 
 
  
  
   
   
   
  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
   
   
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  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
   
   
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  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.
   
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  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
 
    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.
   
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  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
   
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  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/