Busted Everywhere you look at the Palace at Versailles, or Château de Versailles, you see the unexpected. Paintings on the ceilings, modern art and outstanding architecture are only a few examples. Walking into the courtyard towards the gardens, you notice the walls are looking back at you. Sitting on pedestals are head and shoulder busts lined in double rows. It’s not unusual to see a bust or statue outside, but I’ve never seen them lined on the exterior walls. This is just another example of the attention to detail and extravagance that went into the making of this remarkable palace.

Summer Sunset The Texas drought last year brought very few clouds. Few clouds mean visually weak sunsets. This summer has been much more normal, with the occasional rainfall. My wife no longer gives me a funny look when I run outside after dinner and look up towards that clouds. She knows I'm judging whether the skies will cooperate for a pretty sunset or not. On this evening, I thought things were looking good, so I drove up to a convenient field close to home and waited. Like the light, my hopes were fading, then out peered the sun from the lower cloud bank and everything lit up. It didn't last very long, but I was ready, so it was worth the time.

Montpelier, Home of the Madisons The National Trust for Historic Preservation acquired the property known as Montpelier in 1984 and carried out a major restoration from 2003-2008. Much of the work was to return the mansion to its original size of 22 rooms during the years when it was occupied by President James and Dolley Madison. They have done a remarkable job and it is well worth a tour if you find yourself in the area.