We’ve Arrived!

After 775 miles, 16 hours, pouring rain, two meals at Cracker Barrel, and plenty of silliness, we arrived safely in Williamsburg. Although the day started early this morning, the kids’ energy levels could fool you: the laughter, endless chatter, and enthusiasm lasted strong throughout the whole day. Even the rain and inability to run off some energy at our second rest stop didn’t damper anyone’s mood. It was wonderful to hear giggles and joy permeating throughout each bus!

Halfway through the day, a bus and seat shuffle change saw all the boys in the orange bus and all the girls in the green bus. It would be important to note that many of the dad chaperones took the opportunity to nap (we have much photographic evidence of this!) and rumor has it the girls bus reached the higher decibel levels!

Creativity took hold for many of the girls, including knitting, cross stitching, and hand painting. And the “Watch Your Mouth” game led some to a couple hours of silly talk to pass the time. The boys brought out Rubik’s cubes and books, chess games, and cards. Friendly competition reigned!

During our double Cracker Barrel adventure, it was fun to see the kids choosing their meals and using their math skills to figure out how much money they were able to spend on food, factoring in tip and tax. While gathering on the patio after our lunchtime meal, one chaperone shared how impressed he was with the kindness and generosity of his group. He had explained to them how to calculate a 15% tip, and even after the kids figured out the appropriate amount, they wanted to give more generously – one kid genuinely wanted to give 50%!

Another chaperone shared how their table was provided such nice service and complimented the kids on their manners and ordering – and she ended the meal by giving our chaperone a big hug! Mrs. Raesly enjoyed getting lots of compliments on the kids’ behavior, too!

To take full advantage of the last leg of the trip, the kids completed their devotions for the day and prayed for continued safe travels, good weather, and lots of fun, and then settled in to watch “Despicable Me.”

And given the late hour and long travel day, that’s a wrap on Day 1. Everyone is anxiously looking forward to the real start to our Williamsburg adventure tomorrow morning! Thanks to everyone for their prayers!

by Susan Reudelhuber, parent blogger