70+ and doin' stuff

Let's visit Theodore Roosevelt Island, the 1790's home of George Mason's son John, later a civil war encampment site. It is now a memorial to President Theodore Roosevelt, who, among other things, established the first United States National Parks.

We will walk the short (about a mile) trails and boardwalks and traverse deciduous forests of various kinds, including uplands, riparian shores, and swamps. All on 88 acres, with great views. Maybe we will see and hear a few of the 200 plus species of birds that visit the island each year.

BRING A SANDWICH or some fried chicken or a salad and a drink. We'll have a picnic on the trail. No blankets or chairs needed. Restrooms available.

Those inclined, can dip your toes in the Potomac River from one of the island's small beaches. Towels recommended.

Directions: https://www.nps.gov/this/planyourvisit/directions.htm

Pin indicates entrance to the parking lot. Meet at foot bridge to the island at the South end of the parking lot.

Let's first tour the fabulous gardens with an extension Master Gardener docent. You will learn wonderful ideas regarding your fall home landscape. Then, we'll walk over to the 18th-century manor home for a delightful afternoon tea (tea sandwiches, scones & pastries). $42

Call to see if there are spots left from 12:30-4:00 p.m. (M-Sat.) & ASK for Ms. Karen or one of her fellow volunteers. **The # is 703-941-7987 (reservation under Ana Shannon). ***If there aren't any more openings, please go on a waitlist.

PLEASE LET ME KNOW THAT YOU PAID BY MAKING A COMMENT BELOW.

Cancellation Policy: Full refund 2 wks. before event. Thereafter, a $15 cancellation fee.

What's all the fuss about?

Lets go back 50 years and check out the signature dishes at Cracker Barrel in Dumfries, VA, just a half hour from the Beltway

Chicken n' Dumplins, Hashbrown Casserole, Buttermilk Biscuits and Corn Muffins and other fattening food.

No 'educational' event this time, just food and ambiance.

We'll meet at 17115 Dumfries Rd, Dumfries, VA 22025 for lunch, laughs and conversation. Maybe a couple of laps around the parking lot, afterwards.

Lets discover the Alexandria African American Heritage Park and learn about African-American contributions to the City of Alexandria.

This park includes wetlands off Four Mile Run and burial grounds dating almost 150 years ago. The wetlands are home to water fowl, turtles, beavers and crayfish in their natural habitat. Unique statuary mark the park and honor residents of the African American community in the City.

Lunch and time to chat at Pasara Thai at 2051 Jamieson Avenue.

There is substantial infrastructure construction on the area, which limits street parking and access to all parts of the park. However, we will still be able to view the art in the park and the memorial structures.

Garage parking is available to accommodate us during our visit to the park and lunch after. Here are some addresses: 551 John Carlyle St., Alexandria 22314; 1925 Ballenger Ave., Alexandria 22314; 333 John Carlyle St and 1900 Duke Street, Alexandria 22314.

Lets meet at the metal "trees" at 11:30 am.