Day 5: Mount Vernon

Over dinner the night before, we had consulted with Brad's Uncle Bob and determined that in order to make the departure time for our tour, we would need to leave their house by 6:30AM. Yuck. But, you do what you have to do! We had a full day of sightseeing ahead of us because we were heading to Mount Vernon! Not only would be we be going to see Washington's estate, but we would getting there by a boat cruising the historic Potomac River. 

Unfortunately, a cold front had come in and it was a chilly 39 degrees when we left the house. Thankfully we had bought a jacket for me at Busch Gardens. It wasn't heavy, but it would get me by. However, that did mean that our time on the deck of the boat was very limited. Other than popping out for a picture occasionally, we opted to stay inside where it was warm.

Staying warm inside.

Mt Vernon first becomes visible.

After a 1.5 hour boat ride, we arrived the estate. We were given our tickets and a time to be back on the boat. We made our way up the hill and arrived at the mansion.

We took a tour of the house. While it had some elaborate things for its time, it could be considered a rather modest home in our time.

Then we went the backyard to see the famous view of the Potomac River. It was pretty. I wish it had been a warmer and clearer day so we could see more...but it was still very nice. I pictured all the garden parties they must have had out there.

We visited the tomb of George and Martha.

Honestly, what was more interesting about this day, was the man behind it all ... General George Washington. He was an innovative thinker and inventor. In everything we read about him, he considered himself a farmer before any other profession.

16-sided Barn

After we grabbed some lunch in the visitors center (at a Pizza Hut!), we slowly made our way back to the boat dock. The surroundings there were beautiful!!

Loved the Dogwoods!

 

As we cruised back down the Potomac, the sky cleared a bit so we could enjoy the outside some and see the sights.

Part of Alexandria, VA.

The Pentagon

Washington Monument

While were out there, a helicopter flew right over us. As we looked up we saw "United States of America" and the Presidential Seal on it! I waved... just because. :o) We know it wasn't the POTUS because the helicopter was alone, but it was still cool!!

Once back on shore we drove back to the Hughes home to celebrate Aunt Cindy's birthday! All of Brad's cousins, their spouses and kids came over to enjoy presents, cake and ice cream. It was the first time I had met them and it was SO fun!! I just feel in love with all of them and really enjoyed our time.