Ron’s birthday falls during peak leaf season in Charlottesville, VA. Our drive here was beautiful. Thankfully we avoided the construction around Short Pump with a quick detour on Rte. 250. Joe and Leslie, unfortunately, did not, spending 40 minutes stuck in traffic.
Firewood was a priority in the chilly afternoon breeze. Thankfully, the camp host had a whole stack of pre-packaged logs; within minutes, we had a warming blaze glowing in the late afternoon light. Joe and Leslie arrived in time for a short outdoor happy hour before walking to Devil’s Backbone for dinner.
Buddy sites 13 & 14 at Devil’s Backbone Camp are perfect for couples enjoying a getaway. Approximately 25 minutes from I-64, the Appalachian Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop, highlighting the changing leaves. Along the drive, several breweries and wineries beg for exploration. Wild Wolf Brewery and Brewing Tree Beer Company sit close by; two Ron wants to visit.
Walk to the restaurant. 
Joe and the pups 
View from our firepit.
Stoney Creek Golf Course was Ron’s choice for his birthday. The course, located at the foot of the mountains, provides beautiful views at every turn. A windstorm during the night loosened leaves, the beginning of the trees undressing for the year. Ron shot a 94, me a 102, not bad for a tough course. Lately, my favorite quote I’ve seen floating around the internet is:
“The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go.” Anonymous
Afterward, we met Joe and Leslie for a beer at Brewing Tree Beer Company. Wild Wolf Brewery was Ron’s first choice, but a sign of the times, it was closed due to the labor shortage in our country. Lovely outdoor seating by the river made this a spot we will visit again. Unfortunately, the kitchen wasn’t open, but we enjoyed a “Cheese Box” full of yummy gourmet cheeses and crostini.
Leslie and I took the pups for a stroll while the boys napped after returning to the campground.
Joe smoked pork tenderloin for dinner. Pyromaniac that I am, the fire was my responsibility for the evening. Leslie, always in the kitchen, helped Joe prepare a delicious birthday dinner for Ron, topped off with a custom-made cake. Delectable doesn’t begin to describe the taste of the sugary concoction. All bellies full, as were our hearts, God giving us the gift of celebrating another birthday together.
Sunrise captured my attention with its array of colors over the mountains as I sat in the window seat working on the blog. Charlottesville reminds me of home in Pennsylvania. Rolling hills, beautiful hues painting the landscape, crisp air all bring peace to the soul. God’s handiwork is on display for all to see.
Ron was sleeping, pups cuddled by his side, while I enjoyed the dawning of a new day. Nothing is more inspiring than watching nature in all its glory. How one could doubt God’s existence, I don’t know. Grateful for the quiet moments that bring rest to the soul.
Enjoying a leisurely morning, Ron grilled leftover pork tenderloin and scrambled eggs for breakfast. Leslie and I took a long walk with the pups, visiting Blue Toad Cider next door and their cows. We saw three calves hanging out with the crowd.
Lunch at Wild Wolf Brewery made Ron’s birthday week complete. I started the fire at 9:30 a.m., we kept it going until the rain came around 8:30 p.m. Joe can’t stop working, but then neither can I, so I’m not one to talk.
The cornhole tournament was a round robin, with a three way tie for first. Cloudy skies highlighted the changing leaves. We felt like the transformation was happening right in front of our eyes.
Leslie and I are working together again. She’s helping me monitor comments on Honest Reflections, making sure I don’t miss any. Excited for the next chapter of our adventure.
One last walk around the campground appreciating the scenic view capped off a wonderful trip.
Rain arrived during the night, staying with us for the drive home. Heavy downpours made for a prayerful ride back to reality.