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Ashland Train Day – On Track for a Day of Fun and Surprises

According to Louise Keeton, director of operations for the Downtown Ashland Association, everything is on track for another fun-filled Ashland Train Day – the 22nd anniversary, by the way. This year, the celebration of all things railroad will be held throughout Ashland’s quaint, picturesque...

Enjoy the Beauties of Nature at Lewis Ginter

On a beautiful spring day who doesn’t enjoy relaxing in the garden? And around here, we can always head over to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden (LewisGinter.org) at 1800 Lakeside Ave. Lewis Ginter was voted the 4th best botanical garden in the country by USA Today in 2019 and it’s no wonder why....

An Ode to Soup

By Kim Amboy:I was bored to death! Grandmother and I had come to visit great grandma on a cold winter’s day in Michigan when I was just five years old. Unfortunately for me, there were no toys or coloring books, and all I could find to do was sit and watch the two older ladies chatting and peeling...

Finding Back-to-School Deals: A Procrastinating Shopper’s Guide

The calendar turns to July, and suddenly, the back-to-school commercials start rolling, featuring new backpacks, notebooks, lunchboxes, and other school must-haves. But now it’s August, and the clock is ticking. Procrastinating parents and students need to make a mad dash to stores and shops to...

In Praise of La Manzana: A Harvest Time Tribute

By Kim Amboy:It's perfect design fits nicely in your hand. It can last almost forever in your fridge. There are over 7,500 varieties grown worldwide, and it’s the main ingredient in countless culinary creations. While the French call it “la Pomme”, Spanish speakers refer to it as “la Manzana”, and...

The Joys of Picknicking: One of Life’s Simple Pleasures

By Kim Amboy : There is something nostalgic and grounding about going on an old-fashioned picnic. Armed with just a blanket, good food, and the company of loved ones, an ordinary afternoon can be transformed into a memorable experience. Preparing special treats makes a meal part of the adventure....

Patrick Henry – The Hanover Voice of the Revolution

How could one tell the story of America’s quest for independence without including one of Hanover County’s most famous residents, Patrick Henry? Henry was born in Hanover and spent much of his life here. His experiences growing up and living in the county helped shape his principles, as well as...

Destination Anywhere – Let’s Go! Deltaville – Middle Peninsula Area

Is there more to do in Deltaville than just fishing? You bet there is! While the fishing is exceptional on the Chesapeake Bay, land lovers can find plenty of fun and educational activities. An excellent source of history and boat-building traditions can be found at the Deltaville Maritime Museum...

Take Good Care of Yourself and Beat Those Winter Blues!

By Kim Amboy : It seems lately I’ve been talking to the person staring back at me in the mirror. “Who is that old lady?” I ask, or sometimes I greet her with, “Hello Mother.” That poor girl is in serious need of an overhaul! And it makes total sense, because Old Man Winter does a number on...

Picking the Perfect Picnic Spot

There’s an old joke where the girl tells the guy that he must have picked a great spot for a picnic. Proudly, he asks, “How do you know?” She replies, “Because 10,000 ants can’t be wrong.” That’s somewhat been my attitude towards picnics. Why eat with the bugs when you have a perfectly fine indoor...

There’s Nothing Like a Farmers’ Market! 

A busy young mom with a car full of kids returns home from an event-filled shopping excursion. She and the youngsters are all laden down with bags of fresh fruits, vegetables, and crusty sourdough bread. They’re also unpacking several homemade and handcrafted items, including jars of honey,...

Unique and Interesting Summer Activities for Grown-ups – South of the River

Looking for grown-up ways to de-stress, unwind, and recharge? Are you a fan of history and museums? Perhaps you fancy sipping a glass of great local wine while enjoying live entertainment. What about perfecting your swing at the driving range of a nearby sports park? Or maybe a board game and a...

Glass Blowing in Jamestown: America’s First Industry

As a relative newbie to Virginia, I must confess, I really love all the fascinating history right at my doorstep. Recently, some friends treated my hubby and I to our first visit to Jamestown Settlement near Williamsburg. With my limited knowledge of Jamestown, I pictured wooden fences, tobacco...

Virginia’s 2026 Spring and Summer Festivals

Virginia’s 2026 festival season is filled with many opportunities to enjoy the Commonwealth’s hospitality, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences—from spring flowers to jazz concerts and wine tastings throughout summer and fall. No matter your preferences, interests, or budget, you’ll find...

Experience Fall Foliage at its Peak

By Kaitlyn Bruce :The brilliant ambers, vibrant goldens, and deep burgundies have already begun overtaking the scenery. Thankfully, we live in a state that is abundant in locations for enjoying the fall season.When you think of places to visit in the fall, the lake might not be the first thing...

Kid-Friendly Places North of the River

Parents, it’s time to plan a fun and unforgettable summer with your children including activities that are creative and challenging, both indoors and outside. School is almost finished for the year, and schedules are easing. If you find it a challenge to find family-friendly entertainment and...

Get Away to Arcady Vineyard Bed and Breakfast

Are you ready to head for the hills? This is, indeed, the ideal time of year to visit the beautiful mountains of Virginia. Consider all that the Blue Ridge has to offer…fantastic foliage, exceptional Virginia wines, charming inns, and amazing dining. Are you ready to roll? If so, and if you’re...

A Weekend of Rest and Relaxation in Bath County

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bath County, Virginia, offers a serene escape during the winter months. The beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and warm hospitality create an ideal destination for anyone seeking a cozy winter getaway. Foremost of those towns is Hot Springs,...

What Are You Doing for the Semiquincentennial?

Are you getting excited about the semiquincentennial? Even if you don’t know how to pronounce it, you may know that’s just a fancy way of saying it’s the 250th anniversary of something. And in this case, that something is the United States, itself. How many folks or businesses do you know that...

 Northern Neck on Chesapeake Bay—A Day Trip to Remember 

Are you itching for a little change of scenery but don’t want to drive for hours to get there? Then pile the gang in your jalopy and take the relatively short jaunt out to the Northern Neck communities near Chesapeake Bay. With the temps climbing back into the pleasant range, and the yellow petals...

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