We took a nice family vacation last long weekend. It was Alvin's first trip (can you imagine that???!!!) and it was also parents' birthdays weekend so it was a nice treat for all of us!
For only 200 miles drive, we can get 10 degree warmer? No question that is where we are going - Williamsburg, VA!
*** Day 1 - Children's Paradise: Busch Garden ***
No doubt that Busch Garden is Children's Paradise but even for toddlers like Alvin, they can really enjoy small rides, the Dragon playground and of course, all the shows and excitements around. There are many rides are suitable for children under age 3. So, if Alvin were half year or one year older, he would appreciate this park even more. But, for him, a day in this wild park is more than he can handle.
Daddy and Alvin decided to cross the net bridge without asking mom first. Poor pregnant mom, who is absolutely afraid of height, had to carry a several pounds camera and her 20 pounds tummy over this 50 feet high net bridge.
Alvin is telling everyone where he comes from.
It was the first experience for Alvin to ride on Carousel, Cruise and Train. 
We asked Alvin to give us a smile and that is what we got. But, at least it is better than Daddy's rigid face.
*** Day 2 - Colonial Williamsburg & Battleship Norfolk ***
On the second day, we visited colonial Williamsburg, where the earlier American history lives.
Williamsburg is full of characters, historically and naturally.
If you think Alvin is interested in the ladies, you are wrong. He is actually pointing to the umbrella. The ladies were very disappointed once they learned the fact.
Horses and Cars are Alvin's favorites. He is thinking how these two can come together into one package.
Every boy loves battleship. Alvin is no exception. The USS Wisconsin battleship is retired from its mission and resides in Norfolk harbor, Virginia. When Alvin grows up, we will show him these pictures and sure he will appreciate parents took the time to introduce him to this giant ship.
*** Day 3 - Downtown Richmond & Maymont Garden ***
Day 3 we are still full of energy. Richmond was once the capital of southern states and it is only 2 hours drive from DC but parents had never had the chance to visit it. It is nice to see the downtown historical sites.Washington Statue
State Capital
Bell Tower
Zero Point
Egyptian Building
After downtown, we visited the Maymont garden. Parents wish this garden is in DC - it is mainly designed for families with little children. They have several beautiful gardens, a Children's farm and Natural Center. The Natural Center has aquarium which host all the fish species from the James River.
Our 3 days trip doesn't seem to be that long but it already exhausted parents, especially mom. She was the one dragging everyone's leg. Alvin loves staying in the hotel. He checked out everything in the room, including refrigerator, safe lock, doors, drawers, table, chairs, TV, etc. At some point, he got too excited and couldn't stop laughing and talking. Next time, when we take another family trip, it will be a quartet one.
