Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest Home

A walk down 1900 century history was a perfect way to enjoy our Memorial Day! Our lives today are a result of the work of those gone before us. Thomas Jefferson's claims to fame are more than the Declaration of Independence and the Louisana Purchase. He was a man of incredible genius who read in six languages, architect, inventor, and advid gardener. I might just have to visit the local library and read a bit more about this president, since I am living in his poplar forest.

Thomas Jefferon's "Other Home" as he called it, is just a short walk from our home on Bateman Bridge Road. This octagonal shaped home transported us to 1809. Dad, Mom, John, the kids and I spent Memorial Day taking a tour of our third president's retreat home.

As I walked through the grounds, I couldn't help but imagine I was a Elizabeth Bennett in one of Jane Austen's novels. Even John got into character and quoted a few of his favorite lines. I am sure this will not be our first visit of the home, because excavations are open to anyone who wants to participate...something Mom and I would love to do.

Antiquing

History is so much better enjoyed when you can handle things of the past. I love a thrill of the treasure hunt when I go into antique stores. Everything has character and a story to go with it. The fun part is wondering who owned it and what was life like for them. I don't even have to buy anything to enjoy myself. Today I took my older two kids for a "mommy date" and I took them "treasure hunting." My eldest son, Chase, found an old trunk and was so excited to announce that he found the treasure. As they munched on apples from the local produce stand, they wandered with me through the maze of antiques asking me what certain items were. It was fun explaining the use of the items that grabbed their interest, such as vintage toy trucks and dolls or a glass pedestal ashtray. We did not come out with anything today, but a heart full of inspiration.