Virginia and Maryland Welcome Team O'Keefe

Before saying good-bye to Cousins Palermo in Charlottesville, the big two kiddos and I paid a visit to the home of our nation’s third President.  Thomas Jefferson had a “huge house” according to John Freeman.  The 11,000 square foot mansion plus 500 acres of gardens, sheds, cottages and quarters, offered an educational peek into our past.  Just hours earlier, we relaxed on the lawn at the University of Virginia, founded by Jefferson, munching on lunch and basking in the warmth of the beautiful campus.

Driving through mountains of Virginia as the sun was setting offered another scenic sight.  The kids were showered and in pjs.  It was smooth sailing until “Mommy, I need to potty!” from the kid in the far back passenger side.  (Deep sigh) We stopped.  We took care of business.  We were back on the road in a matter of minutes.  Again, the scene was breathtaking until … “Mommy, I need to potty!”  (Another deep sigh)  Again, we stopped but this time on the side of the road … (not such a breathtaking scene) … Eventually, our nation’s capitol came into view and we arrived at my college friend’s house.  Jill and Tom live in a picturesque country estate in North Potomac, Maryland. 

A backyard water slide and nearby pool made for Monday fun.  Tuesday touring found us at a playground and on a train ride.  Tomorrow, our nation’s capitol will host Team O’Keefe, minus little two, who will be in the capable care of Martina, Jill’s fabulous au pair from Austria!  Lucy asked if we would get to meet the President?!  Hmmmm …. on this adventure, you never know!!!