Tour and Tea at the Washington National Cathedral, DC

On September 29, 1907, foundation stone was laid for the Washington National Cathedral after President Theodore Roosevelt presented the ground breaking ceremony to a crowd of more than 20,000 people.  This cathedral was built to be a nation’s cathedral, a place where the nation could gather and unite for prayer and important national events.  It wasn’t until 83 years later that under President George Bush, the Cathedral would finally be “complete”, of course decorative elements of the structure are still added today!  It is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world, and the second-largest in the United States.  A grand place, indeed!

Formally The Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, the Washington Cathedral is its more commonly used name.  With a neogothic design, the Washington National Cathedral reaches high into the sky with its elongated, peaked towers, ornately carved archways, and hand carved pinnacles.  The neogothic design began in England in the 1740’s and grew to popularity by the early 19th century.  The romantic beauty of this style was intertwined with the rekindled love of  Medieval times, a time in which was then seen, as a Golden Age.  When industrialization throughout the big cities of the world progressed, people began to seek the lost beauty of a once romantic and story book time, neogothic architecture began blooming all over the world and then finally came to America as a sort of retreat from the machine made era the world was learning.

What is not surprising is that Pierre L’Enfant had a hand, not only in the building of our beloved Washington DC, but in 1792, had set aside land on which would some day be home to a “Grand Church of National Purposes”; that land now holds The National Portrait Gallery.  Instead, in 1893, the Protestant Episcopal Cathedral Foundation of the District of Columbia was granted money from congress to create the Cathedral.
The Washington Cathedral has seen many Presidents, both speaking to the public, or returning to God, it has seen two World Wars and recently an earthquake that shook it to its core.  Its walls are made not only of leaning stone that will withstand the test of time, but it also has the spirit of the American people to continue to heal itself for centuries to come!

If you are an out of town visitor or you have lived here all your life, a visit to the Washington Cathedral is always a lovely way to spend your afternoon!  Most people do not know about the Tour and Tea offered here, so I want to let you in on the secret!!!  Tour and Tea is held every Tuesday and Wednesday beginning at 1:30pm, by reservation only!  And you might make them a couple of weeks in advance because they fill up and sell out rather quickly!  You meet in the nave of the Cathedral and your tour guide will take you on an hour and fifteen minute tour highlighting aspects of the Cathedral one might miss on a self guided tour.  There are also special tours that focus on other aspects of the Cathedral and its history, but I took my Mother and I on the Cathedral Highlights Tour and Tea.  Our guide told us stories from the Cathedral’s past, showed us the burial tomb of President Woodrow Wilson, navigated the meaning behind some of the most beautiful stained glass windows I had ever seen, and introduced us to fine tapestries, eccentric wood carvings, golden paintings, colorful mosaics and meticulous rod iron work.

After walking the main level of the Cathedral, an afternoon tea was held at 2:45pm in the West Tower, seven levels above the main floor.  My Mother and I were seated next to two high, arched windows with quite a view!!!  Looking out while seated at our table for two, we looked upon The National Mall, you could see the Monument, Thomas Jefferson and Lincoln memorials and the Capital; you could also see the Potomac River, The Kennedy Center, and the cityscape of Roslyn, VA.

We sat at a small table dressed in floral linens, fine china and accompaniments like devonshire creams and jams.  We dined on Earl Grey loose leaf tea, made specifically for the Washington Cathedral and delicate, finger sandwiches, scones, and eclairs:) 

After our tea, I took my Mother on another tour, only we went below the main level, into the small, intimate chapels underneath the earth.  These chapels are adorned with beautiful mosaics, low lit lamps and fine paintings and they are not to be missed on your visit!

There are a few shops there as well to find a small souvenir to help capture the moment of your day, and in the spring there are beautiful gardens to venture through!  

Enjoy;)

Lunch and Rich History on Capitol Hill, DC

Spending the afternoon on Capitol Hill can be a wonderful experience!  First off, you’ll be spending your day amidst the flowers in one of the largest historic districts in the United States.  Capitol Hill is home to The United States Capitol, the Senate and House office buildings, the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, the Marine Barracks, the Washington Navy Yard and the Congressional Cemetery.  All this work on a daily basis needs play, and along many of the streets, namely Pennsylvania Ave., Eastern Market, and Barracks Row are plenty of shops to tickle your fancy and restaurants that boast everything from Classic American Bar and grill eats to French Bistro delights, Coffee house specialties, Sweet shop yummies and much, much more…  What will you find??? 

Becoming a community in 1799-1810, Capitol Hill endured huge developments, most notably the Capitol and the Washington Navy Yard, established on the banks of the Anacostia River.  Beginning as a boarding house community for the members of congress who did not wish to set up permanent residences in the city, it also quickly became home to the craftsmen who worked on both the Capitol construction and those who built and repaired ships at the Navy Yard.  

In 1801, President Thomas Jefferson picked the spot for the Marine Barracks which had to be close to The Capitol, the White House and the Navy Yard.  Nine fruitful years later, the area known as Capitol Hill was a bustling world of government work and commerce.  Goldsmiths, blacksmiths, churches, food and clothing shops, taverns and rowhomes lined the many streets of this growing neighborhood. 

The Civil war brought about more construction in this district, war meant the building of more homes and hospitals to care for the many wounded soldiers who came in and out of the area.  

Electricity, piped water and plumbing became available to residents here in the 1890’s, which meant even more of an escalation in the construction of new homes, many DC residents wanted to be where the modern conveniences of time were, and that neighborhood was Capitol Hill!

A dear friend of mine and I met up a few days ago in this neighborhood for an afternoon of lunch and shopping.  We started with a walk along the charming sidewalks, taking in not only the beautifully sunny day but also the beautifully colored rowhomes, fenced in gardens and tall, stone churches that lined the streets.  

Anna suggested we lunch at Bistro Cacao, a nearby french restaurant that my husband and I visited when it first opened two years ago for Valentine’s Day!  Two years later, this restaurant is still getting some of the best reviews in the city, the meals prepared here are delicious and the wine list offers, tastes, glasses, half carafes and bottles of wine, so that you can choose how much you’d like to drink, or you have the rare option of trying a few different things;)  We chose the Chicken Caesar Salad and the Grilled Salmon as our  entrees and shared a half carafe of the very hard to find, Sancerre, a vibrant wine of crisp, fruit and floral aromas and flavors.  Delicious, every bite, every sip!!!  The different dining rooms in this unique restaurant will also enchant you as much as the menu, each room is dressed in different fabrics, art and furniture adding a quirky, enchanting characteristic to your whole experience:)

After lunch, we walked over to Barracks Row for macaroons and some shopping!  The Sweet Lobby offers macaroons in every color of the rainbow, cupcakes, biscotti and specialty teas!  They make different macaroons everyday and we came on a great day!  Flavors like Lavender, Orange Creme, Raspberry  Pistachio, Red Hot Chili Chocolate and Hazelnut Praline Salted Caramel called to our taste buds!!!  

There are a few shops along Barracks Row that offer up quirky gifts, home decor, cooking items and accessories for men and women!  I found some beautiful floral tea napkins for my home and snatched them up right away!!!

On the weekends, enjoy time at the always enjoyable, Eastern Market!  Along these crowded streets you’ll find great places that serve brunch!!!  After you eat, step out into the hustle and bustle of the areas finest arts and craftsmen, deliciously fresh produce, fresh meats and cheeses, waffle and pretzel street vendors, and oh yes, my personal favorite, an entire area of antique selling in a nearby parking lot!!!  So grab a Hot Chocolate, and walk the different booths, you’ll find old books made into purses at Rebound Designs, you’ll find handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, handmade clocks, photography, different mediums of art, and home shelving adorned with images of America, Europe and quirky, vintage art at the Had Matter!!!

Eastern Market

Enjoy your time on the Hill!

Bethesda, Maryland

Ah, an afternoon or evening in Downtown Bethesda makes for a wonderful walk about, you can eat, shop, catch a movie and wine taste all within a few city blocks around Bethesda Ave.

Start your tour with lunch or dinner at any one of my personal favorites, lets pop into Assaggi first!  Meaning “Tasting”in Italian, this lovely restaurant boasts authentic Italian cuisine!  Chef and Owner Domenico Cornacchia, should know, a restaurant apprentice since he was 12 years old is only the start of his journey with his love of food.  Born in Central Italy and having traveled through Europe and parts of the United States, this Chef certainly knows his stuff, try it for yourself if you don’t believe me;)  Start with a mozzarella tasting of the finest cheeses from Italy, California and Virginia.  For your main course, try the Panino al Tacchino,  a sandwich to remember, roasted turkey, avocado and balsamic caramelized onions for lunch or the Orecchiette, orecchiette pasta with pumpkin, goat cheese and pine nuts for dinner are excellent choices!    Add a glass of wine and dessert to make your trip unforgettable!  Did I mention there is a Georgetown Cupcake right next door?!?!?  If you’re too full, take home a pack of these OUTRAGEOUSLY GOOD Cupcakes: Favorites include PB Chip, Lava Fudge and Coconut!!!

Pasta with cured duck and asparagus

Other restaurants I frequent are Vino Volo, Mon Ami Gabi, Jaleo, and Haven based on what I’m in the mood for;)

Vino Volo, a wine bar along Woodmont Ave. reminds me of a rustic, country inn with modern twist!  From the rod iron in the chairs to the distressed wooden tables, you’ll feel warm and cozy on the iciest of days!  What I love most about this place is the Wine Tasting Flights.  The menu offers up savory sandwiches, crisp salads, rustic pizzas and delightful desserts for lunch and the dinner options are even better, try the Pan-Seared Thyme Chicken!

Bright Flight

Mon Ami Gabi will transport you to the bustling streets of Paris!  You’ll be seated at a table dressed in white linens, greeted with a carafe of l’eau and a warm baguette, carts of French wine will be flying by, waiters balancing trays of Beef Bourguignon and Duck a la Orange will pass your table, all while listening to the chatter of tables near by, wine corks being popped, and the tune of french music dancing on the air!
Jaleo, a side of Spain you’ve never seen before will send your taste buds into a Flamenco club where ladies in twirling red dresses will stir up quiet a show on your tongue!  Some of my ALL TIME FAVORITES on this incredible menu include: the fried dates wrapped in bacon, the apple, fennel and manchego cheese salad dressed in sherry and walnuts, and the grilled lamb t-bones!!!  Oh the YUM!!!!
Haven, new home to this New Haven, Connecticut born Chef knows all there is to know about a great pizza pie!!!  Using old Italian bread ovens, fueled with coal, this place turns out the yummiest pizzas I’ve had since I was sitting in Pisa, Italy one summer with my adoring husband!!!  Our personal favorite is the Margarita pizza, dressed with a tantalizing tomato sauce, huge lumps of fresh mozzarella and sweet basil.  Wash it down with a glass of Chianti and you’ll be in Heaven….or Haven;)

After you’ve had your fill, venture out for some shopping or catch a movie!  Bethesda Row Cinema, featuring many independent films and Regal Cinemas are just a hop, skip and a jump away!

But if shopping is your forte, then feast your eyes, hearts and wallets on these beauties:

Mustard Seed, open since 1991 gives gals and guys modern trends as well as vintage threads in a one stop shop!  With their ever changing inventory you’re sure to never spot the same thing twice, so if you love it and can’t live without it, you might want to take it;)  I have bought everything from a gorgeous pair of Manolo Blahniks, to an 80’s club mini dress from here.  Selling new and gently used apparel, shoes and accessories,  you can also sell your own clothing here with an appointment and gain back some green!  The lovely ladies in this shop will introduce you to the new fashion trends coming straight out of NYC and help you pick out the perfect vintage purse to go with a prim and proper 1950’s party frock, enjoy!  I always do, thank you Gale:)

Bella Italia, owned and operated by those who cherish the beauty of the Italian landscape.  From enriching your meals at home with infused olive oils, tomato sauces, amazing pesto and cook books, to dressing your home and table with the finest Italian, hand painted ceramics this side of the globe and adorning your walls with Italian art and your body with handmade, Italian jewelry.  This place is wonderful at every turn!  You’ll also find scrumptious chocolates, accessories like purses and scarves and even wooden puppets at this lovely shop!  Saluti!!!

Be sure to stop into Francesca’s, for women’s clothing, accessories and small household gifts; Lululemon, for amazing athletic wear; Ten Thousand Villages, for one of a kind items from all over the world and its all FAIR TRADE; Paper Source, for unique gifts, stationary and other odds and ends; S&K Consignments for an Antiquers Paradise, Blue Mercury, for fine make-up, perfumes, and spa services; Fancy Cakes by Leslie, to take home macaroons in all the colors of the rainbow; Dolcezza, for gelato and coffee paradise; and Town Jewelers, for beautiful, handmade jewelry, the owner of this shop is a true artisan and has even fixed many of my antique pieces!!!  Best on the weekends is a visit to The Farm Women’s Co-Op Market, an outdoor bizarre of antiques, art and worldly treasures:)  Grab a coffee and Go!

Bethesda Lane

If you’re in the mood for fine art, I recommend a pop into Marin-Price Galleries, this gallery features beautiful paintings and heavy bronze sculptures, a walk through Downtown Bethesda should definitely include at least a window shop of this place!

Can you spot Me???

Waverly Street Gallery, on the northern part of Downtown Bethesda includes Paintings, sculptures and photography that will make you melt!  One of the finest exhibitions I’ve seen here, was recently with The Love of Nature, beautiful Chinese watercolors by artist Irene Tsai!  Check back regularly for changing exhibitions!

  

Have a wonderful day, or night!

Downtown Frederick, Maryland

Today I drove north, I followed I-270 through the suburbs of Rockville, Gaithersburg and Germantown.  I drove out past civilization until I came up over the last hill in the highway to get a glimpse of the valley that is Frederick, Maryland.  Once I came off the exit I headed toward Downtown, the historic district, which is always a hub of hustle and bustle!

Old Town Frederick is one of my all time favorite spots in the area:)  The downtown area is full of restaurants, trendy clothing, home decor and gift shops, antique stores, Italian markets, Sweet shops, Tea shops and the Serenity Tearoom.
This is a great area to visit alone or with friends and family, there is something for everyone’s interests!!!
Here is a typical Frederick day for me, and hopefully, you and yours will give it a try:)

Park in one of the many garages so you don’t have to worry about your meter running out, you don’t want to have to keep an eye on the time, you want to have fun!!!  Plus, the garages are very inexpensive:)
Start with lunch at my personal favorite, The Tasting Room.  This lovely, posh restaurant offers up some of the best eats in the city, and it can totally compete with the best restaurants in DC!!!  While here you can sit at a pub table by the window to enjoy lunch and people watch or you can cozy up at one of the many tables further inside the restaurant.  The lobster chowder here is exquisite, made with fresh main lobster, roasted corn and amontillado sherry, its rich so split one order among two people, believe me its plenty:)  The Power lunch, Salmon, Burger and Fried Chicken are some of my favorite entrees!!!  Pair any of these with wines from the amazing wine list and you’ll be set!  Another great option if you want to pair lunch with a wine tasting is The Wine Kitchen.  Set along the water, this great spot offers up local wine flights as well as great eats, try the fried green tomatoes and the Spicy BLT, Wowza!!!

The Tasting Room

Next, venture out for some shopping and dessert!!!  Must see spots include my personal favorite antique and gift shop Tiara Day, because everyday is a tiara day;)  At least that is Maria’s take on life, she is this beautiful shops owner and she and I share the same philosophy: glitz and glamour = a life worth living!  Inside this charming boutique you’ll be immersed in style and luxury!!!  You’ll visit the shops of Paris without leaving the country.  Maria has stocked everything from stunning, vintage clothing, hats and gloves, Italian mosaic, rhinestone and gemstone brooches to antique porcelain, vintage party favors, fine candles and soaps, Parisian cookies, and enough tiaras for every fabulous girl on you list!!!  When you’re in here, life is truly divine:)

Me at the Tiara Day Holiday Party, yes, they have one every year:)

Tiara Day If you’re looking for something a little more modern, drop into shoe and clothing paradise located inside the Velvet Lounge, stop here for amazing Anthropologie meets Urban Outfitters apparel and they carry TOMS and Steve Madden shoes.  This place carries everything from funky printed skinny jeans to pop t-shirts, handbags, and small accessories.  The ladies inside are always ready to lend a hand in the stylist department which makes this place even cooler;)

Velvet Lounge

After these two shops you’re probably ready for something sweet and savory:)  Pop into Zoe’s for truffles and chocolates, Oh My!!! My favorite, the Pistachio chocolate and their Dark Chocolate truffles!!!  YUM:)

A few doors down is Firestone’s Market on Market and this is where I do some of my specialty grocery shopping.  I never leave Frederick without their delicious lamb stew and/or other soups ready to prepare at home, a french baguette, a nice bottle of wine, and pastas, sauces and sausages!!!  

Now we’ll go on a little stroll, down to West Patrick Street and turn left, along this street you’ll find a little bit of everything, there are many antique shops, a comic book store, and many other clothing and gift stores, a highlight here is Venus on the Half Shell, where shop owner Jennifer brings vintage clothing, antique and super funky accessories and retro furniture into the 21st century!!!  This is another shop that is on my favorite list, inside I always swoon over something.  I’ve fallen in love with a 1960’s floral printed shift dress, a pair of luscious cowboy boots and a cashmere sweater that was as soft as a feather.

Venus on the Half Shell

Just across the street is the Emporium Antiques, an antique lovers dream come true!!!  Inside you will find booths and booths of China, Silverware, glassware, art, clothing and jewelry, furniture and other odds and ends.  Leave yourself at least 30 minutes to peruse the aisles and aisles of treasure after treasure:)

Over on East Street is a whole other section of Downtown Frederick that you won’t want to miss, more shops, more restaurants and even a train museum is sure to delight!  Family Meal is another dining choice if you’re looking for more of a vintage diner feel.  Built up inside an old 1960’s car dealership, this eatery has a gourmet twist, the founders of the ever popular, chic and pricey Volt, decided to go back to basics with this American Classic.  Feast on the deviled eggs for starters, move onto a cheese burger with bacon or an egg salad sandwich on toast paired with their scrumptious duck fat fries and try one of their delightful desserts, like a milkshake or cobbler.

And, ofcourse, no road trip of mine is complete without a stop at a local winery, so either on your way up to Frederick, or on your way back down, take EXIT 22 to Sugarloaf Mountain Winery, you’ll be in the shadow of Sugarloaf Mountain, surrounded by amazing countryside views and even better Maryland wine.  Do a tasting at the bar or grab a glass and relax; my favorite white- Chardonnay, my favorite red- Stomp!  The Comus Inn is right near here, so if you are hungry for dinner after you’re wine tasting this is also a great place to stop and dine….again!

The Comus Inn

  

Sugarloaf Mountain at Sunset

Have fun:)

Southern Virginia Part Two

Sorry for the delay in posting this week, my husband had to go back down to Lynchburg, VA and I once again, was able to join him:)  I was a little worried that I’d find myself with nothing to do since I saw so much last trip…but I was totally wrong!!!  There was PLENTY more to see and do, so here is Southern Virginia, Part Two;)

Day 1: Patrick Henry’s Red Hill and Appomattox Court House

“Give me Liberty, or give me Death!”  Does this quote ring any bells???  This is what Patrick Henry called out in opposition of The Stamp Act in 1765, and it gained him loads of fame.  American colonists along the Atlantic coast were being taxed on the paper they were required to use by the British Government to print everything from their legal documents to newspapers in Early America and many men, including Patrick Henry rose up against Britain to gain independence! Patrick Henry embodied the American Spirit, his courage and patriotism influenced the Revolution and helped secure our freedom.  Red Hill, named after the red soil that’s common on the property, was Patrick Henry’s favorite home.  He lived here during his retirement after serving five terms as the first governor of Virginia, at Red Hill, Patrick Henry was able to continue his private legal practice while spending time in the country with his family.  While I walked in and out of his house and walked along the paths of his property, I imagined Patrick sitting against the 300 year old orange tree that continues to grow and flourish in front of his home.  I imagined him playing his violin, and I could almost see his children and grandchildren dancing and playing around him.  Looking out onto the rolling hills behind his home I imagined horses, and acres and acres of farmland being worked.  I relished in the memory of it all and appreciated a man of immense courage, passion and pride.

On a total history kick, I drove east to Appomattox Court House, not to be confused by Appomattox Courthouse, which is the courthouse that sits in the center of the town called Appomattox Court House;)  This town marked the surrender of the South to the North, the first of many.  The McLean house marked the neutral location where Robert E. Lee, commander of the Northern Virginia Army, surrendered his men and arms to Ulysses S. Grant, general-in-Chief of all United States forces.  This surrender marked the end of the Southern states trying to remain a separate nation.  Walking the dirt roads of this town, rich in history, I forgot I was from the modern world.  Wearing my tall, black riding boots, I liked the clatter they made on the wooden floors and steps of the old homes, tavern and jail.  I imagined myself as a war time messenger riding swiftly through the countryside on my trusty steed to the town with important letters to be hand delivered to important men.  I saw myself dismount, tie up my horse and clatter up each front step into each building.

View of Town with Store and Courthouse

McLean House

Tavern

As there were many people touring the town with me, when I entered the old jail, I was sure others were already inside and upstairs, I could hear them walking around above me.  I took pictures below and then found the back staircase and began my journey upstairs to meet the others.  The jail cells were to the right and left of me at the top of the stairs and I could still hear the clatter of boots in the left cell and the crack and creak of the floor boards below their heavy footfalls so I decided to enter the jail cell on the right first.  When I was done, I walked across the hall to the other cell where all the noise was coming from and felt a strange electricity shoot through my body and spread out through each strand of hair.  When I entered the other cell, it took about 20 seconds for my brain to register that even though I could still hear the footfalls of boots and the crackling of the floorboards, that there were no other people in the cell….at least none that I could see, and after that final realization, the noise ceased to exist.  In conclusion my dear readers, I believe I experienced my first ghost at a historic sight!  The whole experience of it will haunt me for many years to come, needless to say, I didn’t get much sleep that night!        

The Jail

Day 2:  Dr. Cabell’s Point of Honor

Point of Honor, completed in 1815, was the home of Dr. Cabell, personal physician and friend to Patrick Henry and frequent correspondent to Thomas Jefferson, who lived nearby.  Here, Dr. Cabell and his family lived and worked, hosted friends and loved ones and entertained their neighbors and important officials.  This  

house enchanted me from the time I walked up the brick walkway towards it until I could see it from my rear view mirror.  One of my new favorite rooms in all of my historic home touring is the Cabell’s french parlor.  The walls are covered in french monument scene wallpaper and everything from the hand carved acorns that grace the mantel to the rich fabrics of the furniture made me smile.

Day 3:  Avoca Museum

Having heard on my last trip that I must drive south to visit an old Victorian, even though the museum would be closed, I said: What the Hell!  So I drove to the small town of Altavista.  After a cup of tea and lunch on Main Street I drove over to the old house.  To my happy surprise there were some men there working on the property that day and they offered me entrance onto the grounds to take pictures of the outside of the beautiful, blue house.  What awaited me on the front lawn, was yet another happy surprise, the Director of the Museum, who then proceeded to take me on a private tour, off hours, he even took my photo!!!  Yay:)

Originally the private residence of Colonel Charles Lynch, the brother of Lynchburg’s founder, John Lynch; Avoca was home to a very distinguished family.  Charles Lynch was a lawmaker and a solider during the American Revolution.  After the previous houses were lost to fire, this Queen Anne-style house was built in 1901.  The property stayed in the Lynch family for generations until 1981 when a grandson of the family donated the property to Altavista as a memorial to his family.  Every inch of this home was warm and welcoming, the floor plans were open and quirky, the many angles, and the tower so familiar to this style makes for some very interesting nooks inside:)

     

And nothing ends the afternoon better than Afternoon tea, so I enjoyed just that at The Ploughcroft Tearoom in Historic Lynchburg:)  This cozy tearoom is filled with English charm, you’ll be seated at an antique table and chair set that’s dressed in antique china, complete with fresh flowers and a small menu.  I enjoyed freshly baked scones with jam, devonshire cream and lemon curd and warmed up with a porcelain cup of typhoon English tea, it was a most pleasant experience!  I highly recommend it!

Be sure to check out these great spots for even better eats:  The Neighbor’s Place, the surf-n-turf here was excellent, Farm Basket, for lunch, this place is adorable, a vintage cottage feel with country furnishings and great views of nature, The Depot Grille, the filet mignon melted in my mouth and they have great wines!!!

Did I mention that Route 29 is peppered with winery stops and antique stores, so be sure to pit stop along the way:)  My Favorite: Pippin Hill Farm and Winery🙂

Safe and Happy Travels to you and yours!

Heading South, a trip to Lynchburg, VA.

Follow Route 29 for four hours south of DC and you will roll into the city of Lynchburg, Virginia.  Having just driven all that way one would think that you’d want to nestle in and nap for a while…..not I!!!

My husband occupied on business and I wanting to explore, I set out on a solo journey for the next three days, here is my story, it promises a very happy ending 😉

Itinerary:  See and experience as much as I can!

Day 1:  Natural Bridge, VA.  (54 minutes west of Lynchburg)
Native American legend has it that the Monacan Indians were fleeing from their enemies, the Shawnee and Powhattan Indian tribes.  Desperate for an end to their nightmare of a journey to escape the terror of being captured, the Monacans fell to their knees and prayed for escape!!!  Trapped at the edge of a huge canyon, the entire tribe prayed for a miracle and when the the tribe stood on their feet and looked out into the canyon once more, a great, stone bridge called to them!!!  Thankful and bewildered, they sent a few members of the tribe across to test the strength of the bridge, and when the bridge held their weight, the rest of the tribe quickly escaped to the other side.  “The Bridge of God” as the Monacans later called it, was their salvation, they held the bridge against their enemies and kept their freedom!!!

Formed by the collapse of a cavern which left only the standing arch, Natural Bridge is a natural wonder!  500 million years ago an ancient sea was home to thick deposits of carbonate which formed into heavy rock, and as the years passed the flow of water carved through the rock creating the cavern.  As a young man, George Washington surveyed here in 1750 while working for Lord Fairfax; and Thomas Jefferson was a frequent visitor, relishing in the serenity and privacy of the secluded area.

While here, I walked the same route through the woods as the Indians did, I saw George Washington’s initials carved in the side of the rock face under the bridge, I sat by Lace Falls and I walked out onto the rocks in the creek and skimmed my fingers along the soft, cold current of the water.  What a beautiful, peaceful place, and the drive to it was just as peaceful and just as mesmerizing.

Day 2: Smith Mountain Lake (1 hour and 35 minutes southwest of Lynchburg)
On a quest for antiques, wineries, and breathtaking views, a wonderful man in a small antique store pointed me toward Smith Mountain Lake!  And he was right on!!!  After a drive filled with KIND bars, plenty of SMARTWATER and GPS issues, I found it thanks to a mother on her way to pick her son up from school. Having been contemplating left or right on the side of the road, she stopped in her van to ask if I needed directions, and after a short talk she pointed me in the direction of her home and said if I went around back I’d find the view I was looking for…and she was right!!!  I parked the car, wandered up her wooden deck steps and found myself on her sprawling deck looking out onto the crystal waters of the lake.  Miles of shoreline stretched as far as the eye could see and the light danced off of every peak in the water, it was like diamonds.  I walked down to the shoreline and walked along the water which lapped rhythmically at my feet, it was wonderful!

Day 3: Poplar Forest (20 minutes southwest of Lynchburg)
Named for the beautiful poplar trees that grow around the property, Thomas Jefferson and his wife Martha inherited this 4,819 acre plantation from her father. Over the period of many years Poplar Forest was in the back of Thomas Jefferson’s mind.  He made plan after plan to enhance the property and the surrounding areas and constantly had people working on it.  Thanks to his love and passion for France, there were many aspects of Poplar Forest that had a french flair, like the sunken garden which graced the back of the property right off the house.

Thomas Jefferson, getting older, seeking peace from the never ending fame he’d acquired through his Presidency took refuge at Poplar Forest.  He spent many weeks and months at a time there, in the company of his granddaughters.  He found peace and happiness there, away from the hustle and bustle of Monticello.  Jefferson usually got up before dawn, went riding on his property, farmed the property, and took a long lunch.  He read books by Plato, Homer, and Shakespeare, as well as any other writers, wrote letters to business partners, family and friends, and worked on inventions like his polygraph.  He took dinner either alone, with his granddaughters or neighbors, enjoyed evening tea, and took conversations out onto the terra which was like a side veranda he built above the kitchen and servant quarters off the side of the house.  I would’ve loved to have had conversations with such a smart, inventive man over a porcelain tea cup filled with tea.  Every time I visit one of Jefferson’s homes, I feel as though I’m transported through time.  I can truly feel his grand presence, he lives on in every aspect of his properties, his vision lives on through our experience.

Staying in Historic Lynchburg, I was able to find my way back “home” every evening.  I say “home” because that is what my Husband and I call anywhere where we’re staying together.  I’m not sure how, but he tells me that anytime I am able to accompany him on a business trip I make the hotel room feel like home again:)
While in Historic Lynchburg we ate at The White Hart Cafe, Dish, and Robin Alexander, all of which had quirky, fun atmospheres, great menus and tasty food and drink. We highly recommend them!  And be sure to visit the Bedford Wine trail, many antique shops along the ride and enjoy the view….hey, its the Blue Ridge, stop and smell the country:)

Living Healthier and Happier makes life more Beautiful

I was inspired to write this posting because of the people in my lives who always strive to make themselves better!!!  I write this for all of you who inspire me, everyday, in different ways, and I want to share my tips and yours on how to make your life more Beautiful 🙂

To start, I am a firm believer in all things in life in moderation, in fact, if you know me well, you have heard me say this A LOT, and it’s probably driven you crazy:)  So I’m going to begin with food and drink in take, after all, we are what we eat!

My tips for a healthier you:

Natural is best!  Follow the Food Pyramid: Grains, Vegetables, Fruits, Milk, Meat and Beans!  Lots of Water!

NO- FAST FOOD!!!  It’s very Fatty, loaded with salt and many preservatives !!
NO-SODAS/ENERGY DRINKS!!!  They’re loaded with sugars and high fructose corn syrup and they’re addicting and awful for you!!  There are however natural sodas in the market that use cane sugar and natural flavors like: Boylan, Izze and Hansen’s!!  So if you must, just remember- Always in moderation!!!  You’ll save yourself years of cavities!!
NO-CANDY BARS/JUNK FOOD!!!  Their not doing anything good for you!!
NO-SNACKING AFTER 9PM!!!  You need to allow your body to digest and get ready for sleep!!  Save yourself the uncomfortable toss and turn!!

YES-SUPER FOODS!!!  Stock your fridge and cabinets with these guys, their GREAT for you and yours to stay strong and healthy!!!
> Green Super foods such as: Green Leafy Vegetables and Wheat Grass support healthy digestion, burn fat, heal the body, are packed with vitamins and minerals, contain protein and healthy bacteria, build better muscles and tissue and fight against disease!!  So Eat your Spinach, Kale, Lettuce and Broccoli Boys and Girls, you’ll thank us later:)
> Fruits and Nuts such as: Coconuts, Goji Berries and Raw Cacao, are rich in anti-oxidants!!  Coconuts are a great source for electrolytes, they clean the blood and boost your metabolism!!  Goji berries offer up vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and E!!
> Beautiful Bee’s give us: Honey!!  Raw Honey rich in bee pollen gives us the benefit of longer life!!
> Seaweed such as: Nori and Kelp contain 10X more calcium than a glass of milk and they purify the blood system:)  Anyone for sushi???
> Herbs such as: Ginseng and Aloe help to heal the body!!  Ginseng is good to calm the stress in our lives and it promotes regeneration in the body, so take when on the mend!!  And Aloe, Aloe Vera helps to heal burns, cuts, acne and eczema!!  Aloe juice helps with digestion and helps to prevent acidity in the body.

Don’t forget about your tried and true favorites when making out the rest of your grocery list: Sweet Peas, Green Beans, Brussels Sprouts, Strawberries, blueberries, apples, oranges, pears, grapes, Pistachios, walnuts, pecans, honey comb, Kombu seaweed, Cinnamon, Ginger, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme;)
And throw in a bunch of sweet potato, red skinned potato, butternut squash and pumpkin (when in season), onion, tomato, avocado, cage-free eggs (I prefer brown eggs), leafy lettuces, cucumbers, Greek yogurt with apricots or honey, multi-grain or honey or whole wheat breads, 2% milk (some fats are good for you), coconut spread or oil for cooking (great on jasmine rice), meats and fish (I love salmon), and cheeses like goat, mozzarella, brie, Stilton, sharp cheddar (look for Stilton with apricots or cranberries).

For Eating:

AM:  Try some Peanut butter that is natural versus anything made with lots of added sugar (this is great spread on toast to start the day), add an apple or banana, yogurt with granola and a small glass of o.j. and you should be good to go for a while!  Good coffee doesn’t need much in it, so try not to mask an awful cup of Joe with lots of milk and sugar, just buy better coffee:)  A touch of cream and sugar won’t hurt but it shouldn’t be 75% of your cup;)  Green tea is another way to get a touch of caffeine and not give you the 10am jitters.

MIDI:  For lunch, try to bring with you when possible, you’ll save money, time and pounds by not constantly eating at restaurants which use a lot of butter and salt when preparing our meals, and we wonder why eating out tastes so good….you can always go out….but keep it in moderation:)  Try making a leafy salad, add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, pine nuts, avocado, and grilled chicken, pair it with a small amount of healthy dressing on the side until you’re prepared to eat.  Another fruit or an Odwalla smoothie would compliment this and fill you up!  If you’re anything like me, at the end you’ll want chocolate  so go for a Dark Chocolate bar, you can find the nice ones at Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods, don’t eat the whole thing at once, a regular sized bar should last you 2-3 days.  Moderation is key!!

PM:  Dinner’s Ready!!!  Prepare some jasmine rice, and spoon in some coconut spread, it tastes amazing, saute or bake chicken or steak marinaded in soyaki or teriyaki sauce or try mixing together maple syrup, garlic powder and orange marmalade for an amazing way to glaze a piece of salmon.  Any of these options need a veggie, add steamed whole green beans or roasted brussel sprouts, flash boil for a minute or two, then roast in oven for about 10 min, can toss with olive oil, cracked fresh pepper, a pinch (literally) of salt and a dash of garlic powder for an awesome side dish.  A very small bowl of ice cream or small dessert is fine after your meal, there’s just no need to eat more than a child might need, limits people, limits!!

SNACKING: During the day you might need a pick me up, KIND bars are great, they are AMAZINGLY tasty and filling and so so good for you!!  You’ll find combos like blueberry pecan, apple cinnamon, pistachio and berry, etc.  I also LOVE “chips”, well at least the FOOD SHOULD TASTE GOOD chip/crackers or STACEY’S Pita chips, these “chips” come in a variety of YUMMIES, like Sweet Potato, Multi grain, Olive, etc.  Do try!!

Lifestyle Choices:

Get ACTIVE!!!  A body in motion stays in motion and a body at rest, stays at rest!!  I participate in yoga and rock climbing (indoor or outdoor) and I would highly recommend the two together, especially if you’re part of a couple.  These activities are great to do in teams, you have to rely on each other for support and balance so it gets you communicating!!  I also like to play tennis, swim, horseback ride, bike and shop…hey, that’s a cardio workout:)  Try to work out 2-4 times a week, this year I have vowed to be more active, and I know many of you have as well, so lets get on it and keep it going!!  Walks after the work day are nice too, get out, get some fresh air, breathe, its good to get at least 20 minutes of sun a day, but I believe one needs much, much more.  I myself thrive in sun and need to be outside A LOT!!!

Get the TV out of the bedroom!!!  This is a recipe for disaster!!  The bedroom should be a retreat for sleep, rest and intimacy, don’t let it become a place you fall asleep after midnight to late night TV!!  Read a book, I love my KINDLE, and I’ve read so much more now that I have it, get recommendations from friends, read up on some philosophy, history, art and travel to broaden your horizons:)  If you’re part of a couple, hold, talk, massage, stretch and play, it’s much funner:)

Get into Art, Wine Tasting, New Foods, One of a Kind Restaurants, Different Cultures, New Languages, Travel and anything else that opens your mind and gives you Happiness!!!  Visit new cities, historic sites, museums, art galleries, book stores, go to readings, support your local businesses, do charity work- even if its donating clothes and food, do something to help your community!!!  Talk to others, MAKE A PHONE CALL or write letters to friends and loved ones, it’s more personal and closes the gap in your relationships.
 
Get into SAVING!!!  Try to ease up on the spending, its a new year, the holidays broke the bank and we’re all looking forward to our tax refunds.  Let’s start putting money away, even a little goes a long way:)  Forget the minimum payments on your credit cards and always pay more than the minimum, you’ll get your debt cleaned up quicker with less interest!!!

Get into a HOBBY!!!  So many of my friends are involved in different activities such as: restoration whether it be their favorite antique piece or a hot rod, painting, drawing, writing, music, sculpture and blacksmithing…really, my friend Mike Edelman makes this his life’s work and he’s incredibly talented:)

Stage 1

Stage 2

“The Road” by Me 🙂

Here’s to Happiness, Health and Prosperity for all in this New Year and Beyond!!! 

           

 

Wine Tasting and Antiques Galore in Leesburg, VA.

How does this kind of day sound to you…in fact, there’s so much to do, you might just make a weekend of it!!!

You pick up your favorite person or people and take a drive about an hour northwest of DC.  Your listening to your favorite music and chatting lightly with your guests for the day.  With each passing mile the city melts away in the rear view mirror and in front of you starts to stretch further and further into countryside and mountain ranges.  You continue driving and your passing old, working farms and estates.  Before you know it everyone is telling you to look at something else and the view seems to stretch on forever.  Livestock graze, horses gallop, and the sun is high in the sky:)

Leesburg VA, once home to many American Indian tribes, most notably the Siouan Indians long before European settlement, was named after Thomas Lee in 1758, a largely influential political figure in Virginia beginning in the 1720’s-1750’s.  Driving down modern day Route 15, you can almost think back to a time when Indians rode horse back on this major north/south travel route.  They too, would have taken in the beautiful views of the Potomac River from high above on a hillside.   

Your first stop along scenic route 15 is LUNCH!  And what better way to pad your growling tummy before wine tasting than to enjoy a hearty meal at Tuskies!  Tuscarora Mill in Leesburg, VA. will fill you up with nicely sized portions of smoked or grilled duck breast, your choice of steak, hefty sandwiches and savory pastas and salads.  You won’t be let down!

After lunch, be sure to walk the streets of charming, Historic Leesburg, you’ll find wine and art shops as well as antique stores!!!

Once you’ve had your fill, your first stop heading towards Luckettsville will be Fabbioli Cellers, which is off a winding gravel road.  The chocolate tasting here is wonderful, specialty chocolates are hand made and hand picked to accompany the different wines you’ll try, and if your a fan of red wine, this is the place for you!  Chocolates made with Mexican spices to extra dark cocoa will enhance every sip of wine you taste!

When you’ve purchased your favorite bottle to take home and enjoy, you’ll pull back out on to scenic route 15 and after a few minutes, you’ll spot a pink silo up ahead and to the right on a hillside, beside the silo sits a painted barn filled with antiques, called On a Whim.  This shop is worth a stop!  Once you enter your hit with sparkle from all directions, inside you will find beautifully restored furniture, antique china, glassware, mercury glass, and a hidden side house full of antique party dresses of every color in the rainbow!!!  This is one of the great shops of the Potomac Wine Cluster:)

Further down the road you’ll enter the tiny town of Luckettsville.  You can’t help but hop out at an Antique shop you spotted on the side of the road called The Old Lucketts Store and starting from the drive way on up the steps, through the many levels of this historic home you find unique treasure after treasure to delight your every sense!  China, fabrics, vintage clothing, and old odds and ends capture you at every turn.  Once you’ve picked out something nice and your friends join you at the check-out its time to pile back in the car and hit the next spot!

Just down the street you’ll find three more wineries!!!  Hidden Brook, Lost Creek and Tarara Winery!  Be sure to stop into each one of these gems!  Hidden Brook and Lost Creek are right next to each other, specializing in all types of wine, at both of these wineries you’ll taste whites, reds and sweet wines.  The names are similar huh, that might have something to do with the fact that their somewhat related:)  Lost Creek and Hidden Brook are family owned and operated wineries, and the grapes never fall far from the tree:)  But both wineries seek out different tastes, so stop by each and be dazzled by the variety!

Tarara Winery sits alone, hidden down a long driveway, perched on a hillside.  One of the best views in Leesburg is from the porch of this beautiful tasting room.  When you look out off the balcony you’ll see the river below and sugarloaf mountain in the distance.  Specializing in single vineyard blends you’ll taste the many levels of flavor in these Virginia wines, showcasing whites, reds and sweets, you’ll enjoy them all.

 I recommend grabbing a wine trail map at any of these wineries and following the signs to the many other local wineries.  Oatlands Plantation is another must see, especially if you’ve decided to make this a weekend trip.  Oatlands, built in 1804 by George Carter, is a beautiful, federal style mansion painted in a sun yellow nestled in acres upon acres of farmland.  Once a working farm, complete with sheep, wheat fields and vineyards, today, Oatlands offers up a wonderful tour, afternoon tea and many special events throughout the year, so be sure to check their site before you make the journey:)

Whatever you decide to do, have fun, take photos and just be with the person, or people you’re with, make the most of every moment, these moments are your life!

Enjoy:)  

The National Christmas Tree and DC

A month long, yearly holiday tradition started in 1923, a visit to the National Christmas Tree is a must for those that live near or far.  Journalist, Editor and Engineer, Frederick Morris Feiker had the idea to decorate and light the first National Christmas tree.  Being a press aide for the United States Secretary of Commerce, under Calvin Coolidge’s presidency, Feiker collaborated with The Society of Electrical Development.  They’re main goal was to get Americans to use more electricity, and what better way than to show the city and the nation a beautifully lit Christmas tree, standing near the most prestigious family home in America, known as The White House!  Result:  Everyone will want their own Christmas tree and BOOM!!!  Electricity will really take off:)

The first National Christmas tree was a Balsam Fur which stood at 48 feet in height.  It was donated after collaboration between Feiker and the president of the Middlebury College in Vermont.  As soon as the tree was delivered to DC, Feiker got to work!!!  He assembled local civic groups to assemble and decorate the tree and the United States Electrical Industry donated $5,000 in lights and cables to illuminate it!

At dusk, on Christmas Eve, 1923, President Coolidge lit the Christmas tree around 6,000 citizens.  NBC broadcast the event details over the radio so that others across the nation could join in the fun.  Choirs of local school children sang Christmas carols in front of the tree and The United States Marine Corps Band played music.  The whole event struck a chord so deep in the American people that year after year the peace, love and joy people feel around the tree and their loved ones makes our holidays merry and bright:)

Over the years changes were made, live trees have been planted, menorahs have been lit, nativities assembled, Santa even has a small workshop there where children off all ages can whisper their Christmas wishes into his ear and take their photo with Ole Saint Nick;)  One of my favorite additions are all the smaller surrounding trees you’ll find around the National Christmas tree, it is called the Pathway to Peace, which is a wonderful representation of the US States, DC and unincorporated territories of the United States of America.  Find the state tree where you’re from, or where your loved ones live and take pictures, you are guaranteed to feel warm and fuzzy inside despite the frosty weather:)

If DC is a trip for you, make a day of it!!!  There is plenty to see and do, just remember to eat, drink, rest and bundle up, because it’s cold outside!!!

Favorites on my list:  The National Gallery of Art, visit not only the beautiful works of art inside, but take time to ice skate on a circular rink outside in the sculpture garden with friends and loved ones; The Freer and Sackler Galleries, home to the wonders of Asian art,  The Hirshorn, a contemporary art fans dream come true and the Botanical Garden, which is a Holiday wonderland this time of year.  Not only can you visit lush jungles and dry deserts, but the lobby inside is decorated with poinsettias and miniatures of the surrounding DC monuments and memorials, its all absolutely free, so stop on in for a visit!!!

Places to Eat, drink and be merry:  Old Ebbitt Grill, Elephant and Castle, Lincoln, Cafe Soleil,  which are all within walking distance or short cab rides from the National Mall:)

Enjoy!!!
Tres American:)

A Day in Hume, Virginia

Founded in 1848 as Barbee’s Crossroads, Hume Virginia was later named after the Hume Family who lived there.  Home to commerce, blacksmithing, farming, cattle moving and wine making, Hume takes you back to the past, to a simpler time.  Prepare for a long drive from the city, prepare for long winding roads through miles of open country side and farmland, prepare for smiling a lot;)

Living in the fast paced city, in a suburb just outside D.C., one has to find escape to the country whenever they can;)  After all, I grew up in the country!  So I try to get back a few times a month, it keeps me happy and grounded:)

One fine day I decided to take my little sister out to Hume Virginia, to the Marriott Ranch.  Yes, Marriott has a ranch, where city slickers can go relax in the country and move cattle across the land.  They also specialize in scenic horseback riding tours.  Our day started with meeting Cowboy and Bunny, our horses for the afternoon, then we simply saddled up and went on our way:)  Our guide took us on a lovely tour, we rode our horses through open cattle filled countryside, through the woods, we crossed many creeks and traveled up and down through the mountains.  As we rode, we learned how to control the horses, we took photos and we enjoyed the singing of various birds, we even heard the far off tapping of a wood pecker in the distance.  The sun shone down on us through the naked branches of the trees in the woods and we enjoyed every moment of the splendid ride:)

After our ride, my sister and I went to nearby Aspen Dale Winery at the Farm.  Aspen Dale Winery is one of the most beautiful wineries I’ve visited.  The tasting room was built near the road and behind it sits acres of rolling hills.  Horses and ponies grace the landscape and an old barn sits beyond a fenced in area where you can sit by a fountain and enjoy your wine and the view:)

Hume Vineyards, Philip Carter Winery of Virginia, Desert Rose Ranch and Winery, Barrel Oak Winery and Three Foxes Vineyards are just a few of the other wineries around Route 66 heading back towards the city. If you wish to dine before or after your horseback ride or winery visit, The Plains, Virginia is home to a great restaurant called The Rail Stop and there some great shops offering up wine, gourmet foods and antiques as well.  The Rail Stop will fill you up with its ever changing menu, some highlights include their:  Pan Seared Soy Glazed Atlantic Salmon, House made Raviolis and Pumpkin and Pecan Waffles:)  Yummm!!!!

The Country, have I mentioned I love it out there;)

Le Bon Vin!!!