What We Said Before The Fireworks

Actor Bill Barker reads the entire Declaration of Independence in full, as Thomas Jefferson — the man who drafted its boldest words, yet failed to live them.

This 10-minute video blends voice performance with period art, bringing to life the fiery letter that broke the colonies from Britain.

It’s a powerful piece of writing. As for the writer? Let’s just say history is more complicated than fireworks make it seem.

📜 Full Text: National Archives

Happy 20th!

Twenty years ago, a few of us wandered off the digital trail and decided to build something quieter, slower, and a little more thoughtful.

We didn’t know what we were doing—so naturally, it worked.

Since 2005, Trail Mix has been a campfire for the curious. We’ve argued, laughed, cooked, cried, herded metaphorical (and actual) cats, and weathered a few storms—online and off.

What we didn’t do is sell ads, chase clicks, or let trolls in the door. That’s no small feat. That’s damn near a miracle.

So here’s to twenty years of unlikely community. Of deep threads and deeper friendships. Of homemade recipes, political philosophy, gardening tips, and occasional gossip about soup.

We’re still here. Still weird. Still mixing.

Happy 20th, Trail Mix.

And thank you, each of you, for being the reason we’re not just another forgotten forum in the attic of the internet.

Now somebody pass the potato salad and start a new thread about it.