Monticello Trip

Finals concluded with a bang. Five exams over the course of two weeks was rough, but manageable (usually 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. in the library, save when I was writing an exam.) But, done, and now painstakingly waiting for grades to come in. That evening we went with a13 other friends, all classmates, to a nice dinner at Main Street Bistro in Lima – easily one of the nicest restaurants in the Lima / Findlay area, and short of driving to Columbus, one of the few places for linen tablecloths in the area, and a decent wine list. It was a nice time to celebrate the end of our first year, and for Janet and I to celebrate being able to see each other for a while.

Tuesday we left with our friend Austin, who graduated with his L.L.M. in Democratic Governance and Rule of Law from ONU. Austin and I are both great fans of Thomas Jefferson, and as a graduation gift, Janet and I took Austin on a trip to Monticello. We ended up staying in my apartment in Huntington WV, and drove on Wednesday to Charlottesville, VA. We toured the grounds, had a formal tour in the afternoon, and a more private “signature tour” at 6:30 in the evening, giving us much time in the house for discussion, questions, and allowing us more access, notably seeing the third floor and the “dome room”. We all had a great time, and recommend a visit to the estate. The gardens, the home, and the nuances therein are truly amazing.