Mt. Vernon, As Needed.

After a week of mostly being indoors, we were met with the most lovely, sunny day. So I decided that the girls and I would take our oft-driven George Washington Parkway to its south end, landing at none other than the George Washington's estate, Mt. Vernon. There are farm animals, gardens, and lovely paths for exploring. And, during this particular visit, A. was intent on finding a skunk (all because I absent-mindedly mentioned, "Whew! I smell a skunk!") - an activity that she's pursued nearly every time she's outside since our visit.

During those times when I need to *breath* and take a moment from parenting, I will strap the kiddos in the car and drive the GW Parkway. It's serene, tree-lined, and follows the Potomac River. And while it's quite close to the city, it's free of the beltway traffic and hustle and bustle of busy intersections. A. refers to our drive as one in the "forest" and likes to pretend we're out-running the "river monster". Why, all those times, we didn't visit Mt. Vernon, just 8 miles from our home - well, I'm not sure!

But this time around, we not only visited, but we plunked down a well-worth-it $25 for an annual pass. Now, during one of my "time-outs", I can reward the girls (and myself!) for their understanding and treat them to a visit to President Washington's farm (minus the normally $15 entrance fee, which is steep for these parts where it's common to not pay to visit history!). Thank you, Mt. Vernon, for being our saving grace when needed!