Currently, I am on a five trip of the Eastern U.S. The first couple days were great in Pennsylvania (especially since Emilie stopped by). I'll have more stories on that later, but right now I want to discuss Virginia. I had never been to Virginia until this trip and I instantly fell in love. So far I have just been in the northeast portion of the state, at the bottom of the Appalachian mountains. It is so green here, an abundance of grass and lots of trees for shade too!
This area of Virginia (Upperville is the particular town) is also know for its great Angus breeders and supreme horse bloodlines. Gordon Keys and his son Chandler (the current head lobbyist for JBS - another interesting story) told me that this is also the biggest area in the nation for steeplechase and fox hunting. As we toured through Gordon's fields you could see where parts of a fence were replaced with a log or special gate to be used in a race.
Another unique aspect of this area is you can be in Washington in 40 minutes. You would never know though by the peacefulness of the country side. I think this gives farmers a great chance to interact with consumers. Many farmers sells produce and beef right off the farm, as there is a huge demand for farm-raised, natural and organic food in this area. Also, Virginia has worked really hard to place farms in protective easements, and keep the land from turning into housing development on top of housing development. There is a lot of history in this area and the people want to preserve it. Gordon's house and barn were both built in the early 1800s.
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ReplyDeleteHope your new place includes a guest house for me when I visit. What beautiful country.
Gorgeous pictures!! The house reminds me of the one from the movie "Marley & Me" - so cool. I love the picture with your arrows of your dream land. OH and I didn't see any mention of having a visit with a particular fellow in the East - mmm...I trust you're going to surprise me with those details soon ;) Thanks for sharing your experience.
ReplyDeleteI am currently sitting in a hotel room Washington, D.C. and I was able to see some of the area you're discussing today from the airport. It's gorgeous from the air, I can't imagine how breathtaking it'd be on the ground! I think you'd look good in Virginia country... :)
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