July 4th at Poplar Forest

July 2008.

We spent the 4th of July visiting the grounds of Poplar Forest,
the vacation home of Thomas Jefferson located just a few minutes from our house.

Each year, people from all over Virginia gather to participate in
Jeffersonian-era food, customs, music - and the reading of the Declaration of Independence.

A James River bateau.

Christy and Lauren play some Jeffersonian-era games
with Grandma Ruth Ann.

Josh plays with the ring toss.

... and some primitive lawn bowling.

Justin enjoyed his first outing.

The color-guard walking up the rear of Poplar Forest.

The dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence.

After a hot afternoon, we took Justin for his
first Mint Chip Frappuccino at Starbucks.

Every July 4 has to include corn on the cob.

Lauren.

Josh went bobbing for dessert.

Christy shows off the
patriotic dessert she helped Grandma Ruth Ann make.