A few years ago Stan and I began reading about President John Adams. We found ourselves riveted by the relationship between John and his wife Abigail. They had so many challenges in their lives. John was absent often as he worked toward independence for what would be our great nation. When they were together they dealt with war and all of the ugliness that accompanies living in a land of unrest. Some of the challenges they faced are similar to the challenges we all face today. They dealt with loss of loved ones, growing concern for their farmland and yes, even obstinate children. Regardless of what was thrown their way, John and Abigail were the best of friends and their love endured....
The more Stan and I learned, the more we wanted to know. We were inspired. We were intrigued. We were ready for an adventure, we wanted to explore and see what trace of John and Abigail we could find left in this world. So in the summer of 2010 we flew to Boston Massachusetts...
The first thing we did after checking in to our hotel was take the train, then the bus straight to Braintree, the city where John was born, where John and Abigail raised their family, retired and spent their final days together over 200 years ago. The bus dropped us off in the center of Braintree, also now known as Quincy. We walked the 6 blocks to Peacefield, the home of John and Abigail. We were short on time and high on energy so off we went, walking quickly, worried the sun would go down before we reached our destination. It felt like it took forever - seriously, it was a long walk! When we finally arrived we were both speechless. It was beautiful. There was an entire estate to explore, with gardens and porches, a main home and a library. But then we has a disappointing realization. It was late in the day and the grounds were closed for the evening. The gate was closed. We were disappointed, but we did what any disappointed but civilized couple would do.
We jumped the fence. Yes, we did.
We jumped the fence and had the most amazing time exploring the estate for what seemed like hours. We had the best time running and laughing and exploring all of the beauty of Peacefield. That was until a groundskeeper busted us. He was very kind and let us go with a promise to head back to the street.
Needless to say, we returned the next day for the "formal tour." All the while remembering the evening we spent running wild and free all over the estate. Here are a few pictures of our visit to Peacefield.
Today on Valentine's Day I am reminded of the love and deep admiration that Abigail shared with John. One of Stan's friends once referred to me as Stan's Abigail. It was the highest compliment I could imagine. She was his wife, his partner, his most trusted advisor and dearest friend. All things I hope to be to my husband.
So that you can share in my awe of their bond, here is a excerpt of one of Abigail's letters to John. Yes, I have the book and I treasure it. Happy Valentine's Day to you and yours. - Stan's Abigail.
Letter from Abigail to John Adams, December 1782
My Dearest Friend,
…should I draw you the picture of my Heart, it would be what I hope you still would Love; tho it contained nothing new; the early possession you obtained there; and the absolute power you have ever maintained over it; leaves not the smallest space unoccupied. I look back to the early days of our acquaintance; and Friendship, as to the days of Love and Innocence; and with an indescribable pleasure I have seen near a score of years roll over our Heads, with an affection heightened and improved by time -- nor have the dreary years of absence in the smallest degree effaced from my mind the Image of the dear untitled man to whom I gave my Heart...
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