Mount Vernon

 

This year we were members at Mount Vernon. It's been interesting to watch George Washington's estate change in each season. We've certainly gotten our money's worth in visits.

 At Christmas, they bring a camel to the grounds, just as Washington did during the holidays. I think it was pretty gross that Jesse let it lick him.

 I enjoyed walking arm-in-arm with my Daddy. Maddie did a great job keeping up.

 During the Christmas season, the third floor of the mansion is opened. It was interesting to hear that after Washington died, Martha moved her room to the third floor, never again sleeping in the master bedroom.

Jesse was kind enough to take Savannah home for her nap so that the four of us were able to stay a bit longer. We had peanut and chestnut soup. Here's the recipe if you're interested in making it yourself:

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup margarine
• 1 ½ tbsp flour
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1 quart water
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter
• ½ cup unsalted peanuts chopped
• ½ cup water chestnuts, chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.

Melt margarine in a large saucepan. Stir in flour to make a roux. Cook on medium heat, stirring frequently until the roux is light tan in color. Once the roux is ready, add chicken broth and water and bring to a boil. Add peanut butter and Worcestershire sauce and stir. Hold on stove at a low heat until ready to serve. The longer it heats, the thicker it gets. Garnish with chopped peanuts and water chestnuts.

I just had to include this...when we got home, Maddie read The Great Elephant to her animals.