Mount Vernon Estate

 

History in person...that's how I like it...

I have a hard time reading history books...or watching programs on television...but bring me to a place filled with history in person, and my mind lights up with intrigue.

That is what happened this past weekend when Joshua and I went down to Virginia. We stayed with his parents who were so generous to take us on lovely outings while we visited.

I went shopping with my mother-in-law on Friday and saw some amazing shops. One that I really enjoyed was WhiteBench. They had lots of burlap pillows and burlap covered French chairs. Loads of chippy white furniture and unique finds. You can check out their website to see a taste of what they have. I was wishing I had brought my camera, but sadly, I left it behind. The towns we visited were so quaint and charming with lots of friendly people. I even picked up a couple of things at some thrift shops we visited.

Then on Saturday {Halloween} we drove over to Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens...aka...George Washington's house...

The mansion was stunning. I fell in love with the dining room and all of the character throughout. It was also amazing to stand where George Washington stood...where so much of our American history was made...

Photos aren't allowed indoors...but you can view a virtual tour on the website...or better yet...visit if you are ever in the area...

Across from the mansion is the Potomac river. It is quite an incredible view and was beautiful to see with the leaves falling.

There are many other buildings and sites to see while you are there including the Greenhouse and gardens. Since it is fall there isn't too much blooming right now...but I can only imagine how beautiful the gardens are in the spring and summer...

{there is a large fleur-de-lis in the shrubbery above...hard to photograph but Joshua and I enjoyed finding it.}

They also have lots of live animals around...

This sleepy one reminded me of Renoir ;)

And speaking of Renoir...since it was Halloween on the day we visited the estate, we didn't get back until around 8pm, so most of the trick-or-treaters were done...but we dressed Renoir up anyways...

Here's Mr. "Boo" Jangles...

{Joshua picked up this adorable shirt collar and tie on Etsy from Whiskerkisses}

Well, I feel like I keep saying the same thing...about being busy and not having time for blogging...but again...it will be a busy month ahead for me. I have been given a very exciting opportunity in about 3 weeks that I will be preparing for and sharing when the time comes closer. I do so wish I had more hours in the day so I could come visit all of you. I truly do miss seeing what you are all up to...but again I hope you will understand and know that you are all in my thoughts during the day ;)

Till next time...

Comments

[Lynnae]

Thanks for taking the time to post about Mt. Vernon. Of all the sightseeing I've done that was one of the most moving places for me to see.

[Julia]

I have never been there but I'm in love with the architeture of this house for a long time. It must be very exciting to visit this historical place.

[Tracie~My Petite Maison]

Thanks for taking me along, Alice. How wonderful to stand on that beautiful site. I have to say, I love the animals the most and of course, sweet Renoir... I mean Mr. Boo Jangles and what a wonderful pose - did I ever say "you should be a model, Renoir". Please forgive me, Zeke made me do it! So what's the big news???
xo~Tracie

[Tracie~My Petite Maison]

Absolutely love Patty Griffin. Perfect.

[Julie Marie Vicknair]

Hello ALice, I have hurt me eye bad and cannot see real well right now, but wanted to see sweet little Renoir in his Halloween costume... he looks adorable! I will check your whole post again in about ten days when my eye has healed.. glad you had a nice time, love to you, kisses Renoir! Julie

[Leah C]

You took such beautiful photos of Mount Vernon! I've been there twice, summer & fall, but I could go back 100 times more...it's so rich with history. Love the photo of "Mr. Boo Jangles";how does Renoir get cuter & cuter with every picture you share?!
P.S. Love, love my banner! Thank you:)

[Margaret Bouwmeester]

I am so excited for you alice, I just know you are working on something wonderful!
Love little Renoir in his holiday costume!!!!
Love the pictures, glad you had a great time!
Hugs,
Margaret B

[Kelly~Rose Vine Cottage]

What a beautiful place to visit!! I love your new banner too (;
Hugs~Kelly

[June]

Hi Alice,
I would love to see that estate in person. I love the history that is in this part of the country. I have visited the area several times in the past, but have yet to see this. Those gardens are lovely and yes, it would be wonderful to see them in Summer.
Hugs,
June

[Mira]

This is such a great estate! You made wonderfull pict to let us take part. It seems you had a great time. Don't bother about blogging... every thing has it's time. Now you have other priorities. Have a good time and lots of creativity, hugs & kisses, Mira!

[fairmaiden]

What a lovely way to spend Halloween. I hope to visit Mt. Vernon in person one day. When I homeschooled my children they learned so much history from visiting places in person. We even journeyed through nine states and it was a wonderful way to learn U.S History. So fun! Your post here makes me feel like I'm there. You take the most captivating photos girl! And Renoir is so handsome.

[Janean]

beautiful photos & the tie is very dashing!

[Sheila R]

Thanks for sharing your adventures and all the beautiful pictures! Can't wait to hear what you are up to! Exciting!

Take Care!

[tracey]

Hi Alice! Looks like you had a wonderful visit...your pictures are beautiful!!

Your little Renoir is a real cutie too :)

Can't wait to hear all about your exciting news...

:) T

[Rebecca]

So nice to hear from you again. Your pictures are beautiful, my daughter had the wonderful opportunity to visit Mount Vernon several years ago while on a trip and she loved it. We were lucky to have stayed in Alexandria while she was there that's a beautiful city too love the history and architecture.
Excited to hear of your news when the time comes! Take care ~ Rebecca

[stephanie]

Hi Alice! Thanks so much for sharing your pics from Mt. Vernon. I think it must be just about the most beautiful place on this Earth! We visited there one summer and it was lovely, but it is extra special that you show what it looks like in Fall with the leaves turning gorgeous colors. We watched fireworks over the Potomac River and it was magical!

Big TX Hugs,
Stephanie
Angelic Accents

[Sue]

Hello , Alice , Thank you for the lovely tour - it's just beautiful! I'll be checking back to find out your exciting newa. Suw

[Vintagebejoyful]

Thank you so much for sharing these delightful pictures! aren't we lucky to live in the USA!!!!!

Tracey

[Mitzi Curi]

Beautiful photography, Alice. I think you have a particular knack for photographing animals, which I love. Your Renoir looks very dapper in his tie!

[Cheryl at Casual Cottage Chic]

Love the tour...thank you for bringing us along :-) And the suspense is killing me...can't wait 3 weeks to learn what opportunities have been bestowed on you. You are so talented...it has to be great!
Hugs,
Cheryl

[Elizabeth]

i love places with history. i'll have to bookmark this for whenever i have the opportunity to visit Virginia. thanks so much for sharing this trip with us.