This past weekend was pretty emotional as we dropped off our first child Kenan to college at University of Virginia in Charlottesville.
It was even more emotional to leave him in a new environment given the recent events of the prior week but the faculty and staff reassured many unsettled parents that safety was their number one priority. Luckily, UVA has strong training systems in place to teach new students how to make wise decisions for their own safety as well as for their friends.
What I love most about UVA is the sense of an inclusive and welcoming community and making every student feel part of a bigger family. I love that the faculty is committed to foster dialogue with honesty, civility and mutual respect which are values our son will need for the rest of his life.
We visited the beautifully renovated Rotunda designed by Thomas Jefferson who was heavily influenced by French Neo-classical buildings when he served as Ambassador to France. Kenan has the privilege to attend the Hidden Histories of UVA class in the Rotunda, which is obviously the perfect setting!
The best part about the location of University of Virginia is the proximity to the city of Charlottesville which is such a charming and quaint town with great restaurants, boutiques and vineyards!
We didn’t hit the vineyards this time around but we discovered MarieBette, a French bakery with excellent croissants, pastries and coffee! Trust me, I could have eaten all of it! Comfort food can definitely play tricks on your body but in times like this, it just feels so good!
There are very good dining options too in Charlottesville. On the first night, we dined at Travinia, a modern Italian restaurant at the Shops at Stonefield and had a fabulous southern Italian meal.
On the second night, we ate at Brasserie Saison, a French bistro downtown Charlottesville and strolled down Main Street afterwards which reminds me so much of a European street with its outdoor restaurant terraces, boutiques, live musicians and local artists performing meme.
For both evenings, I went for a casual chic look by simply dressing up my favorite pair of denim. You know, you have to be chic in all life situations!
I’m so proud to be a UVA Mom that I sported my new Cavaliers cap all over campus. Some guy even thought I was a student and asked which school I was attending! Isn’t that the best compliment a college Mom could ask for?
I pray that all UVA students will be able to enjoy their education in a safe and peaceful environment.
Hope you enjoyed this post. Would love to hear your comments or recommendations about Charlottesville.
As always, thanks for reading!
A bientôt ♥
Linking-Up:
Monday: Glass of Glam – Style Nudge – Not Dead Yet Style– More Pieces of Me – Lauren M – Pink Sole – Sincerely Jenna Marie
Tuesday: Elegantly Dressed and Stylish
Wednesday: Pumps and Push Ups
Thursday: High Latitude Style; Elegance and Mommy Hood; Douse in Pink; A Labor of Life; Katherine’s Corner
Friday: Jeans a Teacup – Northwest Mountain Living & Style – Fashion Should Be Fun – A Pocketful of Polka Dots – Rachel the Hat – Closet by Christie– Lizzie in Lace – Style Elixir– Claire Justine
I simply love the UVA campus. I’m from Virginia and have been several times to Charlottesville, always loving the architecture and small town American feel to it. I am deeply saddened by the recent events there, but I’m glad you felt safe and are excited for your child to start their college experience. Have a great weekend!
-Kristin
countdowntofridayblog.com
Thanks so much for stopping by Kristin! I love the UVA architecture too and all the history surrounding campus! Charlottesville is truly a special place and we pray that peace will prevail!
Thanks for joining the Top of the World Style linkup party with your great look. Nice photos!
What a fabulous location! You must be so proud 🙂
Thanks so much for linking up with the Fabulous Friday link-up this week 🙂
Suzy Turner at Yogadocious
(this week’s co-host)