Nothing Like a "State-cation" to Remind You to Be Thankful

I find that at times, living in Ashburn feels like living in a bubble – I open my door to suburbia, where there are fairly large homes and green grass. I see Moms and Dads heading off to their jobs, families starting and ending their days. It's quite idyllic if you think about it. 

Now I realize we all have our share of problems – family, financial, health. You never really know what goes on behind closed doors, but overall, Ashburn is a pretty swell place to live. Which brings me to the real reason I am writing this--

We took the kids on a 3 day mini "state-cation" last week. Virginia is historical and many of us don't take advantage of all the history around us. So, we decided to take a road trip to see it first-hand. Growing up, roadtrips were a way of life and I want my kids to experience all of its joys: driving forever, bickering, singing, napping, car games – all of it. 

First stop, Monticello – home of our great 3rd president, Thomas Jefferson. Tickets purchased, family friendly tour scheduled, bus ride up the hill, grounds walked. Total time spent there: 2 hours. Cost (approx.): $60

Next up, Colonial Williamsburg. Room reserved at the Williamsburg Lodge, tickets purchased, re-enactments watched, musket and colonial fan souveniors bought, traditional colonial style dinner experienced. Cost (approx.): $300

Final day, we decided to head over to Busch Gardens. Roller coasters, swings, water rides, fun! Cost (approx.): $250

As we spent time at each of these attractions, there was one re-occurring theme. These places were empty – no tourists, no crowds. The restaurants were empty as well. I asked one of the owners of the many pancake houses there, what was going on. He said business has been terrible. People are out of work, have no money. 

Notice how just the entertainment part of our trip cost almost $600 and that didn't include meals and any other incidentals. That's a pretty hefty amount of cash for a 3 day roadtrip and honestly, it was more expensive than I had anticipated.  

Seeing the lack of tourists and crowds during our roadtrip really brought home to me how bad the economy is and its trickle down effect. The hotels, restaurants, gas stations... you name it, are all feeling it.

Which brings me to my point – As many of us sit on our porches in Ashburn, it's easy to lose sight of the reality of life for many people around us. Times are tough for many families across the country,  and we all need to be thankful for all we have. 

Visit my blog Live Fit and Sore! To find support and general information about fitness and nutrition and living a fit and healthy life. My hope is that you find the right information to inspire you while on your own fit and healthy journey.