4th of July '07

Happy 4th! And Happy Birthday Mom! This year for the 4th, my brother Christian and his son Ryan and wife Jodi came to DC! The week started with a fun trip with Austins buddies Cameron and Tate to a trip to Burke Lake Park. The train wasn't working, but they picked up sticks, ran around, presented a skit on the stage, climbed railroad tracks, rode the carousel and played on the playground. What more could boys want?

We also spent some great time with the Delacruz family who is moving soon. We are so sad! Austin and Madeleine have gotten so close! We will miss you guys!
Then my brother came into town. Christian is definitely into fireworks, so the 4th started with firecrackers mid-afternoon. Austin and Ryan loved them! Chris ended the week with what I'm sure were illegal fireworks, and Chris hit the "cool Uncle" status.

We then had a 4th of July parade to gear up for the festivities that evening! We BBQ'ed at home, then braved the masses and went downtown for the fireworks display. They were unbelievable as usual.

We spent a half day at Great Country Farms in beautiful Bluemont, VA. It was so much for the kiddos-hay ride, petting zoo, feeding the animals, rope swings, tire slides/mountains. They even got to feed a baby pig some milk!

We ended the week with a trip downtown DC to tour all the great things the city has. White House, Capitol, the memorials, monuments, statues, etc.

We hope you had a great 4th of July!
Love,
Angie
ps-Thanks for all the thoughts on Duane not going to Afghanistan. We feel its best for our family right now.