Have you ever had your face ache from smiling too much? It feels SO wonderfully special combining Sunbonnets and Smiles.
Yesterday, at the Laura Ingalls Wilder 150th birthday celebration I didn’t stop smiling for over four hours.
Everywhere I turned there were happy people.
Happiness is contagious, isn’t it?
I just wanted to soak up ALL the happy.
These awesome ladies were from the Log Cabin Village Museum.
They were overseeing butter making demonstrations, sampler crafts, “Little House” paper dolls and other wonderful pioneer inspired activities.
This darling wee pixie created a waterfall of joy in my heart.
Oh and these sweet girls…sigh. The eldest was wearing her mom’s dress from the 70’s. That’s what I call a lifelong Laura fan.
I also have to talk for a moment about that bundle of boy cuteness. Ian Charles Ingalls Gunn was SO good with all the littles and my mom’s heart was turned to mushy goo.
There were also several awesome cowgirls at the event. This was fitting since it was held at the National Cowgirl Museum.
You should have seen this vest in person. It was made from a sumptuous pinstriped velvet. I wanted it!
Here are the winners of the Laura costume contest.
I am SO glad that I didn’t have to decide who won because everyone was SO cute!
I had set up a display of antique clothing that people could touch and appreciate a wide variety of handiwork.
There was also a table that held a few pictures, antique dolls and some of my foreign language “Little House” books. A family attending the event, who was originally from France, appreciated the French version.
The day ended on a truly sweet note.
I know several of you inquired if I could share the presentation I gave. I never want to disappoint my dear treasured readers. However, it was an hour-long interaction with an enchanting, standing room only, crowd. I was a bit… delightfully overwhelmed. (This was a small section of the room.)
It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
Be blessed,
Laura
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Becoming Laura, Historical Costuming
Hi Laura,
Such a wonderful celebration. Thank you for sharing these charming pictures from the day's events. I love that you provided clothing/textiles that folks could “touch.” (I think you know why!)
Nice to see your handsome son beside you. God bless your Sunday. xo Mildred
What a fabulous turn out and such a great event. Everyone looks so beautiful in their dresses and I have to say Sweet Boy looked especially handsome. I am sure your presentation was the hit of the event.
Oh Laura, your heart must have been so full! You know, an event like this would make anyone smile, loads of fun, lots of people, pretty as all get out with those costumes. But to add onto it the extra joy of being such an intimate part, so personal — well, I should think it would be more than a bit overwhelming. To just stop in th emiddle and think, “Wait a minute — this is MY history.” Wow. I'm so impressed!
What fun! Everyone looks so authentic. It's terrific that you got to participate in this event.
I know it must have been a little slice of heaven for you to be with all of those people who share your passion. How fun!
What a lovely, lovely event, Laura. Laura Ingalls Wilder would have been astounded at the interest garnered in her wonderful books. All the smiling faces make me smile, too. Hope you get a bit of a rest now!
Congratulations! Judging by the looks on everyone's faces, it was enjoyed by all.
Marilyn (in Dallas)
Love all the bonnets and the smiles! Great post!
So glad that it was such a big success. Those little girls look delighted!
Oh Laura, thank you for sharing a part of the 150th birthday celebration in honor of Laura Ingalls Wilder. I so enjoyed viewing the pictures. Loved seeing the different period dress and your display! What a wonderful birthday celebration!
I did my book review today on Laura's book Saving Graces. 🙂
your costumes look wonderful. surprised how much your “little boy” has grown up!
Oh how wondergul. I love it. If I lived near by I would have been there. Such adorable dresses. I agree I would not want to judge. Love you beautiful display. What a fun event. Bless you. Karie
that is so great.. look at all the pretty dresses!
What a fun event that would have been to attend! The costumes are wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing!
Wow, that looks like an amazing event for all Little House fans! Great to see so many people celebrating Laura Ingalls Wilder's fascinating life 🙂
Hi! New to your blog and love this post so much! Looks like such a delightful day. Thank you for sharing with us.
Blessings,
Jill