Vacationing in Virginia

The last two days we have spent in Virginia enjoying the beutiful landscape and history that rests there. First, we started at Mt. Vernon. Home of George Washington. I am officially a horrible American as I had to have my friend from the Czeck explain who he was. Ok, I knew that he was a president but beyond that, I had to watch the informational video at his estates to learn who he was. I know, I know, that's horrible. Apparently in school I was too busy with everything but learning and, now, don't know much about our history. They made fun of my and my ignorance but it was all in good humor. We got to tour the house, see where he died, and witness where many important decisions were made. Before we left, we took a scenic cruise on the Platomic River. It was beautiful and definately worth the extra money.

This is the Manson at Mount Vernon where George Washington lived. We got to tour it, see the slave quarters, and all the other amazing areas on the estate.



On the cruise I bought a drink and it was $6.50. I wanted another one but didn't want to spend the money so I went back down to the lower deck and told the man, "Yes, can I need a free drink." And he obliged. :)


This is what is known as the Necessary or Privy in England. It's the bathroom that the slaves or others would use while on the estate and not near the house. I learned that not only was George Washington our first president but he also was extremely senstaive to hygine issues.




After, we headed back to D.C. and decided to try some food from one of the corners of the world. We settled on Ethopian food. I had no idea what I was ordering, how it would come, or if I would like it but I was bound to try something new. And boy, was it new. They don't eat with silverware. That was the wierdest part. They give you this sticky bread rolled up like tortilas and you use those to pick the "slop" up with. It was SO good though. I tried all on my plate. Some was good and some was not. The stuff that was good. Was very good.



After supper, we put our pregnant friend to bed and Lily and I walked downtown to a place that was known for good people watching. We sat there and had great conversation, met some local girls that I visited with, and finally ventured home after a long day. Very good time. Great company, and I always love meeting new people.