps and pins for everyone.
We walked the kids by the Washington Monument and had to get a picture of them, mainly because Taylor was sleeping and when we came 3 years ago we have similar pictures of Austin sleeping.
We walked back to the National Mall to get lunch from one of the food trucks. We walking down the row of trucks, admiring the food each of the trucks had. The operator of a fried chicken truck gave us a large sample to try and the kids all wanted the chicken tenders from the truck. Ethan, Blake and I ate at a different food truck, Ethan had a cheeseburger and Blake and I had cheesesteaks.
We found a place to sit and I wouldn’t say, “enjoy” lunch. The food was delicious but the wind was insane. We all tried to eat with gloves on. The sun did come out but didn’t help much.
However, the sun did make for some beautiful and unique shots.
We walked to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in hopes of being able to take it in. We get to the front and the line ended up being down the entire front of the building, down the side and halfway across the back of the Smithsonian. The line was insane. I wish I would have filmed the line and measured it. Tp our surprise, today is the last day the museum was open before renovations are sent to begin.
As we got to the backside of the museum, we could see a sculpture and then we though what we felt was snow. We didn’t believe it at first but it indeed ended up being snow.
We asked the kids if they would rather go to the Natural History Museum or the American History Museum. They picked the American History Museum. We told them that we would only be able to look around for about an hour. They were fine with that and the parts of the American History Museum that we were able to see, the kids had a blast and cannot wait to go back.
A fantastic, Bucket List kind of day seeing the Cherry Blossoms at peak bloom!
The new rollercoaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Pantheon was due to open in 2020, due to the pandemic, this was delayed……..and delayed…….and you get the point.
Finally on 3/4/2022 Busch Gardens started having Pass Member ride times. I was very disappointed because that was the day of my surgery.
I didn’t want to make Blake, Ethan and Nick miss getting to ride it before it opened to the public due to my surgery. We decided to go on 3/13/2022. It is good for me to get walking in after my surgery.
The first thing we did when we got to Busch was go to Sesame Street – Forest of Fun. Going here was fun because it was at the kids request and we did not have Taylor with us.
Sesame Street – Forest of Fun
The kids wanted to see what Sesame Street character was in the photo both. Of course it was Big Bird. TAYLOR’S FAVORITE character and she was not with us. Ever since Taylor got hooked on Sesame Street, we saw every character except Big Bird and the one day she isn’t with us, it is Big Bird. The kids took a picture with Big Bird to show her.
Big Bird
We have the unlimited Busch Gardens Photo Key. I love this because it is fun getting all of the pictures with the characters as well as ride pictures. The boys have fun with the ride pictures because they know where the cameras are do funny faces and gestures each time.
***Sesame Street background is copywritten*** and guest who want to take pictures with the characters and not pay for them, are unable to take their own pictures with the sesame street backdrop.
The kids rode the rides in the Forest of Fun. They were testing the Grover roller coaster and the kids were disappointed they couldn’t ride it but it was okay.
Prince Elmo’s Spire
Festa Italia
Once we leave the Forest of Fun, we head to Festa Italia – the location of Pantheon. We get to Pantheon and there is a large group of people waiting at the entrance. Come to find out that the ride hasn’t opened to guest for the day due to the weather. They outside temperature has to reach a certain degree in order for most of the coasters to run.
Blake and the kids got on the Turkish Delight a.k.a. the Teacups while I watched and took pictures/video.
Turkish Delight
Once the ride finished we went back over to the Pantheon waiting area. I guess the weather was getting better because it was at this time we were told we could begin forming a line for the ride. We all waited for about 20 minutes and then I told Blake and the kids they could go ride other rides and I would sit in line and wait since I can’t ride anything right now. He took the kids on the Battering Ram and the Flying Machine. This is the first time to my knowledge the flying machine has been open in the past couple of years.
I could tell it was getting close to the ride opening and I sent Blake a message saying to get back ASAP with the kids. Blake sent the kids and stopped to get me a glass of wine. When he got back, Ethan, Nick and Blake all went to get in the lines for which row they would be sitting. The boys wanted the back and Blake sat in the row in front of them.
Waiting to ride
We could see them from the waiting area and I tried to film the little I could of them on the ride.
As soon as I finished filming them, I raced over to the picture redemption to get their ride picture. They did a great job cropping the random person that sat beside Blake.
Once they got off, I was telling Blake that I really want to ride the coaster. We talked about it for a bit and then he went with me to do the Parent Swap. For the parent swap, we sat in the 4th row. I was very excited.
This coaster is amazing. Definitely the best Busch Gardens Williamsburg has. Very smooth and different. When the coaster went upside down, it stayed upside down for a couple of seconds. The launch part was also too, I love going backwards on roller coasters. I would have put my hands up like Blake, but I was protecting my stomach as much as I could. I actually didn’t have any issues or soreness from the ride.
It was nearing the time to leave and we had to get back. Loch Ness was finally open and the kids wanted to ride it. Arianna and Austin said they are still not ready to ride even though they ride Verbolten. It was okay though, I let them ride the Lil’ Clydes. They seemed very thrilled……
Lil’ Clydes
I was scrolling through Facebook the night before and came across a post of someone looking for an Elmo hat. Once the kids got off Lil’ Clydes, we went to the shop next to Finnegan’s Flyer to see if they had the hat since the Forest of Fun as out, unfortunately they did not.
When we passed Finnegan’s Flyer, they had sandbag people in the seats for ride testing. Arianna and Austin thought it was really cool to see.
Finnegan’s Flyer
Blake said they were able to walk onto Loch Ness which was nice but they didn’t have their pictures working. Oh well……Until next time Busch Gardens!
With no plans for Saturday, the kids and I cleaned and organized their entire playroom. This was a long overdue project and we finished by 2pm. Isabella was running a fever and not feeling well all day and decided she did not want to go to Busch. I took her to my parents so she could get some more rest. As I was leaving my parents house, 2 of the neighborhood boys asked if the kids could play. I told them we were going to Busch Gardens and asked them if they wanted to join. I got their pass information from their parents and off we went. Yes, I was there by myself with 7 kids!!!
On the bridge leaving Ireland, we saw a lot of people gathering around the Wolf Haven. This is the first time we have seen the wolves out in a long time.
Le Catapult is the first ride we came to that was open and we all got on the last few open carts.
We stopped at Wilkommenhaus to use the remainder of our Mardi Gras festival food vouchers. We got 4 desserts to split. Ari and I were the last ones to finish our food and while we did, the boys went into Land of the Dragons to run around in their play area.
Mardi Gras Funnel Sprinkles
Ari and I took Taylor to The Land of the Dragons once we finished eating. We were going to get the boys but decided to let Taylor ride the open rides and the boys could run around a little more.
Dragons and Lady Bugs
On our way to Germany, we passed a group of Jesters sneaking around.
Jesters
Next up, the swings. All of the kids went on the swings as Taylor and I watched nearby.
Swings
Next up, Bumper Cars (Der Autobahn).
Bumper Cars
While the kids rode the Bumper Cars, I put Taylor on the Airplanes (Der Roto Baron). Taylor loves this ride but unfortunately isn’t strong enough to pull the lever back to make the plane go up.
Airplanes
Once everyone got off the Bumper Cars, we went to Verbolten. My 3 boys rode it while the other kids went on the Swings again. Arianna stayed with me. She was very nervous to try out Verbolten for the first time. She is not a fan of heights and roller coasters. With coaching from the ride attendant Eddie she finally decided she would try it out.
Eddie is truly the best employee I have ever encountered at Busch Gardens. He was very helpful and patient and knew exactly what to say to Arianna to get her to conquer her fear and ride the coaster. Eddie measured Arianna to make sure she was tall enough and she was. Once the boys got off the coaster, Eddie walked Arianna and I to the 3rd row and we waited until the people in front of us boarded and then we were next. Eddie stayed with us the entire time and had everyone in the queue line clap and encourage Arianna. It was our turn and she was very nervous but sat down. Eddie was right there with us. He got her settled in her seat and made sure her harness was tight enough. Once everyone’s harnesses were checked, we were off.
I held onto Arianna’s hand the entire time and explained the ride to her as we were riding. I let her know about the drop inside the tunnel. I wanted to make her as comfortable as possible. She got really nervous as we approached the big drop and squeezed my hand very tightly. I told her we were about to have our picture taken and she smiled for her picture.
She didn’t even looked scared or nervous in her picture since she was smiling. When we got back to the queue lines, Eddie was waiting for us and asked her how she liked the ride. She said she would ride it again but is still afraid of it but happy that she rode it. We get to the area where you can purchase pictures and Eddie waited with us until we got to see ours. He was so generous and was going to buy the picture for her but we have the Photo Key and can just put the photo right on our card. Without the help of Eddie, she would have never had the courage to ride. I asked Eddie if I could take a picture of him and Arianna and he happily obliged.
Thank you Eddie for making Arianna’s experience truly fantastic.
Ethan and Nick wanted to ride Verbolten again, the other boys wanted to ride the bumper cars again and I sent Arianna and Austin back on the swings.
Ethan and Nick – Always posing for their pictures
Once we were all back together, we had about 15 minutes before the park closed. During the winter, the park closes at 6 on Saturdays and Sundays. We made our way to the entrance and the kids asked if we had time to ride the Carousel, which we did.
Once done, we make our way to the front of the park to get in the car to go home. When we got back to the car, Taylor was sound asleep. I don’t remember the last time she fell asleep in her stroller.
Blake and I wanted to take the kids somewhere on his day off and it is my last weekend day before my surgery that will take me out for about 4-6 weeks. We thought about going to the mountains but because I exchange my kids with their dad Sunday evenings, going to the mountains can sometimes feel very rushed on Sundays. We decided to take the kids to Fort Fun in Newport Newport after we had our pancake breakfast. This is a playground that we frequented prior to COVID.
Whichever day Blake is off on the weekend we always do a big pancake breakfast with the kids. Today we had pancakes with m&m’s/chocolate chips and of course BACON.
Once we finished we got the kids in the car and went down to Newport News.
The kids were very excited to get to go back to Fort Fun after 2 years. Austin has learned how to do the monkey bars and he is really good at it. Arianna is a natural on them as well, so of course they wanted to show off.
Fort Fun Monkey Bars
We stayed for well over an hour and played with the kids on the playground. Every time we go to a playground, we play with our kids and other kids pick up on it and always want to join because they are not able to get their parents to run around and play with them. Our kids are also sociable and love to make new friends.
Fort Fun Playground
We walked over to Huntington Beach for a few minutes to see the beach and check out their boat launch site. The kids enjoyed going out on the docks and checking out the beach.
Huntington Beach
As we were getting ready to walk back to the playground, the Virginia Marine Police stopped us. One of the officers got out of the vehicle and started talking to the kids and gave them stickers. The kids got really excited about it and wanted to take a picture with their vehicle.
Virginia Marine Police
We started walking back towards the playground and told the kids that they would have about 5 minutes left to play until it was time to leave. Taylor wanted to walk the entire field back to the playground from the beach.
Taylor
Taylor had such a great time on the playground as well. She thinks she is a big kid and does all she can to keep up.
A former co-worker of mine owns a restaurant in Smithfield, VA called Farmer’s Table and when we are in the area we make it a point to stop by. The food and ice cream are delicious. I always get the spicy chicken sandwich with tater tots.
First time trying Sweet Tea
Once we finished at Farmer’s Table, we went to get on the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry to get back over to James City County. Before we left for our adventure today, we stopped by 7-11 to get bread to fee the seagulls during the Ferry ride. All of the kids were brave this time and held bread in their hand while the seagulls took it out of their hand. They thought it was awesome.
When we got back to the county, we took the kids to Bruster’s for some ice cream. We gave them the choice on where they wanted to get ice cream. Either at Farmer’s Table, local ice cream shop in Surry or the one close to home. They chose close to home since they were still full from lunch.
Our local Bruster’s was out of most of their ice creams and that was disappointing but we all found something we liked.
Everyone enjoyed their ice cream and then it was time to go home. Once we got home, the kids weren’t done playing. They went right back outside and started playing and climbing trees.
Austin turns 6 on 2/19 and for his gift this year, I got him (and his siblings) a time slot at Massanutten Ski Resorts – Family Adventure Park – Snowtubing. Austin and his siblings had no idea what we were doing for the weekend. I gave them a few hints the night before but nobody was able to figure it out.
Snowtubing at Massanutten can be purchased 10 days in advanced and I purchased 6 days in advance and they still had openings for the 12:00-1:30 time slot. We chose Massanutten over Wintergreen because I was able to book it on Sunday night vs the Monday of the week for Wintergreen and also for $1 more at Massanutten, we got 20 more minutes of Tubing time. We will however try Wintergreen next time, just to see what the experience is like.
Not expecting it to be a 55+ degree day in the mountains in the middle of February, we all came in snow bibs, ski pants, winter gloves (which I got each of the kids a new pair from Amazon. We were really hot and thankfully we could put our jackets in the tubes.
We arrived right on time for our timeslot. We went inside Will Call to scan our bar code and print off our tickets.
The line to get on the conveyor belt to get to the top of the Tubbing hill had a really long line, eventually we made it to the top where the next long line awaited.
Waiting for our first turn
Blake, Ethan, Nick and Austin all went as single riders for their first drop. I connected with Arianna and Isabella. They were a little nervous.
Waiting to tube
Everyone did great on their first ride. For our next ride, Blake wanted to go with me and Arianna, Isabella and Austin went together.
Chain of 3
We finally convinced Ethan and Nick to pair up. We noticed that the tubes go a lot faster when they are linked up.
Ethan and Nick
We discovered the very last lane was the fastest. We knew it was our last run and we all decided to go in that lane. I went with Austin, Blake went with the girls and Ethan and Nick went together. We had to wait for about 20 minutes but we all eventually got our turn.
Clearly Fake Snow
YouTube Video (the best I could get)
Takeaways:
Even with tickets (claiming a limited of number per time slot), it was BUSY!!!
Because it was so busy, we only got to ride 4 times in 90 minutes.
All lanes had to be cleared before the next group of riders could go.
Most people were really nice and accommodating to others. We did have someone that jumped in front of us when we were 2 groups from going and acted like it was perfectly fine.
It would be nice if they had lanes specific for single riders and double riders.
Very poor signage
Ultimately – FUN!
Blake and I talked about taking the kids to the indoor waterpark at the resort but wanted to check it out first to see if it was really worth all the money for the few hours we would be able to play. We parked the car and went inside and had a look. It was extremely busy, Yes I know it was a Saturday but it was so busy that the tubes in the lazy river were all touching and people were crammed into the few pools like sardines. We opted not to pay the $53 a person and decided to utilize the indoor waterpark we have at home for another occasion. It did look fun and it wouldn’t have mattered to the kids that it was busy but I think we made the right call.
We drove to one of the playground areas to have a picnic lunch. The kids played on the playground for about 20 minutes after they ate and while we were cleaning up.
Playground Fun
The back up plan for the pool was the Blackrock Summit hike. This is a hike that we have done before as a family and Blake and I did for the first time with Taylor shortly before then. Both occasions was the wrong time to climb the rock scramble due to it being hot and the potential for snakes. (We saw a rattlesnake the first time we hiked it).
We got a new National Park Pass since ours was expired. We utilize the National Park Pass frequently. While on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park we passed a lot of areas that were still covered in ice.
It was also fun to see the mountains. We joke with the kids saying that every time we take them to the mountains it is overcast or raining. Also all the leaves were off the trees, providing clear views from the mountains.
With multiple routes to the summit, this hike is great for all skill levels.
Quick 0.6 out and back along the Appalachian Trail
1.1 mile loop trail (steep if you go clockwise)
1.7 mile loop trail – goes along the base of the rocks
We opted for the 1.7 mile loop trail because we were finally going to let the kids climb the rock scramble.
Hike:
Distance: 1.52 Miles
Elevation Gain: 361 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Summit Elevation: 3092 feet
Location: Shenandoah National Park – Skyline Drive MP 84.4
We hiked clockwise to pass the base of the rocks. The ascent of the first part of the hike is very steep with no switchbacks. Eventually it does level off. A little bit of the trail still had some snow.
We made it to the base of the rocks and before we could even say anything to the boys they were already beginning their climb of the rock scramble.
Rock Scramble
Blake, the girls and I got to the bottom shortly after the boys started climbing. Izzy caught right up to Austin, Arianna was a little nervous as she started to climb. Blake and I stayed with her during her climb. After about 15 feet of climbing, she got really nervous and said she wanted to go back down. We encouraged her to continue the climb and that we would be right there with her.
About halfway up we found a Game microphone. It was a neat spot as it was very hard to see. Arianna spotted it. I got a picture of Blake and it looks like he is so small on the rocks.
Arianna made her final push to the top of the rocks and we had her take the lead.
Arianna’s final push
We all made it to the top of the rocks and I told Arianna over and over how proud I was of her for not giving up and pushing though her fear. She was also proud of herself. Isabella was there waiting for her when she got to the top.
The sky and the mountains from the summit were breathtaking. It is too hard to pick a favorite.
We all had a lot of fun climbing the rocks at the summit. We found snow between some of the rocks and the kids kept challenging us to climb to different areas.
Trail Markers
The kids were really sad when we told them it was time to leave. Unfortunately Skyline Drive was shutting down at 6pm and we had limited time. We took the Appalachian Trail back to the car to complete our loop. The trail was covered in snow for a lot of the way.
Ethan fell twice and both times I did not have my video camera going.
Blackrock Summit
We were on the fence between 2 restaurants for dinner, The Fishin’ Pig or Rhett’s Bar and Grill. We picked The Fishin’ Pig because we have been there before, the kids love it and the prices are decent. For being 6pm on a Saturday, they only had about a 35 minute wait. This was fine since we didn’t have Taylor with us and we ate lunch around 2. While waiting, I told the kids they could run around and play in the grassy area but had to make sure they were mindful of the other people waiting and to watch for cars. Of course the kids found the one snow pile and played on it the entire time. Since we had their snow clothes, a couple of them wanted to put on their snow boots. The had the best time in the pile of snow.
Snow Pile – The Fishin’ Pig
Dinner as always was delicious with fantastic service. Arianna, Isabella and Austin had mac n cheese and hushpuppies and Ethan and Nick had Chicken Toes and hushpuppies. Ethan now has to order off the adult menu because the kids menu no longer fills him up. Blake had a burger with crap dip and I had a Chicken BBQ mac n cheese skillet. Austin got a piece of cheesecake with chocolate sauce for his birthday desert (complements of the restaurant).
We had such a fun day celebrating Austin’s Birthday. Everyone was exhausted on the way home, even Blake. I ended up driving the last 1.5 hours.
Living in Williamsburg and 15 minutes from Busch Gardens, we of course use our annual passes and membership rewards as much as we can.
This year, Busch decided to stay open year round and this created different theme weekends and celebrations. For the last weekend of January and the entire month of February Busch Gardens celebrates Mardi Gras. They do special food booth with Cajun foods, King Cake deserts and Mardi Gras style adult beverages. Employees are also dressed up throughout the park in Mardi Gras attire and pass out beads to the guest.
Most of the kids rides are open on the chilly weekends and only a hand full of thrill rides. The thrill rides only operate when the temperature is above 40 degrees. This is not one of those days. It was a whopping 35 degrees. That didn’t stop us from taking the kids for a couple hours (their request).
This weeks member rewards: 1 free Mardi Gras food sample per pass. For us that means 8.
First up……Sesame Street Forest of Fun.
Taylor is obsessed with Sesame Street and most importantly Big Bird and Grover. As soon as we got into the area, we see Grover decked out in Mardi Gras attire and we went straight to see him. Taylor couldn’t get out of the stroller fast enough and ran right up to him.
Taylor and Mardi Gras Grover
***Interesting Fact*** The back drop where guest can have pictures taken with Sesame Street characters is copywrite, therefore guest are only allowed to take personal pictures from the side and not the window looking directly into the picture room.
Taylor and Grover
Most kids are scared of characters, not Taylor. She gets so excited she falls on her butt. She loves seeing the characters so much and cannot wait to hug them and the characters are so good with the littles.
Two of the rides in the Forest of Fun were operating, Elmo’s Spire and Oscars Whirly Worms. The kids all went on them. Elmo’s Spire has 2 rows, 6 seats across. Well our crew takes up an entire row.
Elmo’s SpireOscars Whirly Worms
While we were in the Forrest of Fun, we ran into 2 other families. It was nice that the area was almost empty. Thankfully even with the low attendance, the show went on as normal.
When you are a Daddy’s Girl and Sesame Street is Life (Taylor is wearing a Big Bird Hoodie under her snow suit), daddy will dance with you during the entire show. Even your siblings join in on the singing and dancing. **Daddy said not to post the videos, haha yeah right**
After we left the Forest of Fun, we went to Ireland. Unfortunately Finnegan’s Flyer was not in operation but it was okay. We stopped by Grogan’s Grill and Blake got a Shrimp Etouffee. The kids also got their first set of beads from one of the workers.
Frozen Water at Busch Gardens
Blake and I got drinks at Grogan’s Pub. Blake got a frozen Hurricane and I got a French 75. Both were delicious.
On our way to ride the Katapult we came across Jesters handing out handfuls of beads. All the kids got about 5 each and were so excited. We also stopped by Café Lulu to get the kids Beignets (again, delicious).
We made it to the Katapult. We had the entire ride to ourselves. It was a first for sure. Blake went back to Trapper’s Show Grill and got the Crawfish Boil and I took the kids to Land of the Dragons.
I was neat the see the Log Flume and Alpengeist covered in snow.
Alpengeist and Log FlumePhoto Credit: Arianna
Everyone went to play in Land of the Dragons and I was waiting for Blake when Arianna and Austin came back because they were cold. We went into Das Edelweiss to finish using our sampler coupons. We got 1 Bananas Fosters Cheesecake, 1 King Cake Cinnamon Roll, 1 Mini Mardi Gras Funnel Cake with cream cheese and Mardi Gras color sprinkles and 1 Mini Mardi Gras Funnel Cake with powdered sugar and Mardi Gras color sprinkles. All were sooooo good!
Mardi Gras Desserts
I took Arianna and Taylor on the Carousel while the kids played. Then Isabella and Austin realized we were on the Carousel and wanted to ride. We rode again and Taylor did not want to get off.
Carousel Rides
Carousel
Once we finished eating and riding, we folded the stroller up and walked right up on the Sky Ride. Girls vs Boys.
Sky Ride
I filmed the sky ride trip. It was really neat to see Busch Gardens covered with snow. We also enjoyed waving to the boys.
We took one more picture of the kids before leaving. It was a great short trip to Busch with an almost empty park.
On October 16, 2021, while Blake and I were waiting out the rain, and exploring Cumberland, MD, we came upon the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. We contemplated taking the 4 hour train ride but the rain was going to stop during that time and we had other goals for the weekend. While talking with the lady in the ticket booth she mentioned she still had openings for the Polar Express train ride. I have been wanting to take the kids on the Polar Express train ride for years now and we were not able to do so the past 2 years due to COVID and my pregnancy. I decided to go ahead and book it. Since it was mid October, a lot of the seats were already booked. Some of the standard and deluxe seats were still available but not for all 8 of us to sit together. Plus I wanted this to be an experience they would always remember and figured this was the last year that my oldest would still believe in Santa. (I don’t believe he still does, but he plays it off well).
I was very anxious booking the trip because it was over 2 months ago and I am not someone to make any travel plans that early. Something is bound to happen……
2 tables were available side by side in the Northern Star Dome Class.
Northern Star Dome Class – “Our most premium option! Dome Class will be “above it all” in the upper level of our Dome Car. Passengers receive a special blend of hot chocolate in a commemorative souvenir mug exclusive for premium ticketed services, as well as a special take-home item, a cookie, and children receive a commemorative silver bell. We cannot accommodate more than 4 people at a 4 top table, nor can we accommodate more than 2 people at a 2 top table.”
I went ahead and booked the 2 tables. Very quick and easy booking process.
Hotel:
Again, I was hesitant about booking the hotel because it was over 2 months until our stay.
I booked a suite at the Comfort Inn and Suites – Cumberland, MD for the nights of 12/17 and 12/18. The hotel is only about 10 minutes from the Train Depot and offers onsite breakfast. The hotel had plenty of rooms available and it was cheaper to book through Priceline as I am a VIP member.
In the details of the Polar Express it is recommended to wear your pajamas, just like in the movie. Blake is a huge Washington Capitals fan and figured matching Capitals PJs would be perfect. Even Taylor got Capitals PJs. We used these PJs for our family Santa Pictures as well.
The Surprise:
As hard as it was, we were able to keep the trip a surprise from the kids. We decided to get a new copy of The Polar Express Book and wrap it up and give it to the kids to open a few days prior to the trip.
The Tuesday before the trip, after dinner we gave the kids the present to open. They were a little confused at first but then they realized that they were going to be riding on the Polar Express. They were very excited and couldn’t wait. We also told them that was the reason for the matching PJs.
Blake and I knew we wanted to take the kids to the MD, PA and WV high points while on the trip to let the kids check off 3 more high points. WV and PA don’t take that long to hike to so we wanted to find other things in the area to do. I began looking at website to try to find Holiday things to do in the area we were staying and within about 1 hours from where we were staying. I found a pancake breakfast with Santa at a local Volunteer Fire Department on the Saturday we would be there. We decided that this would be a great option for breakfast. Something fun for the kids to do and I have never been to a volunteer fire station for a meal that has been anything less then delicious. I also found an amusement park located on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, PA called Kennywood and they have a large Christmas event. Blake and I decided this would be perfect. We have Busch Gardens near our home and the kids love going to the Christmastown event. We knew they would enjoy the Holiday Lights at Kennywood. We didn’t purchase tickets but knew this was the “plan”.
Kennywood is located about 2 hours from Cumberland, MD and because of this I decided it would make more sense to change the hotel on the 2nd day of the trip to a hotel closer to Pittsburgh. This was Thursday before the trip. This is when I got the last minute travel planning adrenaline rush that I enjoy. I cancelled our hotel in Cumberland for the 2nd night and researched hotels near Pittsburgh and found one in Uniontown that would line up perfectly with Saturday nights adventures and our high point hiking on Sunday. I booked a room at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Uniontown, PA. The hotel has fantastic ratings, free hot breakfast and the room size we needed.
Friday December 17th, 2021
I got home from work around 4:45 and Blake and I began to pack the car and we waited for the kids to get off the bus. We left about 15 minutes after they got home. Without traffic, the drive from the house to the hotel is a bout 4 hours. It was already dark when we started the drive, which made for a lack of scenery. The kids however, were able to keep themselves entertained during the drive. We stopped at Chick-Fil-A for dinner and actually let the kids eat in the car since it was late and we were just trying to get to the hotel. We arrived at the hotel a little after 10 and got everyone ready for bed.
Saturday December 18th, 2021
We got dressed for the day, got our matching PJs together, packed up and headed to the car. It was pouring and we had to get very creative when we packed the car up because the parking lot was full of puddles and we didn’t want to put any bags on the ground. With a family of 8, we travel with a pack n play and cot and these go in the bottom of the trunk, making packing and repacking a bit of a challenge.
Bedford Road VFD
We arrive at Bedford Road Volunteer Fire Department for their pancake breakfast with Santa. The breakfast cost $6 per adult and $4 per child. Once we paid, we were each given a menu to circle what we wanted for breakfast and then provided it to the chefs in the kitchen. Within a few minutes we all had our breakfast. We sat down and enjoyed our breakfast.
Out of nowhere, The Grinch appears and we had to get a picture with him
The Grinch
After we finished breakfast, the kids visited Santa and Mrs. Claus. They took pictures and told them their Christmas wishes. Each child received 2 goodie bags. One filled with candy and one filled with small Christmas goodies.
Visiting Santa
Before leaving the fire station, each of the kids got to pick out a toy from 2 large tables they had set up. The boys got cars and a book, both girls got drawing tablets and Taylor got a book and stuffed Elmo. We did not expect the full size toys. This put the breakfast over the top and we were very pleased with the decision to go to the breakfast.
Our next stop of the day was the Pennsylvania High Point. This high point has a few hikes that lead to the high point but also offers a drive up to the “summit” as well. We wanted to take the kids on the hike. Out and back it is only 2 miles and the rain had let up some at this point. A hiker was finishing his hike when we were getting ready and he said that the trail was covered with mud and that we should prepare to get filthy. We decided this out not be the best decision since right after the hike we would be going on the Polar Express. We drove around and parked in the parking lot for the quick access to the high point. The kids ran to the high point and before we could get Taylor out of the car. The high point has a tower that sits above the trees and the kids loved climbing to the top.
Blake and I took pictures of the kids at the high point marker while we were still on the tower.
PA High Point
High point #2 for the kids – PA! (This was also their first time in PA).
After we finished at the high point, we changed into our Washington Capital’s PJs and headed for the train.
We arrived at the Cumberland Station. Blake dropped the kids and I off at the depot to get checked in while he went to park the car. I gave our name to the attendant in the ticket booth and we were given our car number.
Due to COVID, the hot chocolate and cookies were served inside the train depot, grab and go style. (From what I read, in years past the hot coco and cookies were served at your seats). Picking it up prior to boarding the train was fine for us.
Boarding platform
Once Blake and Taylor arrived, we went to car 5 and boarded. We were in the dome car “Stampede Pass” and had the best seats in my opinion, the first 2 tables when you enter the car and go up the stairs.
Dome Car
Due to us being a party of 8, we had 2 tables. Each table had a reserved name placard, Polar Express reusable bag, and Christmas Ornament. The boys sat at one table and us girls (and Blake) sat at the other table. The inside of the train cars were lined with lights and Christmas decorations, really adding to the Christmas feel.
Our waiter was awesome and came up to up immediately after we got seated and started to talk and interact. She took a family picture of us.
She also took selfies with us.
The kids were eager to see what was in the bag on each of the tables. Prior to the ride beginning we let them open them. The bag contained 4 beautiful commemorative hot chocolate mugs. The kids were very excited about them.
Amazement
As the train started going, the onboard entertainment started. We were given a QR code to scan to get the lyrics for the Carole’s being sung. We waived to all of the people standing on the platform watching the train leave. It was amazing to see so many people watching the train and many of them had cameras taking pictures. People were taking pictures at every train crossing along the way to the North Pole.
Taylor was so happy once the train started moving. She stood most of the time and looked out of the window. She also stole Arianna’s camera.
Shortly after departing, the conductor came to to get everyone’s ticket. Just like the book and movie the conductor asked each of us if we had a ticket. He then proceeded to give everyone a golden ticket. He was hole punching the tickets and everyone was having a great time with it. It was a very magical experience. (even for Blake and I).
Receiving Golden TicketsGolden Tickets!!
Once everyone received their golden tickets, the book reading began. Our waiter would sit down at all of the tables and show pictures of the book as it was being read over the speakers.
Reading of the Polar Express
We approached the part of the book that talked about the Hobo and next thing we know the Hobo is coming up the stairs and walking around talking to everyone. He even stopped for pictures.
Hobo
Our seats were fantastic and we were able to see the steam from the train and cars sitting at the crossings.
Classic Cars
We approached the North Pole and Santa was waiting with his reindeer. Santa waved to everyone on the train as we passed by. (Due to Covid we were not able to get off the train). On the other side of the train, there was a sign that said North Pole and an inflatable snowman. We did the 1:30pm ride, so the Christmas lights were not visible at this time. Which was fine with us because we were able to enjoy the mountain scenery.
The kids waving at SantaSanta waving at the passengersNorth Pole
I was able to get a few more amazing shots of the train as we were heading back towards the station.
Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
On the ride back to the station there was more singing and dancing by our waiter. She was having so much fun!
Santa made a quick appearance in our train car and said he would be back with something special. The kids were very excited to see Santa. A lot of cheering erupted in our train car at the first sight of Santa.
SANTA!!!!
Our waiter came and talked to everyone while we waited for Santa to return. We also finished up our hot chocolate and cookies and cleaned up before the end of the train ride.
Ari showing the waiter her cameraTay drinking hot chocolate
Santa returned and gave each child a silver bell! Lot of bell ringing once all of the kids in the train car got their bells. They truly felt the magic of Christmas. Santa gave Taylor the first gift of Christmas.
Receiving Silver Christmas BellSilver bell
Once off the train we had someone take a family picture of us in front of the train.
Family Picture
We had a fantastic time on our Polar Express train ride. The kids had a “magical” experience and one they will never forget.
A few days before the ride I found a couple of reviews on the experience and they were very negative. This had me very concerned because of everything they were saying. Blake calmed my nerves about it by saying that regardless, it is still a ride on a train through the mountains and the kids will love it. We had quite the opposite experience of these negative reviews. Everything was great from start to finish. The only negatives I had of our experience is that the windows could have really used a cleaning. Some of the windows were filthy and made visibility rough. When I booked the ride, it was advertised as a 90 minute experience. However this was changed and it was only a 60 minute experience. I did not find this out until a couple of days before when I received the reminder email. The North Pole could have been done up a lot more but this is coming from an adult. Our kids were very happy with the North Pole. We plan to take a different Polar Express next year, not because we didn’t enjoy this one, but to travel to a different area.
The kids explored around the Cumberland Station grounds before we got in the car to leave. It was raining at the time so we didn’t stay long.
Once we left Cumberland, we began to head towards Kennywood. We kept our eye on the radar due to all of the rain we were getting. It showed that rain would be heavy and last almost the entire time the park was open. We got to the park and pulled into the gas station next door and really looked at the weather. We determined that it wouldn’t be worth it to go to the park due to all of the rain. A light rain we could handle but this was not light rain.
Being on the outskirts of Pittsburgh, we decided to go to a popular Pittsburgh restaurant called Primanti Brothers (152 East Bridge St, Homestead, PA 15120). The popular NHL team in Pittsburgh is the Penguins and we were still dressed in our Capital’s PJs. We made quite the scene when we entered the restaurant in Capital’s clothing. Of course we had to take a picture under the Penguins flag.
Blake’s Face hahaha
We were seated next to a table decked out in Penguins clothing, this was perfect. One of the men sitting at the table said “you have go to be F***ing kidding me” and his dad came up to us shortly after and told us how much he loved our outfits and it made him so happy to see and put a big smile on his face. This made our night. We had a wonderful server and fantastic food. All of the kids received rubber duckies from the server and fun straws. Such a great experience.
We decided to drive into downtown Pittsburgh to look around and check out their decorations for Christmas. We found $5 parking in a parking garage near PPG Place. When we got off the elevator we were right at the ice skating rink with the large Christmas tree in the middle.
PPG Place Christmas Tree
The tree was beautiful. It had a light show projected on it. We found out advanced tickets had to be purchased to participate in the ice skating and they were sold out. However there was a standby line and we got in line with only 2 people in front of us. We waited about 30 minutes and then we were called in for skate rentals. Blake wasn’t able to skate with Taylor in her carrier so I opted out of skating and took picture s of the kids. Arianna was the only one that had been on ice skates before but it was years ago. The ice had to be cleaned before Blake and the kids got on.
Once the ice was cleaned the kids went out. I was walking around the rink as they were skating and helping them out and encouraging them. I would hold their hand to help keep them from holding the wall. The employees were very helpful as well. One gave Ethan and Ari some pointers and that was it. They took off. Everyone skated for about an hour and had a lot of fun and of course there were many falls but that is part of learning.
The UPMC Rink at PPG Place
While the kids were skating I took Taylor around the area. We found some neat dinosaur sculptures.
While the kids were turning the skates in, I got everyone hot chocolate from a food truck outside of the rink. They were very happy to have a nice warm drink waiting on them.
On the way out of Pittsburgh, we found another tree that was lit up.
We arrived at our hotel, Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Uniontown, PA around 10pm. The hotel was very clean, quiet and spacious. The front desk showed up to our door shortly after we arrived in our room and provided us with extra blankets and pillows. I was very impressed, we normally have to go to the front desk and ask but she was on top of it. The beds were very comfortable and the blackout curtains worked too well……lol We all slept until about 9 am. Once we got up we went to the hotel lobby and had breakfast. It was a very nice hot breakfast and very filling. While the kids finished up their breakfast, Blake packed the car to head out.
We arrived at the location of our first hike of the day. The Maryland high point. The unique thing about this hike is that it starts in West Virginia and for the majority of the hike it remains in West Virginia until you are almost at the high point. The trail runs alongside an old logging site. While we hate logging, we know it has to be done and for this hike it actually works out better because it actually gives you a view. Before the logging it was an old growth forest.
Location: Eglon, West Virginia – Monongahela National Forest
Distance: 2.31 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Elevation Gain: 692 feet
Trail: Hoye Crest (Backbone Mountain)
Moving Time: 1:18:02
Weather: low 30s/snow
Terrain: Dirt, rocks, branches
The majority of the trail was covered in snow, this made for a beautiful hike. The entire hike is straight up, no switchbacks. You do make 1 turn into the woods on the way to the high point and another turn to take you to the high point. The kids did fantastic on the ascent.
Ascent
The snow heavier, the closer to the top and you could see the snow blow on the trees leading to the high point, very unique.
Snow blow on trees
We all made it to the high point and the kids were very excited to hit their 2nd high point in 2 days.
View from the high point
The high point has a mailbox with a registry notebook inside to record that you made it to the summit. The kids all signed their name in the book. Blake and I also showed them where we signed it a few months before.
Before we began our descent, we took the kids to the WV/MD state line marker. The love state line markers and being in 2 or more states at once.
WV/MD line
It was very chilly at the high point and we didn’t stay too long. We had to be careful on the descent due to the ice and mud. We did see really neat as my kids called it “ice crystals”
We finished the hike and headed for Seneca Rocks, West Virginia
We made it to Seneca Rocks, the kids first time. The visitors center was unfortunately closed and we didn’t have time to do the hike to the top of the rocks. We snapped some pictures with the kids and went on our way.
Seneca Rocks, WV
Not far down the road from Seneca is the West Virginia High Point, Spruce Knob. Not long after we made the turn onto the road leading to Spruce Knob we began to see snow covered banks. The rest of the drive up, looked like it was straight out of a Hallmark Christmas Movie.
Spruce KNob
We made it to the parking lot for Spruce Knob. We put on hats, gloves and jackets for the 1/2 mile high point hike.
It was a very cold but beautiful hike. The kids got to the high point first and ran to the top of the observation tower. The kept throwing snow on us from on top of the tower and they had a snowball fight.
We took pictures with the kids at the high point benchmark.
WV high point
We continued the loop trail back to the parking lot, snapping pictures and taking in the views along the way.
After our hike we got back in the car to warm up and head home. It was a pretty boring ride home since it was getting dark by the time we left.
For dinner, we stopped at The Fishing Pig. We wanted a nice sit down restaurant vs fast food. This restaurant was recommended to us by a friend of Blakes and it did not disappoint. Everyone ate almost all of their food and we took home the leftovers. One awesome thing about the restaurant is they use paper to line the tables with and it gets changed after each family and guest are able to draw on it. It kept the kids (even Taylor) very occupied.
The Fishin’ Pig
We had such a fantastic trip. The kids got to do and see so much and had great new experiences. They checked off 3 more high points (PA, MD, WV). The kept joking with us that they are from Virginia and still have not checked off the VA high point. Everyone went right to bed when we got home and slept in the next morning.
Nic of Time - Travel 