Kids’ Subscription Boxes: Give An Experience Rather Than Stuff This Year

GUEST POST by Reston Resident Katie Vizenor I hate shopping. I try to avoid stores as much as possible. But, I love buying things and receiving interesting gifts. My solution to this problem has been to try subscription boxes. I’ve tried food, clothing, snack, smoothie, beauty and makeup supplies, crafts, men’s gifts, educational products, and…

December 8, 2015

Gift Guide: Recent Books by Reston-Area Authors for Everyone on Your List

Internet shopping might be the best thing to happen to gift-giving since Santa Claus, and it’s even easy to support local talent online. To help with your holiday shopping, we’ve assembled this list of books released in 2015 by Reston-area authors. So pull up your cozy blanket and glass of wine, check those gifts off your list, and make some local writers…

December 6, 2015

Reston Area Events in December 2015

Here are some local holiday highlights and other events happening this month in Reston, Herndon, and the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia. For our full holiday events calendar, refer to the 2015 Guide to Holiday Events in Reston, Northern Virginia, and DC. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2015 Black Nativity by Langston Hughes 8pm: CenterStage at the Reston…

November 30, 2015

‘Tis the Season for Creative Eggnog Cocktails (Plus, Bonus Dairy-Free Recipe!)

Poof! Just like that, fall is over and the winter holidays are upon us. We thought we’d kick off this joyful season with a new batch of cocktail recipes that are sure to be a hit at your next party. This year, we are focusing on eggnog — the deliciously creamy and decadent custard drink….

November 30, 2015

Some of Our Favorite Ideas for Thanksgiving Dinner

Thanksgiving is just days away, but don’t worry if you’re not sure what to serve yet. We’re here to help! Here are some of our favorite past articles about Thanksgiving dinner, with recommendations for turkey, vegetarian dishes, wine, and dessert. Eat up, and remember that you still have six weeks before you have to start that New Year’s…

November 23, 2015

Get to Know Local Children’s Author Daniel Boris, and His Endearing Dozi the Alligator

The author of one of my son’s favorite books, Dozi the Alligator Finds a Family, lives right here in Northern Virginia. My son has excellent taste, too; the book is a gorgeously illustrated story with charming rhyme and humor. The whole premise is funny — the book stars a young alligator who secretly hitches a ride in a kid’s stroller at…

November 18, 2015

The 2015 Guide to Holiday Events in Reston, Northern Virginia, and DC

NOTE: This events calendar is from 2015. The guide to 2016 holiday events can be found HERE. Ready or not, here come the holidays! Here are some of the greatest celebrations of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa in Reston and the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2015 Tysons Corner Center’s…

November 15, 2015

Photo Gallery: Reston’s Dazzling Fall Colors

Trees are part of Reston’s unique identity — unlike many suburbs, this area has preserved several of its mature trees. When you live in a city nestled within a forest, every season is beautiful. Autumn, however, is almost magical here in Reston. As we rake the last of this year’s foliage, let’s look back on…

November 12, 2015

Weightlifting & Mythbusting: An Out-of-Shape, Middle-Aged Mom Walks into CrossFit Reston

These days, there are a slew of specialized gyms and fitness studios to choose from. Some are familiar, like yoga and boxing, but some are shrouded in a veil of mystery and myths, like CrossFit. Last month we challenged ourselves at Pure Barre Reston. This month, I (Michelle) stepped out of my comfort zone and walked into…

November 3, 2015

Reston Events in November 2015

November kicks off the winter season in Reston! Highlights this month include the Reston Holiday Parade, the ice skating rink, and a new documentary movie about Reston. Here is your events calendar for November in the Reston area of Northern Virginia, including Great Falls and Herndon.

November 1, 2015

Fiber Artist Anne Smyers and Her Stunning Floral Landscape Quilts

During my interview with artist Anne Smyers in the Reston Community Center about her current exhibit there, she was frequently stopped by admirers of her work. “Are you the artist? Your work is extraordinary!” “There are no words, wow.” “My grandmother used to quilt, and I’d love to learn to make ones like yours.” “Your handwork is magnificent.” And…

October 27, 2015

Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery Celebrates Fall With Crisp, Dry Hard Apple Cider

Virginia is having a major brewery moment, but in the midst of all that something lighter and tarter (and gluten-free) has popped up in Middleburg, VA. Specializing in small-batch, craft hard ciders and spirits, Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery is in full-swing now that it’s apple season. Hard apple ciders can be hit or miss — too…

October 22, 2015