Independence Day week wouldn’t be complete without some sort of historical, proud-to-be-an American trip somewhere. We decided not to do DC this year, so what’s the next best thing? Visiting our first presidents’ home, Mount Vernon, of course. And what better day to do it than on Mom’s birthday! ;-)

Inherited by George Washington in 1754, he lived there on and off until he died there in 1799. There was no photography allowed in the house itself, and unlike the Biltmore, there were too many guides stationed around the house for me to sneak a shot or two. So I had to just look, listen and appreciate it.

I got plenty of shots of the outside, grounds and gardens though ;-)

This is a “Necessary,” basically an outhouse…but I must say it looks like a nice one, it’s even got windows!

That’s what I call River Front Property!

One of my favorite vegetables, artichokes, were growing in the garden.

Peaches and Apples

I guess even Washington had problems with those nasty, pesky beetles.

His other garden had plenty of colorful flowers in bloom.

In the education center, there is what looks like a picture of a bust of George Washington. But as you walk past it, it’s as if he is watching and following you! I think it’s some sort of projection, but part of the wall is concave. However it’s done, it’s a very cool optical illusion!

The day ended with an early dinner at Macaroni Grill, our favorite Italian restaurant! We then stopped off at Wegmans to pick up a few groceries then headed home where Mom opened her birthday presents.

It was a very good, family fun-filled day!

Happy Birthday Mom, love you!!!