Family Bike Trip

Before our son leaves this Sunday - for his second year of college - we had to squeeze in a quick family trip. A day to be together and enjoy one another's company. So, we loaded up the bikes and headed north.


First a quick stop for lunch on the campus of William and Mary. Students haven't arrived yet, so the campus was relatively quiet without the hustle and bustle of student activity. But this weekend will be a different story!


My husband and daughter on Crim Dell Bridge ~ where many William and Mary Students - including my sister-in-law, get engaged.


Algae encrusted turtles ~ swimming under the bridge ~ and enjoying the quiet and sunshine.

Next stop - The University of Richmond:

For a quick bike tour of the campus. Students were busy moving in ~ saying tearful goodbyes ~ and getting to know one another. A beautiful campus - and on move-in day ~ very busy.

Then onto Monument Avenue for a bike tour past lovely historic homes and gardens ~


past the very busy - first day of school ~ V.C.U. campus

across the Bells Island Bridge


and down to the rocks on the James River


to enjoy the view ~


watch the kayakers paddling down the river ~


climb down the rocky hill to ~


dip our toes in the warm river water.

Then ~ after a quick superman change into nice clothes -
dinner at the Mezzanie 3433 Restaurant in Carytown. (Style Weekly's Restaurant of the Year - 2009) For an unbelievable dinner of organic, locally grown, free-range, and silver tip deliciousness. Seriously, if you live or are ever in the Richmond area - this chalkboard menu restaurant is a true find!


Packing up the bikes at the end of a lovely day
spent with my husband and children ~
as we each mentally prepare ourselves for the beginning of another school year.