We took another day trip today, out to Windsor Castle. We were accompanied by an extremely knowledgable and friendly guide, Clare. Clare was invaluable at the Castle, sharing information about the kings and queens who lived there, the art and architecture inside, and many of the royal traditions of the castle and chapel.

We experienced one highlight after another. First, we enjoyed the rose-scented air from the magnificent royal gardens. We happened upon a brief Changing of the Guard, and were particularly impressed when the soldiers barked, “Make Way for the Queen’s Guard!” But most amazing was seeing the Queen herself! Yes, she was on her way to Royal Ascot, and we happened to be looking out on the courtyard when we saw her motorcade of antique Rolls Royces first enter into the carport to retrieve her from the castle, then exit... Here she is:

Inside, we loved the 1/20 scale palatial dollhouse given to Queen Mary in the 1930s, and the French porcelain dolls given to Queen Elizabeth and her sister by the French at the same time. The French dolls had complete wardrobes designed for them by the couturiers of the day, including Chanel. They had exquisitely embroidered gloves and shoes, pleated and embellished dresses with matching hats, and even their own French lingerie and Cartier accessories!

We all enjoyed learning about heraldry, especially the Queen’s standard, in context of the Order of the Garter and its meeting chambers in St. George’s Chapel. Colorful flags from all of the 24 knights are displayed from the rafters. Amory decided that her standard would have a shiny pink background, with red hearts all around. It might even have the word “Heart” in blue bubble letters, and long-stemmed red roses and baby dolls to each side. If there were still room, she would add swirls, smiley faces, and a cartwheeling girl. Riley thought her flag would have a shiny gold background, a picture of a real baby with hearts around it, and maybe an iPhone too.