Medieval Party Play

September 26, 2010

One of the things I love about my children's childhood is how much time they have for creative and imaginative play.

Since they also have a keen interest in the middle ages (inspired I think a lot by the fantastical Lord of The Rings Trilogy) we have read plenty of fiction and non-fiction about this time period. Of course, all this study inspires play; costume, castle and weapon making are regular activities in our home.

So imagine our delight when fellow medieval enthusiasts and close friends of ours had a (costumes encouraged) Medieval Birthday Celebration in honor of their son's 12th birthday this weekend. All last week the kids were jittery with the excitement of sword making with Daddy, costume planning and role playing.

The main party activity was a hour long foam-sword melee involving children ages two through early teens. Also popular was the tug-o-war in which, I must say, the warrior maidens & princesses (pretty dresses are just their disguise) pulled their own and more. Go girls!

It was so much fun (and a bit nerve wracking at times) to watch. I did some tug-o-war rope pulling myself but was laughing too hard to be much help. My children came home thoroughly exhausted, their very muscles aching from all the intensely active play.

What a perfect party. Thanks so much to our friends for inviting us to participate.