Children’s National Hospital will host the annual Race for Every Child on Saturday, October 21 at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., and virtually.
Funds raised from the 5K and Kids Dash benefit Children’s National patients and families. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Children’s National relies on donations to make world-class care and research possible. The event has raised more than $11.4 million since 2013.
Sam, who had heart surgery as a baby at the hospital, now plans to run the 5K for the 11th year. His parents, Taryn and Eric, are co-chairs of the Race. “We wanted to do everything we could to help this amazing hospital who helped us,” Taryn says.
Register for free to support kids in the community like Sam.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Research has shown that older adults who engage with the arts in a group setting — anything from dancing to a poetry group to singing in a choir — enjoy tangible benefits in multiple areas of health. This has to do with feelings of mastery, and with social connection.
“This research, combined with Dr. Gene Cohen’s description of life after 50 as a time of potential and inner growth known as the Creative Age, forms a foundation for using creativity to support personal wellness,” says Caroline Edasis, AVP of resident engagement for Mather. Mather is the organization that’s bringing The Mather, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better, to Tysons in early 2024.
Susan Fine (pictured above) agrees. An artist with a studio and gallery in Washington, D.C., she plans to move to The Mather. She explains that, after a successful career in health care, “I went to Glassell School of Art at the Museum of Fine Art Houston when I was 60. And I so enjoyed the experience! You can be more creative the older you get — child-rearing responsibilities and traditional work may recede, and you open up to other things. There are so many directions you can go in art; I focus on painting and mixed media.”
Midge Scelzo, who is also planning to move to The Mather, has a similar story: “I worked in banking for 25 years, then as CFO for tech startups. In 2009, we moved to Florida and I started a new CFO job… but I realized I wanted to get back to art. I wanted to challenge myself.” She joined a group of artists and started painting. “I’m loving it. It uses a different part of my brain. I’m still that finance person — detail-oriented and organized — but art relaxes me, and I can tune out the world.”
Creativity as Wellness
Mather encourages residents in their existing communities — not just those who are established artists — to try creating new art forms in Open Art Studios. These studios, which position arts engagement as a vehicle for wellness, not just recreation, inviting both lifelong and new artists to explore their own Creative Age in a welcoming group setting.
“While working in diverse media including ceramics and mixed media/painting, participants often realize alongside their peers that they have an untapped expressive ability, a new love for a specific media, or a personal project to pursue,” says Caroline. “One of our master’s-level facilitators, trained in art and psychology, is present to support each individual’s creative journey, and that person helps transform the group into an uplifting community in which residents learn more about each other and themselves.”
Inquiry-Based Art Viewing
Mather also has a signature approach to art appreciation — one that mirrors how contemporary museum practices are evolving. Rather than teaching or encouraging art appreciation with lectures from an expert such as a docent, they focus on inclusive, inquiry-based art-viewing techniques.
“Did you know that the average person spends 17 seconds looking at a work of art in a museum?” asks Caroline. “In our visual literacy programs, we often spend a full hour describing an image, sharing stories conjured by the work of art, or even creating group poems in response to the work. These techniques focus on the interests, experiences, and curiosity of viewers to deliver intellectually stimulating content while challenging us to bring culture down from the pedestal and into our lives.”
“This method is a great way to improve people’s cognition, and their interest and engagement with life,” says Eileen Mandell, who is planning a move to The Mather next year. Eileen, who is currently the community relations director at 1st Stage theater in Tysons, has been immersed in the world of theater as well as studied and practiced various art media. “I’m looking forward the creative arts programming that The Mather will offer,” she says. “I’m a creative person in general, and I want to act as an art maven there.”
The Mather has already formed relationships with local arts organizations, and plans to offer inquiry-based art experiences for residents on-site in museums, theaters, galleries, and more.
Mather recognizes that creativity is about much more than visual art. They encourage everyone to recognize aging as a time of great creative potential, whether through music, poetry, storytelling, dance and movement, or even gardening — the sky is truly the limit.
The Mather, projected to open in Tysons, VA, in early 2024 for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Ken and Peg Miller knew that The View Alexandria by Goodwin LivingTM was a smart choice. They didn’t know it would be a lifesaver, too.
The couple was finding it harder to handle their family home in Ashburn. “It was getting to be too much for us,” said Peg. “Ken had hip surgery, and before he’d completely recovered from that, we both got COVID. It was one thing after another.”
Seeking to be closer to their adult children, the Millers explored several options in and around Alexandria. “The View Alexandria had the best options,” said their son, Bob.
“Within days, we knew this had been a good decision,” said Ken. “It was like we were meant to be here,” Peg agreed.
The Millers soon realized just how serendipitous their move had been. Peg began feeling unwell, and one day could not take more than a few steps without being out of breath.
Ken took Peg for a meal in the dining room where Kathy Howell, the community’s Chaplain and Life Enrichment Director, spotted Peg. “She took one look at me and said, ‘What’s wrong with you?’” Peg said.
Kathy, a former nurse, took Peg’s pulse, asked her a few questions and encouraged her to call an ambulance.
“They took me right into the emergency room,” said Peg. “She had a blood clot in the lungs,” Ken confirmed.
“I credit Kathy with saving my life,” Peg said.
To learn more about senior living at The View Alexandria, call 703.454.8946 or visit TheViewAlexandria.org.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA and D.C. with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
Well, it’s 97 degrees, but let’s talk flannel, pumpkin spiced lattes, and apple picking… because it’s September.
When the heat finally breaks and you actually want to be outside again, Virginia has some great farms to visit for apples, fruit, baked goods, flowers, and other goodies.
- Marker-Miller Orchards: Peaches, blackberries, apples, tomatoes and so many other goodies
- Crooked Run Orchard: Apples, peaches and some blackberries
- Stribling Orchard: Several varieties of apples and grass fed beef
- Mackintosh Fruit Farm: Apples, peaches, Asian pears, nectarines, veggies. Plus, they have cider donuts, baked goods, pies, local cheese, eggs and more.
- Hollin Farms: Apples, some veggies, dig your own potatoes
- Valley View Farm: Eggs, apples, pumpkins (in October)
- Great Country Farms: Apples, corn maze, farm play area, jumping pillow and more attractions. BONUS: This is across from Dirt Farm Brewery and Bluemont Vineyard, so if you’re looking for an adult treat after the kids play, just cross the street!
There are also closer in options like DePaul’s Urban Farm, the Vienna Farmers Market or Reston Farm Garden Market. (Check out their weekend Fall Fest)
More details on local fall festivals is coming soon… stay tuned!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Live Fairfax is a bi-weekly column exploring Fairfax County. This recurring column is sponsored and written by Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney Associates. Questions? Reach Sharmane at 813-504-4479.
Labor Day weekend in Fairfax County is filled with events and activities for all ages! Here are a few to definitely consider adding to your plans.
- Labor Day Car Show (City of Fairfax): This annual car show brings together automotive enthusiasts to showcase a diverse array of classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles. Visitors can enjoy live music, food vendors, and a chance to explore Downtown Fairfax.
- Superheroes Host Kids & Family Labor Day Festival (Tysons): Join Captain America, Spiderman, and Wonder Woman in a fun-filled day for all ages. There will be moonbounces, photobooths, outdoor games and activities, and more! Spend the day with the coolest superheroes and have an unforgettable family day!
- Outdoor Escapes: Enjoy the natural beauty of Fairfax County by hiking in Great Falls Park, Burke Lake Park, or exploring the trails at Mason Neck State Park. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider kayaking or canoeing along the Potomac River (check out previous Lakeside video).
- Visit Historic Sites: Fairfax County is rich in history. Take the opportunity to explore sites like George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall, and the Civil War Interpretive Center at Historic Blenheim. Guided tours and demonstrations offer a glimpse into the past.
- City of Fairfax Farmers Market: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the City of Fairfax Farmers Market over the weekend. Explore local produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more while supporting local vendors and enjoying the community atmosphere.
- Wineries & Breweries: Spend a leisurely day at the local wineries and breweries. Enjoy wine tastings at places like Paradise Springs Winery and Winery at Bull Run or sample craft beers at Fair Winds Brewing Company.
Get ready to kick back and enjoy the last splash of summer this Labor Day! Pick activities that make you smile and suit your style. Have a blast and make this Labor Day uniquely yours!
Explore Fairfax with Sharmane Medaris of McEnearney.
Sharmane Medaris | Live Fairfax | www.soldbysharmane.com | [email protected] | @soldbysharmane | 813-504-4479 | 374 Maple Avenue Suite 202, Vienna, VA 22180
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
The Silent Dance Party is back!
Join us for the 2nd Annual Silent Dance Party on Reston Metro Plaza taking place Friday, September 8 from 7-8:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family, and dance like nobody’s watching.
To dance, bring your driver’s license in exchange for a headset. Three live DJ’s will spin different music genres to choose from at the click of a button.
There will be fun for the whole family including glitter tattoos, a bubble-ologist, balloon animals, and so much more!
Come early and grab dinner and drinks at one of the incredible restaurants on the Plaza: Matchbox, Founding Farmers, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Sweet Leaf and Big Buns.
Get ready to party because quiet is the new loud!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA and D.C. with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
It’s been a rough summer with the weather and the toll it’s taking on some houses.
Before it gets cold, now’s a good reminder to take care of some things around your house to prevent damage later. Service provider referrals are my favorite ways to help homeowners, so please feel free to reach out if you need someone specific:
- Clean your gutters (Gutterman Services, Maple Leaf)
- Change the batteries in your smoke detector (yes, even if it’s hard wired)
- Take care of your lawn — Fall is the time to aerate and fertilize if you want better grass next spring!
- Check your down spouts to make sure they’re extended away from your home
- Clean your chimney before you use it!
- Fall service on your HVAC (this should be done twice a year, but if you have a whole house humidifier which is used in the winter, make sure it’s clean and not moldy before you turn it on)
- Check your trees. I’ve seen lots of trees fall in the recent storms. I can’t stress this one enough — even if you think it’s leaning away from your home, get it checked.
- Check your windows and garage door for wood rot. Rain/snow will make it worse.
- Check your attic for any daylight — if you have even the smallest entry point, critters will find a way inside as the weather gets colder. You can look around for droppings or disrupted insulation for hints of unwanted tenants.
- Seal your deck. Stain or paint — your choice.
Take care of your home and it’ll take care of you!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
This biweekly column is sponsored by The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, a forward-thinking Life Plan Community for those 62 and better.
Golfing is more than a pleasant pastime: research has shown that regular golf games can offer proven benefits that substantially improve your physical and mental health.
One reason to keep playing: a regular golf schedule can add years to your life — literally. A Swedish study of data on 300,000 golfers found that those who played regularly had a five-year increase in life expectancy over non-golfers of the same age, gender, and socioeconomic status.
Sally Wallace of Fairfax County is a beginning golfer who took up the sport partly for the fact that she will be able to play it later in life. “Someone suggested golf as a social sport, and one that I can do for the rest of my life — it can keep me active,” she says. Even as she prepares to move to The Mather, a Life Plan Community for those 62 and better that’s opening in Tysons in early 2024, she’s embracing her new hobby, and plans to sign up for private lessons with a golf pro. “My goal is to play on a team next June,” she says.
Sally currently lives in suburban area near the main campus of George Mason University, and next spring, will move about 10 miles to The Mather, which is located in a walkable urban neighborhood by Tysons Galleria. “I’m looking forward to the change — I almost can’t wait!” she says. Sally is looking forward to meeting other golfers there, so she can continue to enjoy her new hobby.
Here are some tips on making the most of your time on the green:
- If possible, skip the golf cart. Better yet, skip the caddy. If you play an 18-hole course three to five times a week and walk rather than ride, researchers estimate you’ll get the optimal amount of endurance exercise for good heart health.
- Get your brain in the game. Golf can also improve your brain health. Not only does the physical exercise stimulate nerve cell connections — which can delay mental deterioration and even dementia — the mental aspects of the game can keep cognition sharp. Tallying scores, planning strategy, and focusing on hand-eye coordination all provide healthy workouts for your brain.
- Make it a social game. Getting together with friends and acquaintances has been proven to improve mental health and brain health. So, make the most of socializing during (or before and after) a golf game — catch up on news, share a joke, or make plans for future games.
“I’m a runner, a walker, a swimmer, and a weight-lifter — but those are all solitary pursuits,” says Sally. “I’m looking for that social component. And everyone at the driving range seems very encouraging and welcoming. Golfers seem like a good group to be part of.”
- Let go of stress. Participating in an activity you enjoy, which requires concentration, can release mood-boosting endorphins in the brain. This immediately makes you feel happier and more relaxed. And during the periods of time you spend eliminating or forgetting stress, you are actually reversing its negative effects on your body and brain.
- Enjoy the outdoors. Simply being outside has a positive effect on your mood. Research has shown that regular exposure to “green areas” can cause our bodies to relax and let go of stress, as well as ease anxiety. One study showed that those who exercise outdoors rather than inside experienced greater mood elevation and actually exercised for longer periods of time.
The Mather in Tysons, VA, for those 62 and better, is a forward-thinking Life Plan Community that defies expectations of what senior living is supposed to be. It opens in early 2024.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Coming up in just a couple of weeks, DC Bike Ride invites you to the region’s favorite social bike ride for riders of all ages and abilities and offers $20 off your Standard Registration now with promo code BIKEDC.
Take over the District and enjoy 20 miles of live music, photo zones, and other fun surprises along the way.
No Bike? No Problem!
DC Bike Ride offers bike rentals during sign-up as well as FREE registration for kids and additional discounts for groups.
See you at the Start Line on Saturday, September 9!
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
Laura Schwartz is a licensed Realtor in VA, D.C. and MD with McEnearney Associates in Vienna. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @LauraSchwartzRealtor or her Facebook page. Laura can be reached at 703-283-6120 or [email protected].
There’s nothing I love more than starting the school year off with decluttering, getting rid of all the STUFF that’s piled up over the summer and getting a fresh start for everyone to the year.
You know this if you’re a long time reader because every year when school starts I share my favorite list of places to donate used and new items. Well this year, I have a new business to introduce you to.
My friend, Stefanie Petrucelli is a local Vienna mom of 3 and military spouse who launched her professional organization business this year. I’ve seen her work first hand and it’s an amazing transformation if you’re looking for some help to organize your space — be it just your playroom, your whole house, your car, your business, whatever the need is — she can do. I’d like for you to get to know her a little better:
Q: What is your favorite space to organize?
Definitely a playroom because it is filled with fun, colorful and easy to sort items.
Q: What is your favorite “get started” tip?
Start small with a drawer, cabinet, small closet and only take about 15-30 minutes at a time to organize that space. You will quickly find it becomes contagious, hopefully encouraging you to take on larger projects.
Q: What do you do with pot lids and tupperware?
Pot lids and tupperware lids can be a nightmare. If you have tons of cabinet space, there are so many awesome products out there to keep the lids organized by size and shape. However, if you don’t have endless cabinet or pantry space (like me) then stick with the bin system. Two small bins; one for lids and the other for the containers or you can just do one medium sized bin for both.
Before organizing, always remember to first go through your tupperware, get rid of the tired, stained containers as well as the containers that no longer have matching tops. Always eliminate first and then organize. I also like to mark my tupperware lids and container bottoms with matching numbers or letters. Helps me find their match quickly.
Q: Do you have any tips for organizing toys?
First, start by going through all the toys, make sure everything is working and in good condition. Throw away broken toys, donate or sell toys that are not liked or no longer played with. It’s good to do this every six months or so, especially around holidays and birthdays. Don’t feel guilty about getting rid of stuff if it’s no longer being used, pass it on to someone else that will enjoy it.
Once you have eliminated unnecessary toys, look at what is remaining and basically hide half of it by storing it away in a closet, basement storage area or garage. Swap in those toys every few months and switch out toys that your children have started to get bored with.
Then look at your space and decide if you have the best products (i.e., furniture and storage bins) to contain and store the toys. I personally like matching bins and baskets that hide toys, which makes a room look less cluttered. I like to clearly label the bins with the toy’s name and picture of the toy. Both bins and labeling make it easy for kids to put away their own toys.
Q: What’s your favorite show on Netflix (organization or otherwise!)
I like The Home Edit, Dream House Makeover and any sort of baking or building challenge. At the moment I am watching a comedy on Apple TV called Platonic and on Hulu I am watching Only Murders in the Building.
Q: What inspired you to get started?
I have always been a super organized person. I vaguely remember as a young child organizing cluttered spaces around my house. During the summer of 2022, I had a light bulb moment while preparing for my kids return to school. I found myself trying to relieve some stress by overly organizing my already organized home. I thought to myself maybe I should take this show on the road and use my skills and knowledge to help others organize their space. I decided to take the year to get everything set up and in order so that I could launch Beyond Organized once the school year ended. I really enjoyed designing my webpage, Facebook and Instagram accounts, developing an email address, obtaining my LLC and getting myself knowledgeable about all aspects of organization and owning a small business. That’s how it all started.
Q: Who do you serve?
I will organize almost anything, your entire home, cars, offices, beach house, hotel room, a cruise ship cabin (you just need to pay my way and I will be there for you).
But seriously, I really like working with couples or families trying to downsize. Also, families that have just moved and are trying to make their current items fit into their new home. As a military spouse we have moved a lot, many of our moves we have done on our own and there is nothing a family wants more than to quickly turn their new house into a home for their family and sometimes that can be a challenge. I love being able to assist with this challenge and help families achieve their organization goals.
You can follow Stefanie and her funny cleaning memes on Facebook and Instagram.
You can also read more about her and her business, at www.beyondorganized22.com.
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
