Our Day in Richmond

One of the aspects of homeschooling that I love the most is being able to take a day and head out on a road trip. We love living in Virginia because there are so many options for road trips. We live near the mountains, near D. C., not too far from the beach, close to five other states, and on and on go the possibilities. And in Virginia, alone, there are multiple cities and sites to explore. 

Last Friday the kids and I hit the road for a long-overdue excursion to Richmond. It was our first time to visit, but it will most certainly not be the last, as there is so much to see and experience. Just check out the Richmond Region promo video:  

I had done a little research and had a couple of places in mind, but the first stop we made was to the Bass Pro Shops. None of us had ever been to one, and I knew I would score some major Mom points with my guys. I had also noticed that there was a Richmond Visitor's Center in the store where we might find maps and brochures to possibly assist in our adventure.  

The second stop we made was to the Historic Polegreen Church. I had recently seen a photo of it online somewhere (I cannot recall where), and it piqued my curiosity. What a unique structure. What in the world was the history behind it? 

Polegreen Church is considered the birth place of religious freedom. Wow! I had never heard of it and wanted to learn about the people and reasons why it was so important. The history is fascinating and I have been thinking a great deal on the impact this one little church and its people had on the religious freedom we have known in America. I encourage you to research and read more about it if you, too, had never heard of it until now.

Moving on, it was after noon, so I pointed our Tahoe in the direction of downtown Richmond, and we made our way to Jefferson Avenue and Alamo BBQ. It had been a little difficult to come to a decision about where to eat, because Richmond has so many enticing choices. I knew that we wanted something local and unique, and when I came across Alamo BBQ, I knew it would be something the kids and I would enjoy. Being from Texas and also knowing how we like to barbecue our own brisket, we have pretty high standards. I forgot to take photos until two of the kids went back for a second order on Brisket Tacos and then remembered to snap the one below. These tacos were delicious! The Jalapeño Mac and Cheese was also a hit. Yum! It's probably good that we live too far away to make weekly trips to Alamo BBQ. 

After lunch, we headed to Agecroft Hall for their Homeschool Day. Agecroft Hall was the main reason we were in town, and it was another fascinating part of our day. This beautiful 15th century English Tudor home was originally located in Lancashire, England. It was purchased by successful Richmond businessman, T. C. Williams, Jr. in the mid-1920's, dismantled and brought to the United States. The house sits in a quiet neighbourhood overlooking the James River.

We had a wonderful docent and learned so much about British culture and the two specific families who had made Agecroft Hall their home. We weren't allowed to take photos inside the manor, but one of my favourite things to see and learn about were the lantern clocks. There is only one hand on the lantern clock because hours alone were marked in the 17th century. People were not as concerned with exact time as we are today. Something else to ponder.

After our tour of Agecroft, the kids really wanted to get a closer look at the James River. I ducked back inside to ask our docent if she had any suggestions for us, and she immediately suggested we head to Tredegar Iron Works. She said we could take a tour of the Iron Works (and the American Civil War Center, if interested), as well as access the river from there. It was a lovely day to walk along the river and canal and to cross over to Brown's Island.

"The Headman" statue on Brown's Island

The James River

We had a fabulous day, learned so much and look forward to going again. We have several places already on our must-do list for next time, including Maymont, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, and the Science Museum of Virginia.

Have you been to Richmond? What are your must-see places?

Blessings and love. xo

Taking Care of Me . . . Fighting Fit

Good morning! I shared over the weekend that I have a plan to take better care of myself in 2016 {and beyond}. One of the ways I am committed to a better me is to get back in to exercising on a regular basis. 

Today I am happy to share my new program and to offer you a chance to get in on it {- with a coupon code}! I started Fighting Fit this morning and am SO excited! Like I mentioned last week, I really haven't taken very good care of myself in the last couple of years. I used to get out to walk or take the kids hiking more often, but that has fallen by the wayside somewhere. So in taking care of myself this year, exercise has to be on the agenda. It felt SO good to get back to it this morning. 

Meet fellow Virginian, Seo Kelleher of Fighting Fit! Seo has a passion to see others empowered through fitness. She is the owner of CO2Fit and the creator of the Fighting Fit Workout Videos.

Check out a preview here . . . 


This is a workout just about anyone can do. Whether you are already working out or, like me, are starting fresh, these workouts are perfect. Seo has used her kickboxing skills to design these workouts, but if you've never done kickboxing before, no fear! You can do this. She explains each set clearly and of course with demonstration. This workout is for all shapes, sizes and skill levels. There are two other ladies in the videos with Seo. One demonstrates a slower pace and the other a quicker pace. It's easy to pick which one you most relate to and follow her. Or, you can switch it up and go back and forth. 

I started out at a slow pace this morning, and since I'm just getting back into it, will likely maintain that slower pace for this week. I'll evaluate how I'm feeling next Monday and hopefully can pick up the pace a little more. That's another beautiful thing about this program, there is freedom to slow down, increase speed or even just take a break and shake it off. My goal is to workout 4 or 5 mornings per week. I already feel better just knowing I have this fabulous resource and can get my body stronger and in better shape. My ultimate goal: to be as *badass* as Natasha Romanov! Ha!

These videos are in digital download form, so just download them on your laptop, and you're set. You can workout in the privacy of your bedroom, living room or office. There are three 15 minute workouts included. You can choose one or mix and match two or all three. 

Buy Fighting Fit today and get started! And a huge thanks to Seo for giving my readers 15% off with coupon code: SR15 !

Cheers to happy and healthier lives this year! 

Blessings and love. xo

Disclaimer: This post contains my referral links. Thank you!

Giveaway: 4 Tickets to Marvel Universe Live!

It's Giveaway Time!

Last week I mentioned that Marvel Universe Live! is coming to our area. I am excited to share that Feld Entertainment has offered a 4 ticket giveaway for one of my readers to see the show on Thursday, December 10th at 7:30 p.m. at Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore!

What a fun early Christmas gift for your little super heroes! 

**Please note the date, time and location of this show to make sure you are available before entering! No exchanges allowed. Open to residents of the USA, age 18 and older. Feld Entertainment is responsible for giveaway prize.


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Blessings and love. xo 

Disclaimer: I am a Feld Entertainment Ambassador. I was not compensated for this post. 

Marvel Universe Live!

Marvel Universe Live! Arrives in Baltimore Dec. 10 - 13 

Local premiere features your favorite Marvel characters at Royal Farms Arena

After much anticipation, Marvel Universe LIVE!, featuring the most Marvel characters ever assembled in one production, will be flying into Baltimore with performances at Royal Farms Arena starting December 10.

Marvel Universe LIVE! is an action-packed, live entertainment experience for the entire family. Children and adults alike will enjoy watching their favorite Marvel Super Heroes including Spider-Man, Iron Man, Hulk, Wolverine and many more during a comic extravaganza that brings both heroes and villains to life. Audiences will enjoy special effects, stunts and a never before seen story in this family-friendly, live action adventure. Join Marvel fans of all ages for this once-in-a-lifetime, monumental performance. The fate of the universe depends on it!

Marvel Universe LIVE! is the newest and largest show ever produced by Feld Entertainment. See Marvel Universe Live! December 10-13 at Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore.

Please note that this will be the only performances of Marvel Universe Live! in the D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia area.Tickets for Marvel Universe LIVE! start at $20 and are on sale now at www.marveluniverselive.com, Ticketmaster.com and at the Royal Farms Arena box office.

 BALTIMORE, MD

Royal Farms Arena | December 10-13

Show times:

·      Thursday, December 10 at 7:30 PM *opening night 50% off

·      Friday, December 11 at 7:30 PM

·      Saturday, December 12 at 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM

·      Sunday, December 13 at 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM

Ticket Information: All seats are reserved. Tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 800-745-3000, via www.ticketmaster.com, and at the Royal Farms Arena box offices.

All Ticket prices start at $20.00. Ticket pricing is subject to change based on market demand.

Stay current on the latest from Marvel Universe LIVE! through social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube .

About Feld Entertainment


Feld Entertainment is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that lift the human spirit and create indelible memories, with 30 million people in attendance at its shows each year. Feld Entertainment's productions have appeared in more than 70 countries on six continents and include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®, Monster Jam^®, Monster Energy Supercross, Nuclear Cowboyz^®, AMSOIL Arenacross, Marvel Universe LIVE!, Disney On Ice and Disney Live! More information about Feld Entertainment is available online at www.feldentertainment.com. More information on Marvel Universe LIVE!available at www.marveluniverselive.com.

About Marvel Entertainment, LLC


Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information, visit www.marvel.com.

Disclaimer: I am a Feld Enterainment Ambassador. I was not compensated for this post. 

Peter Pan in the Threesixty Theatre - We escaped to Neverland!

Photo credit: Threesixty Entertainment

Disclaimer: I was given tickets in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own. Photos are mine, unless otherwise noted.

My three girls and I went to see PETER PAN in the Threesixty Theatre Saturday afternoon and loved every minute of it. We didn't really know what to expect. A theatre, in a tent? A 360 degree theatre? And CGI (computer-generated imagery) mixed in? How were the flying sequences going to be accomplished? How could it all work together?

I showed the girls this video before we left for the show so they had some idea of where we were going.

The Threesixty Tent

Facts about the show:

The Washington Post declares, “PETER PAN flies high!” Featuring 22 actors, stunning puppets, epic music, dazzling flying sequences, and the world’s first 360 degree CGI (computer-generated imagery) theatre set, this unique production of PETER PAN is presented in the striking setting of the Threesixty Theatre at Tysons Corner Center (8200 Watson Street, McLean, VA). The show is performed in the round in a 1,500-seat theatre-tent. The entire interior is lit with more than 15,000 square feet of Hi Resolution video, so that both cast and audience are immersed in a virtual Neverland.

This remarkable and beautiful production premiered in London’s Kensington Gardens, the original home of Peter Pan. Seen by more than 750,000 theatregoers worldwide to date, Peter Pan - The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up was created by Scottish novelist and playwright J.M. Barrie. One night, Peter flies into the London nursery of the Darling children, Wendy, John and Michael, teaches them to fly and leads them to the magical Neverland, “second to the right and straight on till morning,” where they live with Tinker Bell, the Lost Boys and meet the notorious Captain Hook. The tale of PETER PAN has been adapted many times, including a Walt Disney animated film, a Broadway musical, and an Emmy Award-winning TV special. However, it was not until this production, presented by Threesixty entertainment, that PETER PAN was performed in London’s Kensington Gardens, where Barrie was first inspired to create the character and where the original statue of Peter Pan has stood since 1912.

Making its triumphant return to the United States, PETER PAN features all new direction by award-winning director Thom Southerland, with staging and choreography by Gypsy Snider, co-founder of the internationally acclaimed Les 7 Doigts de la Main. Set, costume, puppetry, and 3D projection design is by seven-time Olivier Award winner, William Dudley. Additional music is by Howard Herrick and Chieli Minucci. The remainder of the creative team includes Don Holder (lighting design), Guillaume Lord (additional scenic design), Manon Desmarais (additional costume design), Jonathan Lipman (additional costume design), Sue Buckmaster (puppetry direction), Paul Kieve (illusions), Scott Cady (music director), and Freedom Flying (flying consultant).

About PETER PAN in the Threesixty Theatre:

·      The world’s first fully 360-degree projected backdrop for live theatrical performance

·      The largest surround CGI (computer-generated imagery) venue in the world

·      12 projectors, delivering 360-degree projection

·      10 million pixels

·      15,000 square feet of CGI

·      400 square miles of virtual London were rendered

·      100 computers took four weeks to create the images (it would have taken 8 years for a single computer to render)

The final D.C. performances (at the time of this post) are as follows:

Tuesday, August 11 - 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 12 - 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, August 13 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, August 14 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 15 - 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 16 - 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday, August 19 - 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, August 20 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, August 21 - 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, August 22 - 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, August 23 - 1:30 p.m.

For more information about PETER PAN in the Threesixty Theatre, please visit peterpan360.com.

Tinkerbell was a favourite! (Photo credit: Threesixty Entertainment)

Our thoughts:

Let me tell you, it was brilliant! The theatre was unique and amazing. Our seats were about midway up, which was perfect for us. We could see everything from where we sat and didn't have to crane our necks to look up, like I imagine those on the front row or two must have had to do. The music was enchanting. The actors had a fantastic energy and kept up a quick pace. The CGI was phenomenal and wowed us all. We actually felt like we were flying during the in-air sequences! I also loved how there was audience participation in a couple of scenes, although, I won't spoil it for you by saying why or how we were able to participate. 

Warning for younger children:

I asked my girls, who are 8, 10 and 18, if they would've been scared during parts of the show had they seen it when they were younger. They all three said, yes, they would've been frightened. There was some shouting. Mr. Darling gets carried away and breaks Michael's kite. The pirates, of course, are a little creepy. The crocodile was ominous and loud. And there are two scenes that involve Captain Hook killing someone. I think most children 6 and up, especially those who are familiar with the story of Peter Pan, would be fine. Children who are especially sensitive should probably wait until they are a little older.

We highly recommend the show! 

My girls loved it and kept thanking me for bringing them and telling me how much fun it was. It was so enjoyable to look over and see their delighted expressions, that is, when I could pull my eyes away from the action long enough to watch them. I enjoyed it just as much as they did. 

If you stay after the show, you may get to meet two of the cast members. We met Wendy and one of the Lost Boys!

After leaving D. C., Peter Pan is heading on to the great state of Texas, so get ready Houston friends. Your shows start September 8. And Dallas, you'll be after Houston, with shows starting November 11. Put it on your calendar now! 

Blessings and love. xo

Our Weekend Recap

Hello! 

How was your weekend? Ours was H.O.T.! We have been enjoying the mid-80's for much of the summer, so having the temperature crank up to mid-90's plus humidity?! Yikes. I am so not a heat person. Why, you may ask? Well, because I am already hot all of the time anyway. With the heat index near or over 100, I really do feel like I may melt. I seriously thank God for our pool and that this house has AC on the second level! It's the little things. 

The kids were in the pool a good amount of time (the water therapy is so good for Ava's injured foot!). Friends and neighbours came over to play. Friday night, our neighbours invited us over to have drinks and appetizers. I made a Black Bean and Feta dip to take and share. The kids were amazed at how warm their pool is compared with ours. The temps were quite pleasant that evening, and we had so much fun laughing and visiting. It was the perfect way to end the week, as I shared on Instagram . . . 

That night, Bob and the boys started a new tradition they designated, "The Inaugural Royce & Sons All Night Brisket Smoke-Off'! It was a huge hit. Well, until the next afternoon when they all needed naps, but what a fun experience for the Royce men. I don't think it will always take place over night, but I do think the practice of smoking meat will be a more frequent occurrence around here.

Saturday was rainy and stormy in the morning, so I didn't walk down to our Farmers' Market as planned. I did take time that day to start planning our school year. Our summer has been a little odd this year, with taking care of Ava and getting her injury healed. It's hard to believe school will start in just over a month. So, I tried to start getting some things out of my brain and onto the paper. Have you started planning for school yet or doing your back to school shopping?!

I'll share a new idea I'm putting into play for this school year in the next week or so. And if you're new to homeschooling or just need a little encouragement, I highly recommend this post from Sarah at Amongst Lovely Things! 

I hope your weekend was great and not too hot! 

Blessings and love. xo

Art At The Mill 2015

It's time for Art At The Mill at the historic Burwell-Morgan Mill (c. 1782) in Millwood, Virginia! This is truly a Clarke County treasure and one of my favourite events to attend. Walking into the old mill is a stunning experience that elicits the senses. The still-working mill is a pleasure in and of itself, and then add in all the wonderful pieces of art, and it is a sight to behold. During the show, you can view more than 1,000 pieces of artwork created by over 300 artists from our surrounding area and more than a dozen other states. You may even get to chat with one or two of the artists, whom I have always found to be so personable and willing to answer any of my questions. One year my little girls even enjoyed a simple art lesson given by one of the local artists. It was a special touch added to an already enjoyable experience.

Art At The Mill is a lovely day excursion. Shop at the art show, browse through the gourmet food shop, The Locke Store, maybe even pick up a few things for a casual picnic on the beautiful grounds of the mill. The surrounding horse farms also make for a relaxing drive in the country. The Shenandoah River is close by, as well, and you can get a peek at the delightful and unique Virginia Bluebells along the river banks.

These photos are all from last year's Art At The Mill event. I cannot wait to get there this year to see what all the talented artists have been up to in the last twelve months! I hope to see you there.

Join the Clarke County Historical Association for the 2015 edition of Art At The Mill:

Art At The Mill will be open April 25th-May 10th, 2015 during the following hours:  

Monday-Thursday 10-5

Friday and Saturday 10-6

Sunday from 11-5

Adults $5

Seniors $3

Kids 12 and under are free

Blessings and love. xo

Disney On Ice Presents Frozen

(Photo credit: Feld Entertainment)

All three of my girls (ages 18, 9 and 8) and I attended the opening night of Disney On Ice presents Frozen last night at the Patriot Center! We had never been to a Disney On Ice production and weren't sure exactly what to expect, other than the obvious skating. Mickey Mouse and his best girl Minnie came out to host the show, along with several Disney princesses and their beaus. We were also treated to several other very familiar faces from Toy Story, Finding Nemo and The Lion King! And then came the main event.

We had hoped that the actors would be lip-syncing the songs and dialogue from the movie, and that's exactly what happened. We are HUGE fans of the movie, so we were happy to see that the production followed the movie, with only a few exceptions. The On Ice version is condensed a little, but overall, it was the same beautiful story of love winning in the end. And this story truly is magical on ice. 

The audience ooh-ed and ah-ed over the costumes, the skating (Kristoff had some especially impressive skills), the lights and special effects and sang along with the beloved songs. "In Summer", Olaf's song, is my personal favourite, but we also thoroughly enjoyed "Do You Want To Build A Snowman", "For The First Time In Forever" and, of course, "Let It Go". And it snowed in the Patriot Center! 

Here are some of our favourite scenes:

If my girls had been younger, there were two scenes that may have been a little frightening to them . . . the wolves and the snow monster. But because my girls are older, they thought these parts were pretty cool. The snow monster, especially, was quite impressive, growing larger and larger before our eyes!

The only negative aspect for us had nothing to do with the show itself. It was the traffic getting onto the George Mason University campus. What a nightmare! And although we left early to try to avoid the congestion, it wasn't early enough. We sat for so long on Braddock Road that we finally took a left at the light on Ox Road and then a right on Mason Pond. Thank goodness we did. We were literally running from the parking lot into the arena, but we were in our seats just before the show started. My oldest daughter noticed people still coming in at 7:40 p.m. Such a shame for them to have missed almost the entire first half. So for anyone going to the Patriot Center, arrive early!!! There are plenty of food vendors and trinkets to look at or purchase while you wait for the show to begin.

I asked my girls to share their favourite part of the night:
18 year old - "My favourite parts were the special effects, like when Anna was frozen and when Olaf had his own personal flurry. I also loved Elsa and Anna's last dance."
9 year old - "I cannot choose just one thing. I liked every little bit of it! I especially liked the snow monster."
8 year old - "I liked Olaf, and I liked Elsa's and Anna's last dance!"

Disney On Ice presents Frozen will be at the Patriot Center through Monday, October 27. More shows have been added, due to high demand! Then the show moves on to the Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore.  

For showtimes or to buy your tickets, go to Disney On Ice. 

Disclaimer: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion on this website, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-show events.  Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.

Disney On Ice presents FROZEN - Ticket Giveaway

Local friends, I have some exciting news to share with you today! Did you see my post announcing the upcoming Disney On Ice presents FROZEN shows coming to DC and Baltimore? If not, go HERE for all the details. 

And now on to my fun announcement! 

I have four tickets to giveaway, compliments of Feld Entertainment.

Photo credit: Feld Entertainment

If you would like an opportunity to win four tickets to experience a real-live version of Arendelle and the Disney On Ice presents Frozen show on Friday, October 24th at 3:30p.m. at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia, just follow these instructions. 

1. Leave a comment telling me your favourite Frozen character or song.

2. Be sure to leave your email address, so that I have a way to contact you if you are the winner.

This giveaway will end October 7, 2014 at 11:59p.m. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Only open to those in my local area who will be available to attend the specific show mentioned above. Giveaway tickets provided by Feld Entertainment.

This giveaway is now closed!

And the winner, chosen by random.org, is #10: 

******Tonya D******

Congratulations, Tonya. Check your email in just a few minutes. And thank you to everyone who entered! The tickets for Disney On Ice presents Frozen are going fast, but good news, I just checked and tickets are still available. Go to ticketmaster.com to buy your tickets today!

Blessings and love. xo

Disney On Ice presents FROZEN!

Enter a fantastical winter wonderland beyond all imagination at Disney On Ice presents Frozen! The heartwarming, Academy Award-winning tale you love is now LIVE and skating into your town. You’ll be magically whisked away into the wintry world of Arendelle, where you will be dazzled by amazing special effects and astonishing skating. Sing and dance along to your favorite songs, including “Do You Want to Build a Snowman” and “Let It Go.” Join royal sisters Elsa and Anna, the hilarious snowman Olaf, huntsman Kristoff, his loyal reindeer Sven and the mystical trolls as they journey to discover that true love is ultimately the most magical power of all!

Produced by Feld Entertainment, Disney On Ice presents Frozen! will also feature guest appearances by the beloved Disney Princesses as well as characters from The Lion King, Toy Story and Finding Nemo. Disney On Ice presents Frozen! will be at the Patriot Center from October 22-27.

PATRIOT CENTER

Wednesday, October 22 – Monday, October 27, 2014

Show Times:

·      Wednesday. October 22 | 7:00 p.m.

·      Thursday. October 23 | 7:00 p.m.

·      Friday. October 24 | 10:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.

·      Saturday. October 25 | 10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

·      Sunday. October 26 | 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m.; 6:30 p.m.

·      Monday. October 27 | 7:00 p.m.

Patriot Center Weekday Ticket Prices: $20, $35, $55 VIP, $85 Front Row

Patriot Center Weekend Ticket Prices: $25, $40, $70 VIP, $85 Front Row

Venue/Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets via charge, by phone at 800-745 -3000; via www.ticketmaster.com; and at the Patriot Center box office.

The show will also be at the Baltimore Arena from October 20-November 2.

To discover more about Disney On Ice, go to www.disneyonice.com, or visit them on Facebook and YouTube.

You can download the Frozen Free Fall game on iTunes.

Disclaimer: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine.