As I mentioned, our next day trip was to Staunton VA. We did end up spending the night though… so Im not sure what to call it anymore.
More than a few things were closed on Mondays (bummer) but we found plenty to keep us busy! Our first stop was to the Chocolatier. Delicious. We came home with chocolate covered pretzels, and a sampling of truffles! We then headed into some of the many antique stores.
I wanted those marble lamps baaaaaaaad. After looking at the price tag, I said to Jared, “too bad this guy isnt stupid.” The owner definitely knew how much they were worth/wanted. 
Taking a rest in the cemetery.
He thinks Im pretty funny…
A lovely lunch from the Pampered Palate. Instead of a sandwiches menu, they have a baked potato menu. I had the Herb and Butter. 
In the afternoon we headed to the Frontier Culture Museum. My favorite parts were all the animals roaming around, and learning how linen is made. Starting with harvesting the flax, rotting it, scraping it to get the inner fibers, spinning it, weaving it and then finally bleaching it…it was all super interesting to me.
We left thinking how incredibly lucky and blessed we were that our ancestors did the work and committed to this new life the way they did. They created a whole new country from farmland and woods. Not saying they didnt make huge mistakes, but its amazing how far they came and how hard they worked to get an economy/life/trade/country going.
In the evening, we headed out to Buddy and Jill’s farm! They were so sweet and generous with us! We were able to ride along on the tractor to evening chores. I loved the cows and the chickens so much. Oh my goodness I could be a farm girl! My one goal was to convince a cow to let me touch it. Cows are notoriously shy and skittish so I knew I would have to be slow and patient. Finally one was so busy munching on grass that when it looked up and noticed me my hand was already petting the bridge of its nose. He/She let me for a second longer before moving on. I danced in the cow field…you all know how I like to dance.
Then I held a chicken.
It didnt want my kiss.
Thanks to Jill for these pictures!!
The chickens were so sweet and pretty. One caught a bug and took off while the others chased it. In a word: hilarious. Also, when we finished collecting eggs and were walking away, they chased after us. Again, hilarious.
Now onto the main show. We woke up the next morning and Jill started to make breakfast. Jared was looking out the window and casually said, “I think I see a cow.” Jill says, “Oh no, we never put the cows down here, that must be a horse.” What Jared should have said was: I see a stampede of cows heading down the hill towards the house. I looked out the window and said to Jill, “Nope, there is definitely a cow over there. It’s ear is tagged.” Jill looked out the window and by her expression and tone we knew this was really, really bad. As we were stepping outside, Buddy comes FLYING up the drive way (he had gone out to get milk for breakfast at another farm and had seen the cows running downhill). He jumped out of the car leaving it running, and starts closing up gates. Cows were everywhere. Next thing I know I am walking through fields, stepping in cow patties, and wrangling cows. Cow girl status. Favorite morning of my life. Two hours later the cows were back in the field they were supposed to be in. Oh gosh guys, it was so amazingly fun. Seriously, can I be a farmer?? I know its not everyone’s cup of tea but it sure is mine. Cows and chickens…sounds good to me.
After all the excitement, we were tired and hungry. Jill made us a delicious breakfast and we headed out. Buddy and Jill- THANK YOU. You are so lovely and sweet.
We drove home through the mountains and talked about our morning, reliving the hoopla. We stayed home the next day and then on Thursday, Staycation 2012 was over. Cant wait till next time! Hey, Buddy and Jill…can we come live stay with you??
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
i love this post SO. MUCH. i had the besssst mental pictures of you on the farm. i can totally see it. haha. you two have the best adventures! and yay for buddy & jill!
YES!! I love this!! And YES please come back and see us! Or… we can just call you next time the cows are out and you can high-tale it up here to help! We had a blast with you guys! Can’t wait to see you again! xo
I took my staycation a few weeks ago and ended up in Staunton – at the Frontier Culture Museum & loved it! I didn’t herd cows though so I kinda feel like my vacay wasn’t exciting enough
Did you get any Strites Donuts from the donut truck? If not it’s just another excuse to go back….
OH M G!!!! you are HILARIOUS!!! I was reading this to Margo and she says ” Did she get pictures?” lol, she was referring to the part about you chasing cows!! I love this stuff and YOU!