Americana

Happy 4th of July everyone! I hope you have some fun and celebrations to look forward to as the day goes on. Around here it will be quiet for Chet and me. Last night he had his first experience with fireworks and was a bit uneasy. I'm trying to help him be nonchalant about the whole snap, crackle and pop thing. Today we'll just hang out and hide from the oppressive heat that has us--along with most of the country--in its grip.

This week I've been thinking about what makes a good July 4 celebration and keep coming back to one place, historic Locust Grove just about 10 minutes from downtown Louisville. Locust Grove is the 17th century home and farm of the Lewis and Clark family. Today they're having an old-fashioned celebration

with family picnic on the grounds, children's activities, arts and crafts. Could almost guarantee that there'll be no fireworks set off here. You may, however, be able to see some from the Ohio River show on the downtown waterfront.

I won't be out there today but do go several times a year to photograph their beautiful grounds and look for pieces of Americana at their antiques and arts shows. Here's a few favorites:



A couple of views of the Locust Grove home through the garden:

This old outbuilding may have been a summer kitchen:

This wonderful split rail fence surrounds the farm:

You'll always be guaranteed to meet some cute dogs enjoying the antique show with their Servants:

And then here's some art pieces that say Americana to me:

So, Happy Independence Day, Friends! Stay cool if you can or just have fun in any way that makes getting out in the heat worthwhile. Blog friend Betsy over at Joyful Reflections asked what's on the 4th menu at our houses. Betsy, here it's going to be local white half runner beans with new potatoes and corn. More importantly, dessert will be Graeter's peach ice cream(limited to July)and fresh peaches. Num!Num!

Since I won't be blogging much for the rest of this week--except to catch up on some commenting--will make this post my entry for Friday Fences. Stop by Janis' place on Friday for the full list of players: Life According to Jan and Jer .