Nice, Glen.
If you are going up I 81, I always recommend folks stay in Lexington and visit VMI. They have a great museum to get you started and the Stonewall Jackson house is really neat. You may have before.
Stonewall was a professor at VMI. The book, "Rebel Yell" by SC Gwynne is a great. spectacular introduction into where you are headed and cover my recommendation below. You can stop at the Field of Lost Shoes memorial to VMI north on I81 after you leave Lexington..
My personal favorite battlefield experience is Fredericksburg.
The walking tour is really a humbling experience, especially if you bring a map of the battle. Incredible stupidity and bravery.
That is the site I am most familiar with and recommend. Enjoy!
You guys are welcome to visit!