Virginia is on my mind. I have booked a trip to visit friends in Richmond this Spring and doing so has me recalling a glorious day trip to Mount Vernon, George Washington's home.
When I was there in 2009, I blogged about it here (3 posts will appear when you click). The photos and musings were from outside Mount Vernon, because photography is not allowed indoors to protect the antiques.
I was able to take this photo of the kitchen (see it here on the estate map) because in those days kitchen were built in separate buildings to protect the main house from kitchen fires.
Have you ever been to Mount Vernon? What made me say Wow! in my blog title is the improvements to their new website. Now anyone can "visit" Mount Vernon and take a virtual tour! It is fantastic. I want you to click the links and tour 2 specific areas: the small dining room on the first floor and the cupola on the third floor.
Okay, first I wanted to show you the small dining room with the striking green paint. Can't you see yourself eating a roast beef and potatoes in here? "Please pass the gravy, Mr. President."
The other must-see area is on the top floor - you can see the 360 degree view from the rooftop cupola. Why, yes, that is the Potomac! It boggles the mind that you can "see" the view exactly as George Washington could see it. Well, the trees are taller, but still. Beautiful.
Click around this exceptional feature and see for yourself. Enjoy!
I am in Washington, D.C.! A weekend jaunt to see friends, take pictures and have a little adventure. I will be returning home around when you read this and will give you a glimpse at my trip once I get my bearings.
This is a big week for me: My book will be available online on Thursday, April 21st and there is a book launch party for me the day before! Oh, and I'm hosting my big family Easter dinner on Friday. Bring it on - I can't wait!
The precise boxwood sculptures at Mount Vernon took my breath away! George Washington loved all aspects of the garden and it shows in these spectacular grounds. I would love to create something like this in miniature...trimming thyme and rosemary into bushes and topiaries.
Perhaps I could grow it in container garden (like a child's red wagon) and pull it into the sunlight/optimum growing areas of the yard throughout the season. I think it would be darling, don't you?
I made it to Mount Vernon! It was beautiful the day we toured George Washington's historic home and grounds. The paintings on the wall, the tapestries on the bed, even the dishes gave a real peek into the life of our first president. My favorite part was sitting on the grand porch overlooking the Potomac River. The breeze was wonderful and I know that "retiring to the porch" is exactly what George Washington did with his guests. Loved it.
