Holly's Blog

A Great Outing for Redskins Fans!

2008-07-25T13:02:32Z

If you spend any amount of time in the Washington DC Metro area (which includes Northern Virginia and parts of Maryland) , you will notice that the Redskins are almost a religion to the folks who live here.

For those of you who love the red and gold, tomorrow is fan appreciation day at Redskins Park in Ashburn, Virginia.

Located off Loudoun Country Parkway in Ashburn, Redskins Park will open to fans from 12:15 p.m. to 3:45 pm, tomorrow, Saturday July 26th, 2008. Festivities will include the Redskins band playing the Redskins Fight Song, the cheerleaders, a team scrimmage and an address by the new Redskins head coach, Jim Zorn.

Go to the Redskin's website, www.redskins.com and print an invitation for free parking and admission. The park is located at 21300 Redskins Park Dr., Ashburn...just follow the cars!

Hail to the Redskins!

By the way, I will be sending out my Redskins Schedule Magnet next week if you are on my mailing distribution list. If you would like to be added, please send me your name and home address and I will send out a magnet to you, hollyweatherwax@mris.com.

Another Delightful Evening at Wolf Trap!

2008-07-17T10:56:08Z

For anyone lucky enough to live in Northern Virginia and within a reasonable distance of the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, please make it a priority to pick a concert or a show to attend this summer and GO!

We went to see Earth, Wind & Fire last night with some good friends. The show was spectacular, the park was beautiful and the location cannot be beat if you live in Northern Virginia--or even metropolitan Maryland or DC!

Many concert-goers opt to purchase the more affordable lawn tickets and have a picnic while enjoying the music. If you go this route, be sure to get there early; the lawn fills quickly and can be quite crowded. Low beach chairs are allowed, as are blankets, coolers and picnic baskets.

If you prefer to sit in a seat and have reserved seating, buy your tickets early. Some people do both--arrive early and picnic and then move inside for the concert. Just remember that coolers and picnic baskets are not allowed into the reserved seating area.

We had our dinner at home and arrived at Wolftrap in time for a drink before the concert.

Dress is casual since you will have to walk from your car. The park provides transportation from the far parking lots, but there is often a line. If you are sitting on the lawn, women should stick with pants or shorts since the lawn is on a hill and it is very hard to sit gracefully.

If you would like more information about upcoming concerts, go to: http://www.wolftrap.org/

The Reston Festival is this Weekend!

2008-07-09T19:05:40Z

Back when I was a kid, the Reston Festival was the highlight of my summer. I vaguely remember Lake Anne festivals, but really it really sticks in my mind when it was at Browns Chapel.

These days you will find it at Reston Town Center, but the spirit of the festival remains true to the original goals--bring Restonians together to celebrate the culture and people of Reston.

The Festival is being held this weekend, Saturday July 12, 2008, 10 am to 10 pm and Sunday, July 13, 2008 , 10 am to 7 pm. You can get more information about the festival at: http://restonfestival.com/

Un-Leash Your Inner Super Hero

2008-07-05T14:29:23Z

We live in a crazy-busy, topsy-turvy world. It is very easy to get caught up in our own angst, problems and jam-packed schedules.

In the summertime, the Movie studios usually release their Super Hero movies. Sitting in the theater with my children the other day, watching Kung Fu Panda (it is a stretch to call it a 'super hero' move, I realize), I got to thinking about the fact that each one of us has so much to give to our communities.

Some folks have money, some folks have talent, but all of us have the the ability to work hard for the 'greater good.'

With the school year fast approaching (can you believe it?) there are many opportunities to make a real difference in the life of a child in your community. Maybe this is the year that you can find the time to do some mentoring. How about some coaching with the local football, soccer or cheerleading squads? Maybe your time is all accounted for, but when you next go to a local store, why don't you pick up a backpack and fill it with school supplies? Even at our local elementary school, with a very high socioeconomic student body, the principal keeps a supply of these backpacks just 'in case.'

There are many local charities that could use your time and financing. If you look around your community, and look inward to see what is important to YOU, you will be able to find a way to become a Super Hero in your community!

More information on becoming a Super Hero in the Reston/Herndon/Great Falls Area:
In the Reston/Herndon/Great Falls area, a really good place to start is Reston Interfaith (www.restoninterfaith.org). As stated on their website, ' Reston Interfaith promotes self-sufficiency through support and advocacy for those in need of food, shelter, affordable housing, quality childcare, and other services.'
Reston Interfaith also collects supplies for the Embry Rucker Community Shelter, which is run by Fairfax Country. On the Reston Interfaith website, you will see a link for supplies that the shelter needs.

In Herndon is The Closet. This store provides a greatly needed resource for families on a tight budget. They are always in need of volunteers and donations. You can get more information about what they need at: theclosetinc.org/

Collections of new, unused backpacks are currently going on. I know that there are boxes at the Lake Anne Reston Community Center and the StarBucks next to Barnes and Noble. I am sure there are many other locations in the area, just keep your eyes open.

Preparing Your House For Sale (The Getting Your House Ready Series)

2008-07-05T12:01:18Z

I have been doing a series of blogs about preparing your home for sale. I thought it might be helpful to put all of the links in one place.

If you have a question about getting your house ready, and I have not addressed it in one of my blogs, please let me know and I would be happy to let you know how I handle it with my sellers.

Help! I have been in my house Forever (http://activerain.com/blogsview/559358/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
What to do with an Empty Room (http://activerain.com/blogsview/554693/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
Deal with the Paint Cans! (http://activerain.com/blogsview/542140/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
Plants and Shrubs by the Front Door (http://activerain.com/blogsview/528517/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
What is that Smell? (http://activerain.com/blogsview/520436/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
Handicapping Your Home Sale (http://activerain.com/blogsview/517086/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
Setting Your Sales Price (http://activerain.com/blogsview/511618/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
The Surprising Thing I Tell My Sellers (http://activerain.com/blogsview/511618/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
The Front Door Matters (http://activerain.com/blogsview/477703/Getting-Your-House-Ready)
The Condition Matters (http://activerain.com/blogsview/462153/Getting-Your-Home-Ready)

I hope that you find this series of articles helpful in preparing your house for sale. Check back at my blog in the future (www.activerain.com/hollyweatherwax) , as I am planning to continue writing articles in this series.

'New' Restaurant Opens at Reston Towncenter

2008-07-05T10:13:34Z

The new and improved American Tap Room (http://www.americantaproom.com/about.html) opened this week at Reston Towncenter. Located next to Rio Grande and within steps of the movie theater, this reincarnation is worth checking out.

Always known as a great evening bar, the restaurant has been physically redesigned and the menu has been completely reworked. Like many restaurants, the ATR can offer you either indoor or outdoor seating.

Because my daughter is on the staff (yes, this is a little self-serving), we were lucky to be included in the weekend 'test run' they did last weekend.

The food was great (I had the lobster, my husband and son had hamburgers and my daughter had steak salad). We started the meal with an order of pan roasted mussels(which were great) and the Spinach & Artichoke Fondue. We all enjoyed our meals completely.

The wine, in particular, was very expensive by the glass, but we did make a point to the manager that this is a location where people will stop for a quick glass of wine or a beer before the movies, and if it is too expensive, they will not return. The menu posted on line is still showing Chardonnay by the glass at $14.95 or $16.95. I hope that they are making a change to that pricing.

Seating at Reston Towncenter restaurants is always competitive. American Tap Room is a great option...until it is discovered! Parking is available at either of the two parking garages located on Library Street.

Have You Heard About the Dismal Swamp Fire?

2008-07-02T17:34:00Z

Driving down to North Carolina last weekend, we started passing signs that warned of dangerous ozone levels. Okay, it was over 90 degrees--that happens sometimes.

We got to a certain point in North Carolina, however, where the smell of smoke was really strong. We switched from satellite radio to local stations to see if we could find out what was burning. Nothing.

Finally, we arrived in the Outerbanks, unpacked the car and computer and I googled it. I had no idea that there was a fire going on in the Dismal Swamp, in both Virginia and North Carolina that had burned over 4000 acres!

In the morning, we can smell it here in the Outer Banks. It usually blows out by lunch time.

I guess I am just really surprised at how little coverage it has gotten outside of the immediate area. I am a self-reported news 'junkie' and if it was reported at home, I would have heard it.

Here is a link to the story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25153642/

July 4th Fireworks in Northern Virginia

2008-07-02T07:13:36Z

It is that time of year again...time to get out to local parks and high schools in Northern Virginia (and the rest of the country) and celebrate our freedom by watching fireworks.

Below is a list of places that will be holding these July 4th celebrations:

Lake Fairfax Park, Reston: 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston, VA. Fireworks begin around 9:15.
Herndon Community Center: 814 Ferndale Avenue, Herndon,VA. Fireworks begin around 9:30
Fairfax High School, Fairfax City: , Fireworks begin at dark.
Langley High School,McLean,VA: 6520 Georgetown Pike, McLen,VA. Fireworks begin at dark.
George Mason High School, Falls Church,VA: 7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church,VA. Live Music begins at 7:00 pm, Fireworks at 9:30
Ida Lee Park, Leesburg,VA: Route 15, Gates open at 6:00, Fireworks at 9:30.
Manassas Park, Manassas,VA: 9300 Signal Drive,Enjoy live music, children's activities, food and fireworks. 6-9:30 p.m. Limited parking.

Celebrate the birth of our country at George Washington's home, Mount Vernon:Independence Day at Mount Vernon - Red, White and Blue Celebration. July 4th 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For More information, follow this link: http://dc.about.com/od/hoildaysseasonalevents/a/July4thatMV.htm

Have a happy and safe July 4th Holiday!

A Different Type of Incentive...

2008-06-30T16:37:25Z

With the down turn in the real estate market, it is not unusual to see sellers offering up 'incentives' if you buy their house. Some that I have seen: a Porsche, a Mercedes, a Country Club membership, a pool/tennis club membership and the most common one, an offer to buy down the interest rate on your loan.

Today I saw the strangest of all on MSN. After a year of trying to sell her house in Florida, one owner has offered the house at $340,000 or for another $500,000 you get the owner, a single mother, too! The link to the story is: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25416138/?GT1=43001. Not surprisingly, ebay took the ad down since it is illegal to sell people. The homeowner is in the process of rewording the ad so that it will remain posted. Oh, I forgot to say that she is a licensed Realtor (although the article made it sound like she is either inactive or a referral agent).

I hope that you found this as entertaining as I did! Good luck to her--if this is what she really wants!

Ardently Greening Northern Virginia

2008-06-27T15:20:30Z

Today, two local Northern Virginia papers came out with articles about 'green' remodeling companies which both featured my husband's company, Ardently Green! My husband, Bob Weatherwax, along with his partners started this company in response to many homeowner requests to help them make their homes more energy efficient. Their primary company, Ardent Homes, does home remodeling in the Northern Virginia area.

The first article was published in the Washington Business Journal and was written by Vandana Sinha. The link to the article is:

http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2008/06/30/story18.html

The other article appeared in the Washington Examiner and was written by Whitney Blake. the link to this article is:

http://www.examiner.com/printa-1461691~Greening_a_home_with_an_energy_audit.html

I am so proud of him and the efforts of his company, Ardently Green!!! The company website is:

www.ardentlygreen.com.

P.S. Does anybody have any idea how to get a copy of the Washington Examiner? We don't get it at our house and I went to at least three places (2 groceries and a book store) with no luck!

Leesburg Canine Country Club

2008-06-25T15:42:51Z

Thanks to Lauren Shifflet, Owner of Leesburg Canine Country Club, for getting in touch with me about my recent Reston Blog, http://activerain.com/blogsview/560718/What-are-my-Favorite. Lauren commented that she had many great memories of living in Reston.

She also mentioned that she left Reston, fairly recently, to start a new venture, The Leesburg Canine Country Club. I am always happy to pass on information about different recreational activities in the area. TLCCC is an off-leash social club that meets at Falcon Ridge Recreation Center. This one sounds like great entertainment for both you and your 4-pawed pals!

You can check out their website at: www.LeesburgCanineCountryClub.com.

TLCCC will be holding their big annual event on October 4, The Canine Country Jamboree. You can get more information about this event at http://doggonenatural.com/jamboree2008/.

I have not had the chance to visit TLCCC personally, but I hope to in the near future. I wish Lauren the best of luck with her new adventure!

What are my Favorite Things About Living in Reston, Virginia? What are Yours?

2008-06-23T09:19:46Z

I am a life-long resident of Reston and would not change it for the world. What is it that makes Reston so special? I have assembled a list below of some of the things that come to mind. I know that I did not cover everything, but I gave it a shot.

My friends and neighbors: We actually know all of our neighbors and celebrate life's events with them. My oldest told me she won't have a party if we go out of town because at least 6 nearby neighbors would call us on our cell phones! They help us celebrate birthdays, religious occasions, graduations and just day-to-day victories! We cover for each other if we can't make the bus and will band together to make dinner for a friend who is under the weather.
Convenience: I can walk to several local stores and in a 10 minute drive be at Tysons Corner. D.C. is about 20 minutes away. I feel like you can't get more centrally located than this!
Great Schools: Our kids have gone to both Public and Private schools in the area and have had great experiences.
Great parks and recreation: Reston Association Pools and Tennis Courts, Reston Bike Trails, Great Falls Park, Lake Fairfax Park, Baron Cameron Dog Park and so many more! Don't forget all of the events on the National Mall Downtown!
The Path system: The couple of times we thought of moving from Reston, one of the things that we always talked about was how much we would miss the exceptional path system. Kudos Reston--It is great!
The Small Town feel: Everyone knows everyone else...I can't tell you how many friends and neighbors we met when our kids were in preschool at Lake Anne Nursery Kindergarten (L.A.N.K.)! One day last school year my girls stopped at Starbucks on the way home from school--by the time they got home, I knew they had been there. It is a great thing if you are a parent to have so many folks looking out for your kids!
The 'Villages' Each one has a different feel: Lake Anne (where I grew up), Hunters Woods, North Point. Within each of these villages are other areas, too: Tall Oaks, South Lakes and more.
The History: It is pretty cool to see Robert E. Simon (the founder of Reston) around town. There is a great little Reston Museum located at Lake Anne sponsored by the Reston Historic Trust. While not an old town, I remember reading about Reston in my college Fine Arts text book.
The Pools and the Swim teams: There is definitely a swimming/pool culture here. Most kids spend some time on a swim team...or at least a lot of time at the pools! Reston has put in some really neat features at some of the lessor used pools to get people to use them (large tube slides, water fountains, volleyball, hot tubs and heated pools, adult-only swim, movie nights) And access to all of the pools are included in your Reston Association Dues. There are pools for toddlers, teenagers, families...you name it and you can find it.
The Shopping: Reston Town Center, Fair Oaks, Tysons Corner I, Tysons Corner II, Dulles Town Center (just to name a few) all within 20 minutes or less. The Leesburg Premium Outlets are a quick 25-30 minute drive.
Proximity to Cultural and Education venues: Recently voted one of the 10 Brainiest Places to Retire by U.S. News because of proximity to educational and cultural opportunities and the education level of the residents. Many universities have learning centers within 10 minutes of here. Downtown DC has more theaters than you can imagine. You can be at the Kennedy Center in 20 minutes.
Wolftrap! It doesn't get much better than an evening under the stars with a great picnic dinner, good friends and great music. Even better--it is 10 minutes from my house!
Finding Other People who grew up here--and came back! It happens more and more that I went to school with my children's friends parents.
The zoning and covenant restrictions: Like it our hate it, it cannot be denied that Reston is a beautiful place to live because of the work that goes in to make sure homeowners and developers follow the rules. Personally, I love knowing that my neighbor won't be parking an RV next door for the rest of the summer. When each subdivision was built, the builder was required to leave a certain amount of trees, so each neighborhood is attractive.
Every possible sports opportunity: Here is a list of the sports that my family has participated in here in Reston: swimming, running races, flag football, soccer, football, baseball, lacrosse, track, basketball, golf, tennis, ice skating (hockey is available),field hockey, yoga, pilates...I am sure there are more. You name it, it is here! There is an annual Reston Triathlon for those of you who are really ambitious!
The Great State University System: People love living in Virginia because we have so many great State Universities to send our children to (at in-state tuition rates). UVA, William & Mary, James Madison University, George Mason University, Virginia Tech, Christopher Newport, Old Dominion, Virginia Commonwealth University, Radford, Longwood, Mary Washington (I am sorry if I overlooked anything). Great private universities, too!
Great Golfing:Many great public, semi-private and private courses in the area. The Fairfax Country Park and Rec department has several golf courses and lessons, too.

I guess you could say that I love living here...if there is something special that I have overlooked, please add your comments.

If anyone would like to consider real estate in Reston, I would be happy to provide you with information about purchasing opportunities in and around the area. Go to my website, www.greatexpereince.net or give me a call at 571-643-4902.

Learn Something New

2008-06-23T08:20:09Z

After spending the past year working with my daughter to get in to college, I felt like it would be fun to take some college classes again. Alas, with my family and work schedule, that is not likely to happen anytime soon.

Yesterday, I participated for the first time in an event sponsored by One Day University. I initially found out about this event from an ad in the Washington Post.

One Day University offers one-day, no homework classes on interesting topics taught by top-notch professors from amazing univerisites. For just over $200 I spent the day at one of the University of Maryland campuses listening to these professors and lectures:

Wendy Schiller, Brown University: Political Science: The 2008 Election--The Most Important in Decades

Craig Wright, Yale University: Music: The Remarkable Genius of Mozart

Paul Olsen, Columbia University: Science: Volcanoes, Asteroids and the Shape of Life on Earth

Shelley Carson, Harvard University: Psychology: Understanding America's Depression Epidemic

The classes are offered on the east coast, roughly once a quarter. Each session and location offers a variety of professors and topics.

I would highly recommend these courses. I would not have chosen all of these topics, but I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed them all!

Find out more informaiton about One Day University and the opportunity to take courses like this in your area at www.OneDayU.com.

Avoid Foreclosure in Northern Virginia--Clinics Today, June 21, 2008

2008-06-21T09:11:18Z

Clinics are being held today in Northern Virginia to assist homeowners who may be facing foreclosure.

The clinics are being held at Chantilly High School, 4201 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151 and at the Northern Virginia Community College - Woodbridge Campus, 15200 Neabsco Mills Road, Woodbridge, VA 22191-4099.

Walk-ins are welcome (and encouraged). There will be counselors on-site to work with homeowners.

If you have questions, but are unable to attend these clinics, Virginia has a website that you should visit:

www.virginiaforeclosureprevention.com

Don't lose your home because you are afraid to take action. These clinics are designed to help you to understand your options.

Getting Your House Ready to Sell Series: Help! I have been in my house forever!

2008-06-20T16:17:35Z

As I knock on the door, I notice the lovely, well-tended and mature gardening around the front door. I meet my potential client and I can tell they are more nervous about the listing appointment than usual. It turns out they have been in their house for 30+ years. This is not an unusual situation. The question is always, 'where and how do I begin?'

There is an organization that formed in 2002 called National Association of Senior Move Managers. This organization provides resources to help seniors make housing transitions. Sometimes the preparation can be overwhelming, and having a 'manager' can take some of the burden off of both the senior and the family.

This does not eliminate the need for family help--it just enhances it.

If you think this might be helpful to you, or to a member of your family, there is a website you should go to. It is called www.nasmm.org. At this site you can find out more information about the services they provide and find a service provider in your area.

It sounds like a great way to empower seniors who might not be as enthusiastic about the move as other members of the family. By providing a senior with this resource, they can focus on the things that they find important in a smooth housing transition.

If anyone has any experience with using this service, I would LOVE to hear about it.

Hot Fun in the Summertime...Keep the Kids Safe at the Pool!

2008-06-18T12:48:21Z

Last weekend there were several drownings in the Northern Virginia/DC Metro area and I don't want to see anymore. Now that school is out and the pools are open, it is critical that we all remember pool safety rules. I was a lifeguard growing up, and I find that to be one summer job I just cannot let go! Some of these rules are obvious, but some are ones that I think don't get enough attention. Most of these rules pertain to private pools. Always respect all of the rules of your public pool--they are there for a reason!

Teach Your Kids to Swim!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Even if you are not a strong swimmer, make sure that they are. Group and private lessons are available at local pools and recreation centers (and you often do not need to be a member). A less expensive option is to hire a teenager who coaches the swim team or a local lifeguard. These kids have to be strong swimmers. Make sure that they teach your child AT LEAST how to float, how to kick to the side, how to dead-man float and how to hold their breath under water. Once they know these things, swimming won't be far behind. I highly recommend putting your child on swim team for a year or two to really build their skills!
NEVER leave your children alone in a pool. For older kids (strong swimmers only) use the buddy system at a pool with no lifeguards. My kids have always wanted a backyard pool and we will never have one because of this rule...it only takes a second for a child (or an adult for that matter) to drown.
Know the Depth Before you Dive In If the pool is less than 11 feet, diving is not appropriate (or safe)
Slather with Sunscreen Besides the threat of skin cancer from stronger sun-rays, a sun-burn can sideline you for days. Make sure your children understand how important re-application is to prevention. My son just finished a week of being inside because he did not reapply sunscreen after I dropped him off at the pool!
Keep Unused Floats in the Pool to a Minimum If your child were to sink to the bottom of a pool, you would need to get to them immediately. Random floats impede your view of the bottom of the pool and make it hard to see the bottom.
Don't take a Chance with Lightning If you hear Thunder, get out of the pool. Why wait until you see the lightning? What if your first sighting is of the lightning bolt hitting the water? Make sure you wait 30 minutes after the last Thunder is heard.
Keep the Music Down Pools, sun and good tunes go together...just make sure you can hear the swimmers in case one calls for help
Watch the Teenagers! Once they become teenagers they think they know everything...they can still drown! Make sure they understand what kind of jumping and diving is appropriate in what water depths and keep an eye on them! Water wrestling is a frequent, and often dangerous, activity.

Have a wonderful summer, but don't let your fun get in the way of keeping everyone safe!

Getting Your House Ready to Sell Series: What to do with an empty room?

2008-06-17T14:34:33Z

There are those out there who actually have empty rooms in their houses. When you go to sell, it is probably a good idea to 'stage' these rooms so that potential buyers can get a sense of how they might use the room and how furniture will fit in the room.

One of my clients had a 'junk room' instead of a third bedroom. Since she was a single woman and her second bedroom was used as her office, I felt like it was important to show this room to its best advantage as a spare bedroom. The first thing I asked her to do was clean it out...she had been avoiding the inevitable. The next thing we did was set up a single bed (she borrowed it from a friend), created a night stand from a piece of otherwise unused furniture and put the rocking chair that had been previously covered with junk in the room as a reading chair. A couple of simple accessories and all of the sudden it looked like an inviting guest room.

Another client had never bothered to buy dining room furniture. They decided that the best use of the empty room was to set up a stationary bike and a television. It worked well for them. When it came time to market the house, however, people really need to see how a dining room table will fit in a dining room. We moved the bike and television down to an empty basment bedroom, set up an 'exercise room' and rented some dining room furniture from a local furniture rental store. All of the sudden we had 2 GREAT rooms that previously looked unused, or at least under-utilized.

There are some people that do not have the ability to 'imagine' a room any differently than the way they first see it. This is the concept behind the decorating of model homes. By putting furniture in a room, it helps a potential buyer 'see' how the room could be set up and how it would function.

This is also one of the tenets of Staging. As an ASP (Accredited Staging Professional) Realtor, I would be happy to help you find other ways to quickly and efficiently sell your home.

If you have additonal questions about Staging and why you should consider Staging your home, you can go to the following website for more information:

http://www.stagedhomes.com/

Be sure to check ou the Before and After photos located in the middle of the Home page. These will give you some great ideas for working with empty rooms.

Fresh Produce and More...every day of the Week in Northern Virgnina!

2008-06-17T10:55:11Z

Saturday Morning I made my almost-12 year old run errands with me. Our last stop was at the Lake Anne Village local farmers market in Reston. I could tell by his gait as we left the car that he was less than eager. He had a blast! Fresh food, snacks, plants and more...what's not to like? He now told me he wants to go every week. I told him that in our area (Fairfax County, Eastern Loudoun areas of Northern Virgnina) we are fortunate to have one of these markets almost every day.

Here is a list of local markets you might want to try:

Monday: If you know of one, please let me know and I will update the post--I could not find one.

Tuesday

Fairfax Farmers Market

3730 Old Lee Highway
Van Dyck Park
Fairfax, VA 22030

The Fairfax farmers market is held on Tuesdays, generally early May through late October. Expect to see local venders showing off a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Hours:
Opens: 8:00 AM
Closes: 12:00 PM

Wednesday

Frying Pan Park Farmers Market

2709 West Ox Road
Herndon, VA 20171

This farmers market is held on Wednesdays, generally early May through late October. Expect to see local venders showing off a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Hours:
Opens: 8:00 AM
Closes: 12:30 PM

Thursday

Herndon Farmers Market

The corner of Elden and Spring Streets
Next to the Herndon Town Hall
Herndon, VA 20172

The Herndon farmers market is held on Thursdays, generally early May through late October. You can expect to see local farmers showing off their produce and offering a fresh selection of fruits and vegetables.

Hours:
Opens: 8:30 AM
Closes: 12:30 PM

Field of Flowers

37879 Allder School Road
Purcellville, VA 20132

Cut-your-own flower farm. Full-service wedding flowers for small weddings. Open Thursdays only, May through October from 7am-7pm, or by appointment.

Hours:
Opens: 7:00 AM
Closes: 7:00 PM

Friday

McLean Farmers Market

1659 Chain Bridge Road
Lewinsville Park
McLean, VA 22102

The McLean farmers market is held on Fridays, generally early May through late November. Expect to see local venders showing off a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Hours:
Opens: 8:30 AM
Closes: 12:30 PM

Saturday

Reston Farmers Market

Lake Anne Plaza
Reston, VA 20190

Every Saturday from May 10 until November 1 from 8am until 12 noon.

The Reston Farmers' Market, chosen as the "Best in NoVA" by Northern Virginia Magazine, is in the parking lot of Historic Lake Anne Center. Come support local vendors who offer a variety of homegrown/homemade healthy fresh products such as fruits, vegetable, baked goods, cheese, meat, flowers, etc.

Accessibility:

Hours:
Opens: 8:00 AM
Closes: 12:00 PM

Sunday

Cascades Farmers Market

21060 Whitfield Place
Sterling, VA 20164

Open Sundays beggining the first weekend in May - Last weekend in October. 9am - 1pm

I would be happy to add any favorite local markets to my blog...just send me the information and I will post it.

Happy Shopping!!!

The Thing that REALLY Bugs me!

2008-06-15T18:30:33Z

I was driving along today behind a car when I noticed the driver was smoking. So what...their car, their business. That was until they tossed the smoldering butt of their cigarette onto the street. It irked me, but what can you do? And then it happened again!

Why is it that perfectly respectable people find that it is okay to litter if it is a cigarette butt?

I doubt that any of these fine, upstanding (I suppose) citizens would ever consider tossing a finished soda can out the window, but they think nothing of tossing out a burning piece of paper wrapped around a filter? Never having been a smoker, all I can figure is that they don't want it burning in their car and causing litter INSIDE.Gosh, they would have to pick it up. Why not have the county/city/state bear the cost of cleaning up all of those nasty cigarette butts?

Guess what? CIGARETTE BUTTS ARE LITTER!

Please think twice before you toss that little piece of burning paper out the window next time...

I think it is time to bring back the crying Indian Chief (I know I am dating myself). I doubt anyone raised after spending their childhood watching that wants to litter! If you've never seen the ad, here is the YouTube link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3QKvEy0AIk

It is Time to Buy!

2008-06-14T13:13:23Z

It is time for buyers to buy.

I know that many of you have homes that you first must sell, but those of you who are fortunate enough to be able to buy without selling need to act.

Why, you ask, when prices continue to drop?

First off, there will come a time when they stop. Unfortunately for the buyer who is trying to play the market, you won't know that the market has hit bottom until it starts to creep back up.

Secondly, the longer you wait, the longer you go without the tax benefit. If you have not done the math on this one, this might be a good time. Rental prices have held steady, or increased, so I am sure you are looking for some way to save money. Mortgage Interest deductions are one of the last great tax deductions.

Thirdly, in order for the freefall to stop, inventory needs to be cleared--or at least stabilized. Obviously, this is not your responsibility. There are financial repurcusions that DO affect you , however, the longer this crisis continues. Foreclosures, joblessness (due to lack of demand), and, reduced tax base for civic improvements...all of these things negatively affect you and your community.

As prices go down, comparables have become hard to find, so folks are having a hard time refinancing homes--a bank won't loan money unless it can prove, through recent comparable sales that a house has a specific value (again, this impacts jobs and tax revenue).

I feel like we are all in a holding pattern right now. Something has to break the stalemate. I had hoped that higher jumbo loan caps (at least in my area) would help , but they have not.

It would be great if the government would incent first time buyers with a tax break for buying their first home and for others who buy foreclosures--and a big bonus for a first time home buyer who does both!

I am not an economist, but I have to think that getting some of these homes sold would do wonders for the condition of individual neighborhoods. Crime would go down as the number of vacant properties decreases (saving more government money in law enforcement) and demand for local retail services would increase (and result in more jobs). More money would flow into the market as home inspection fees, points on loans and closing costs are charged, not to mention carpet cleaning, painting and moving costs!

So there it is...my plea for you to get out there and buy your first home!

Tim Russert...You will be Missed

2008-06-13T15:17:56Z

I just heard the news that Tim Russert, NBC News’ Washington bureau chief and the moderator of “Meet the Press,” is dead of a heart attack. He was only 58.

If you are not a political junkie, like I am, you probably think it is strange that I am writing this post. If, on the other hand, you enjoy switching between conservative and liberal stations just to see how differently they interpret events, you are probably feeling the same shock and sadness I am right now. Tim was like a friend I saw every morning while I had my coffee and read the paper.

Tim was one of the best; he tried to look at things from all angles and present it in a way that was non-partisan and interesting. I was looking forward to watching his take on the moves and counter-moves of the candidates as the election moved forward. I am so sorry he will miss the 2008 election.

When I took my young girl scout troup TV Studio Kids to the NBC studios in Washington, D.C. we were able to spend some time with him. He was gracious and kind my group of 5th graders (all of whom just graduated from high school). I was able to find the photo of that very special day...

It is always sad to see someone leave this world too early. Tim, you will be greatly missed by more people than you will ever know.

(for any of you who read this earlier, my girls just reminded me that these girls were from our elementary school TV crew--not our girl scout troop. Sorry for the mistake!)

May Sales & Listing Figures for Lake Anne (20190) as of 6/08/08

2008-06-08T19:28:20Z

Total Listings Sold to date in 2008: 120*
Price range of all properties sold to date in 2008: $152,000-$1,275,000

Detached Homes, Active :  6
Detached Homes, under Contract:  2
Detached Homes, Sold since 5/1/08:  2

Townhouses, Active:    27
Townhouses, under Contract:   14
Townhouses, Sold since 5/1/08:   15

Condominiums, Active:   119
Condominiums, under Contract:   25
Condominiums, Sold since 5/1/08:  20

Price range of all properties sold to date in 2008: $145,000-$1,600,000

Current Number of Listings: 155*
Price Range: $145,000 to $1,995,000

*This number may include listings that cannot be classified as detached home, townhouse or condominium

Statistics about this community for previous months are available at the following links:

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/501798/April-Sales-Listing-Figures

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/430478/Reston-Virginia-Lake-Anne

If you would like to learn more about Reston, Virginia, I would be happy to talk to you further about the variety of housing that is available in, and around, Reston.

This information is from the Metropolitan Regional Information System and is deemed reliable.

May Sales & Listing Figures for Hunters Woods(20191) as of 6/08/08

2008-06-08T19:24:16Z

Total Listings Sold to date in 2008: 161*
Price range of all properties sold to date in 2008: $112,000-$815,000

Detached Homes, Active :  43
Detached Homes, under Contract:  27
Detached Homes, Sold since 5/1/08:  11

Townhouses, Active:    101
Townhouses, under Contract:   32
Townhouses, Sold since 5/1/08:   19

Condominiums, Active:   81
Condominiums, under Contract:   18
Condominiums, Sold since 5/1/08:  10

Current Number of Listings: 225*
Price Range: $113,000 to $1,390,000

*This number may include listings that cannot be classified as detached home, townhouse or condominium

Futher information about sales and listing figures can be found at the following links:

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/501808/April-Sales-Listing-Figures

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/430499/Reston-Virginia-Hunters-Woods

Reston, Virginia is a planned community located in Fairfax County, Virginia. It is a suburb of Washington D.C. and is commonly included in the statistics for the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area. There are many types of housing available in Reston. The price ranges that you see include condominiums, townhouses and detached homes. Reston's location (close to Tysons Corner, The Dulles Corridor, The Pentagon and 20 miles outside of Washington D.C.) contribute to its appeal to people in all income brackets and all types of professions.. The community boasts amenities that are available to all members of the Reston Association (mandatory for all homes within the incorporated part of Reston) such as Pools, Tennis Courts, Jogging and Walking Paths, Community Centers, playgrounds, parks and open spaces.
The price ranges that you see include condominiums, townhouses and detached homes. Reston's location (close to Tysons Corner, The Dulles Corridor, The Pentagon and 20 miles outside of Washington D.C.) contribute to its appeal to people in all income brackets and all types of professions.. The community boasts amenities that are available to all members of the Reston Association (mandatory for all homes within the incorporated part of Reston) such as Pools, Tennis Courts, Jogging and Walking Paths, Community Centers, playgrounds, parks and open spaces.
If you would like to learn more about Reston, Virginia, I would be happy to talk to you further about the variety of housing that is available in, and around, Reston.

This information is from the Metropolitan Regional Information System and is deemed reliable.

May Sales & Listing Figures for North Point (20194) as of 6/08/08

2008-06-08T19:17:02Z

Total Listings Sold to date in 2008: 88*
Price range of all properties sold to date in 2008: $180,000-1,550,000

Detached Homes, Active :  42
Detached Homes, under Contract:  15
Detached Homes, Sold since 5/1/08:  9

Townhouses, Active:    35
Townhouses, under Contract:   14
Townhouses, Sold since 5/1/08:   17

Condominiums, Active:   15
Condominiums, under Contract:   1
Condominiums, Sold since 5/1/08:  3

Current Number of Listings: 93*
Price Range: $199,900 to $1,499,500

*This number may include listings that cannot be classified as detached home, townhouse or condominium. This information is reliable as of 6/08/08.

Futher information about sales and listing figures can be found at the following links:

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/501826/April-Sales-Listing-Figures

http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/430484/Reston-Virginia-Northpoint-2

This information is from the Metropolitan Regional Information System and is deemed reliable.

Getting Your House Ready to Sell Series: Deal with the Paint Cans!

2008-06-08T15:29:02Z

I was walking with a friend today and lamenting the fact that my husband decided yesterday was the perfect day to sort through our many cans of paint. Yesterday, it was close to 100 degrees in the garage!

I bring this up because part of the reason we have so many different cans of paint--besides the fact that I am a serial room-color-changer--is because as a Realtor® I am often the last resort for sellers who need to get the paints out of their garage. Most movers won't take paint cans, they can't be thrown away (without drying them out first) and many buyers don't want to inherit them.

If you are many years from selling, I recommend staying 'on top' of your paints. As you change a color, dry out, or pass on the old color. Additionally, mark your cans well with a paint name (not just a number), the room it was used in and a date. This will make it much easier to keep track of what needs to be discarded and what is needed for a quick touch-up.

If you have already listed your house and have not yet dealt with the paint cans stacked in the garage or storage area, be sure to ask the buyer immediately what they would like you to do with them. Keep in mind, buyers are notoriously fickle; the best option is to get it in writing, or be aware that you may have to get rid of the paints at the last minute.

Two other items that fall in to this category (the deal with it early and often category) are wood piles and propane tanks. Be sure to ask the buyer if they want them, and if they don't, leave yourself plenty of time for proper disposal.

Believe me, my option of last resort is to take these paints in to my home--especially after the fun we had yesterday!