JAGster's Thoughts...: Charlottesville, VA

Monday, May 9, 2011... We spent the day enjoying the weather. Took Eric to the pool, we went fishing and used the big grill to cook up some steaks and zucchini. After, we headed to the playground and then back to Tastee Freez for dessert.

Eric, our little fisherman, during his short attention span...

Throwing sticks was more fun...

Finally, something fun...

Tuesday, May 10, 2011... The only thing I wanted to do was go to James Madison's home, Montpelier. We spent 3-4 hours there before going to a vineyard to pick up a "thank you" bottle of wine for mom and dad. They were taking care of the cats.

View of the Blueridge Mountains from top of the house...

Peonies...

After the DuPonts bought the house in 1900, they expanded the house from 22 rooms to 55 rooms and 12 bathrooms. In 2003, the Montpelier Foundation began restoring the mansion to the home of the Madison's. The physical structure was completed in 2008.

Eric with life size statues of James and Dolley Madison. He called them "the mommy and daddy."

Entrance to the formal garden...

Dame's Rocket... a pretty, sweet smelling wild flower that I have only seen on the road sides of VA. Well, except that it made it into the Montpelier garden. It is similar to phlox. I've learned that it has been banned in at least 3 states because it can be invasive. I love it! I wish OH's roadsides were covered with it in the spring. And the scent is heavenly!

Kid size archeology dig...

Mr. Madison's Temple... there's an ice well, 2 stories deep, underneath.

Nice looking family...

A secret hide-a-way...

Wednesday, May 11, 2011... back to fishing...

A little play time with daddy...

Sunset over the lake...

Fishing... well, it sucked! Paul did catch a turtle though...

Eric loved the pool! Even after repeated warning of not to run, he came running up to me, slipped and hit his head on the floor. He ended up with a big bump on the back of his head. What a way to end a vacation!