Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

For a different beach experience, you might want to check out Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, situated about 15 miles south of Virginia Beach. This 9,250 acre wonderland includes miles of unspoiled beaches, sand dunes in their nature state, and boardwalks and trails through woodlands, fields and marshes -- all habitat for a variety of wildlife. 

The "rivah"

It's that time of year again! When working folks head to the "rivah" on weekends. Pictured here is the Rappahannock River from the Lancaster side, across the river from Urbanna.

Boat landings on the James

One of my favorite activities is taking my dog to the river. The Richmond area has a number of good access points on the James. Pictured here is Watkins Landing in Powhatan County, now easily accessed via the 288 bridge.

Springtime in my back yard

Yes! My backyard dogwoods and azaleas are in bloom!! Still too early to put the geraniums back outside -- they have wintered indoors.

Cocker Spaniels are the best!

Watching the Westminister Dog Show - here's my beloved! Anne with Hayley.

Scanning project to preserve old photographs

I've started a project scanning old photographs and am having fun posting them to a Facebook group with old friends from my hometown of Orange, Virginia. My mother Doris Farrell Green was a photographer. I am pictured here at right with Jeanette Sale holding an American flag during a Girl Scout color guard ceremony at the Orange County Courthouse in October 1965 when I was in 7th grade.

2012 Free Virginia Travel Guide

A family enjoys an overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Virginia Tourism Office is offering a free and updated travel guide for 2012 with new destinations, family favorites, and attractions “that put love at the heart of every Virginia vacation”.

New features this year include vacation ideas for all four seasons, a special section on small towns, scenic drives and a listing of the newest attractions to open in Virginia. 

The guide is full of trip inspirations and travel resources. Visitors can request a free copy of the 2012 Virginia Travel Guide in print or electronic form by going to www.Virginia.org or calling 1-800-VISITVA.