This year, for the first time, my husband, my parents, and I took a Christmas vacation. Usually, if we do travel, it’s to Chattanooga, Tn, to see my family. Or, they come to Nashville to see us. Mom and I made plans to do something unique this year.

Christmas Eve was spent with our high school and older children. A time full of warmth, laughter, and the familiar joy of being together.

The next morning, our kiddos went to their other planned activities. We packed up and headed to Virginia for a whirlwind tour that blended holiday magic with American history.

Our first stop was Williamsburg, where we spent a few days in the charm of a Historic Christmas.

Later, we wandered through Busch Gardens, enjoying the Christmas lights and festive performances.

From there, we made our way to Virginia Beach. We took the scenic route with a few stops and a ferry ride from Jamestown.

On the way home, we visited Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s iconic estate nestled in the hills of Charlottesville.

It wasn’t a leisurely trip. It was more like a joyful sprint through centuries of stories, and what felt like a million steps a day. I took far too many pictures, of course.

But one image stayed with me: a young tree growing from the hollowed shell of an old one, just outside Monticello. Years ago, the original tree had to be cut down to protect the building. Its stump was left behind, and in time, a seed found its way into the hollow. Now, a new tree rises from the remains of the old—life emerging from what was lost.

That image felt like the perfect metaphor for our trip. We walked through places shaped by history, touched by change, and still full of life. We traced the footsteps of those who came before us, and in doing so, found something new growing in ourselves.

This Christmas vacation wasn’t just about travel. It was about resilience, renewal, and the quiet joy of discovering that even in the hollow places, something beautiful can begin again.

Happy New Year!

May this new year rise like a tender shoot from the remnants,
soft, green, and full of possibility.
May what has been hollowed by loss become a cradle for new beginnings.
May you find strength in your roots,
courage in your reaching,
and joy in the quiet unfolding of each day.

A newsletter by Katie Rea.

Visit Williamsburg, Tourism & Visitors Guide in Williamsburg VA

Christmas Town: Virginia Christmas Event – Busch Gardens

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Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, Charlottesville, VA – Official Website