4th of July
The district is a spectacular place to celebrate July 4th! The National Mall,
with Washington DC’s monuments and the U. S. Capitol in the background, forms
a beautiful and patriotic backdrop to America's
Independence Day celebrations.
One of the most attended events of the year; people arrive early to stake
out a seat on the lawn to enjoy one of America’s
largest fireworks displays over the reflecting pool on the National Mall while
listening to a PBS Concert of the National Symphony Orchestra.
The best way to get to the National Mall is to take the Metro. Stations
nearby include Metro Center, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Judiciary Square, Federal
Triangle and L'Enfant Plaza. Keep in mind the Smithsonian Metro station will
be closed on the Fourth.
Here are some places in Virginia to see 4th of July fireworks.
Falls Church, George Mason High School, 7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls
Church, Virginia. Live music will start at 7 p.m. followed by fireworks at
9:30 p.m.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St (east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop
/ Capital Beltway (3.5 mi)
At exit 49B, take ramp RIGHT to I-66 / Custis
Memorial Pkwy East (1.5 mi)
Take exit 66 RIGHT toward Falls Church / Leesburg Pike / VA-7 (0.4 mi)
Merge onto SR-7 East / Leesburg Pike (southeast) (0.1 mi)
Arrive at 7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043-2309, United States
Fairfax, Fairfax City, Independence Day Parade through the downtown
area beginning at 10 a.m.
Musical entertainment begins at 7 p.m. at Fairfax High School with a spectacular
fireworks display at dark. (703)
385-7858.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop / Capital Beltway (1.5 mi)
Take exit 50B-A RIGHT toward Fairfax / Lee Hwy / Arlington Blvd / Arlington / US-50 (1.1 mi) Merge
onto US-50 West / Arlington Blvd (west) (2.9 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto road
Enter roundabout and take 4th exit onto Old
Lee Hwy (0.7 mi)
Arrive at Rebel Run, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States
McLean, Langley High School, 6520 Georgetown Pike McLean, Virginia. (703)
790-0123. Music performances, food, games, activities for kids and fireworks
at dark.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop / Capital Beltway (8.6 mi)
Take exit 44 RIGHT toward Great Falls / Georgetown Pike / Langley / VA-193 (0.3 mi)
Bear RIGHT (east) onto SR-193 / Georgetown Pike (1.5 mi)
Arrive at 6520 Georgetown Pike, Mclean, VA 22101-2222, United States
Herndon, Herndon Community Center, 814 Ferndale Ave.
Herndon, Virginia. (703)
787-7300. Entertainment, clowns, jugglers, food, fireworks at 9:30
p.m.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop / Capital Beltway (7 mi)
At exit 45, take ramp LEFT to SR-267 West (1.3 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Stay on SR-267 / Dulles Toll Rd West (west) (9.4 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Take exit 10 RIGHT toward Herndon / VA-657 / Chantilly (0.3 mi)
Bear RIGHT (northeast) onto Centreville Rd (0.9 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto Ferndale Ave (0.3 mi)
Arrive at 814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon, VA 20170-3431, United States
Leesburg, Ida Lee Park, Rt. 15 (King Street) and Ida
Lee Drive, Leesburg, Virginia. (703)
777-1368. Gates open
at 5 p.m. Fireworks around 9:30 p.m.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop / Capital Beltway (7 mi)
At exit 45, take ramp LEFT to SR-267 West (1.3 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Stay on SR-267 / Dulles Toll Rd West (west) (12.3 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Stay on SR-267 West / Dulles Greenway (west) (11.9 mi)
At exit 1B, take ramp LEFT to US-15 Byp South
/ Leesburg Byp (0.8 mi)
Take ramp RIGHT toward US-15 Business / Leesburg (0.2 mi)
Turn RIGHT (east) onto US-15 Bus / S King St (1.5 mi)
Arrive at Ida Lee Dr NW, Leesburg, VA 20176, United States
Manassas Park, 9300 Signal View Dr.,
Manassas, Virginia. (703)
335-8872. Enjoy live music, children’s
activities, food and fireworks. 6-9:30 p.m. Parking is $3 and limited.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-620 West / Braddock Rd (14.4 mi)
Turn LEFT (southwest) onto SR-28 South / Centreville Rd (4.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto Manassas Dr (1.5 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto Signal View Dr (0.3 mi)
Arrive at 9300 Signal View Dr, Manassas, VA 20111-2460, United States
King's Dominion, 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia. Independence Day celebrations and fireworks
on July 3 & 4, 2007.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (0.3 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto SR-648 / Edsall Rd (1.3 mi)
Merge onto I-395 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (southwest) (1.2 mi)
Bear LEFT (south) onto I-95 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (71.9 mi)
Take exit 98 RIGHT toward Doswell / VA-30 /
West Point / Kings Dominion (0.8 mi)
Turn LEFT (south) onto SR-99 / Theme Park Way (0.1 mi)
Arrive at 16000 Theme Park Way,
Doswell, VA 23047-1918, United States
Oronoco Bay Park, 7 North Lee Street,
Alexandria, Virginia. Celebrate Alexandria’s
Birthday & the USA’s on Saturday,
July 7, 2007, 4-10 p.m. Enjoy a concert by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
at 9 and fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (0.3 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto SR-648 / Edsall Rd (1.5 mi)
Merge onto I-395 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy North (northeast) (3.6 mi)
Take exit 5 RIGHT toward VA-7 / King St (0.4 mi)
Merge onto SR-7 East / King St (southeast) (3.7 mi)
Arrive at N Lee St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States
Top of Page
Fairfax County Fireworks
The Fairfax County Park Authority offers several
family-friendly Independence Day events in the coming days. You’ll find that
staying inside is not an option! Join us on July 4th for a wide array of program
opportunities such as those listed below.
More than just fireworks, Independence Day is an
opportunity for Americans to celebrate who they are and what it means to be
an American. The day of freedom begins at Sully Historic
Site from 11 a.m. to 4
p.m. where the public is invited to join the ranks of the founding
fathers, scribbling their own personal note to the Declaration of Sully. For
$6, visitors get to keep their own quill pen and receive a guided tour of
the site. Sully is located at 3601 Sully Road in Chantilly. For more information, please call 703-437-1794.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St (east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop
/ Capital Beltway (3.3 mi)
At exit 49C, take ramp LEFT to I-66 / Custis Memorial
Pkwy West (6.7 mi)
Take exit 57B RIGHT toward US-50 West / Winchester / Fair Oaks (1.1 mi)
Merge onto US-50 West / Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy (west) (4.8 mi)
Bear RIGHT (northwest) onto ramp toward SR-28 North / Sully Rd (0.7 mi)
Arrive at 3601 Sully Rd, Chantilly, VA 20151-3001, United States
Once the kids begin itching for some afternoon
fun, head over to Colvin Run Mill for a History Hunt at 1
p.m. Children ages six to ten will enjoy this
educational scavenger hunt through local history. Following clues related
to Fairfax County history, children will experience what life was like in historic
Virginia. The event is $4 for each child and free for adults. If the
whole party is coming (10 or more children), please call ahead and make a
reservation. Colvin Run Mill is located at 10017 Colvin Run Road in Great falls.
For more information, call 703-759-2771.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St (east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop
/ Capital Beltway (7 mi)
At exit 45, take ramp LEFT to SR-267 West (1.3 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Stay on SR-267 / Dulles Toll Rd West (west) (0.5 mi)
Take exit 16 RIGHT toward Leesburg Pike / Leesburg / Tysons Corner / VA-7
(0.4 mi) Merge onto SR-7 West / Leesburg Pike (northwest) (3.2 mi)
Turn RIGHT (northeast) onto SR-743 / Colvin Run Rd (0.2 mi)
Arrive at 10017 Colvin Run Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066-1834, United States
There will be no excuses for watching the fireworks
on television this year. Lake
Fairfax Park will have entertainment and fireworks in the evening.
Park admission is free and fireworks will be rescheduled for
July 5 in the case of inclement weather.
In traditional Fourth of July fashion, the Water
Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole will be open from 10
a.m. to 8 p.m. with onsite food
vendors to count down the hours until dusk. Fireworks begin around 9:15
p.m. Regular admission to the Water Mine still applies. Lake
Fairfax is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston. For information, please call 703-471-5415.
Driving directions To Lake Fairfax:
Depart Leebrad St (east) (0.1 mi)
Turn LEFT (north) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (1.5 mi)
Turn LEFT (west) onto SR-236 West / Little River Tpke
(1.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (west) onto ramp toward I-495 North / I-495 Innerloop
/ Capital Beltway (7 mi)
At exit 45, take ramp LEFT to SR-267 West (1.3 mi)
Stop for toll booth
Stay on SR-267 / Dulles Toll Rd West (west) (0.5 mi)
Take exit 16 RIGHT toward Leesburg Pike / Leesburg / Tysons Corner / VA-7
(0.4 mi)
Merge onto SR-7 West / Leesburg Pike (northwest) (4.6 mi)
Turn LEFT (southwest) onto road
Bear LEFT (southwest) onto SR-674 South / Baron Cameron Ave (0.3 mi)
Turn LEFT (south) onto Lake Fairfax Dr (1.2 mi)
Arrive at 1400 Lake Fairfax
Dr, Reston, VA 20190-3933, United States
Lee District Park will celebrate with live music and
international food from 5 p.m. until the fireworks
display and formal ceremony at 9 p.m. This evening under the stars includes children’s entertainment,
carousel rides, a DJ and live band. Parking for the event cost $5. Lee District is located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Franconia. For information, please call 703-922-9841.
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St (east) (0.1 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (0.3 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto SR-648 / Edsall Rd (1.3 mi)
Merge onto I-395 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (southwest) (1.2 mi)
Bear LEFT (south) onto I-95 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (0.1 mi)
Take ramp RIGHT (0.6 mi)
Bear RIGHT (east) onto SR-644 East / Franconia Rd (3.4 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto Rose Hill Dr (1 mi)
Arrive at 6601 Telegraph Rd, Franconia, VA 22310-3338, United States
Independence Day at Mount Vernon - Red, White and Blue Celebration
Celebrate Independence Day at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and
Gardens at a special event featuring musical performances, a wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies
last) and a visit by 'General Washington' himself.
Mount Vernon was the home of our first commander-in-chief, who led American
troops to victory in the country's fight for independence. The annual Red,
White & Blue Independence Day celebration is an unforgettable place to
celebrate George Washington's contribution to America's
freedom on July 4th. All events are included in regular Estate admission.
Join the George Washington Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution
(SAR) in a procession to George Washington's Tomb, led by the Fifes and Drums
of Prince William III and the First Virginia Regiment.
Red, White and Blue Concert
The patriotic musical performance will feature the Concert Band of America,
an 80-member company of retired musicians from each of the United States Armed
Services bands, playing patriotic favorites and American standards.
Re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment, and the Fifes and Drums of
Prince William III will assemble for inspection and demonstrations on the
Bowling Green, a reading of the Declaration of Independence by George Washington,
and a cannon volley.
July marks the beginning of the wheat harvest season. Field hands will kick-off
the season on Independence Day with wheat-treading demonstrations at the George
Washington: Pioneer Farmer site. Costumed staff will lead Mount Vernon's horses
as they tread wheat in the 16-sided barn at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and
3 p.m.
Link:
http://www.mountvernon.org/
Driving directions
Depart Leebrad St
(east) (0.1 mi)
Turn RIGHT (south) onto SR-617 / Backlick Rd (0.3 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto SR-648 / Edsall Rd (1.3 mi)
Merge onto I-395 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (southwest) (1.2 mi)
Bear LEFT (south) onto I-95 / Henry G Shirley Memorial Hwy South (3.2 mi)
Take exit 166A RIGHT toward Newington / Fort Belvoir (0.3 mi)
Merge onto SR-7100 South / Fairfax County Pkwy / John F (Jack) Herrity Pky (southeast) (3 mi)
Turn LEFT (east) onto US-1 / Richmond Hwy (1.9 mi)
Turn RIGHT (southeast) onto SR-235 / Mt Vernon Memorial Hwy (3.1 mi)
Bear RIGHT (southeast) onto George Washington Memorial Pkwy / GW Pkwy (0.1 mi)
Arrive at Mount Vernon
Top of Page
Amusement Parks
Below are theme parks within a drive of Washington,D.C., Paramount's Kings Dominion draws
crowds from all over the region. The combination of big-time thrill rides
and the 19-acre WaterWorks water park (included
in the admission price) offers enough variety to entertain a family for the
whole day. Less than 30 minutes from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Six
Flags America makes a convenient day trip. There are over 100 rides, the Hurricane
Harbor water park, an exhilarating daily parade and new live shows like the
MagicQuest and Jukebox.
Links:
Six Flags America - Largo, Md.
http://www.sixflags.com/america/index.aspx
Paramount's Kings Dominion - Doswell, Va.
http://www1.cedarfair.com/kingsdominion/index.cfm
Busch Gardens - Williamsburg, Va.
http://www.buschgardens.com/buschgardens_default.aspx
Sesame Place - Langhorne, Pa.
http://www.sesameplace.com/sesame/pa/index.aspx
Hershey Park - Hershey, Pa.
http://www.hersheypa.com/
More Information from AOL:
http://cityguide.aol.com/washington/theme-parks
BBQ Tips
If you’re holding a barbecue this summer, here are some tips that will ensure
you'll be the perfect barbecue host
ü
Keep all your barbecuing tools handy - tongs, chopping boards,
insulated gloves, brushes ect.
ü
Never mix together different raw foods (i.e. fish and chicken)
in the same marinade. Always keep in separate containers. Use separate chopping
boards and utensils for handling raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination
ü
Remove meat and poultry from the fridge an hour before cooking
and leave covered in a cool kitchen until required. This will help bring the
food back to an ambient temperature, and will result in a more succulent cooked
result.
ü
Always know how many guests you are expecting and make sure
you are seated near to the kitchen. This means you won’t be barging past your
guests when going to and from the house.
ü
Keep plenty of iced water handy – particularly if you’re barbecuing
on a hot day. If you stick with the beer or wine your guests will soon be
dehydrated (and you maybe too tipsy to tend the barbecue).
ü
Prepare dressings for salads and marinades for the barbecue
in advance to be one step ahead of yourself – and the changeable weather!
Meat and poultry will benefit from marinating overnight in the refrigerator
rather than for an hour just prior to barbecuing, so do as much preparation
ahead of time as possible.
ü
If you’re having a barbecue at night, don’t forget to consider
the lighting.
ü
Check with your guests if they have any special dietary requirements.
ü
Burning citrus candles is a great way to keep the bugs at bay
and stop them biting your guests, especially if you’re serving any sweet food
or drinks.
ü
If you’re having an afternoon barbecue, make sure there’s plenty
of shade to avoid sticky sun burnt guests.
ü
Pork, sausages, burgers and chicken in particular, must always
be cooked through to the center. It might look cooked on the outside but can
still be raw in the middle. Check by piercing the thickest part with the point
of a sharp knife. If the juices run clear then the meat is ready. Any sign
if pink juices will require further cooking.
ü
Be aware of wind direction and the proximity of neighbors when
placing your BBQ.
ü
Clean your charcoal barbecue after each use, once the grill
has cooled down - a wire brush and warm soapy water is all that is needed
- little and often is secret. Your gas barbecue can be cleaned by simply burning
off the grill for 10 minutes.
Top of Page
Charcoal versus Gas - The Debate -
Ownership of gas barbecues has soared to an estimated 4 million households,
adding fuel to the fire that has become the great charcoal versus gas debate.
Cynics and the charcoal faithful claim that the flavor of the food is not
the same when cooked on a gas barbecue. However this way of thinking is slowly
being dispelled as converts realize for themselves that the lovely barbecue
flavor stems from food juices hitting a hot surface and it doesn’t matter
whether the surface is lava rock or traditional charcoal.
Many People are also increasingly choosing to cook with gas because of the
versatility it offers. Combined with the latest in barbecue technology, such
as side burners for sauces, it truly provides countless opportunities to impress.
More sophisticated barbecues are even fitted with griddle plates, fast heating
rings , plate supports to keep food warm and a hood or battery operated rotisserie
for roasting meats.
The charcoal camp might argue that part of the fun of alfresco dining is
the blood, sweat and tears that go into lighting the charcoal and achieving
the right temperature for cooking. However, gas is quick and easy to set up,
saving time for you to get on and enjoy your barbecue more quickly with a
glass of wine, so personal choice on this argument prevails.
In this time precious era the quicker the food can be prepped, cooked and
cleaned up the better, particularly if you are entertaining or decide to barbecue
on the spur of the moment. And as the market is growing, higher specification
models are now available offering more convenience and controllable heat –
fast.
Gas barbecues are easier to clean too as most models have drip trays as standard
to collect the fats and mess generated by cooking, and the barbecue can be
cleaned simply by leaving the barbecue on for a couple of minutes after cooking
to burn off any juices.
If it is an issue both gas and charcoal barbecues are available at a range
of prices depending on your needs. However a cost to bear in mind is the cost
of your fuel. The overall cost of gas can be a more cost-effective way of
running a barbecue with one cylinder providing enough fuel run for up to 8
hours at maximum setting.
BBQ Links:
The Food Network - BBQ 101:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/et_sl_grilling/0,1972,FOOD_9872,00.html
FDA - Barbecue Basics: Tips to Prevent Foodborne
Illness
http://www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/bbqbasics052207.pdf
the official website of the National Barbecue
Association:
http://www.nbbqa.org/
National BBQ News:
http://www.barbecuenews.com/
Area Beaches (in alphabetical
order)
Escape
the crowds
http://www.nps.gov/asis
Seven
miles of serenity
http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/
Our first
seashore resort
http://www.capemaychamber.com/
Tranquil
and hip retreat
http://www.townofdeweybeach.com/
Remote
Beach on the border
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fal.shtml
Ten miles
of white sand
http://www.oceancity.org/
Historic
park, great views
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/pointlookout.html
Plenty
of seaside charm
http://www.cityofrehoboth.com/
A beach
park for all seasons
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/sandypoint.html
Sand to
suit every taste
Camping
Washington, D.C. Area
Bull Run
Regional Park
Bull Run Regional park offers many things to those looking for some fresh
air and respite from gridlock.
Burke
Lake Park
The beauty of camping at northern Virginia campgrounds like Burke Lake is
not so much the ability to "rough it" but more the opportunity to
sleep outdoors with all of the recreational and cultural needs of the city.
a
Lake
Fairfax Park
The first thing you'll notice as you enter the park is the fairly new Water
Mine: Family Swimming Hole.
Pohick
Bay Regional park
"Pohick" was the name given this area
by Algonquin Indians to aptly describe it as the "water place."
With its marina, boat launch, and boat storage facilities, Pohick Bay Regional park offers a year-round entertainment.
Prince William Forest Park
This 17,000-acre woodland, located just 32 miles from the nation's capital,
could just as easily be 32 miles from the middle of nowhere.
Appalachian Mountains
Bubbling Springs
Campground
If you look at a map of Virginia's Bath County, you'll quickly notice many
place names end with the word "springs." Springs are part of the
karst--or limestone--topography that western Virginia
is known for.
Camp
Roosevelt Recreation Area
One way to explore and get to know more about this 50-mile mountain range
is by taking the Motor Mountaineering tour of Massanutten Mountain that forest service personnel have
laid out.
Cave
Mountain Lake
Located a short distance from Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge itself,
this area of the Shenandoah Valley is ripe with limestone deposits, sinkholes,
and the accompanying caves.
Douthat
State Park
The park's Depression-era beginnings led to its designation as a Registered
National Historic Landmark. Great fishing in the 50-acre lake, and rental
cabins
Elizabeth
Furnace Recreation Area
The Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area is located at the northern end of the
50-mile Massanutten Mountain, whose eastern and
western ridges surround Fort Valley like the eye of a need le.
Hidden
Valley Campground
Tucked away in far western Virginia at the base of Back Creek Mountain, Hidden
Valley richly deserves its name.
Hone
Quarry Recreation Area
The campground is set among mature hemlocks with an understory of young evergreens to separate the various campsites.
Lake
Robertson
You may be surprised to find playing fields and tennis, volleyball, and badminton
courts as well as a swimming pool at this rural setting.
Little
Fort
Recreation Area
While the "Recreation Area" part of this 10-site campground's name
may be misleading, it remains a getaway for those with minimal need for amenities.
Locust
Springs Campground
Locust Springs Recreation Area is tucked away in a corner of Virginia so
remote that you'll have to enter West Virginia to reach it.
Morris
Hill Campground
The Morris Hill Campground is located just a short walk via the Morris Mill
Trail (0.75-mile point-to-point) or the Fortney Branch Trail (1.3-mile point-to-point)
North
Creek Campground
A no-frills area where you can pitch a tent in the shadow
of towering hemlocks and even more towering mountain ridges.
North
River
Campground
Those campers in search of good hiking trails and trout streams will find
this an ideal site for a temporary respite.
Otter
Creek Campground
The level campground is wooded with mountain laurel, oaks, and pines, providing
ample shade. The sites are well-spaced
Peaks of Otter Campground
Peaks of Otter offers a tremendous place to camp for those
touring the Blue Ridge Parkway. Many visitors to the Peaks of Otter plan their visit during
the beginning of June.
Sherando
Lake Recreation Area
a beautiful lake set against a mountainous background. This recreation area
is tucked up against the side of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the eastern edge
of the Shenandoah valley
Todd
Lake Recreation Area
Camping at Todd Lake will open a world of outdoor activity in this part of
the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Coastal Virginia
Chippokes
Plantation State Park
Chippokes is one of the largest working farms in the nation located in a
rural, agricultural area off of the James River. The park has kept its boundaries
since the 1600's. The Chippokes Mansion and Farm & Forestry Museum both
offer scenic tours of its estate and formal garden. The 1700 acre lot is a
grandview of cultivated gardens and woodland of azaleas, crepe myrtle, boxwood
and seasonal flowers. Craggly beach area open for nature viewing. Other amenities
include fishing, trails, camping and cabin rentals.
First
Landing State Park
Among First landing's current distinctions: it's the most visited park in
Virginia's system with more than 1.2 million visitors annually.
Kiptopeke
State Park
Kiptopeke State Park is located at the southern
end of Virginia's Eastern Shore just 3 miles from the 20-mile Chesapeake Bay
Bridge-Tunnel.
Newport News
Park
As development in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia increases with a similar
expansion of traffic congestion, the 8,000-acre Newport News Park, one of
the largest municipal parks east of the Mississippi.
Northwest
River Park
Northwest River Park's 763 acres lie near the southern border of Virginia
on the coastal plain. Those coming for the day or to spend a few nights are
sure to find the peace and quiet they're looking for.
Westmoreland
State Park
Just before the entrance is the trailhead for the 1.4-mile Laurel Point Trail,
which loops around to the beachfront on the Potomac River.
Shenandoah National Park
Big Meadows
Campground
Big Meadows is Shenandoah National Park's largest treeless area, now encompassing
a barren plateau that is approximately 640 acres, reduced from 1,000 acres
in 1900.
Lewis
Mountain Campground
Lewis Mountain Campground is located in the central section of Shenandoah
National Park.
Loft
Mountain Campground
Loft Mountain Campground is the southern-most of Shenandoah's campgrounds
and makes an excellent base from which to explore this end of the national
park.
Mathews
Arm Campground
Opportunities for hiking abound with 95 miles of the 2,100-mile Appalachian
Trail running through the park.
Top of Page
Concerts
This summer's festival season offers a little something for everyone, even
mom and dad. Use this link from AOL City Guide which showcases this summer's
hot festivals to satisfy any taste -- from R&B to indie-rock,
there's a festival for you!
http://cityguide.aol.com/washington/tickets-concerts
Day Trips
Lattes
and midshipmen
http://www.ci.annapolis.md.us/
Inner
Harbor attractions
http://www.ci.baltimore.md.us/
A relaxing
day at the shore
http://www.qac.org/
For art
and culture lovers
http://www.fredericktourism.org/
A Civil
War history lesson
http://www.nps.gov/frsp/
Historical
and scenic spot
http://www.nps.gov/hafe/
America's
chocolate heaven
http://www.hersheypa.com/
Maryland's
cascades
http://www.nps.gov/grfa/
Jefferson's
masterpiece
http://www.monticello.org/
Antiques
capital of Maryland
A colonial
adventure
http://www.colonialwilliamsburg.com/
For The Kids
It’s finally here; the time of year all our children look forward to the
most. It’s summer time! But while kids are fantasizing about their holiday
adventures, parents are stressing on what they can do to ensure that the next
few months out of school are stimulating and productive yet enjoyable and
affordable. One way to alleviate several of these concerns is by planning
the summer in advance. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do with a little
research and imagination.
Following are 10 suggestions to help make this summer fun and memorable for
both you and your family.
1. Public Library: Check with your local public library to see whether or
not they are offering a summer reading program. In addition to reading classes,
libraries also present guest speakers that come in and discuss a wide range
of topics affecting several age groups. Examples may include peer pressure,
free computer courses, religious tolerance, organizational skills and coping
with class schedules. For toddlers, libraries have sessions conducted by trained
story tellers. You may also request a reading list comprised of books and
novels designed for each age category. It’s never too late or too early to
introduce your child to the wonderful world of books and reading.
2. Museums: Museums may offer summer programs within their specialty areas.
Some art museums offer classes in cartooning, ceramics, drawing, painting,
photography and sculpture. Historical museums help children develop an understanding
of the history of their immediate area or state through hands-on lessons.
3. Zoo: Kids have always been fascinated by the Zoo, but did you know that
a visit to the Zoo can also be a learning experience for children? Besides
learning the names of animals, the Zoo is a great place for children to brush
up on certain skills related to their age. For example, kids can learn the
alphabet by visiting animals with names ranging from A-Z. Learn the alphabet
along with amazing facts on the animals. Zoos also offer a variety of Adult-Child
Discovery Programs designed to aid parents and children discover the zoo together.
Age specific children work shops held at the Zoo allow children to explore
a wide range of topics from conserving our environment to preventing animal
extinction. So the next time you take a family trip to the Zoo, make it fun
and educational all in one.
4. Scrapbook: Help your child cherish the summer memories by creating and
decorating their own scrapbook. For those unfamiliar with scrapbooks, many
arts and crafts stores offer starter kits ranging in size, price and design.
You might even be able to catch a free day session at a Scrap Book Store,
offering tips on starting and maintaining a book. Pick one up or start your
own with a blank album, a few sheets of colored paper and a whole lot of imagination.
And then just cut and paste away; creating your own borders,
captions and excerpts describing events and emotions. You can even
pick up a cheap disposable camera easy to use at an elementary level and have
your child click away and create memories. A Scrapbook Club is a fun way to
include and encourage your child’s friends to get together at someone’s house,
maybe once a week and work on their books. Keep your child occupied and creative
by introducing them to the wonderful world of scrapbooks.
5. Cooking: Most all children are intrigued by the Adult world of cooking.
Allow your children to share in the pride and achievement of creating a special
something for all to enjoy. Always under adult supervision there are several
dishes that can be made without the use of heat. Salads, shakes, sandwiches,
cakes, pies, the list is endless. Look through your cook books and find recipes
that are simple, tasty and safe. Bake a cake and have your child decorate
with home made frosting, using m&m’s, sprinkles and whipped cream. For something more
nutritious try a fruit smoothie or just a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
Older children can try planning and making dinner for the entire family. Toddlers
can join the fun by breaking bread for stuffing or kneading dough bread.
Maybe your older child can plan a dinner for friends and make the meal themselves.
This summer let your child explore all their senses of touch, taste, feel
and smell through the art of cooking.
6. Be a Tourist: Maybe you are not able to travel out of town this summer,
but that need not stop you and your children from being tourists in your hometown.
Look online to see the main attractions your city has to offer
[link to travel channel?] or order a visitors handbook, which in most
cities is free of charge. Then grab a camera, a hat, some sun block and you
and your family are all set to be tourists. Perhaps visit a park you have
not yet been to, pack a picnic, some games and spend the day out of the house.
Discover your city, try a new restaurant and next time you have friends and
relatives visiting you will know exactly where to take them.
7. Arts and Crafts: Have you been postponing the remodeling of your child’s
room? Does someone in the family have a birthday approaching? Ever wanted
to take a pottery class? Well what better way to redecorate your child’s room,
than to include your child in the process. You may have grand remodeling plans
and perhaps your budget may not allow for what you had specifically in mind,
however, this summer you and your child can start with baby steps. Visit your
local arts and crafts store and find various ways to decorate a room using
simple tools that both you and your child can do together. Look at arts and
crafts books designed specifically for simple home projects and pick a few
that fit your budget and design plan. What about a birthday present? This
year have your child make that special someone a picture frame with her handprint,
footprint or for an older child consider working with beads. They can also
make their own personalized photo album. Consider taking a class with your
kids. A pottery class for example could be great fun for both of you and it
will provide you with wonderful handmade decorations for your home. Stimulate
your child and yourself, get some projects around the house completed and
have fun.
8. Community Work: Now more than ever there is a need in America
to strengthen community ties and help those less fortunate than ourselves.
Traditionally, community service has been performed by adults; however, there
are several organizations that can use the assistance of your child and in
return build their character and self worth. A few hours of volunteer work
a week can make a big difference in someone’s life. Check your yellow pages
[link to yp on this site] and find out which organizations
in your area can use the assistance your child can provide. A small helping
hand will go a long way in the growth of your child.
9. Day Camps: Day camps are becoming more and more popular especially amongst
younger children. Conducted by private and public institutions day camps do
charge a fee but the activities are well worth the cost. Over the years YMCA
has established a reputation for its healthy and fun day camps. Activities
range from arts and crafts to hiking and swimming lessons. And an organization
such as the YMCA offers day camps not just to children but to the entire family,
allowing parents to spend a recreational day with their children. Check with
your local YMCA or the recreational units of your municipal parks to see what
day activities they are offering.
10. Summer School Program: Several schools offer a summer program to continue
to enrich your child’s learning abilities. Check with the schools in your
local district to see if there’s a summer program you like. In most cases
there will be a nominal fee charged.
Family Fun Links:
http://www.familysummerfun.com/
http://www.wacona.com/summer/summerfun.htm
Games
Capture the Flag
There are two teams.
Team 1 has the front yard and Team 2 has the back yard, or a field was split
between the two teams. The teams are given a time period, like 5 minutes,
to hide their flag in their part of the yard.
[optional] During this period spies can be sent out to see were the flag
was hidden as well as look-outs to catch the spies.
When the flag is hidden you call out that you are finished. Then you simply
try to get the other teams flag. If you get caught and tagged by the opponent
on their territory you go to jail and can only be freed by a teammate who
grabs you when your opponent isn't looking.
The first team to capture the flag wins. In most versions you have to both
get the flag, and bring it back to your side.
This game is a totally different game at night in the woods!
Crack The Whip
The kids usually played this at recess and should be prepared to get dirty.
You need at least probably 6 people for the game to be effective but the
more the better. You all hold hands like you would for Red Rover. Someone
is picked to be the leader and someone as the caboose. The leader just starts
running around like crazy and everyone else follows, being sure not to let
go of hands. Eventually after everyone has been running with full speed and
making sharp turns the caboose and/or people next to him get sent flying because
of the force of everyone running and turning. This is a lot of fun but be
prepared to get dirty if your on the end. Also the leader and caboose can
use two hands to hold on to the one person the are connected to. The caboose
tries as hard as she/he can not to let go. (Holding on and flying around
was usually funnier then letting go and rolling to a stop :)
Dodgeball
This requires a long wall or side of a house and a big rubber or kick ball.
Everyone lines up and one person throws the ball at the wall in an attempt
to hit a part of someones body. If they do, then
that person is it and must now throw the ball. The object is not to throw
the ball hard, but accurately in order to catch someone trying to dodge the
ball.
OR
Kids form two teams. One team forms two lines facing each other. Two balls
are the norm. The other team scatters about between the lines of the first
team. The first team then throws balls at team two. If a member of team two
was hit below the shoulders, s/he was out and had to stand aside. If a player
on team two caught the ball in the air (not after a bounce), s/he received
a free "life" (ie-if s/he is hit again,
s/he has used up a "life" and is not out.) A player may not receive
more than three "lives." The fourth, fifth, etc. time a player catches
the ball, s/he may bring players who were out, back into the game by calling
a name. If and when all players of team two are out, the teams switch places.
VARIATION: If a player on the opposite team catches a ball you threw
before it bounced, the thrower is 'out'
OR
We played Dodgeball in a circle (the circles were
actually painted onto the blacktop on the playground). However many kids wanted
to play, were divided up into 2 teams. One team was inside the circle and
the other half spread out around the outside. We used a red rubber playground
ball (about 14 inches in diameter) and threw it at the players inside the
circle. The kids inside were allowed to run around where ever they wanted,
but could not go out. We could only throw the ball to hit the kids inside
below the waist. If a ball was thrown and hit someone above the waist, the
thrower had to stop playing. If a kid in the center was hit, they became one
of the players outside the circle. The game was over when only one person
was left inside the circle.
OR An indoor variation on the dodgeball theme.
You form a circle and choose a person to start. That person tosses a ball
(preferably a soft one, like Nerf) to someone across the room. If you catch
it, you toss it to someone else. If you drop it, you sit down. Last person
standing is the winner. It's a good rainy day game and nobody gets hurt, and
hopefully nothing gets broken. :)
OR
Variation 1: Setup: You need a large open space and at least enough soft-mediem
hard balls to have one team have enough balls to have one per player. You
can have a lot more, or a lot less. You divide into equell
teams. Playing area: Mark a large rectangle with a line through the middle.
Rules: You throw the ball tring to hit one of the members of the other team. If they
catch the ball, the person is out. If the ball hits a person in the head,
the person is out who threw it. That all happens before the ball bounces.
If the team with a person out hits a member of the other team, all their members
are in again. If it bounces, the ball does not follow any of the above rules.
Variation 2: The only change of rules is that the team with the person out
must hit the player of the other team to get the team member in.
OR
You divide up in two teams. Drag a garden hose or other similar divider
between the yard. The teams each go to their own side, and may not cross
the divider. Gather as many balls as possible and split them up between the
two teams to start. You throw a ball at the other team, if you hit them below
the head, they are out. If they catch the ball, you are out. The last person
in is the winner.
OR Frisbee War:
Dodgeball played with frisbees instead of balls. Usually There are two teams and
a boundaries that you had to stay inside of. Have a few frisbees,
2, 3 or 4, depending on how many kids are playing (sometimes up to 15 or 20
at a time). If you catch someone's thrown frisbee then the thrower is out. You play until one person
or team remained.
One team is against a wall and the other team has playground balls at least
10 meters or so away from the other team. The throwing team can't cross the
line and they begin throwing the balls at the other team.
The throws work like this:
-
Hit in the arm-arm behind back
-
Other arm-both arms behind back
-
Hit in the leg- one leg up
-
Other leg-one your knees
-
In the head or body-your out till next game
-
If you catch the ball you get a piece back
-
If no pieces are missing then someone who went out can
come back in
Doctor and Spy
This game is very similar to the 2 team Dodgeball
but it has a variation. Each team gets into a secret huddle before the game
starts and decides on a "Doctor" and a "Spy". The games goes along as usual-with a line and throwing balls back
and forth. If you get out (by getting hit or someone catches your ball), you
stand to the side. The Doctor of your team can secretly walk by and touch
your hand to get you back in the game. The facilitator of the game can at
any time yell, "SPY! 10 Seconds!" and then slowly counts to 10.
The designated Spy on each team is allowed to take a ball across the line
and try to get the other team out. That person must be back over to his side
before the ten seconds is over. This game can be played outside, in a gym,
or even in a large indoor room (you can use crumbled paper instead of balls
so you don't loose your lamps!) Which ever team gets all the other players
out is the winner.
OR
Nationball: this game was played by children in
Russia under the name Sniper. The
game was plated with those medium sized red rubber balls. It is the game where
two teams play against each other in a large rectangle, which is separated
by a line in the middle.
Each team starts with one player on the outside of the rectangle, on the
opposite side from where they are standing. The rest of each team stands inside
the rectangle. The point of the game is to hit players on the opposite team.
When a player is hit, they then go on the opposite outside edge.
If the ball goes through the opposite team without hitting anyone, the people
on the edge, chase after the ball, giving them the opportunity to try to hit
someone again. Each time a person is hit, they must go out on the outside
of the rectangle. The winning team is the team that has the last person left
INSIDE the rectangle.
Freeze Tag
In this version of Tag, one person is still "it", but when they
touch someone, that person is "frozen" in place. They cannot move
and must stand with their feet apart. The only way they can become unfrozen
is if a person crawls under their legs. Play continues until all the players
are frozen. Then the last person to be frozen is "it" for the next
game.
Kick The Can
This is an exciting combination of hide and seek
and tag. One person closes their eyes and counts to some high number, while
everyone else hides. Then, the person who counted (who has incidentally been
guarding "the can") has to run around the neighborhood and find
everybody. The tricky part is that once a person is found, they have a race,
where the person who has just been found has to try to kick the can over before
the counter tags them. When that game gets boring, there seems to always be
those kids who will hide in a dumb, easy to discover place, with the intent
of sprinting for the can if they're caught... it's a good game for building
paranoia into your character. :)
Pickle A.K.A. Running the Bases
The rules of the game are pretty simple.
You'll need two bases (we used Mom's rugs), a softball and two softball gloves
(if you don't have the gloves just use a ball that's not "hard."
Set up the two bases about 20 feet apart.
Two kids would be selected to be "it", one at each base.
The other kids would divide and go to the bases.
The game started by the two kids who were "it"
tossing the ball to each other.
The object of the game was to time running from one base to the other without
being tagged by the ball.
If you were tagged then you were "it" and the game continued, usually
until all the kids were too tired to run anymore.
The fun of the game was getting the person who was "it" to throw
a wide pitch or "steal" the base.
Ship Captain
One player is chosen as the captain. S/he calls out orders to the rest of
the players who are the crew. If a player does not follow an order correctly,
s/he is out. (This decision is made by the captain who is always right.)
Orders:
To the ship: run to the captain's
right
To the island: run to the captain's
left
Hit the deck: lay down on your
stomach (or if players don't want to get dirty, they can crouch down)
Attention on deck: salute and yell,
"Aye, aye captain!" -- players may not move now until the captain
gives the order of, "At ease!" (ie even
if the captain gives a different order such as "to the ship" the
crew must continue to remain at attention until told "at ease")
Three men in a boat: the crew must
form groups of three and sing "Row, row, row your boat" Anybody
who is not in a group of three is out.
The love boat: crew members grab
a partner and dance. Anybody without a partner is out.
Clear the deck: everyone must have
their feet up off the floor
Scrub the deck: everyone on their
knees scrubbing
Captain's Quarters: everyone ran
towards the captain.
Man-over-board: Players must find
a partner as quickly as possible. One partner must lay
on their stomach while the other places their foot on their partner's back.
Children without a partner or pairs that are too slow are eliminated.
A Periscope: Every player falls
on their back and sticks one leg in the air. The last ones are eliminated.
SHARK!!!!: Everyone must run to
a designated base (multiple bases can be used). The last player to the
base is eliminated.
Crow's nest: All players must find
a partner. The lightest player rides on their partner's back. Those without
partners or who assemble the crow's nest too slowly are eliminated.
Three maids in a row: Children form groups
of three and sit in a vertical row. The players who are the odd-man-out
are eliminated.
Sick turtle: Everyone falls onto
their backs and waves hands and feet in the air.
Bow: Run to the front of the boat
Stern: Run to the back
Port: Run to the left side of the
boat
Starboard: Run to the right side
of the boat.
Row the Boat: Each player finds
a partner, sits face to face, holds hands, and pretends to row a boat.
Players who can't find partners or who are too slow are eliminated.
Alternative rules: If playing in a pool, all of the orders stay the same
except for "hit the deck" which becomes "walk the plank." This means that crew members must bob
underwater.
To make the game less competitive, player do not
get "out." Instead, if the captain notices that they do not follow
an order, they must stand out for a count of 20.
Steal The Bacon
The object of Steal the Bacon is take the "bacon" back to your
own side without being caught. In this game, two teams are chosen, and one
umpire is selected. One object is required to the bacon. (a glove is a common
choice) The members of each team are numbered. They form two opposing lines
and place the bacon in the exact center between them.
The umpire then calls out a number. The players on each side who are assigned
that number are the players for that round. No other team members leave their
side of the field. Neither player may touch the other until someone touches
the bacon. Once a player touches the bacon however, the other player may tag
him/her.
If a player is able to grab the bacon and carry it back over to his/her own
side, that team scores a point. (VARIATION: in some games, points are scored
by carrying it to the other teams side or either
team's side) If a player is tagged after touching the bacon and before he/she
returns their own side, the team that tagged him/her scores a point.
Note that the sequence of play usually involves the two kids running out
and hovering over the bacon, waiting for a slight advantage to grab it and
run back before the other player can react.
The game is over when a predetermined number of points are scored, or when
all numbers have been called.
VARIATION: The umpire can call more than one number, in which case several
players from each side participate. In some games, players may tag any player
on the opposing team, in others, a player may only tag the player on the other
team that they share a number with.
Windows and Doors
A bunch of kids formed a circle holding hands. Then they would spead
out enough that everyones arms were straight out,
to form large spaces between kids. These were the windows and doors. Then
one child would start running, and weaving in and out between children. As
they did this the kids in the circle would randomly drop their arms down trying
to touch or trap the person weaving their way in and out. Once the person
was caught or touched by the arms of someone, they were out. They would then
choose which person would be next to weave in and out of the windows and doors.
Here is a link for a full listing of games kids can play:
http://www.gameskidsplay.net/frame_alphabetical_listing.htm
Golf
Golf is a lifetime sport, and Fairfax County gives
golfers the opportunity of a lifetime to play through the seasons on quality
courses at affordable prices. From par-three to championship length, the Park
Authority offers courses to suit beginner and expert golfers alike. All courses
are professionally designed and carefully conditioned and maintained to provide
the finest golfing in Northern Virginia. All courses are open year round,
weather permitting.
Fairfax County Golf Link
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/
Every Body Golf School
Every Body Golf School’s friendly and professional staff has been providing
golf instruction for all levels since 1995. Group lessons teach all facets
of the game and provide one of the best values in the Northern Virginia area.
Private, semi-private, and small group lessons with our experienced instructors
can help golfers of all abilities take their games to the next level.
They have junior camps that provide a fun way for kids to learn the game—in
a safety-first environment. Their experienced clubfitters ensure that your equipment suits you.
If you have any questions or would like to speak with an Every Body Golf
School representative regarding our golf instruction, clubfitting, or anything else, please call them at (703) 255-5396.
Links:
http://www.everybodygolf.com
Hiking
Take a Hike! - Northern
Virginia Offers a Wide Variety of Hiking Trails
Our area has many types of nature trails and
interpretive trails, lake hikes and river hikes, hikes to viewpoints and mountain
summits, urban hiking trails and backcountry treks. There is something for
hikers of all abilities and experience levels, from the occasional day-hiker
or nature walker to the seasoned hiker and long trail backpacker.
To enjoy the hike, it is essential that you
are well prepared. Preparation includes, among other things, that you are
medically fit; that you have done other similar hikes in the past; that you
have enough food and water; that you have proper footwear; and that you are
dressed for possible adverse weather.
Use the links below to find to the perfect
hiking trail for you, everything from easy day hikes to moderately strenuous
hikes and extended overnight backpacking trips.
Northern
Virginia Regional Park Authority
Fairfax County
Virginia – (private information page)
Northern Virginia
Hiking Club ($5 a year membership; $2 a hike)
Indoor Fun
What happens when it is raining or 100 degrees
in the shade? Try these pen and paper games and check out our links to fun
things online.
Pen and Paper Games
Categories
Draw a grid on a piece of paper - a square filled
with smaller squares. The number of squares can vary, depending on the attention
span of your child. Down the left side, put some letters of the alphabet (for
example, you could spell out a child's name: LISA). Across the top, write
categories - for example, girls' names, boys' names, animals, colours, cars, places. You can make this harder or easier
by changing the categories. Players take turns writing in words that fit the
category and start with the letter in the left-hand column. (Next to the letter
L, in this example, you might have Laura, Liam, lion, lavender, Lexus and
Labrador.) Give extra points
for words that nobody else thought of.
Click
here for a printable Categories template in a PDF format.
Battleship
For two players. Here's another popular game you
can play without the official version. All you need is graph paper. Each player
needs two grids. Label each grid by writing numbers across the top and letters
down the side, so that the squares are easily identified as A8 or F5. One
grid will be for locating your own ships, the other for recording shots against
your opponent's ships. Each player places three or four "ships"
on his grid, then let the guessing begin. The first person to sink all the
other person's ships wins.
Click
here for a printable Battleship template in a PDF format.
Hangman
Most people know how to play the traditional version of Hangman. But what
about kids who aren't yet master spellers?
Neal plays a variation suitable for pre-writers. "We play it like 20
Questions - I would think of something, and my son would have to think of
yes-or-no questions to guess what it was," she says. "Each time
he got a no answer, I'd add another part to the Hangman figure."
Click here for a printable Hangman template in a PDF format.
Dots and Squares
Begin by drawing a grid of dots on the paper. Using lined paper or graph paper
can make this a little easier. The first person draws a line connecting two
dots beside each other. The second player then draws another line to connect
another two dots. The goal is to be the person who draws the last side of
a square. Then you put your initials inside the square (or some other abbreviation
to claim your square). In some versions of this game, if you complete a square
you get another turn. The player with the most squares when all the squares
are drawn is the winner.
Click
here for a printable Dots and Squares template in a PDF format.
Sprouts
If you can't quite master drawing a neat grid of dots, you might find this
game easier. Draw dots randomly all over the paper. The first player draws
a line between any two dots, and draws another dot in the middle of that line.
The next player draws a line between any two dots, and puts a dot in the middle
of that line. No lines may cross each other, but they don't have to be straight,
so they can loop around other lines. Only three lines in total can emerge
from any one dot. The dots put in the middle of the lines already have two
lines connecting them to the two other dots, so they can only have one more
line. The game continues until no more lines can be drawn. The person who
did the last line is the winner.
Click here for a printable Sprouts template in a PDF format.
Foldovers
Give everyone a piece of paper. On the top section, draw a head. It can be
an animal head or a person's head, as weird as you like. Now fold that section
back, so that it's hidden, and slide it across the table to the next person.
Without looking at the hidden drawing, the next person draws a chest and arms
(of a person, animal, alien), folds it back as well
and passes it on to the next person. Without looking at the previous pictures,
that person draws a body (stomach and hips) and the final person draws the
legs and feet. (You can have more or fewer sections depending on the number
of people you have playing.) Finally, unfold your papers and laugh at the
weird creatures you have created.
Click
here for a printable Foldovers template in a PDF
format.
Why? Because.
Each person writes down a question beginning with why (for example, Why do
dogs bark?). Adults can help with the writing for children who find this difficult.
Fold the top over to hide the question, and pass to the next person who, without
looking at the question, writes an answer starting with Because (for example,
Because chocolate tastes good). Then read out all the questions and answers.
Click here for a printable Why? template
in a PDF format.
Building Words
For players who can read and spell. The first person
writes down a letter. The next person adds a letter, and must have a word
in mind. The next player adds another letter, again working towards spelling
out a word. Next player adds another letter, and so on, until nobody can add
another letter. If you think the other player doesn't have a word in mind,
you can challenge him, and if he can't tell you the word, he's out.
Links:
A-Z Indoor Fun:
http://www.atozkidsstuff.com/indoorfun.html
Online Jig Saw Puzzles:
Outdoor Dining
In the warm weather, there's nothing better than dining outdoors. Find a
patio, courtyard, or sidewalk café and enjoy a meal at a restaurant with scenic
views or prime people-watching. Here are some restaurants with outdoor seating:
Alexandria
Mai Thai 6 King Street.
(703) 548-0600. Thai.
Fish Market 105 King Street. (703) 836-5676. Seafood.
Landini Brothers 115 King Street. (703)
836-8404. Italian.
The Wharf 119 King Street (703) 836-2836. Steaks and Seafood.
Il Porto
121 King Street. (703) 836-8833. Italian.
The
Warehouse Bar & Grill 214 King Street.
(703) 683-6868. Steaks and Seafood.
Geranio Ristorante
722 King Street.
(703) 548-0088. Italian.
Café
Salsa 808 King Street.
(703) 684-4100. Nuevo Latino.
Las Tapas 710 King Street.
(703) 836-4000. Spanish.
Blue Point Grill 600 Franklin Street.
(703) 739-0404. Seafood.
Southside 815 815 S. Washington Street. (703) 836-6222. Southern Casual.
Chart House Restaurant
One Cameron Street. (703) 684-5080. Seafood.
Joe Theismann's Restaurant 1800 Diagonal Road.
(703) 739-0777. Sports Bar & Grill.
Stella's 1725 Duke Street.
(703) 519-1946. American.
Pat Troy's Ireland's Own 111 N. Pitt Street. (703) 549-4535. Irish.
Portner's
Restaurant 109 S. Saint Asaph Street.
(703) 683-1776. American.
Gadsby's Tavern
Restaurant 138 N. Royal Street.
(703) 548-1288. American.
Evening Star Café 2000 Mount Vernon Avenue.
(703) 549-5051. American.
Caboose Café &
Bakery 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue.
(703) 566-1283. Bakery and Sandwiches.
Mango
Mike's 4580 Duke Street.
(703) 370-3800. Caribbean.
Indigo Landing 1 Marina Drive.
(703) 548-0001. Southern.
100 King Restaurant
100 King Street. (703) 299-0076. American.
Georgetown
Sequoia, 3000 K Street, Georgetown. (202)
944-4200 Restaurant is located along
the edge of the beautiful Georgetown waterfront. There is an outdoor bar,
and you can dine outside as well. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Tony & Joe’s, 3050
K Street, Georgetown (202) 944-4545 Seafood restaurant with outdoor seating along
the Georgetown waterfront.
Sea Catch, 1054 31st Street,
Georgetown (202) 337-8855 Seafood restaurant with a charming patio overlooking
the C&O Canal.
Michel Richard’s Citronelle, Georgetown
(202) 625-2150. Enjoy an elegant meal under
the stars prepared by one of the Washington, DC area’s most renowned chefs
at the Latham Hotel in Georgetown.
Downtown, DC
701 Restaurant,
701 Pennsylvania Avenue (202) 393-0701. Outdoor patio with
view of Pennsylvania Avenue and the US Navy Memorial Plaza.
Blue
Duck Tavern, Park Hyatt, 24 & M Streets, NW. (202) 419-6755. Farm-fresh
meats and seafoods slow roasted on a wood-burning
oven. Garden terrace seats 40. Outdoor fountain.
Ten Penh, 1001 Pennsylvania Avenue (202)
393-4500. Asian Pacific cuisine with a small outdoor patio.
Brasserie Les Halles, 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue (202) 347-6848 French
restaurant with awning-covered outdoor tables.
Galileo, 1110 21st Street, (202) 293-7191
Enjoy an elegant meal prepared by renowned chef Roberto Donna at the sidewalk
café or ask for a quieter table in the back garden.
Equinox, 818 Connecticut Avenue
(202) 331-8118 Fine dining with a view of DC landmarks from an outdoor patio
or glass-walled atrium.
Rosa Mexicano’s,
575 7th Street. (202) 783-5522 Upscale Mexican dining with a sidewalk café.
Primi Piatti, 2013 I Street, NW, (202) 223-3600. Outdoor
seating on a sidewalk patio.
The Oval Room, 800 Connecticut Avenue,
NW, (202) 463-8700. Outdoor dining available April thru September (weather permitting
Café Atlantico 405 8th Street, NW, (202) 393-0812. Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. Guests can dine
outside (weather permitting) as 18 seats are available during the spring and
summer months.
Ardeo 3311 Connecticut Avenue,
NW, (202) 244-6750. Modern American cuisine, incorporating Asian, Mediterranean and traditional French flavors
with 20 seats available for outdoor dining.
The Bombay Club 815 Connecticut
Avenue, NW, (202) 659-3727. Portuguese and Indian cuisine served at 10 tables
overlooking Lafayette Park.
Dupont Circle
The Dupont Grille, 1500 New Hampshire
Avenue, Dupont Circle (202) 939-9596 Sidewalk cafe at Jurys Washington Hotel.
Sette Osteria,
1666 Connecticut Ave., NW (202) 483-3070 Neopolitan pizza parlor
with a sidewalk café.
Iron Gate Restaurant, 1734 N Street, Dupont Circle (202)
737-1370. Romantic atmosphere on a stone terrace
courtyard.
Hank¹s Oyster Bar 1624 Q Street, NW,
(202) 462-HANK (4265).Serves a selection of seasonal New England beach favorites
which are available outside on their 20 seat patio.
Jack's Restaurant
and Bar 1527 17th Street, NW. Dupont Circle (202) 332-6767. European and American cuisine.
Adams Morgan
Lauriol Plaza, 1835 18th Street, Adams Morgan (202) 387-0035.
Tex-Mex restaurant with rooftop patio and sidewalk tables.
Reef, 2446 18th Street,
Adams Morgan, (202) 518-3800 Casual dining with an enormous rooftop
deck and bar.
Parks
Fairfax County Parks – Something for Everyone
Fairfax County oversees 400 parks and facilities
on 23,717 acres of land. It operates recreation centers, historic and nature
sites, golf and miniature-golf courses and a farmer’s market program. The
County also offers special events and hundreds of classes. Here a brief listing:
-
Nine indoor RECenters
with swimming pools, fitness rooms, gyms and class spaces. Cub Run features
an indoor waterpark and on-site naturalist.
-
Eight golf courses
-
Five nature and
visitor centers
-
Several lakes
including Lake Fairfax, Lake Accotink and Burke Lake
-
An aquatic playground
at the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston
-
Two campgrounds
in Reston and Fairfax Station
-
An ice skating
rink at Mount Vernon RECenter and the Skate Park in Wakefield Park adjacent
to Audrey Moore RECenter
-
Kidwell Farm,
a working farm of the 1930s era at Frying Pan Park in Herndon
-
Eight distinctive
historic properties available for rent
-
A working grist
mill at Colvin Run in Great Falls and a restored 18th century home at Sully Historic Site
in Chantilly
-
A horticulture
center at Green Spring Gardens in Annandale
-
Thousands of acres
of natural resources now further protected by the Natural Resource Management
Plan. Cultural resources protected by the Cultural Resource Plan. Stewardship
education programs underway and expanding.
-
Picnic shelters,
tennis courts, miniature trains, carousels, miniature golf courses, disc golf
courses, off-leash dog parks, amphitheaters, and marinas
-
Provides 275 athletic
fields as well as park athletic field maintenance at 473 elementary and secondary
schools.
-
Operates Clemyjontri,
a fully accessible playground in McLean, VA.
Fairfax County Parks Link:
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/news.htm
Virginia State Parks
You’ll find plenty of programs, events and activities at Virginia
State Parks. Our 34 parks have thousands of campsites, hundreds
of cabins, more than 500 miles of trails and convenient access to Virginia’s
major waterways. We have beaches, picnic shelters, family lodges, meeting
facilities, festivals, concerts, nature programs, cultural happenings… the
list goes on and on. From Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, there’s something
for everyone at Virginia State Parks. Whether you’re after
a relaxing picnic or a two-week vacation, leave life’s daily pressures behind
and reconnect with nature and your family at a nearby state park.
Party Ideas
Here's to the lazy, hazy, days of summer....and that means time to celebrate
in the great outdoors! Here are some fun summertime party ideas for Memorial
Day, barbecues, picnics, pool parties, garden parties, 4th of July, Labor
Day and many more reasons for fun in the sun!
Jimmy Buffett inspired 'flamingo' party - This
party is so much fun!
Patriotic parties - Ideas for Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day...
Garden party - Flowers, veggies, sun and fun.
Pool party - In the hot summer months, what's more fun than a pool party?
Luau - Tiki bar, grass skirts, limbo
and more...
Beach party - Invite your friends over for a 'life's a beach' party!
Child’s bug/garden party - Host a backyard surprises birthday party for
your little nature lover.
Camping party - Time to swap ghost stories, roast marshmallows, and sleep
under the stars....
Clambake - Inspired by the 'barefoot contessa'....
Fabulous 50's car cruise - Time to show off your hot rods and celebrate
the 50's!
Pools
Private Pools in our area:
Brandywine Swim Club
(703) 323-1109
4513 Pickett Rd, Fairfax, VA 22032
George Mason University - Fairfax
Campus
(703) 993-8444
4400 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Truro Community Center
(703) 978-3040
4146 Elizabeth Ln, Annandale, VA 22003
Ilda Community Recreation Association
(703) 323-9813
8900 Braeburn Dr, Annandale, VA 22003
Old Keene Mill Swim & Racquet Club
(703) 455-1312
9534 Orion Ct, Burke, VA 22015
Old Keene Mill Swim & Racquet Club
(703) 440-3738
9506 Orion Ct, Burke, VA 22015
Burke Station Swim Club
(703) 912-9720
5820 Ridge Ford Dr, Burke, VA 22015
Vienna Aquatic Club
(703) 938-4331
625 Marshall Rd SW, Vienna, VA 22180
The Fitness Club of Fairfax
(703) 352-2280
11230 Waples Mill Rd Suite 170, Fairfax, VA 22030
Centrium Fitness Resort
(703) 352-2280
11230 Waples Mill Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030
Parliament Swim Club
(703) 978-5522
8510 Parliament Dr, Springfield, VA 22151
Fox Hunt Swim Club
(703) 451-5015
7024 Spaniel Rd, Springfield, VA 22153
Cottontail Swim & Racquet Club
(703) 455-1394
7172 Game Lord Dr, Springfield, VA 22153
Vienna Park Swimming Pool
(703) 560-9824
212 Cedar Ln SE, Vienna, VA 22180
Orange Hunt Swim Club
(703) 451-9815
8600 Bridle Wood Dr, Springfield, VA 22152
Dunn Loring Swim Club
(703) 698-0071
Vienna, VA 22180
Oakton Swim & Racquet Club
(703) 620-6772
11714 Flemish Mill Ct, Oakton, VA 22124
Recreation
Fairfax County Park Authority's
nine recreation and fitness centers serve over one million customers annually,
offering the latest exercise equipment, the metro area's top aquatics facilities
and classes that cover the leisure alphabet from Aerobics
to Zoom Photography. RECenters are places where anyone can be comfortable
improving their fitness level, whatever level it is. Friends and family can
play together in the water or on the courts. All RECenters have classes and
camps for children and some have pre-school programs for our littlest customers.
RECenters are conveniently located. They start early, close late, and are
open seven days a week.
There is an admission charge to all RECenters. Proof of Fairfax County residency entitles visitors to a discounted admission rate.
All racquetball court use requires advanced reservations and can be made by
calling the individual recreation center. An additional hourly court charge
is required for racquetball depending upon the day and time of play.
Fairfax County Recreation Centers Link:
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recenter.htm
Washington Post FairFax County Recreation Link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/usersguides/fairfax/SptsRec.html
Safety
Well, it’s summertime. As a parent your job is to teach your children to
be safe while they have fun. They’re excited! But safety and caution need
to be part of the equation, too.
Here are some tips for young ones and their parents:
Every child should have a helmet. Helmets are important for biking, roller-blading,
and horseback riding, among others. Look for a safety-approved helmet by ANSI
or Snell that fits the head well. If your helmet has been damaged in any way,
replace it.
Roller Blading
When roller blading, in addition
to a helmet, don’t forget to wear wrist guards and elbow and kneepads.
Most of us put our hand out when we’re falling, often breaking the wrist.
Bike Riding
When bike riding, wear a helmet! Teach children to ride with traffic. Stop
and look both ways before entering the street. Use hand signals before turning.
Don’t ride a bicycle at dusk or in the dark, even with reflective tape and
accessories. Encourage your child to call home for a ride instead.
Swimming & Boating
When swimming and Boating, nothing is more heartbreaking than a child’s death
that could have easily been prevented. Children should learn to swim from
a qualified instructor. Kids can be any age. Supervise your children diligently
whether you’re near a pool or a creek. Never take your eyes off preschoolers,
even if they’ve had swimming instruction. Children should never swim alone.
Have adult supervision. Show your child where it’s safe and where it’s not
for diving in a pool. Diving in a shallow area can cause neck injury or drowning.
Don’t dive in a natural body of water because you can’t see the bottom of
a lake or river. Don’t allow your children to swim in fast-moving water, such
as a river or canal. Every boater, certainly children, should wear the life
jacket. Alcohol and boats don’t mix. Drunk boating is the equivalent of drunk
driving.
Camping and Hiking
Carry plenty of water and snacks. Consider appropriate outdoor dress: clothing
made of fleece, wool, or Gortex. Cotton will take
heat from your body if you get wet and you’ll be at risk for hypothermia.
Although it’s tempting, don’t let your kids climb rocks. Serious injuries
can occur even after a 10-foot fall. Tell your children to “hug a tree,” or
stay in the same place if they get lost. Have your child wear a whistle and
to signal you if he gets separated. Don’t allow your child to run ahead of
the group. Lightning storm? Ride it out in a car
or building, if you can. Avoid trees during lightning. Lightning can kill
or seriously injure a child.
Summer can be the best part of the year for your child and for you! Enjoy
it safely.
How to treat a Sunburn
Try to following tips to help sooth a Sun Burn.
Aloe Vera Gel
For sunburn there is nothing better than aloe vera gel; it is antibacterial and deeply healing for burns
in part because of aloectin B, which stimulates
the immune system. Aloe vera gel is used in hospitals
for burn victims. Aloe Vera comes from the aloe vera
plant, and the gel may be squeezed from its leaves, or you can buy pure aloe
vera gel as a product in most health food stores.
Vitamin E Cream
One of the antioxidants, vitamin E creams, ointments and oils, can help heal
sunburn damage and shorten its effects.
Increase Your Vitamin C
Another antioxidant, increasing your vitamin C intake while sunburned will
help you heal.
Cool Bath
Have a cool (not cold) bath to which 1/2 a cup of baking soda has been added.
Or, you can add a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oils, or gently
apply cool, wet compresses to the skin.
Calendula Creams
Calendula is one of the most healing plants. The flowers are emollient, antibacterial,
anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral. They are immune system stimulants
and rich in carotenoids. Look in your health food
store for calendula creams and ointments.
Avoid Petroleum jelly, as it will hold in the heat.
Top of Page
Summer Quotes
Quote:
"In summer we live out of doors, and have only impulses and feelings,
which are all for action, and must wait commonly for the stillness and longer
nights of autumn and winter before any thought will subside; we are sensible
that behind the rustling leaves, and the stacks of grain, and the bare clusters
of the grape, there is the field of a wholly new life, which no man has lived;
that even this earth was made for more mysterious and nobler inhabitants than
men and women. In the hues of October sunsets, we see the portals to other
mansions than those which we occupy."
Author: Thoreau, Henry David
Attribution: Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862), U.S.
philosopher, author, naturalist. A Week on the Concord and Merrimack Rivers
(1849), in The Writings of Henry David Thoreau, vol.
1, p. 403, Houghton Mifflin (1906).
"Summertime and the living is easy,
Fish are jumping, and the cotton is high."
Authors: Gershwin, Ira; Heyward, Du Bose
Attribution: Ira Gershwin (1896–1983), U.S.,
and Du Bose Heyward (1885–1940),
U.S. lyricist. Summertime
(song), Porgy and Bess (show, 1935).
The song was a hit for Billie Holiday in 1936. Music by George Gershwin.
Yahoo! Link: (81 summer quotes)
http://education.yahoo.com/reference/quotations/category/summer
Trails
The Fairfax Cross County Trail is the result of
an effort by volunteers and Fairfax County to create a single trail connecting
the entire county from one end to the other. It utilizes existing trails along
stream valleys with some connections along roads between valleys. Since it
ties together different trails and differing terrain users will find that
certain sections will not be appropriate for some uses. Also, a number of
future improvements are planned but budget constraints limit the number of
improvements that can be implemented in one year.
Fairfax County Trail Maps:
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/nmtc/maps.html
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/cct/
More Information & Interactive Maps & Pictures:
http://restonpaths.com/CCT/index.htm
Top of Page
Travel
Headed to the United States Plan wisely with travel guides, travel reviews,
maps and United States tourism hot-spots!
AOL Travel Link:
http://information.travel.aol.com/travel-guide/united-states
Washington Post Travel Link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/artsandliving/travel/
Local Traffic
Washington Post Traffic Link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/metro/traffic/index.html
Water Parks
·
Great
Waves at Cameron Run Alexandria, VA
http://www.nvrpa.org/cameron.html
·
Six
Flags Hurricane Harbor – Largo, MD
http://www.sixflags.com/america/index.aspx
·
Splash
Mountain Water Park – Ocean City, Md
http://www.jollyrogerpark.com/
·
Splash
Down Waterpark – Manassass, VA
http://www.splashdownwaterpark.com/index.html
·
Water
Country USA - Williamsburg, VA
http://www.watercountryusa.com/wc/default.aspx
·
Water
Mine Swimmin' Hole at Lake Fairfax Park
http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lakefront.htm
·
WaterWorks
at Paramount's
http://www1.cedarfair.com/kingsdominion/index.cfm
·
Chesapeake
Beach Water Park
Zoos & Museums & Landmarks
Zoos:
Link: http://nationalzoo.si.edu/
Link: http://www.fws.gov/blackwater/
Link: http://www.cwpzoo.com/
Link: http://www.buschgardens.com/bgw/aaa_jack_hanna_reserve.aspx
Link: http://www.leesburganimalpark.com/
Link: http://www.marylandzoo.org/
Link: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/southern/merkle.html
Link: http://www.nationalaquarium.com/
Link: http://www.aqua.org/
Link: http://www.restonzoo.com/
Museums:
Link: http://www.corcoran.org/
Link: http://hirshhorn.si.edu/
Link: http://www.spymuseum.org/
Link: http://www.nasm.si.edu/
Link: http://www.nga.gov/
Link: http://americanhistory.si.edu/
Link: http://www.nmai.si.edu/
Link: http://www.mnh.si.edu/
Link: http://www.nmwa.org/
Link: http://www.ushmm.org/
Landmarks:
Link: http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/fdrm/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/kwvm/home.htm
Link : http://www.nps.gov/linc/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/nwwm/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/thje/
Link: http://www.aoc.gov/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/vive/
Link: http://www.nps.gov/archive/wamo/monument/monument.htm
Link: http://www.whitehouse.gov/history/tours/