Book Review: Homer’s Odyssey: A Fearless Feline Tale, or How I Learned About Love and Life with a Blind Wonder Cat by Gwen Cooper
(Four Stars)
“When I decided to bring this eyeless kitten home with me, I made my first truly adult decision about a relationship. And, without realizing it, I established the standard by which I would judge all my relationships in the years to come.”
Excellent. A compelling story well told. Her emotion and attachment draw Continue reading
Trip Report: Patrick Henry’s home Scotchtown
Four Stars
In the middle of rural Hanover County, Virginia, Scotchtown plantation was the home of American patriot and orator Patrick Henry during the years he fanned the flames of independence and human rights. Started after 1717, the huge (for its day), single-story frame structure reached its current size in ~1760. Henry bought it in 1771 for £600.
He lived there when he gave his “Give Me Liberty of Give Me Death” speech in Richmond, served on the Continental Congress, championed independence and human rights, and was selected the first elected governor of Virginia. Whereupon he sold it for £5000. (Whatever the exchange rate, quite a profit.)
The house is in excellent condition, furnished with some original Henry and other eighteenth century furnishings. Museum and gift shop on site. Reasonable admission fee.
Self-guided tour of grounds via smart phone recordings.
To see it “come to life,” visit October 1 and 2, 2016 when 200 re-enactors will descend on the property.
(Little signage directs you to the plantation, but don’t let that deter you from visiting.)
As a Matter of Fancy 