April 30, 2007

Vacation Planning

It's that time of year again when Husband and I start talking about what we're going to do this summer.

Son has his heart set on going over to the Carnegie Science Museum again, which I have no problem with, but I've been doing some research of my own, since we'd like to explore more of the area we live in.

So far, I've brought up for consideration: Clarksburg, WV (birthplace of Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson), Lancaster, OH (birthplace of William Tecumseh Sherman), and Gettysburg. You know....the really big reenactment in July.

Husband already has somewhat set plans to hit Fredericksburg, VA (we've promised relatives there a tour), and if you Llamas will be in you home areas in August, let's have drinks, mmkay?

I have no problems with going back to Fredericksburg. The last time I was there I was in the family way with Son, and it might be fun to not waddle around like a wounded duck this time.

But...can I offer some advice? If you happen across a living history event, no matter which war is being portrayed, remember this:

1) They are hot. Damn hot. And probably cranky and more than a bit fragrant. So don't even ask if they're hot.

2) Yes, that fire is real, and yes, they probably did cook over that fire.

3) Yes, chances are they really did sleep there last night.

4) No, they don't shoot real bullets.

5) If you go to a Civil War reenactment and hear someone going on about Lincoln, Lee, Jackson, Grant, etc., as if those people are still alive, don't run off for a straightjacket. They're not crazy, they're doing their first person impression.

6) Seriously, don't ask the women how they pee in those hoopskirts.

7) Don't freak if you see women actually baking pies, cooking turkeys, or even spinning wool. It can be done (although I never did).

That's all I can think of right now. But take it from me, don't ask those questions, because the reenactors have heard it all before.