Fredericksburg, Virginia

We spent a great ten days in Virginia and now, after 3 cars, 2 planes, 3 airports, countless bathrooms, and 18 hours, we are finally home. The older I get the more I appreciate the history surrounding the town I grew up in. Fredericksburg is replete with Civil War-era buildings and battlefields. We, of course, had to drag the kids downtown to walk around.


Even though it was hot and humid.


A slave auction block still stands on the corner of Charles Street and William Street.




And since it is a tourist town souvenirs usually have a Civil War theme.


I noticed that Carl's is now on the historic register. It really should be a national landmark - the best ice cream in the world.


Here Quinn has found some purses. On one of our trips into a craft/bazaar store she found a room full of purses and spend a good 15 minutes trying every one of them on.


One day we had lunch at Five Guys - our first time there. Delicious.


I also went to my 20-year high school reunion. It was interesting to see how people have changed. Some were friendlier, some had come out of their shells (although the open bar could have factored in), some had changed very little, and some were more of what they used to be. I found that the people I really liked and respected in high school I still like and respect and those that I was unimpressed by 20 years ago, I am still unimpressed by. I don't know if that says something about me or about them. There were a handful of people I was really glad to see and visit with and they made it worth going. And Chris was a good sport to come with me and spend 4 hours watching me catch up with old friends - thanks, C!


Coming up next...our trip to Virginia Beach. (I know you can't wait.)

A Day at the Museum

Publish Post

Yesterday we took the train into DC and spent the day in the city. Here are a few favorite pictures from the day.

Honestly, we had a great day.

Deschutes County Fair

We spent the day at the fair yesterday. Please ignore the previous post as it was all worthwhile. See their happy faces:

Lauren received a blue ribbon for her Ada art! And so did Sam for his oil pastel drawing of a lighthouse. The reflection in the water is pretty cool, but you can't see it in this photo.


The fire department had relay races and gave out prizes. Even Jonas participated.

Quinn and Jonas both did some mutton bustin' (riding sheep for you city folk). Jonas fell off before I could even snap a picture, but Quinn got a pretty good ride.



Then the pony rides....


Sam was in heaven when he found out there was a juggler/entertainer performing. During the afternoon the juggler was teaching kids how to juggle. He was getting pretty good and I caught some on video.





What would the fair be like without the carnival rides? Or the funnel cakes? (that I forgot to take a picture of)





I don't remember ever going to a county fair when I was a kid, but this is an Earnest family tradition that I intend to continue with our own kids. I draw the line at raising pigs, though.