Happy Birthday to John!

Friday, 9 September, 2011 by Beachbums1

Favorite Girl and I had a nice birthday dinner waiting for John when he got home from work.  I even cooked chicken for him which is a big deal for this vegetarian girl 🙂  It was a recipe which required the least amount of “handling”.  We ate in the new breakfast nook because, after the removal of the wood paneling, we can’t seem to get tired of looking at it.

We made a double layer cake ~ chocolate cake with a layer of chocolate frosting in the middle and covered with vanilla frosting. Yummy!  And as you can see, Favorite Girl insisted on the exact number of candles on the cake:

Happy Birthday John ~ we love you!!

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House Updates

Wednesday, 7 September, 2011 by Beachbums1

If you’re interested in seeing recent renovations to our house ~ head over to The House that Could.

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Del Ray Restaurants

Monday, 23 May, 2011 by Beachbums1

1) Taqueria Poblano 2400 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301 (703) 548-8226 ‎

Located in Del Ray, it’s a small restaurant but they do take reservations.  I’ve been there for dinner and brunch (on Sundays) but they also serve breakfast and lunch. Yummy Vegetarian Bean Burritos, friendly & efficient service, tasty margaritas and much more! There’s outdoor seating during warm weather. We found out the hard way that they’re closed on Tuesdays.

2) Caboose Cafe and Bakery on Mount Vernon Street in Del Ray

Across from the Tacqueria Poblano, the Caboose Cafe was our default when we attempted to go to the Tacqueria on a Tuesday night only to find they were closed.  But it worked out just fine because the Caboose restaurant is a delicious mix of Ethiopian food, pastas, Quiche, etc. Very vegetarian friendly and they also have an outdoor seating area during the warmer months. I’ve had the spicy pasta dish, the vegetarian sampler (Ethiopian food) and just recently had the Quiche with salad. All good!  I recommend the house Pinot Grigio as well. Refreshing.  The desserts are OK but not decadent. Not their specialty. 

I would highly recommend either one.  There’s another restaurant in Del Ray (two doors down from the Caboose) which I’ve tried to eat at THREE times now and they are always too busy. Great for the restaurant, but not so good for me. It’s called the Cheesetique and the menu looks fabulous. They are closed on Mondays but open for lunch and dinner Tues through Sunday.  Outdoor seating available. I’ll have to get there right at opening (11 am) so I can finally maybe get a table.

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Mount Vernon Estate

Thursday, 19 May, 2011 by Beachbums1

With Mount Vernon Estates only a couple of miles down the road, we’ve been there many times since we moved to Virginia. I’m glad we purchased the annual entry passes ~ at only $28.00 per person for the year, it has saved us a lot of money.  Mount Vernon is very dog friendly and allows dogs anywhere on its grounds but not in the buildings.  We’ve been there with most of our visitors so I usually skip the house tour.  The regular house tour consists of the first and second floors but during the Christmas holidays, they open up the 3rd floor for viewing.

Recently, we attended the Spring Wine Festival and Sunset tours.  This time the basement/cellar, which is rarely open, was available to visitors. It was small and oh, so musty but I enjoyed seeing it.  The festival featured 17 Virginia wineries.  Unfortunately, I was the designated driver so I only tasted a couple of wines early on in the evening.  As we were leaving, there were lots of taxis waiting for fares so we will surely go that route next time.  Speaking of next time, that’ll be in the late September when they host the Fall Wine Festival.

The tickets cost $35.00 per person so it’s not an inexpensive evening but it sure was fun to attend with a large group. We set up our lawn chair in between the wine/food tent and the house.  Perfect spot with easy access to the wine tasting and we could still hear the band.

Here are some tips if you decide to attend:

  • The festival occurs rain or shine
  • The Mansion, Wine Cellar and outbuildings are open but the gardens, Wharf, Tomb & Museum are closed
  • Security will search backpacks/purses
  • No outside food/beverage allowed
  • Bring a blanket & lawn chair ~ folding tables not allowed
  • Pets not allowed during the wine festival (way too many people)
  • No smoking except at the designated area near the restrooms
  • Photo ID will be requested
  • The festival is an adult event
  • If you’re a designated driver, you’ll get complimentary soft drinks throughout the evening
  • Wine valet is available for case purchases.
  • The festival starts at 6:00 pm and ends promptly at 9:00 pm

Mount Vernon has a lot to offer and I highly recommend it ~ anytime of year.

Posted in Travels, Virginia | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment »

Grist Mill Dog Park

Tuesday, 17 May, 2011 by Beachbums1

Ever since our beloved dog, Sport passed away, Maya has been a lonely dog. Since she has socialization problems dating back to her shelter days, I’ve decided to take her to the dog park as often as possible. I’ve been curious about the Grist Mill Dog Park every time I drive to Fort Belvoir but yesterday was my first visit.  It was a “D-” for Maya’s socialization test.  When we first arrived, there was a standard poodle mix there who wouldn’t leave her alone and slobbered all over her. The next dog that came in was even more “afraid” than Maya which caused the other dog owner to panic every time Maya went near her dog. 

Today was much better: three dogs at the park and Maya only growled at the French Bulldog trying to hump her.  The big difference was the calm attitude of the owners ~ proving the Dog Whisperer correct once again.

If you’re looking for a dog park in Southern Alexandria and one which is very close to Fort Belvoir, I recommend the Grist Mill Dog Park.  Pros: 1 acre fenced area with bluestone dust (gravel), a baby pool for those dogs who need to cool down, a water pump and water dishes, plastic bags, lots of trash bins, benches and a fenced entrance to leash and unleash your dog.   Cons: Not all the dog owners pick up after their dog so watch your step.  Also, a Fairfax County dog license is required for your dog.

Walkway to the Park:

Maya at the park:

Clean up bags:

Leash/Unleash entrance:

Lots of space:

For more information about Grist Mill Dog Park (4710 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy ~ between Ft Belvoir and Mount Vernon Estate) and for other Dog Parks in Fairfax County, click here.

Posted in Animals, Pets, Virginia, Virginia Home | Tagged , , | 1 Comment »

US Botanic Garden

Sunday, 15 May, 2011 by Beachbums1

After enjoying the flowers in my pretty Virginia backyard, I decided it was time to visit the US Botanic Garden which is located at 100 Maryland Ave SW in DC. It’s between 1st and 2nd streets SW and is adjacent to the US Capitol. We drove into DC and found metered parking on 3rd street. The closest metro stations are Federal Center or Capitol South. The metro bus lines are #30, 32, 34, 35 or 36 which you take to Independence and 1st Street SW. Just walking up to it is so impressive with all the beautiful glass and the US Capitol in the background.

The Garden has been open to the public (continuously) since 1850. There are more 60,000 plants among the gardens collection and it even has historic specimens which date back to 1842.  I enjoyed the different sections which included medicinal plants, garden primeval, children’s garden, Hawaii, World Desserts, Plant Exploration, Rare/Endangered species, Jungle, Southern Exposure and the Orchid room. I spent about an hour in the building and another half hour roaming around outside. You could do it in less but I was taking my time and sat out to enjoy the beautiful day.

         

There is a fun section for kids and the outside garden area was spectacular. Rose section, First Ladies Water park, and benches/tables everywhere in case you want to picnic.  Being from Hawaii, I particularly enjoyed the Orchid Room but have to say, my daughter has been growing orchids which are just as gorgeous.

Favorite Girl’s Orchids:

There’s no entrance fee and the gardens are open from 10 am to 5 pm daily and you’re welcome in the Bartholdi Park (outside) from dawn until dusk.  No smoking allowed anywhere.  Handheld cameras and videos are allowed anytime. Sketching is allowed along with the use of easels, tripods and art material but if you’re using solvents you’ll need to get permission and a permit.

For detailed information, go to: US Botanic Garden

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Spring Update

Thursday, 5 May, 2011 by Beachbums1

Spring in DC is a wonderful time of year. The blooming cherry blossoms, dogwoods, azaleas are all gorgeous and I’m looking forward to a warm fun summer. Living in a old well-established neighborhood has its advantages when landscaping.  For us, it’s more a matter of cutting back, rather than adding plants. Here’s the backyard:

And the gorgeous Dogwood tree:

Flowers:

  

We’ve settled nicely into our “new ” old home. So much to do with the house but we’re taking our time and doing one project at a time. After a year and a couple of months, I’m finally having an estate sale on Saturday for my mom’s furniture and household goods.  My sister, Jo, came into town to help out and we’ve been working diligently emptying boxes but pause frequently when a memory is triggered.  We’ll keep the items which make us smile and reminds us of many good times with both my mom and dad.

Update: Estate sale went well except none of the furniture sold. Time to get reacquainted with Craigslist.

Posted in Virginia, Virginia Home | Tagged , , , , | 3 Comments »

Destination: Northern Virginia

Sunday, 13 June, 2010 by Beachbums1

Looks like we’ll soon be onto a new chapter of our “moving adventures.”  By mid to late August, we’ll be moving to Northern Virginia. Favorite Girl and I already took a trip to the area to check it out and look for a house. Love the area but, wow, it’s expensive.

Life sure is keeping me busy ~ work has been crazy, Logan and I are spending as much time together as possible (tennis/Zumba/Friday night dinner out), house hunting, job hunting, taking care of my mom’s estate and now we’re getting ready for the return of Favorite Man and his Battalion.  This is the fun part: welcome home ceremonies, making welcome home signs, decorating the fence line, etc.

Whew ~ just looking at the list makes me tired 🙂

Posted in Travels | 3 Comments »

Aloha ‘Oe

Tuesday, 13 April, 2010 by Beachbums1

Mom’s funeral was yesterday in Hilo, Hawaii ~ her hometown.  It was a family celebration of her life. Lots of stories, laughter, tears and, something my mom always enjoyed, lots of good food. Her children, sister, brother, nieces, nephews, cousins, etc were all present. I was so thankful to have John and Logan with me. John was able to take R&R and made the long journey.  And I certainly have appreciated all the thoughts and prayers from family and friends ~ it’s been a source of strength for me. 

The service was at a long time family church. She used to attend services with her parents and siblings many years ago. The burial was within walking distance and after the burial, after we prayed the 23 Psalms and the Lord’s prayer, we sang Aloha ‘Oe.  The song has special meaning to my mom (and to most people from Hawaii) and has lovely lyrics which say “Aloha ‘Oe, farewell to thee. One fond embrace before I now depart. Until we meet again.”

Until we meet again…

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Betty ~ My Mom

Saturday, 3 April, 2010 by Beachbums1

Mom in Hawaii

This is the hardest post I’ve written ~ I originally started this blog while we lived in Guam so I could keep my mom updated on our lives there since it was too far for her to visit.

My mom had a stroke on 19 March and passed away 24 Mar. The in-between days were a nightmare. The first day, we had high hopes she would recover but on the second day, she took a turn for the worse and …

Thankfully, we have many, many fond memories of her ~ and I’m so glad we were able to spend so much time together in recent years. Had we stayed in Guam for the full three years, we would have missed out on a lot of time together.

Now if I could just stop reaching for the phone to call her ~

I miss you, Mom!

Posted in Travels | 7 Comments »

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