May 13, 2003
There is not much to say about the bike today, since it is still resting nicely in the back of the SUV. We will have to reassemble the trailer in the morning because we will need room for three people on the trip to Dewey Beach, Delaware for the beginning of our trip west.
We are both doing better now that we are recovering from the jet lag, and are getting better sleep. A good rest tonight should put us where we need to be to begin the journey. If we had it to do over, we would have scheduled a rest day upon arrival to completely recover from the trip before starting any sightseeing.
Today will be memorable for both of us. We went out to Monticello to see where Jefferson lived, and where the concept and plans for the Louis and Clark expedition were born. I think we both felt that we received our spiritual "marching orders". Seeing some the artifacts from the Expedition, visiting the rooms where Jefferson and Louis talked about that adventure and just feeling what took place there made both of us sense that our journey has a new purpose. Certainly the context is different, but the fact that we are setting out unsupported for a 5000 mile trip exposes us to many of the same emotions felt by Meriwether Louis 200 years ago. It was awe-inspiring.
The home and grounds of the third president of the United States are a work of love and art. Jefferson worked on his dream home for 40 years, and incorporated many leading-edge ideas into its layout and construction. All of his needs and those of his family and slaves were very well taken care of via his designs and forethought. The man was incredible.
On the way back to the car, we visited the site of his grave. His tombstone pretty much says it all, "Co-author of the Declaration of Independence, Author of the State of Virginia Freedom of Religion Act and Father of the University of Virginia." Of course, he will be most remembered for his purchase of the Louisiana Territory, and his opening of the West by conceiving, supporting and leading the funding of the greatest historical expedition ever funded by the Congress of the United States - The Corp of Discovery. The Louis and Clark Expedition may be his greatest legacy. And, the $2,500 price tag might make it the best deal in the history of beauacracy.
Our sightseeing day ended with a short visit to the University of Virginia. Jefferson founded the school, and designed and built its original buildings. It is a very beautiful place, and is certainly consistent with his goals of designing buildings of lasting beauty and appearance.
Ron
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