What a treat, weather in the 60s in February! We were spoiled for February Vacation, unless you like to ski that is. To take advantage of the gorgeous weather I planned a few local trips for vacation. First up, a day trip into Boston.
I go into Boston all the time but sometimes it is fun to act like a tourist in your own city. My friend and I decided to make a trip to the Museum of Fine Arts. There was a special exhibit on the book, Make Way for Ducklings which happens to be one of my favorite children’s books. How could I pass up the chance to see original drawings of the behind the scenes making a beloved children’s classic? Even better, the library had passes available so we got in for a discount.
The exhibit was smaller than I would have liked, but it was wonderful to see so many original drawings and notes on some classics. Besides Make Way for Ducklings the exhibit also showcased works by Robert McCloskey like, Blueberries for Sal and Homer Price.
Strolling along, admiring drawings and reading tidbits about how these books came to be, brought me back to when I first read them. I can still hear my grandmother’s voice as we would snuggle on the couch reading these stories together when I was a little girl. I hope many of my students will have the chance to see this wonderful exhibit since it is in town until June.
Taking advantage of the gorgeous weather another day, my sister and I took a day trip to Newport, RI. While I have been to Newport several times, this time we decided to do it up big, tourist style!
We spent the day touring the historical mansions that make up the Newport waterfront. While I have driven by them on visits, it was thrilling this time to see beyond their front doors. We opted for the winter pass which granted us access to four mansions including The Elms, Marble House, Rosecliff and The Breakers.
As a lover of all things historical I was not disappointed with the tours. Wether it was an audio tour or guided tour, it was fascinating learning about life from another era.
The Breakers was by far the most impressive of all the homes. The view out onto the grand ballroom in the center of the home from all sides made me feel as though I was on set of Downton Abbey. The attention to detail, massive rooms, and opulence that surrounded me was jaw dropping.
Better than the views, or the guides was the fact that my sister and I visited in winter. Summer brings hoards of crowds and hot weather, so winter touring with fewer people and easy access to each sight was right up my alley. Sometimes I forget how much there is to discover right in my own backyard. Do you ever play tourist in your own city?
Katy
