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PUBLICATION TEAM
Publishers: Michael and Debbie Wykowski
Content Coordinator: Aimée O’Grady
Designer: Terri Shelow
Contributing Photographer: Melinda Ratcliff, The Little Photo Shop
Debbie and Michael Wykowski—Publishers
Aimée O’Grady Content Coordinator
ADVERTISING
Contact: Michael and Debbie Wykowski
Email: mwykowski@bestversionmedia.com or dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com
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Welcome to the January issue of
Brookside and old Town
Neighbors!
Happy New Year!
Idon’t know about you, but the second half of 2024 seemed to fly by. Typically, I don’t enjoy the early days of a new year. The holiday festivities are over, and the days feel short, dark, cold, and gloomy. Time seems to slow to a crawl in the middle of winter as I wait for spring.
But this year, I’m okay with time slowing down. It’s hard to maintain a hectic pace with no end in sight. As fun and enjoyable as the holidays are, it can be hard to catch your breath. So this year, I’ve decided to embrace the calm and quiet of a dark afternoon and the white space on my calendar pages.
This month, meet Jeremy and Erin Keck, who settled in Brookside just a few years ago. Before planting roots here, they spent years chasing careers both stateside and overseas. Early in her career, Erin pursued what many would consider a very exciting job as a show swimmer at an aquarium. However, she soon longed for a quieter role, ultimately finding her place as an administrative assistant.
Jeremy spent nearly a decade in the Armed Forces before transitioning to civilian life. He, too, dedicated years to advancing his career. Today, the Kecks enjoy spending time with their growing family and exploring all that the county has to offer.
In this issue, we also introduce you to a national nonprofit that helps families stay connected during some of the most hectic times imaginable. And we highlight Erin Keck's children’s book, which memorializes a sweet routine shared between a daughter and her father.
I hope you enjoy a slower pace to start the new year, and I'm sure this one will also be over before we know it!
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
© Best Version Media
CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES
Advantage Chiropractic & Massage Therapy
Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr.
Dr. Douglas B. Smith Jr. earned his undergraduate degree from the State University of New York and his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University in Atlanta, Georgia. While at Life University, Dr. Smith also received certification in Physical Therapy. Dr. Smith will be celebrating his 23rd year of practice in October of 2021. Dr. Smith is highly regarded in Fauquier County as being the “go to” doctor for injuries, headaches and wellness in general. The community shows their confidence in Dr. Doug by having voted him “Best Chiropractor” every year since 2006. 540-349-8989 | www.advantagehealthchiropractic.com
TAX PREPARATION
Marshall Consulting Group, LLC | Douglas M. Marshall, III CPA
As a leader in the accounting industry, Doug is committed to providing close, personal attention to his clients. He takes pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from years of advanced training, technical experience, and financial acumen. “We believe in the value of relationships. We view every client relationship like a partnership, and truly believe that our success is a result of your success!” 540-347-2161 www.mcgllccpa.com
TECHNOLOGY / TECH SERVICES
HTDNET | Matt Demaree
Matt Demaree is the owner of HTDNET, a local technology solutions company serving the area since 1994. We are your hometown experts for IT Solutions for your home or business. Matt has experience serving in several IT sectors such as telecommunications, cyber security, internet service providers, healthcare, and more. He is also a US Army veteran and local volunteer firefighter here in Fauquier. Please feel free to visit our website and become familiar with our services and check out our Google reviews. 540-905-8111 | www.htd.net | mdemaree@htd.net | linkedin.com/in/ matthewdemaree
ORTHODONTICS
TEEM Orthodontics | Dr. Madueke Ekoh
Dr. Ekoh's journey started in Nigeria, obtaining his Pre-Bachelors in Dental Surgery before emigrating to the U.S. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery and Orthodontist certificate at Howard University. To keep up with the advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Ekoh regularly attends numerous seminars, and is an active member in several professional associations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. He lives in Haymarket with his wife and four children. “My vision is to make advanced, high quality and cutting-edge orthodontic care available and affordable to everyone. I believe that great orthodontic care should not only improve the smile, but help people experience the joy of living better." 703-753-4777 | teemortho.com
HEARING
/ AUDIOLOGY
Hearing Assessment Center | Nikki Butler, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology
Dr. Nicolette “Nikki” Butler received her doctorate at East Tennessee State University. She has done extensive research in the area of auditory Working Memory (how the brain stores input from the ears). She is certified by the American Board of Audiology, a distinction held by only 15% of audiologists. She is also one of the select few doctors who holds a certificate in Tinnitus Management. People who suffer from tinnitus actively seek out Dr. Nikki’s care, some coming from several hours away. Dr. Nikki is dedicated to helping those who suffer from hearing loss and tinnitus, educating every single patient and treating those individuals with the highest level of care. When she is not serving her community, Dr. Nikki enjoys cooking, drinking copious amounts of coffee and exploring Virginia with her husband and two dogs. 540-495-8601 | www.hearingassessment.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/HearingAssessmentCenter
INSURANCE
State Farm Insurance | Glenn Albert
State Farm Insurance has been a fixture in Warrenton and the surrounding areas since the Agency opened in August of 1999. Glenn is an expert in risk management and he and his team excel in providing personalized, friendly service to help customers manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and realize their dreams. Glenn’s office is a full service Insurance and Financial Services Agency. Glenn and his wife Sandi (Bausman) are residents of Brookside, are active in the local community, and are happy to be a resource for the neighborhood. 540-347-3339 | www.glennalbert.com | www.facebook.com/ glennalbertsf | glenn.albert.le0c@statefarm.com
CABINET PAINTING
Heather’s Painted Treasures | Heather Workman
Heather Workman is the owner and operator of Heather’s Painted Treasures. Her team specializes in taking tired and dated cabinetry and giving them “new life.” They have a unique style of prep, cleaning, priming, and painting your cabinet doors and drawer fronts in their temperature controlled, ventilated, and dust free paint booth. This results in amazing cabinets that are as close to “factory new” without the factory! 703-655-7852 www.heatherspaintedtreasures.com
BOUTIQUE LUXURY NATURAL SKINCARE LOVE + BE WELL, BY NATALIE
Est. 2017 Be Well was created by MS warrior, mother + clean living activist Natalie. We are an award-winning, 100% clean, non-toxic, luxury skincare line designed to feed your skin to healthy + glowing at every age. We create hyper-fresh, smallbatch superfood skincare in our Warrenton, Va. studio. Husband and wife team
Natalie + Mitch are serial entrepreneurs, leaders, and speakers in the health + wellness space for the last 12+ years. www.bewellcompany.com
FB + IG @loveandbewellskincare | 63 Main St. Warrenton, Va. 20186
REAL ESTATE
RE/MAX Gateway/Regency | Heather Sutphin
Having lived in Warrenton all her life, Heather represents the values those in the Piedmont hold dear. Her commitment to our community is best evidenced by the countless hours she dedicates to local charitable organizations; as a Volunteer and as a Leader. As an elected Member of the Warrenton Town Council, Heather enjoys a first-person perspective of Warrenton's longer-term objectives. Those experiences bring "unique value" to her clients when it comes to service; exceptional is her only standard. Heather began her real estate practice in 2013 after a successful marketing career.
540-771-7458 | HSutphinRealtor@gmail.com
FLOORING AND CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENT
Early’s Carpet, Inc.| Sonja Betts, Lorraine Early, Solon Betts
Early’s Carpet, Inc., your hometown store with so much under one roof, is currently celebrating 54 years in the flooring and window treatment business. Early’s is a family operated business – Lorraine, co-founder since 1966, daughter Sonja Betts is Store Manager, Decorator, Window Treatment Specialist, and son-in-law Solon Betts is a Ceramic Craftsman and heads up all installation crews. The store is known for its’ “In-Stock” floor coverings availability. Do not let the name fool you – they are EXPERTS in all floor coverings, hardwood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, and carpeting. We are also pleased to be a Centurion Dealer for Hunter Douglas custom window treatments. Drive a little, save a lot! 540-937-5500 | www.earlyscarpet.com
© Best Version Media
FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Edward Jones | Jessica M. Ashby CFP® and Jeremy L. Noel CFP®
When it comes to your financial future, it's important to work with someone who takes time to understand you and your situation. Jessica & Jeremy's team takes a step-by-step approach to identify your goals and develop specific strategies to help you achieve them. Contact them today to see how personal service can make a difference. 540-428-2889 | jessica.m.ashby@edwardjones.com 540-428-8524 | jeremy.noel@edwardjones.com
HEATING /
AIR CONDITIONING
Mullins Heating and Air | Scott Mullins
Mullins Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC specializes in a wide range of heating and air conditioning services in the Sumerduck & Warrenton, VA area. Whether you need a multi-zone HVAC system installed in your new home or an outdated, inefficient mini-split AC system replaced, their HVAC contractor can make it happen. “We install ductwork and a wide variety of top-of-the-line HVAC systems to help keep customers comfortable at all times." 703-362-3883 | mullinshvac.com mullins4ac@gmail.com
HOSPITAL Fauquier Health
Featured Expert: Allan Hardy, MD
Dr. Hardy is board certified in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Obesity Medicine and he has training in Advanced Endoscopic Procedures from UNC-Chapel Hill. He is seeing patients exclusively at Fauquier Health. 540-316-3627 | FHDoctors.org
HOME COMFORT
Comfenergy and 3 Pros Basement Systems
Owner: Justin Dobson
Justin has over 25 years of experience with home services including working for his families HVAC business. Justin founded Comfenergy in 2010 after realizing how many people needed comfort solutions in their home that were not HVAC based, but in fact, home science based. Justin and Comfenergy have been recognized by the Loudoun, Prince William and Fauquier Chambers of Commerce for their unique methods of helping homeowners make their homes more comfortable, have improved air quality and lower energy bills. Justin is a NoVa local and Virginia Tech graduate. 45714 Oakbrook Ct., Suite #180 Sterling VA | 800-604-2252 www.comfenergy.com | www.3prosbasementsystems.com
PRINT & DIGITAL
CONTACT:
Debbie Wykowski dwykowski@bestversionmedia.com 703-203-9130
Visit www.bestversionmedia.com to learn more about our advertising solutions.
Our innovative advertising solutions are designed to build loyalty and brand recognition in the community.
Our Publishers are here to make your advertising experience simple and cost-effective, so you can focus on what’s most meaningful to your business.
When
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The Keck's Travels End in Brookside
By Aimée O'Grady | Photos by The Little Photo Shop
The tale of Erin and Jeremy Keck's life together is long and winding and took many paths, even a hop over the pond, to arrive at their comfortable Brookside home. The story of how they met has all the vibes of a romcom opening scene.
Jeremy and Erin worked out at the same gym in Bethesda, Maryland. They took cardio classes together, and one day, while Erin got her miles in on the treadmill, Jeremy was asking a personal trainer if he knew anything about her. In the close-knit gym community, where personal trainers and members all knew one another, the trainer casually asked Erin about her relationship status, mentioning that someone had expressed interest in her. The rest is history. Erin grew up in a small town 45 minutes southeast of Philadelphia. The landlocked Pennsylvanian sought distant shores and studied Psychology and Marine Biology at Coastal Carolina University with dreams of being a dolphin trainer. She worked at Riley’s Aquarium as a show diver
We would like to thank TEAM LARSON REALTY for sponsoring the Resident Feature.
where she swam with sting rays, sharks, and sea turtles among other marine life.
After two years, she traded her wet suit for a business suit and headed to the D.C. metropolitan area. “D.C. was so full of young professionals,” she said. “I wanted to be a part of it,” she added.
“All I wanted was to be an administrative assistant and have a desk job,” she said. She lived at home with her parents for a year to save money and then moved to the big city and found work in commercial real estate.
Meanwhile, Jeremy, born in New Mexico, was the son of an Air Force Lt. Col. and the grandson of an Air Force Chief Master Sergeant. He grew up all over the United States.
After high school, Jeremy followed in his paternal family’s footsteps and joined the Air Force. During his eight years of service, he worked on IT aboard Air Force One during both the Bush and Obama administrations.
After his service, he worked for L3 Communications at Andrews Air Force Base, which brought him to the D.C. area and that Bethesda gym.
© Best Version Media
Erin and Jeremy met in 2012 and were married in 2013. Despite his impressive resume, Jeremy struggled to find work when his L3 Communications contract ended. The couple let Jesus take the wheel and a position with L3 Communications, based in England, opened up.
The two packed up and moved to England for four and a half years. During that time they had a chance to travel throughout Europe.
Their first child, daughter Haven, was born there in 2017.
Feeling stifled in his career, the couple packed up again and returned to the United States and lived with Erin’s parents while Jeremy looked for work. He was offered a job in Northern Virginia and the family hired a realtor to help them find a home. When they were introduced to Brookside, they felt like they had arrived home.
© Best Version Media
Today, Erin stays home with 7-year-old Haven, and the couple's other children: 4-year-old Crew and 2-year-old Charlotte. She is already working on her next career by studying political science to earn her second bachelor’s degree. “I’m deeply interested in exploring the roots of our country’s divisiveness,” she said, outlining her ambitious goal of gaining a better understanding of the diverse perspectives that shape people’s beliefs. She credits her time in England with significantly broadening her worldview. “It was fascinating to see how differently things are approached there,” she added. She will complete her degree in 2026.
The busy couple fills their days spending time with their children. Haven dances at Lyrique Dance and cheers with Providence Christian Academy, where she
attends school. Crew is a part-time student in their pre-K program. He’s still too young for sports, but his affinity for kicking a ball has his parents thinking soccer might be a good direction for him.
Crew also loves swimming, a passion Erin is excited to share with him both at home and, as he grows older, out in the open water. Who knows—he might even be the one to fulfill the dream of swimming with dolphins.
The youngest, Charlotte, keeps mom company during the day.
Vint Hill attractions also keep the family busy. Erin and Jeremy can be found spending time at Old Bust Head Brewery and the Craft Winery with occasional trips to Old Town Warrenton to visit shops and bakeries.
For many, the start of a new year brings new hope. But after a string of years where the early months of the year brought a mixture of misfortune and heartbreak, I stopped viewing the start of a new year as the beginning of hope. I still walk into the new year with some trepidation about what those early months might bring. However, I have come to realize that hope is eternal and always there to sustain us in tough times.
New Year, OLD HOPE
By Audra Bayes
Thanks to a dear friend for sending me an Emily Dickinson poem I had long forgotten, I remembered that hope is not, and never needs to be, something you have to wait for. Hope is as old as life itself. Hope is eternal and can sustain us through the bleakest of winters. And hope is always present, but we must look deep within ourselves to find it. In the words of Dickinson, “[h]ope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul—and sings the tune without the words—and never stops—at all.”
We do not need to wait for a new year to find hope, although as a natural time of reflection, we may use the new year to remind ourselves that hope is all around. Hope can be found in the laughter of children or the luminescent sparkle of a fresh coat of snow. It can be found in the song
of birds heralding the arrival of spring. Hope is ever-present in the relentless pounding of ocean waves on summer sand. And hope is found in the beauty of autumn leaves falling to the ground, allowing the tree to rest and ready itself for the next year’s new growth.
Hope never leaves; we must allow ourselves to notice it in the little joys of each day. Looking out my window, I see hope all around. The hope of woodland creatures rooting for food through the fallen leaves blanketing the forest floor. Hope in the chubby squirrel sitting on my deck, knowing that if she waits patiently, I will come out and pour a cup of seed into her little picnic table. The hope of my naughty pony that another tree will fall, opening up a hole in the pasture fence through which he might exit and take himself for a stroll.
In the depths of winter, we must remember to stop waiting for hope to walk through our door and go out and look for it in the simple joys of nature and daily life. That is the hope that will sustain us through whatever challenges may come our way.
© Best Version Media
First a hug, then a kiss, then an i love you
By Aimée O'Grady
Inspired by her daughter’s routine with Jeremy, Erin Keck recently published her first children’s book, First a Hug, then a Kiss, then an I Love You. “She has had this sweet routine since she was about two years old,” said Erin.
She spent about three years working on the book. Through family connections, she was introduced to book manager Jef Serio and illustrator, Olivia Serio.
The book debuted in July and was celebrated with a launch party at Honor Brewing in Chantilly, a business dedicated to hiring veterans, first responders, and military spouses.
“With so many military members in our family, it felt natural to give the story a military theme,” she explained. “The main character uses her routine as a way to say goodbye to her father before he leaves for deployment.” While the story draws from personal experiences, she embraced creative license to bend the timeline—Haven, in reality, was born after her father’s military service had ended.
Fall ROOF Tune-Up Special!
Erin partnered with United Through Reading and donates 10% of all book proceeds to the organization. United Through Reading helps families with deployed service members stay connected through storytime video recordings. You can read more about this nonprofit on page 14.
First a Hug, then a Kiss, then an I Love You can be found at Erin’s Elderberries in Vint Hill and The Open Book on Main Street in Warrenton, or online at https://firstahugbook.com.
© Best Version Media
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the
of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real
community in the area. Any
estate agent's ad appearing in the magazine is
from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
Home of the Centrifuge Rug Cleaning Method
By Lorraine Early
1. Prevents issues like discoloration, deformation, and unpleasant odors.
2. Helps maintain rug quality and appearance.
3. The power action of the Centrifuge ensures that deep-seated dirt, debris, and contaminants are effortlessly removed, leaving rugs cleaner and rejuvenated.
Step-by-step overview of the Centrifuge Rug Cleaning process at Early’s Carpet in Amissville, VA:
1. Inspection: The rug is thoroughly inspected for stains, damages, and any special cleaning requirements. This helps in determining the best cleaning approach.
2. Dusting: The rug is vacuumed by a machine that removes loose dirt and dust particles. This step is crucial as it ensures that the washing process is more effective.
3. Pre-treatment: Stains and heavily soiled areas are treated with appropriate cleaning agents to break down dirt and grime.
4. Washing: The rug is washed using a combination of manual and machine methods. This typically involves soaking the rug in water and using gentle brushes to clean the fibers.
5. Rinsing: The rug is thoroughly rinsed to remove all soap and cleaning agents. This step ensures that no residues are left behind.
6. Centrifuge Drying: The rug is placed in the centrifuge machine, which spins at high speeds until the water runs clear and extracts up to 95% of the water. This significantly reduces the drying time.
7. Final Drying: The rug is then hung in a controlled drying
room with proper ventilation to ensure it dries completely. This helps prevent mold and mildew.
8. Final Inspection: Once dry, the rug undergoes a final inspection to ensure it meets quality standards.
9. Packaging: The rug is carefully packaged for delivery or storage, ensuring it remains clean and protected until it reaches the customer.
Bring Early’s your soiled rugs for cleaning.
MULLINS HEATING & AIR
© Best Version Media
TSaving Storytime for itary Children
United Through READING
By Melanie Sheridan and Terri Mateo
here are over 1.6 million military children in the United States, 70% of whom are under the age of eleven. These children also often experience six to nine moves during their K-12 education due to a change of duty station every two to three years. Additionally, deployments, long duty hours, and training exercises can lead to separation from loved ones, making it challenging to maintain strong family bonds.
Since 1989, United Through Reading (UTR) has served over 3.7 million military family members by creating shared storytime experiences, which foster literacy and emotional connections. UTR's programs are designed to address military families' unique challenges.
United Through Reading provides free, age-appropriate
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books to active duty, reserve, and veteran families through UTR story stations, partner events, and the UTR App. Research shows that having books in the home significantly improves academic performance, increases school retention, boosts empathy, enhances cognitive development, and contributes to future employment prospects. For many military families, a new book can feel like a luxury, as finances are often stretched thin. By offering high-quality books at no cost, UTR eases the burden on families who sacrifice so much in service to our country.
In 2024, UTR provided over 80,000 books to military families, with more than 1,000 gifted to families in the Northern Virginia area.
UTR also encourages service members to record stories for
any special child in their lives, especially when their service takes them far from home. The free UTR app allows our military members to record and share stories with loved ones, sending secure links to family members at home. The app includes ebooks, such as Erin Keck's First a Hug, then a Kiss, then an I Love You! for those without access to physical books.
Additionally, UTR operates story stations on military bases and ships, as well as two mobile story stations that bring story recording opportunities directly to service members wherever they are serving. These story stations support events such as pre-deployment briefings, Yellow Ribbon events, and larger community gatherings, like library storytimes and information sessions.
Literacy is foundational to all other learning, including subjects like STEAM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). UTR is not only committed to providing books and tools but also promoting daily reading. We offer resources such as age-appropriate reading trackers, literacy guides, podcasts, and videos of military members and families reading children's books to foster reading readiness and engagement.
We are grateful to Erin Keck, who provided a video of herself reading her new book to our Storybank for families, educators, doctors, and caregivers to share with children 24/7.
These resources help keep children engaged and confident in their literacy skills, even when circumstances are challenging.
Visit UnitedThroughReading.org for more information on how to get involved and access resources.
Together, we can preserve the magic of storytime for U.S. military families, no matter where their service takes them.
Fauquier Health Earns an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from THE LEAPFROG GROUP
By Heidi Jameson, Fauquier Health
Fauquier Health earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group. The grade is a national recognition of Fauquier Health’s achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and errors. This is the second consecutive A for Fauquier Health. The Leapfrog Group assigns a grade to hospitals across the country based on more than 30 performance measures.
“I’m so proud of everyone on the Fauquier Health team,” said Rebecca Segal, FACHE, Fauquier Health CEO. “We have a culture of safety and commitment to quality care. Every day, all of us, from our nurses and physicians to our clinical and ancillary staff, our volunteers and our board members work to make this an environment that places quality care at the center of all that we do. We are proud to be part of this community, and equally proud to take care of our friends and neighbors close to home.”
“Achieving an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade is a significant accomplishment for Fauquier Health,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “It reflects enormous dedication to patients and their families, and the whole community should be proud. I extend my congratulations to Fauquier Health, its leadership, clinicians, staff and volunteers for their tireless efforts to put patients first.”
The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization with a 10-year history of assigning letter grades to general hospitals throughout the United States, based on a hospital’s ability to prevent medical errors and harm to patients. The grading system is peer-reviewed, fully transparent, and free to the public. Hospital Safety Grade results are based on more than 30 national performance measures and are updated each fall and spring.
Ingredients:
© Best Version Media
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (or 1/2 cup pomegranate juice if seeds are not available)
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries (you can use strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, or a mix)
• 1 banana, preferably frozen for creaminess
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or a non-dairy alternative for creaminess and protein
• 1/2 cup almond milk or any milk of your choice (adjust based on desired thickness)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• A few ice cubes (if you're not using frozen fruits)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pomegranate
If using pomegranate seeds, you can keep them whole or blend them for a smoother texture. If using juice, measure out 1/2 cup.
PomegranateBerry
Smoothie
By Natalie S.
2. Blend
Add the pomegranate seeds or juice, frozen berries, banana, yogurt, and almond milk into a blender. If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, add honey or maple syrup now.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high speed until everything is well combined and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk or water. If it is too thin, add more frozen fruit or ice.
4. Adjust Consistency and Taste
Taste the smoothie. If you want it thicker, add more ice or frozen fruit; if it needs to be sweeter, add a bit more sweetener.
5. Serve
Pour into a glass, garnish with a few extra pomegranate seeds or a berry if desired, and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips:
Texture: For a smoother drink, blend the pomegranate seeds first before adding the other ingredients, or strain the juice if using whole seeds.
Variations: You can add spinach or kale for a
green boost, or include chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s. For a tropical twist, replace berries with mango or pineapple.
Storage: Best consumed fresh, but if you need to store it, keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before drinking, as separation might occur.
This smoothie is not only easy to make but also packed with antioxidants from the pomegranate and berries, providing a healthy boost for glowing skin and overall health.
Enjoy this vibrant, nutritious drink!
Love + Be Well, By Natalie
By Natalie S.
LUnveiling the Pomegranate: Your Secret Weapon for
Glowing Skin
adies and gentlemen, prepare to be dazzled by the ruby-red wonder that is the pomegranate!
This isn't just any fruit; it's a veritable treasure trove of skinloving nutrients that can transform your complexion from "meh" to "wow". Let's dive into the juicy details, shall we?
First off, let's talk about antioxidants. Pomegranates are like the superheroes of the fruit world, packed to the brim with antioxidants like punicalagins and anthocyanins. These compounds are your skin's best allies against the daily onslaught of free radicals – those pesky molecules that accelerate aging by damaging your cells. By neutralizing these villains, pomegranates help keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant.
But wait, there's more! Vitamin C in pomegranates isn't just for warding off colds; it's crucial for your skin too. This vitamin is a key player in collagen production, which is your skin's support system, keeping it firm, bouncy, and elastic. Think of vitamin C as the construction crew that repairs and rebuilds your skin's foundation, smoothing out fine lines and giving you that glow from within.
Now, let's touch on hydration. Pomegranates have a high water content, which means they're not just tasty; they help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Hydrated skin equals plumper, more radiant skin, making those early morning meetings a little less daunting.
For those battling with acne or inflammation, pomegranates might be your new best friend.
Thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties, they can help calm redness and soothe irritation.
Plus, the fruit's natural antibacterial qualities can keep those pesky pimples at bay. Imagine your skin as a calm, serene lake rather than a battlefield, all thanks to this fruit.
But here's where it gets even more fascinating –pomegranates can act as a natural sun protector. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in pomegranates can increase your skin's resilience against UV damage. While this doesn't mean you should skip the sunscreen, imagine having an extra layer of defense against those harsh rays, all from enjoying a delicious snack.
Lastly, let's not overlook the exfoliation benefits. The seeds themselves can act like a gentle scrub for your skin. When used in DIY face masks or scrubs (we're talking crushed seeds here, not just eating them), they can help slough off dead skin cells, leaving you with a brighter, more even complexion. It's like giving your skin a mini spa day every time you indulge.
But how do you incorporate this magic fruit into your routine? Easy! Enjoy pomegranate seeds as a snack, blend them into smoothies (like our Pomegranate Berry Smoothie), or look for skincare products with pomegranate extract.
Remember, while pomegranates are a powerhouse, they're part of a broader approach to skin health. Combine them with a balanced diet, good hydration, quality sleep, and a solid skincare routine, and you're on your way to that enviable glow.
So, next time you're at the grocery store, reach for those pomegranates. Not only will you be treating yourself to a delicious, juicy burst, but you'll also be giving your skin the love and care it deserves. Here's to glowing skin, one seed at a time!
P.S. Don't forget to wear an apron when you're de-seeding –those stains are not just on your skin but can become a part of your wardrobe if you're not careful!
© Best Version Media
and What to Do Instead
By Julie Batchos
As the New Year begins, many of us feel compelled to make resolutions—a list of goals we plan to achieve over the next 12 months. However, the traditional approach to resolutions often sets us up for failure. It’s no wonder 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions are abandoned by February. The problem isn’t a lack of willpower; it’s that these goals are typically built on the idea of fixing perceived flaws, which can lead to unnecessary pressure and self-criticism.
Resolutions are often framed as “all-or-nothing” commitments: eat perfectly, exercise daily, or save a specific amount of money. These rigid expectations leave little room for life’s natural fluctuations. The moment we skip a workout or indulge in a dessert, it can feel like we’ve failed, creating a cycle of guilt and discouragement that
makes it harder to stay on track.
Science tells us that grand, sweeping changes are less effective than small, consistent ones when it comes to building habits. I like to tell my clients to strive for progress, not perfection. Research on behavior change shows that our brains thrive on incremental progress. Establishing tiny, manageable habits — like drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning or taking a five-minute walk daily — helps us achieve our goals without feeling overwhelmed. These small wins activate the brain's reward system, making us more likely to stay consistent over time.
A better approach is to focus on intentions over resolutions. Resolutions can feel rigid and unforgiving, while intentions offer a gentler, more holistic path to lasting personal growth. Intentions focus on the "why" behind your goals, allowing for flexibility and compassion as life unfolds. They encourage you to embrace progress instead of chasing perfection.
For example:
Ü Instead of setting a goal to "lose 20 pounds," try an intention to “nourish my body with movement and healthy food.”
Then, set mini goals to support your intention, such as:
Adding one extra serving of vegetables to your meals each day.
Taking a 10-minute walk after lunch or dinner.
Swapping sugary drinks for water three days a week.
Ü Instead of "save $5,000," reframe it
FAIL
as “be mindful with my finances and embrace abundance.”
Mini goals to support this intention could include:
Reviewing your monthly subscriptions and canceling any you don’t use.
Setting up automatic transfers of $20 – $50 per week to a savings account.
Practicing gratitude for what you already have by writing down three things you’re thankful for daily. This simple practice shifts your focus to wanting what you have, rather than longing for what you don’t.
By focusing on intentions supported by small, manageable goals, you create a sustainable path to progress while honoring the flow of life’s challenges and changes.
This year, I encourage you to step away from the resolution trap and choose a more empowering approach. Intentions give you the flexibility to grow at your own pace while staying connected to what truly matters. By focusing on small, meaningful habits, you can build a life filled with purpose and joy.
If you find yourself wanting extra support, consider working with a Certified Holistic Wellness Coach or Life Coach. They can help you stay accountable, provide guidance, and ensure your intentions align with your unique path. Here’s to creating a year filled with balance, growth, and self-compassion!
© Best Version Media
Capsule Projects for the New Year
By Grace Schulte
Creating a capsule is a wonderful way to capture special memories and moments in time. This simple project is perfect for kids and allows them to collect small treasures and notes to rediscover in a year. Here’s how to make a time capsule with your kids that they’ll be excited to open next year!
Step 1: Choose a Container
The container is the foundation of your time capsule. Use a sturdy, sealable container like a small tin or mason jar. Let your kids decorate it with stickers or paint to make it feel truly personal. Don’t forget to add their names to them in some way.
Step 2: Collect Treasures and Mementos
Now, gather items that represent the current year. Encourage your kids to think about the things they love now that they might find funny or nostalgic a year from now. Some ideas include:
• A favorite small toy, sticker, or trinket
• A drawing of something they love right now
• A “Top 3” list of their favorite shows, songs, or foods
• A note or letter describing their current hobbies, friends, and dreams.
Tip: You could even print out a few photos from the year or save a family snapshot–kids love looking back at how much they’ve grown!
Step
3: Write Predictions for the New Year
This is a fun way to let kids think about what the future might hold. Ask them to write down what they think will change in a year: What grade will they be in? Will they still have the same foods? Will they try any new hobbies or sports? These predictions are fun to look back on and give the capsule a playful twist.
Step 4:
Seal It Up and Find a Safe Spot
Once everything is inside, seal up the container securely. Help your kids find a safe place to keep the time capsule, like a closet shelf or tucked away in a drawer. Make a small note in the family calendar to remind everyone when it’s time to open it for next year. Set an event with a reminder in your phone to open it next year around the same time. Bonus points for adding a little note to remind you where you put the capsules!
Creating a time capsule is a fun and easy way to make memories. Plus, it teaches kids to appreciate the little moments as they grow. Enjoy this project together–it’s a treasure waiting to be rediscovered!
© Best Version Media
calendar of events January
Spiritual Care Support Ministries at 7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton, VA 20187 offers support groups/counseling and special events for those experiencing the death of a loved one, divorce, or chronic illness. Services are free. For upcoming events and times go to the website, www.scsm.tv, or call 540-349-5814.
TUESDAY
Storytime at Erin’s Elderberries
Enjoy this free family event on the second Tuesday of every month featuring guest readers from the community, fun children's stories, and themed crafts!
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: 4257 Aiken Drive, Warrenton www.facebook.com/erinselderberries/events
EACH WEDNESDAY
Darts & Cornhole Night at the Warrenton Grainery
Darts and Cornhole night is back! Call up your friends, family, coworkers, and so forth to get a few games at Wild Hare on the books every Wednesday night! Let’s finish this week up right on target!
Location: Wild Hare Cider at The Grainery, 75 S. 3rd Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/events/278553694975212
Wing n’ it WEDNESDAY
It's Wing n’ it Wednesday at Heroic Axe! Get 20% off our mouthwatering buffalo wings. Order online and Eat-in or Take Out. Location: 6781 Kennedy Road, Suite 6, Warrenton www.heroicaxe.org
Warrenton Newcomers Club will have its monthly coffee the SECOND WEDNESDAY of the month, at Journey Church, 4173 Bludau Drive, Vint Hill, Warrenton, VA, from 9:30-11:30 AM. The Newcomers Coffee welcomes anyone who has experienced significant life changes such as retirement or relocation. The group enjoys fun and camaraderie and provides members with a connection to the community. For more information, contact Barbara at 32goose18@gmail.com.
EVERY WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY
Karen’s Line Dancing at Heroic Axe
Join Karen for midweek fun and line dance, eat some good food, and have a few drinks. Learn to dance to country, pop, and hip-hop songs one step at a time. Boots not required but they add a little spice. No Cover Charge or Throwing Required. Heroic Axe offers axe-throwing lanes and an amazing place to dance.
Location: 6781 Kennedy Road, Suite 6, Warrenton www.heroicaxe.org
EVERY THURSDAY
Coffee & Conversation , 7179 New Hope Lane, Warrenton, VA 20187. Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon, Spiritual Care Support Ministries opens to the community to provide fellowship, encouragement, and hope through conversation with others. We invite you to come for a cup of coffee, tea, light refreshments, and a place to chat. Please visit www.scsm.tv or call 540-349-5814 for more information.
THIRSTY THURSDAY
It’s Thirsty Thursday at Heroic Axe! Enjoy $2 off all draft beer and wine, plus $1 off all other alcoholic beverages. Unwind in the Pub with your favorite drink and delicious bites. Cheers to great deals and good times!
Location: 6781 Kennedy Road, Suite 6, Warrenton www.heroicaxe.org
EVERY FRIDAY
The Open Book: Storytime Time: 11:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us every Friday at 11:00 in our children's area for stories, songs & coloring time.
Location: The Open Book, 104 Main Street, Warrenton openbookwarrenton.com
WEEKENDS
Warrenton Farmers Market
Shop the best local produce, meat, sauces, jellies, jams, honey, flowers, personal care products & more! Weekly guest vendors bring arts, crafts, & other goods to round out the selection.
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Held on Court Street, Hotel Street & inside the building at 18 Court Street. www.facebook.com/events/947602160347275
LIVE MUSIC IN WARRENTON DENIM AND PEARLS
Enjoy dinner at the Casual, Comfortable, Upscale Modern American Dining Experience in Quaint Old Town Warrenton with live music.
Location: Denim and Pearls, 29 Main Street, Warrenton www.facebook.com/denimandpearlsrestaurant
OLD BUST HEAD BREWING COMPANY
Locally brewed. Universally loved. Join us for live music in our taproom.
Location: 7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton www.oldbusthead.com
JANUARY 4
All-day Walk with a Naturalist
Our monthly Walks with a Naturalist are a chance to explore our trails with one of our staff naturalists and learn about the plants and animals that live at the field station.
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA https://cliftoninstitute.org/events/
JANUARY 9
Emergency Care: Caring for Animals in the First 24 Hours When wildlife is injured or displaced, the first 24 hours are critical. Learn how to provide immediate care, including first aid, proper handling, and nutritional support to stabilize animals until they can be transferred to a rehabilitation center.
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Old Bust Head Brewing Company, 7134 Farm Station Road, Vint Hill Farms, VA 20187 www.oldbusthead.com
JANUARY 25
Astronomy for Everyone
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research.
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $10/car
Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144 www.visitfauquier.com/events/
JANUARY 29
Licorice Pizza Record (LP) Paint Party
Don't miss this unique and amazing class! Choose and paint your own record to hang in your home.
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $40/person
Location: Licorice Pizza, 32 Main Street Warrenton, VA 20186 Licorice.pizza
© Best Version Media
Small Habit Shifts To Reduce Your Screen Time
By Madison Farkas
Between work, appointments, entertainment, and day-to-day communication, it’s easy to feel like we spend half our lives glued to our devices—especially our smartphones. Here are a few simple changes you can make to reduce the number of hours you spend scrolling each day!
Keep Track of Your Screen Habits
When you first set out to limit smartphone time, you may find it useful to perform an audit of both the average hours you spend on your phone per day or week, and what you’re actually using it for. Your device should be able to give you all of these numbers, including a breakdown of which apps you have open when. Mine has a feature that tells me how many minutes more or less I used my phone from one week to the next. Once you have this information, you can use it to set realistic goals.
Schedule Daily Phone Time
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not necessary for everyone in your life to have constant, instant access to you! Save a few key contacts that can reach you in true emergencies, then take advantage of your phone’s Do Not Disturb feature to turn off notifications and send calls straight to voicemail. You can still get back to people in a timely fashion if you set aside a limited number of times throughout each day to check messages and cap the number of minutes you spend doing so.
Make Your Phone Boring
When you have a dozen or more puzzle and game apps accessible from your home screen, it’s tempting to whip out your phone the moment you have a second of downtime. Bite the bullet and uninstall these mindless timewasters. In the same vein, limit yourself to the smallest amount of mobile data you can get away with. Apps aside, you’ll find it very difficult to distance yourself from your phone when the entire internet is only a tap away!
When you inevitably do find yourself in a situation where you need to wait for something, see if you can cultivate a sense of comfort with your own thoughts. Patience is a virtue, and
silence cannot hurt you—in fact, you might even find your mind a little calmer when you stop forcing it to process constant distractions.
Go Old-School When You Can
Though I’m pretty sure the Nokia slider I had in 2007 is going to outlive me, you might have a hard time finding a “dumb” phone in a store these days. I’m the first to acknowledge how useful it is to have your entire life in the palm of your hand, but there are still ways a more analog lifestyle can help you reduce your screen time. When I started wearing a watch again—not a smartwatch, but a plain old digital clock that doubled only as a step counter—I noticed a significant reduction. After all, it’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole if you open your phone whenever you need to check the time. I also switched back to a bedside alarm clock. I spend way less time in front of a screen before bed now, which is great for my sleep. But it’s also nice to start the day without immediately seeing all my notifications.
Neighbors and old Town
