Ten PAX members ran to catch a 6am Skybus Plane from Port Columbus to Richmond, Virginia. A stay at the Linden Row Hotel and many exciting adventures awaited them.
An initial whirlwind day included the flight, Ashcroft House, and Brent and Becky’s Bulbs. Ashcroft House was moved piece by piece from England. Garden features included a knot, shade, and kitchen garden. A spectacular view was provided from the knoll in which the house was placed. A short driving trip was then made to Brent and Becky’s Bulbs where PAX was treated to the greatest of southern hospitality. Brent and Becky gave a wonderful tour of their operation and their home. PAX was also treated to a fantastic dinner and beverages at their home.
The duration of the trip was less exhausting but no less exciting. A visit to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden included an interview and picture which can be found Buckeye Blog on August 22. The highlights were grand in scale and included a sunken garden, conservatory, and expansive and exciting children’s garden. Maymont park was also toured and included a lovely Japanese and Italian garden.
A day trip was then made to Monticello- The Home of Thomas Jefferson. Guided tours were taken of the home and gardens. Monticello is known for the preservation of heirloom plant varieties. These were noted throughout the garden and the immense vegetable garden. Members of the family are buried on site include Thomas Jefferson. The group then tasted wines at the Thomas Jefferson Vineyard.
A celebratory dinner provided an extremely fulfilling Italian feast including appetizers, dinners, deserts, and wine. A very long night’s sleep followed. Everyone was given the opportunity to select a full day’s activity without the group. These activities included a trip to the beach, canal tour, shopping in Richmond, Frisbee golf and relaxation.
The yearly trip is one of the many perks of being a member of Pi Alpha Xi. The tireless work that members provide during the annual Poinsettia sale provides these trips at no cost to members. The 2008 trip will be to Niagara Falls and Toronto.
Written by Christine Dudgeon
