29,999

Cram packed like sardines in can, my dad, mom, grandma, me and all my stuff drove for 2 days and 23 hours across the eastern states and through the blue ridge mountains, to arrive in Richmond, VA just as my car mileage counter reached 29,999 miles. It was a long trip, including numb bottoms and legs, but non the less fun and filled with stories and laughter. We stayed one night in Nashville, TN and when we reached FancyGap, VA we followed the Blue Ridge Mountain parkway to see the mountains and take pictures, since it would be the last time to do so. The mountain view was gorgeous and had hue of blue (hence the name).

The first day in Richmond we all decided to not drive anywhere too far. So we slept in and then I took my family to Short Pump town center. My grandma was tickled at the sight of the train that carries the little kids around for a ride. She also enjoyed the outdoor aspect of the mall. We ate one of my favorite restaurants The Cheese Cake Factory and of course had a piece of cheese cake.

The next day we travelled to Charlottesville, VA to see Monticello, the house of Thomas and Martha Jefferson. We learned that Jefferson built his house by introducing many French styles like the alcove bed, which I really liked. Jefferson also had a vegetable garden with all types of veggies and fruits that the crew of Monticello continue to tend today. He also had an orchard and grew grapes. From those grapes he made wine. His servants also made beer. Apparently, Jefferson was against the idea of slaves, but only released five in his will. However, it was the times he grew up in and the society in which he lived in so it was hard free all them. We all saw Jefferson's grave. They told us that people are still buried at the Monticello burial site. Last year they buried five of Jefferson's descendants and this year they have buried one.

The last full day my family was here we enjoyed a time of shopping and touring the Richmond area, including going to Ten Thousand Villages and For The Love of Chocolate on Carry street. My grandma bought me a chocolate bar entitled: Emerengency Chocolate-For immediate relief of Chocolate cravings, love sickness, exam pressure, mild anxiety and extreme hunger. Directions for use: Tear open wrapper, break off desired dosage, and consume.

It will definitely be used as exams and ordination exams take place. Until then I'm saving it.

Well I'm now signing off to continue to get ready for the start of classes on Monday.

I leave you with over 30,000 miles of different life experiences.

Blessings~ Jen