Shenandoah Crossing and Monticello

This summer a big vacation was not in the budget because of the expense of Disney and the addition on the house. So when we were approached with a timeshare promotion in the fall, Jim signed us up for a 2 night package in Shenandoah. We planned the itinerary of the trip and packing at the last minute but we got off at a good time on Monday morning. We had gotten very good at packing over the past few years and everything fit easily in the back of the van. But this time even though it was only a 3 night trip the van was stuffed. Traveling with a baby adds so much stuff from the pack in play, stroller, hiking backpack, and booster highchair seat; it was ridiculous. But Jim got it all in.

It was a manageable and pleasant drive through the Virginia countryside and we arrived at the resort in good time. We were given a Yurt, that is a round, canvas covered, fancy 2 bedroom tent. The interior walls did not go all the way up. It had a large living area with a full kitchen, nice bathroom, and a deck that wrapped around the exterior. We all thought it looked pretty cool. Megan and Bridget had fun in one bedroom together and Emma and Rachael enjoyed being able to stay up a little later but weren't thrilled with the fold out sofa bed. It was too small for 2 so one used Jim's cot.  The resort was in a beautiful country setting with a horse stable and lake along with the resort pools and mini-golf.  We attended a historical presentation about the local civil war history of the area and then went on a guided hike with about 20 other guests. It was interesting and the girls all participated in the questions. Hanna participated a bit less as she conked out for a nap on Jim's back for most of the hike. We made use of the resort amenities including taking a boat out on the water. Bridget didn't like the idea at first but discovered that when we were out on the water that it was a lot of fun. The yurts turned out to be difficult to sleep in as the canvas sides made all of the sounds of our neighbors very distracting at bedtime and it had a skylight in the center which shared the morning sun well before we wanted to wake up. Luckily Hanna slept in our room and I was able to respond to her early morning stirrings without waking the entire resort.

We checked out on Wednesday and headed down to Monticello to tour Jefferson's home. I was surprised by the woodedness of the area since I always think of it as a farm/plantation but 200 years is a long time for woods to grow in. The visitor center had a new and well-kept feel and the shuttle ride up held a joy of anticipation. I was not disappointed as the woods opened and the hilltop home came into view. Jim thoughtfully took over Hanna and the stroller so I could fully enjoy the tour as well.This was my kind of place- old buildings, historical significance and interesting characters. We had a great tour guide, who was very engaging. He kept every one's attention and the girls asked good questions at appropriate times. All 3 of the big girls had some knowledge to draw from so it made the tour even more interesting for them.  After the tour we took pictures and then walked through the lower level. It was amazingly cool and inspired respect for the design. Everyone got hungry so we went back down to the center with the intention of returning for 2 more tours after lunch. After lunch we saw a short movie and enjoyed the AC of the gift shop. We discussed going back up as a strong rain began and quickly realized heading out was the right call. I would love to go back some day and experience the rest it has to offer. I am so grateful people recognized it as something worth preserving and that I get to be the beneficiary of their recognition.

Next we would head to another area preserved for our benefit: Shenandoah National Park.