Virginia's Eastern Box Turtle

Under the category of "Can't Get No Respect," the Eastern box turtle has struck out again. The Virginia House of Delegates recently defeated a bill that would designate the ubiquitous box turtle Virginia's official reptile.

From the Associated Press: “Delegate Frank Hargrove of Hanover asked why Virginia would make an official emblem of an animal that retreats into its shell when frightened and dies by the thousands crawling across roads.”

Poor turtles. They get no respect! Our hikes in Virginia and Maryland for our next book, “Day Hikes Near DC,” have led to a number of encounters with this pretty painted turtle. Here’s a photo of the last time we met, this one on the Seneca River Greenway Trail in Montgomery County, Maryland.

If you want to read the full legislative bill, and reacquaint yourself with other "Official Virginia" designations such as the Bat, Boat, Beverage, Fleet, Flower and Folk Dance, click here.

Spring! Where are you?

Well, we did have a spring story on a wild edibles walk all set to go, then Virginia got hit with a snow storm, so it didn't seem quite appropriate! (we'll send it next week, when it's supposed to get up towards 70).

Meantime, read about Williamsburg's Great Wolf Lodge indoor waterpark, where it's always a tropical 84 degrees.

Presidential Paddle on the Potomac

Today is George's birthday! Celebrate by visiting his home at Mount Vernon, where the new 'George Washington and His Generals' exhibit just opened, or go paddling on his famous river, the Potomac.

Virginia oysters and muskrat

This weekend we partook of a true Virginia delicacy: oysters on the half shell. We like them raw with cocktail sauce. House of Deals is our unique hardware store in Onancock, where Miss Rosalie has them 50 for $13. They're from the 'seaside,' rather than the Chesapeake Bay, which means they're nice and salty.

I'm not as big a fan, but the muskrat is also in (2 for $7). Have you ever seen a place where you can get wallpaper, nails and fresh local eggs? House of Deals has it all!

Read more about our unique waterfront town, and if you think we're worthy, vote for us at Budget Travel Magazine's coolest small town contest.