The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
So much of this trip was a sobering reality check that left us understanding the bitter divide between North and South and the everyday souls who endured so much for their cause. Often times words could not describe our feelings looking at the battlefields and learning the personal stories of brave Americans, from decorated generals to those barely old enough to enlist. But not everything on this trip revolved around … [Read more...]
It's not every day that you get to have dinner at a place that has been in business since 1770. The chance to go back in time and dine just like former prominent customers John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette to name just a few was simply irresistible to me and my crew. We were a little skeptical going to a place that trades on it's historic significance so our … [Read more...]
It never ceases to amaze me how awestruck my kids are when we visit places where historical events that shaped our nation have taken place. Its surreal for them and I must confess it is equally so for me as well. Appomattox Courthouse National Historical Park was one of those places where our minds were truly blown. It's a bit off the beaten track, but if you are headed to Monticello it's well worth the trek to … [Read more...]
If you are planning to visit Arlington, you are most likely going to follow the signs from Arlington National Cemetery that lead up to the house on the hill with the extraordinary view. If you visit during the summer like we did, your are likely to experience some extreme heat and humidity, so the chance to get into some shade indoors will feel like a welcome break. Arlington House is the former home of General … [Read more...]
Walking into Arlington National Cemetery there's a certain heaviness you feel in both your body and soul, that owes to the solemnity of the hallowed ground you are about to experience. Your chest at once fills with a sense of sadness and pride for you know the best of our nation, those who have risked life and limb for our safety and the ideals we hold dear, are resting here eternally. Before you the seemingly … [Read more...]
Isn't it funny how seeing someone's objects and possessions can make you feel like you know someone without ever having met them? Walking through Monticello made me feel like I'd met Thomas Jefferson, and I was shocked to learn he was so much more than I had ever imagined from all I'd read and seen so far. Monticello is a grand estate set atop a hill with amazing views or Charlottesville below. Thomas Jefferson … [Read more...]
Chincoteague Island has tons of rustic beach charm but is a little light on really good eats. Choices are kind of limited and none of the local restaurants stay open too late with many of them closing by 8pm. Tough in the summer when the sun goes down late and you lose track of time on the beach. That's exactly the predicament we found ourselves in when we were lucky enough to find Captain Zach's … [Read more...]
All of Chincoteague Island is a beautiful natural wonderland but to really explore the natural habitat you must visit the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is not only home to the beautiful wild Chincoteague ponies, but a host of other wildlife and some incredible beaches. You can pop in for a quick drive through, or bring a picnic and make it a whole day affair. It's a wonderful place to relax as … [Read more...]
Virginia's Chincoteague Island is a quaint, beautiful and slightly wild place. By far one of the best ways to take it all in is on an island cruise aboard a pontoon boat. In fact it's one of the only ways to get up close and personal with the islands most famous residents, the Chincoteague ponies. There are several operators but after doing a bit of research we decided to go with Daisy's Island Cruises and I am … [Read more...]
As you know by now, we've tasted ice cream all across the country. One thing we know for sure, if there's a line out the door, it's a pretty good sign that it's going to be good. The minute we set foot on Chincoteague Island the locals told us not to miss The Island Creamery with tips on the best times to avoid the crush. We finally made our way over after dinner and even though the line was out the door, it did … [Read more...]
