I spent July 4th with Jeannie, Harry, and Dr. E. in southeast England in a town called Dover, located on the English Channel. Yes, it is the city most famous for its white cliffs. When we first arrived we explored the grounds of Dover Castle, which has a fascinating historical timeline dating back to the first century. Because of its strategic placement in relation to France, which is only 21 miles across the channel, Dover Castle was the frontline of Britain's war in Europe. 
Names such as Napolean, Kind Henry II, and Admiral Ramsey have all walked this ground. We toured the secret war tunnels that housed thousands of troups during WWI and WWII. As I am not particularly a history buff, I cannot believe how interested I was in the information we learned throughout the tour. We heard sound affects and saw actual artifacts from war times. I have a much better (though certainly not complete) understanding of what the men went through during their tours of duty in this underground world.
We next did what everyone comes here to do....walked the cliffs of Dover. We walked along paths covered with flowers, bees, and butterflies, all the while overlooking the English Channel. It was gorgeous! The cliffs are white because they are made of chalk. (Yes, I'm bringing some back with me.) I can't wait to see the cliffs from the viewpoint of France, which should be even more spectacular. 
When we had first arrived, there was a sea fog rolling in and we could see only a short distance out into the channel. By midday the fog had lifted and we could see all the way to France! To our surprise, we could see that we were perched right above the Port of Dover. Three large ships were docked and more were coming and going. It was crazy to see it in such a pristine setting. We celebrated July 4th by eating dinner at KFC. It was the most American restaurant we saw at that moment. Off to the bus to catch the train to head back home. I am thrilled we went to Dover.
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