Hot tips for the Homestead

The Homestead 1766, in the Allegheny Mountains of Hot Springs, Va. is a perfect place for a couple or family hiatus. Our company sent us on a three hour journey from Northern Va. to this palace in the middle of nowhere.

After miles of climbing twisted roads, a final bend introduced us to a surprising vision.  Our immediate reaction: The Shining meets Dirty Dancing.

The Homestead, a National Historic Landmark, was built in 1766 to lure folks to the resort to "take in the waters".  Fittingly located in Bath County, hot springs bubbling from 5 miles down under, pop up all around the property.  Back in the day, for better health, people soaked in the mineral water and drank it too.

Today the springs are strictly for soaking -- not drinking.  Take a a nice, relaxing float in an authentic bath house that Thomas Jefferson frequently visited.

The Homestead is a must-see experience.  The business appears to be booming with construction of an expanded pool area to include a spring-fed lazy river.

Here are some hot tips for this Hot Springs get-away.

- Take your confirmation and itinerary. They are usually booked and they almost turned us away because they couldn't find us in their system.

- Book a room in the tower for breath taking views of the mountains and valleys.

- Eat at the resort. The food and atmosphere are spectacular. If you venture outside the compound, the local Sam Snead's Tavern is a spot that you can reach using a cut-through next to the inside pool.

- Participate in the many, many activities. Croquet, golf, volleyball, horseback riding, shooting, swimming, skiing, and hiking are just a few things to do on the grounds. The North Trail near the volleyball net in the front lawn is the most scenic route to hike. 

Take the 5 mile shuttle ride to the Jefferson Pools.  Locals will tell you the pools will help your aches and pains.  The 98 degree mineral water soak made my skin feel like silk.

- Take a few hours to roam the halls and rooms of this massive, historical site that has had numerous visits from past U. S. Presidents.

My spouse and I took notice of the top-notch wedding facilities on the great lawn with a mountain view. We may need The Homestead someday. We have six daughters and that could mean a few weddings to plan.

The photos below will explain why so many people visit The Homestead for a retreat or big event:

The inviting front porch



                         
Checkers and chess in the garden room

Steps and bannisters

The cozy sunroom

Flowers and sunlight everywhere

Towering stairs

Narrow, hidden sitting room

Check-in at the bath house costs $17 per person (towel provided)

One for the ladies and one for the men with clothing optional after 1:00 PM

Grounds are impeccable; the structures are "authentic"

The top of the interior of the bath house is open to the sky

The rules of the bath house: Whisper, no swimming, and relax

Wedding plan

The historic Homestead in night-time splendor



Tips for Successful Senior Photos

The baby -- the 7th child -- had her senior photos taken today at her high school with Victor O'Neill Studios, Falls Church, VA.  It was a success.  Here are some tips from a mom that has been to many, many of these shoots.

1.  Go with your senior.  They may tell you to stay home, however, they may need you for hair patrol or costume malfunctions.   




2.  Speaking of costumes:  Most photo sessions allow several different outfits:  Dressy, casual, and
a uniform from an activity or sport.  Wear solid colors that are complimentary.  Simple jewelry is recommended.  Pearls for the girls during the formal sitting.




3.  Props.  Bring as many as you can carry.  In the past, I have seen footballs, easels, violins, and a bearded dragon (my middle child).  One young lady wore her boxing uniform with hot pink boxing gloves.  Cool!




3.  Bring a bag with hair products, brushes, make-up and snacks.  This is the senior photo that will be in their yearbook.  Talk about pressure for a teen!

4.  Be prepared to wait.  Long lines with prissy girls are inevitable.  Think of the day as a parent-bonding time.  The memories will last a lifetime.                                                                           

5.  Most photographers are excellent.  However,  as a parent, try to push your way to the camera area.  Your trained eye will spot a wondering hair or stray bra strap.   

                                         

                                           

5.  After the sessions end, ask a staff member if the proofs are available to take home.                          

You and your senior will enjoy the results of your day spent together.  Most photography studios allow you to buy a package and choose the official yearbook picture online. 

If you don't pick the yearbook picture, the studio picks it for you.                                                                                                                                                                           

It is the beginning of the end of their high school era. The cap and gown pose causes many parents to weep.

Brookgreen Gardens: A walk to remember

The hot and humid -- 100 degree plus -- summer days vacationing with family in South Carolina can be brutal at the ocean.  Escaping to a shaded wonderland called Brookgreen Gardens is a pleasant change from the sand and saltwater. 

The attraction offers something for everyone from majestic live oak trees, impressive sculptures and fountains, pontoon boat rides, rainbows of native flowers, butterfly gardens, and even a small zoo..

This hidden treasure is located south of Myrtle Beach on Route 17.  Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, whose family fortunes were in shipbuilding, founded this retreat from the beach in 1931.

Their Atlantic coast residence, Atalaya Castle, located in nearby Huntington State Park, is an unusual work of Moorish-style architecture that is worth a visit.  The Huntington's interests included the arts and nature. Brookgreen Gardens is a tribute to their philanthropy.