UVA State Arboretum of Virginia

Trying to find some options for “day trips” that are within an hour or two from where we live I compiled a list of potential places. Last week we went to Stratford Hall. That took us to the northern neck of Virginia. This week we thought a trip to the State Arboretum of Virginia in Brandy might be nice. Getting there on the I-66 construction zone was certainly not relaxing. But once we got off the highway the side streets were quite enjoyable. There are probably better times of the year to visit since it was blistering hot! I tried to use the self guided tour but their internet wasn’t working. So we stumbled around the area hoping to see interesting trees, plants and flowers. It is also called the Blandy Experimental Farm managed by the University of Virginia. We walked amongst the conifers and then took the native plant trail and checked out the observation deck. Then we drove the car around the site and passed through the Cedars of Lebanon. Apparently there are a lot of year round programs and activities. This was just another way for us to feel like we were on vacation since we haven’t taken one for over two years. We always bring two oranges, crackers and water in a cooler for a snack to have on the way home. We took the back roads to avoid the construction zone but ended up on the toll road - something I prefer to avoid. Getting in and out of town is always a driving nightmare. Maybe we will do these trips every other week? We are always so happy to get back home. In the end it’s all about the company rather than the journey or the destination. 

US National Arboretum Azaleas and Gardens

Last week we took a ride to the US National Arboretum. We have been there many times before in all seasons - before we moved to, while we lived on Capitol Hill - and now after we moved to northern Virginia. There has been some renovation going on and the koi are supposed to return this year. We usually like driving through the grounds to observe all the different venues. This time we were limited by pandemic restrictions, but also because it was a bit cooler than we expected. After parking by the Capitol columns, we walked over to the azalea gardens. They were just beginning to show their stuff. I really like the less than sizable crowds. I never cared for the mobs that descended on DC especially at cherry blossom time, but then all summer long. My husband on the other hand, loves crowds. So we walked through the gardens for a change of scenery. It would have been nice to meander about the entire area, but we will save it for next time. 

Arboretum Azaleas - and a Bald Eagle's Nest

We usually walk in any direction somewhere in the neighborhood every day. I noticed that many of the azaleas are blooming and immediately thought of the national arboretum. So we asked our friend to join us and we drove over to the gardens. We haven't been there for quite some time. There is a lot of renovation going on, there are bald eagle nesting spots that have blocked off many of the roads, and the azaleas are starting to bloom - but are not quite there yet. In spite of all that, it was a beautiful day to wander around through the woods and the grassland. We briefly chatted with the eagle nest keeper, who said we just missed a feeding time. What a job that must be keeping people away from the birds and arresting anyone attempting to do so! There was a lot of up and down walking, unlike the typically straight sidewalks of the city. It was also the first time we at the park during the week, earlier in the day, and no crowds. I didn't mind that at all - but my husband much prefers the noise and people crowds we usually face. Soon the place will be filled with both people and azaleas in full bloom. I think I like it better this way.