February 2023

CLEA LIVING M N

The FRANK Family of EVERMAY

COVER PHOTO BY TATIANA DOVE

PUBLICATION TEAM

Publisher: Gloria Bruni

Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas

Account Executive: Crissy Moore Hall

Designer: Amanda Capehart

Contributing Writers: Katie Culligan, Nyomi Fox

Photographer: Tatiana Dove

My Dearest McLean Residents:

I am so incredibly grateful for this issue - our 12 month anniversary! WOW! All of you are amazing and have received me and my magazine with open arms, this just melts my heart and inspires me to write about this month's topic.

ADVERTISING

Contact: Gloria Bruni

Email: gbruni@bestversionmedia.com

Phone: 703-868-8071

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS

Have feedback, ideas or submissions?

We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: gbruni@bestversionmedia.com.

CONTENTSUBMISSIONDEADLINE

(5 days prior to the Submission Deadline; remember Content Submission Deadline dates of the 20th or later refer to a magazine edition 2 months out.)

ContentDue

As Valentine's Day comes and goes every year, there is only one thing on the minds of humans across the globe: love, whether you have it or not.

What exactly is love? As the Hallmark holiday suggests, it's an excuse for all of us to eat our feelings in the form of heart-shaped chocolates. But it's also much more than that -- it's an all-consuming feeling that most of us will be lucky enough to get struck by at least once in our lives.

We make the decision to throw ourselves into a rollercoaster of emotions. We become so vulnerable (and a little dumb to be honest) that thoughts of our significant other runs through our minds all day, thinking only of when we can see them next.

June

Copy Editor: Stefanie Stayin Any

We get caught in the adrenaline of these mind-numbing emotions, and we do so happily. But why do we do this? Why do we put ourselves through the risk of pain, of heartbreak? The answer is simple: because love is an amazing, magical thing.

It may happen slowly, with every stolen glance, door held open, goodnight kiss and simple touch building up until you're overcome with emotion and being "in like" overflows into being "in love." Or, it may happen all at once, while you're lying in bed, tipsy after a happy hour, laughing until your stomach hurts about something only the two of you understand, when suddenly it hits you that you love this person. However it chooses to unfold, all love has one thing in common: It's an innate, universal human emotion that we all crave and desire even if we don’t like to admit it.

As usual, there is a catch: as love can also be scary. It is a crushing, catastrophic feeling -- beware if it happens to you. It is a parasite that feeds on its host, the heart. It catches you off guard, seizing your mind until you can think of nothing else. But love is also beautiful. It's the lazy times snuggled up to your favorite person watching a movie. It's the silly faces you make at each other from across the table on a dinner date. It's the kisses in the kitchen while cooking at the end of the day. It's when your significant other is also your best friend. It's the laughing, joking, loving, accepting and honest relationship that we all want.

Love is arguably the most powerful emotion in the world. It is the only thing that allows us to put someone else's needs before our own and to completely devote ourselves to another human being. Being in love ultimately helps us become better As usual, there is a catch, as love can also be scary. We think of ourselves and we go out of our way to make someone else feel special, a series of actions that help us learn how to care for someone unconditionally, and how to keep our relationships strong and passionate. Being in love is like being in a constant state of euphoria. Yes, love can be frightening and even hurtful at times. But it is also an enchanting, wonderful, and breathtaking thing that we cannot live without.

With all this, I am thrilled to have Matt and Janine featured in our cover story. I invite you to read their lovely story with some great McLean history.

A HUGE shout out to all of our AMAZING sponsors, please stop by and thank them for McLean Living.

Until next month.

Sincerely,

© Best Version Media

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES

Iche Chiu | 360 CPA 866-550-2050 | 360.cpa

ACUPUNCTURIST

Dr. Sarah Alemi | Eastern Roots Wellness 571-354-6643 | easternrootswellness.com

BAKERY

Sandra Panetta | Sweetbites Cafe 703-448-1115 | sweetbitescafe.com

CAREER COACH

Kelly Featheringham | Kelly Featheringham ACC, Executive Career Coach 914-489-8856 | kellyfeatheringham.com

DENTIST

Dr. Negar Tehrani | Aura Dentistry 703-748-1900 | auradentistry.com

EDUCATION

Jinsil Kim | C2 Education of McLean 703-288-4400 | c2educate.com

FURNITURE

Joni Foerter | Front Porch Furniture Rescue 703-543-9248 | myfurniturerescue.com

HAIR STYLIST

Daniel Bechara | Salon Daniel 703-893-5000 | salondaniel.com

HEATING AND AIR

Brian Anderson

TemperaturePro Northern Virginia 703-828-0886 | temperaturepro.com

GASTROENTEROLOGY & HEPATOLOGY

Dr. Ramin Farboud

Advanced Gastroenterology & Hepatology 703-345-6655 | aghofgreaterwashington.com

DERMATOLOGY

Dr. Pantea Tamjidi, MD, F.A.A.D.

Tamjidi Skin Institute 703-345-6677 | tamjidiskininstitute.com

MENTAL HEALTH

Eva-Maria Theodosiadis, MD & Dr. Debra Brosius | Integrated Psychology Associates of McLean, LLC 703-215-4101

debrabrosius.com | ipamclean.com

INSURANCE

Milena Bu | State Farm 225-252-1932 | buforyou.com

LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/ COMMERCIAL

Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 888-929-8188 | groundguys.com

MASTER PEDICURIST & ONCOLOGY-TRAINED ESTHETICIAN

Lisa Tep | Sesen Spa 703-281-0822 | sesenspa.com

MOVER

Gina Kovatch | Petra Moving Company 703-547-7631 | petramovingcompany.com

PERMANENT MAKE-UP

Paola Soto | Synergy Beauty 703-734-0772 | synergybeautytysons.com

REAL ESTATE

Brian Mason | Signature Move Real Estate 703-936-6501 | signaturemoverealestate.com

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Stephanie Q. Lawrence | Vinson Hall 540-314-8745 | vinsonshall.org

TRAVEL AGENT/VACATION PLANNING

Emmy Hoffman | Luxe Traveler Club 502-345-8938 | luxetravelerclub.com

WARDROBE STYLIST

Cemile Caliskan | Chaliskan

571-585-1728 | chaliskan.com

JOIN THE TEAM! To learn more about becoming an EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR, contact Gloria at: 703-868-8071 or gbruni@bestversionmedia.com

not enough.

A coastal classic setting new heights.

When you come to the coast, time slows down. Once the waves hit your toes, your whole body relaxes and your spirit feels stronger. It’s a feeling you wish could last forever. Nobody likes having to leave the beach at the end of the day. So don’t.

Introducing a brand new expansion to Westminster-Canterbury — The Bay Tower — 225 all new Independent Living apartments overlooking the very best in Virginia Beach. Call (800) 996-9794 or visit wcbay.com.

When a day at the bay is

Solidifying Relationships with Acupuncture

By Dr. Sarah Alemi

Who knew that needles and relationships would ever be discussed together. Yet, acupuncture has been helping to bolster relationships for thousands of years by helping each person optimize their own physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Something to think about as we celebrate Valentine’s Day this month. While some of us might roll our eyes at the saying "it is important . . . .relationships with others." Fortunately, as just mentioned, acupuncture can help with that in many ways. One way is through emotional regulation. The insertion of thin acupuncture needles at certain points stimulate the areas of the body responsible for the production of vital emotion-managing hormones, such as endorphins. Assistance in the releasing of mood-boosting endorphins results in positive feelings and helping with emotional regulation.

Relationships tend to fare better between those who have an overall positive outlook on life and make their mental and emotional health a priority. For example, acupuncture can not only help with feeling more positive, but it can help with mental-emotional disorders such as depression. Our mental health is also important when it comes to the strength of our relationships with others. As we might be aware, Northern Virginia inhabitants often find themselves dealing with stress. Chronic or uncontrolled stress can be disastrous for various types of partnerships.

Luckily, acupuncture has been proven effective in helping to regulate stress. Not only can acupuncture help negate the effects of stress on our bodies, such as poor sleep, impaired digestion, and irritability, but it can also make our body more resilient to stress to begin with. Said differently, we don’t get as stressed

as often.

Again, certain points allow the body to regulate hormones as well as release and regulate other important chemicals and neurotransmitters. This leaves us with a calm mind and feeling more at ease.

This ability, in addition to aiding in proper blood flow and circulation, has a final physical effect on the bodyfurther bolstering relationships. With increased circulation and an elimination of feelings of stress, this allows libido passion and feelings of intimacy to rise. Even in non-romantic relationships, acupuncture helps increase our overall energy, allowing us to engage with others - and in a more qualitative way. If you’re looking to strengthen your relationships this year, think about starting acupuncture treatment. By optimizing our physical, mental, and emotional health, we can create vibrant relationships with others.

Happily Evermay After

By Katie Culligan

What happens when a self-proclaimed “hardcore” twosome know exactly what they want? Matt Frank, 42, and Janine Frank, 37, of McLean can be the first to tell you! After their courtship of a little over one year, the couple celebrated their SURPRISE nuptials on September 17th, 2022 at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, where they are both members. In just four months, they planned and threw a surprise wedding for over 100 guests, and also moved into their current home in the Evermay neighborhood.

The now newlyweds say their best memory was of their first date. The two met online through the dating app Hinge. Janine was living in Baltimore at the time and, after a few days of talking, the two decided to meet in “Charm City.” They both knew that something felt different - Janine rarely agreed to a first date after only a few days of talking, and Matt had never traveled an hour away to do so. The couple recounts, what an amazing night it was in Harbor Eastfrom cocktails on the 29th floor of The Bygone, to a fabulous Mediterranean dinner at Ouzo Bay, then finishing with a nightcap of ice wine in the lounge of the Charleston. Matt still jokes it took him three different restaurants to get Janine to go out on a second date! Janine gushes, “To this day, we still talk about how it was the best date we had ever been on! It was just easy, and neither one of us wanted it to end.”

With a degree from George Mason University, Matt is a CPA who specializes in accounting for non-profits and government contractors. He spent over 20 years working in a McLean accounting firm. A few years ago, after the merger with a larger accounting

PHOTOS BY TATIANA DOVE AND THE FRANK FAMILY

firm, Matt became the managing partner of the office

Starting off this year with a bang, Matt launched a tax and consulting firm specializing in nonprofits, government contractors, businesses, and individuals

Janine holds a B.S. in Exercise Science from Towson University, and is a Certified Personal Trainer & Health Coach through the American Council on Exercise (ACE), and Level 1 Nutrition Coach through Precision Nutrition. With 17 years in the industry, Janine is the co-founder and CEO of the health and wellness company, 2 Health Nuts, serving Maryland, D.C., and Virginia sectors. Over the past 3 years, the company has pivoted their business model to accommodate virtual programming, which now allows for a nationwide reach. Janine explains, “Whether you are looking to bring wellness into your workplace, or are interested in more individualized services, 2 Health Nuts offers a customized approach to all facets of fitness, nutrition, and stress management.” In addition, Janine is an influencer on social media, showcasing her love of fashion and all things “Fit4Janine.” Starting this April, Janine will be the Health and Wellness Expert Contributor for McLean Living Magazine!

Although fitness and nutrition will always be at her core, Janine is an avid fashionista and loves a little retail therapy. She is an advocate of supporting small businesses within the community, and has already

discovered some of her favorites, such as The Preppy Pink Pony and Wisteria Beauty. She cannot get enough of Sweet Leaf’s amazing avocado toast and weekly trips to The Organic Butcher. Fun Fact: Janine’s dear clients and friends from Baltimore’s family business is McLean Hardware. She would hear them talk about it for years, and now, Janine & Matt make sure to support it every chance they get! Janine also enjoys giving back however she is able. In December, she was inducted into the Rotary Club of McLean and looks forward to making an impact within the organization and beyond. In addition, she is an active committee member at the Congressional Country Club.

Matt is affiliated with several boards which includes the George Mason University Accounting Council and the McLean Project for the Arts. When time permits, Matt enjoys golfing at the Congressional Country Club. They both consider themselves wine enthusiasts with a fondness for a bold Cabernet Sauvignon.

The two moved into the Evermay subdivision in June 2022; the very neighborhood solely developed and constructed by Matt’s grandfather, Gene H. May of May Construction. Gene bought the land for Evermay back in 1965 from a gentleman by the name of Vernon Palmer. He had previously completed building the subdivision, Villamay, in Alexandria and now had his sights set on McLean. After a year of waiting for the construction to be approved by the county, Gene began work in 1966. He offered a $100 prize to a group of church women who could come up with the name for his newest subdivision. Matt’s grandmother, Barbara, ultimately deemed it “Evermay,” and as Janine has taught Matt, “The wife is always right!”

In July of 1967, Gene opened the new office and display house on Potomac School Road. Three weeks later, he and his wife, daughter Nikii, and son Perry, moved into their new home on Stoneham Lane. Then, in

Best Version Media

September of 1975, the family moved into their forever home on Perry William Drive. It was always Matt’s dream to live in the neighborhood. He grew up down the street where his mother, Nikii May Frank, currently resides, and where his uncle’s family lived most of their lives.

Best Version Media

Lo and behold, this dream became a reality when Janine and Matt purchased his grandfather’s home in June! They both agree that "not only is it filled with such amazing memories, it's a legacy we wanted to continue."

By the time Matt was three, he had his

own set of keys to the backhoe and bulldozer. He was a daily visitor to the Evermay construction site and, over time, he learned how to operate all the machines and even managed to pull the heavy levers. You bet this made news in The Washington Post! The May

legacy is strong as Matt’s grandfather built over 1000 single family homes in the Washington, D.C. area before his passing at age 80 in 2005.

About an hour away from the Evermay development, Janine was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. While very much an extrovert, she is a homebody at heart and has a wonderful relationship with her family. She attended private school from grades K-12 and started her career in the wellness industry at age 19.

The pair loves to travel, and have so many places they want to check out! Every fall/winter, they vacation with Janine’s family in St. Maarten and take a handful of trips each summer with Matt’s family in the Outer Banks. The couple appreciates all four seasons but never turns down the opportunity to go out west to ski, golf, or bask in the warm weather.

When asked about their goals for 2023, they look forward to creating a foundation in all aspects of their personal and professional lives. The duo feels honored to be part of such an amazing, tight knit community. “Everyone has been so incredibly welcoming and has made us feel right at home! We look forward to getting to know each of them more, raising a family here, and being a presence within the Evermay neighborhood.”

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

sweetbites Café and Bakery

By Katie Culligan

Many who discover Sweetbites Café and Bakery, located in the heart of McLean, call it a “hidden gem.” While flattered, owner Sandra Panetta, explains that hearing this actually breaks her heart since the brick and mortar location has now been open for 7.5 years. While the cheery eatery is tucked away in the shaded corner at the bottom of the INOVA medical building on Elm Street, the small but mighty kitchen makes everything from scratch on a daily basis. The bakery proudly makes fine quality European style pastries and wholesome prepared foods on-site in their tiny kitchen. Their coffee and espresso drinks are made with the popular Italian Illy-brand coffee beans. Just by entering the intimate cafe you are greeted with a bright, unique, relaxing atmosphere along with a sense of community. Sandra mentions that an unofficial group aptly named “Breakfast Club” has built up over the years to become a regular morning tradition of a group of McLean citizens who became acquainted at the café. They come to have lively conversation about their lives while they enjoy fresh food and coffee inside or on their outdoor patio. Owner Sandra only formally got started in the pastry business when she began thinking about transitioning to it as a second career. With that in mind, she began a “moonlighting” catering business that featured miniature pastries that ran for close to ten years and that helped her develop skills and her technique. “I then became intrigued by both the food truck industry that was slowly making its way across the country, and the cupcake craze that was also trending in this area.” In 2010, after retiring from a 30-year career in environmental policy, Sandra took the plunge and opened a dessert food truck called The Sweetbitestruck to become one of the pioneers in the DC food truck industry.

Photos by Sandra Panetta and Tatiana Dove

Sandra worked diligently over several years to make her food truck venture in DC and the surrounding VA and MD suburbs operates successfully and legally. She reflects that facing that challenge was one of the most interesting times in her life. She purchased an old mail truck online, sight unseen that was located in Illinois. She then had it driven to Texas to be outfitted with kitchen equipment, electricity, hot running water, and storage units. She then had it driven to VA where it was wrapped with her logo and parked in her driveway. Once operational, she would park in downtown DC, pop open the window and sell cupcakes. After five years on the truck, she was ready to go stationary and although the truck isn’t operating today, she confesses that she can’t seem to part with it!

With such an undertaking, it’s helpful that both small business ownership and entrepreneurship are in her DNA. Both her grandfather and father owned a small businesses: her father was a professional tailor, a skill he learned as a young apprentice in Calabria, Italy. Also,

she was inspired by her mom who is an amazing cook and has always created beautiful desserts. She still bakes all of the family’s favorites and some of her recipes are even used at Sweetbites, such as the vanilla sponge cake is an essential component of several of the specialty cakes! Sandra also has a special place in her heart for many of the bakeries in New York City where she has traveled to on occasion to soak up new ideas.

Sandra actually grew up in Syracuse, NY where her parents settled after immigrating to the US from Italy in their teens following World War II. Living in McLean herself, she is a single mom of two wonderful children who are now in their 20’s; one is in grad school at Pitt and the other resides and works in Reston and is contemplating grad school soon. Many Sweetbites’ customers know Sandra’s kids because her daughter worked in the bakery for years during the summers, along with college breaks. In addition, one summer, her son built the outdoor patio in front of the bakery!

Sandra keeps her fingers on the pulse and truly believes that one can’t take true quality for granted. “Generally speaking, that’s not easy to achieve. People think quality stems from ingredients, and of course in some part it does. However, skills, technique and experience are equally important when it comes to creating quality desserts. Even the simplest things require the right technique. Combine that with qualitysourced products, a fun environment and you have a place where people keep coming back!” As evidence of their quality, many of Sweetbites’ delicious recipes were carefully crafted and finely tuned months before the bakery even opened.

Sweetbites’ two talented, hard-working bakers, Dana and Reggie have been with the business since its opening. Sandra is extremely appreciative of their dedication to Sweetbites over the years. She proudly states that all of her counter staff do a great job of serving as both sandwich chefs and baristas. She is also grateful for her after-school McLean High School students who finish their day by serving the last hour of customers and then cleaning up all the mess!

Sandra really enjoys talking to everyone and getting to know the people who have become regulars. She cherishes

Best Version Media

seeing the smiles on her customer’s faces when they look into the bakery case. She effuses, “I hope you all know how much I appreciate all your continued support through the years!”

Equally fun for her is tasting new creations from the bakers; for example, the Chocolate Mousse Crunch Bar. On that note, she confesses that the biggest challenge of her job is keeping herself from eating a second chocolate chip scone. “Every day I struggle when they come out hot and fresh from the oven!” Some of her favorite pastries include the Midnight Chocolate Cake, the Not-YourAverage Lemon Bars (made with the whole fruit!), fresh Apple Tarts, and of course, the Chocolate Chip Scones. She has always been a huge fan of their Fudge Brownies because the flavor and texture are quite simply perfect! When asked about customer favorites, she says the hot fresh Cinnamon Buns and Apple Galette are very popular, “so make sure to come early before they sell out!”

In summary, if you love pastries made from scratch, fresh sandwiches and salads along with true Italian coffee, then support a local business by swinging by Sweetbites! And treat yourself to that second chocolate chip scone. They are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am – 5:00 pm.

By Dr. Debra Brosius

In psychology, many researchers conceptualize relationship quality in terms of how satisfied each partner is in the relationship. This focuses on the hedonic dimension of the relationship (pleasure or happiness). But of course, there is more to healthy relationships than how good you feel. For example, relationships can be a source of meaning, which may include commitment, sacrifice, and personal growth.

Contrary to a Hollywood idealized version of couplehood, relationships require work from each partner, and it’s normal for relationships to experience hard times. By using the strategies outlined here, you can improve your relationships and ideally keep them going strong. However, it requires both partners actively working to nurture the relationship.

Develop a strong emotional connection: According to psychology research, one of the most important predictors of a healthy relationship is being emotionally responsive. This involves sending cues (e.g., verbal, physical) to your partner

and having them respond to it (e.g., soothing, encouraging, etc).

Be vulnerable with each other: When partners engage in self-disclosure, this helps develop and strengthen mutual trust. Sharing our authentic selves with others is one aspect of happy, intimate relationships.

Be honest: This can go hand-in-hand with vulnerability, but also encompasses other forms of communication. A healthy relationship will likely not be based on lies.

Have ‘healthy’ conflicts: Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship, but how you go about working through them is essential.

Try something new. This is especially helpful if your relationship feels stale, and it can reignite the spark (e.g., going to a new restaurant for date night).

Solve problems as a team: This can help strengthen your identity as an “us” instead of a “me” and “you” and develop

C2reallyknowshowtotailortheirteaching tosuiteachindividualstudent’sneeds.Every timeIwenttosomeoneatC2forhelp,theydid theirabsolutebesttogivemeadditionalstudy materialsandguidance.”

your problem-solving skills together (e.g., this can range from parenting teens, budgeting finances to asking your partner for help with a problem at work).

Talk about your goals and dreams: Sharing similar hopes and values can help you reignite what attracted you to each other in the first place. Although it’s important to learn how to identify when a relationship is going well, it’s just as important be aware of signs of an unhealthy relationship. Researchers have identified four key aspects of communication that can contribute to unhealthy relationships.

Criticism. When you criticize someone, you are attacking them to the core of their character. This is different from offering a helpful opinion or voicing a disagreement.

Contempt. Contempt goes beyond criticism as it encompasses your moral superiority over the other person. This can include mocking them, ridiculing, calling them names, mimicking their body language, or scoffing. The intention is to make them feel unworthy, which is a terrible feeling to instill or receive from someone.

Defensiveness. It’s natural to be defensive sometimes, especially if you’re particularly stressed or tired. But defensive responses often shift the blame to the partner, which usually isn’t the best way to go. It tells the other person that you may not be taking them seriously and that you won’t own up to your mistakes.

Stonewalling. Stonewalling is often in response to contempt. This happens when the listener who is receiving sarcastic remarks or ridiculing comments ends up shutting down and no longer responds to the partner. They ‘stonewall’ the partner and try to avoid confrontation by acting busy, disengaging from the conservation, or simply leaving their presence.

The RELATIONSHIP BANK ACCOUNT

Relationships are like a Bank Account: you can make daily deposits or whithdrawals that affect your total balance and overall health of your relationship.

ADD TO ACCOUNT

Affectionate touching

Facial Expression (smile, blow kiss)

Playful touching (dancing, gently bump)

Affiliating gestures (open door, offer seat)

Vocalizing (Laugh, Say 'I Love you')

TAKE FROM ACCOUNT

Interrupting

Blaming

Criticizing or Judging

Saying hurtful things

Withholding affection

Invalidating their feelings

Turning down a bid for connection

THE 5:1 RATIO

Experts recommend making five deposits for every one withdrawal you make.

HAVE A ROMANTIC Valentine’s Day!

By Dani Banegas

It’s that time of year again, when romance is revived. There are many legends of how Valentine’s Day got started, but my favorite has to do with Saint Valentine, who was a 3rd-century Roman saint. He was martyred around 270 CE, and his last act was writing a letter to a beloved friend and signing it "from your Valentine," which I consider the most romantic way to sign a love letter.

Valentine’s Day is not only about writing letters, it is also about sharing special evenings with loved ones. The best part is how red fills the air with roses, hearts, and the spirit of love all around us." Oh, yes, I am romantic.

Valentine’s Day is not for everyone,

but whether you are a Valentine’s Day super fan or not, it is coming, and you can’t avoid it. And believe it or not, your partner and your friends are expecting something special from you. Don’t worry; McLean Living is here to the rescue. We’ve wrapped up some of the best restaurants to make the most of this day. Valentine's Day falls on a Tuesday this year, our area has plenty of restaurant destinations to make every celebration special.

Our first recommendation is Aracosia McLean, where the dim lights and coziness make the perfect mood for an intimate dinner. The menu offers a variety of dishes, which is perfect for any couple with different tastes and preferences. Aracosia's wine list boats a variety of wines, and if cocktails are

your preference, Valentines Day is the perfect time to order their "I've Lost All My Strength, But From Your Power I Am Able" specialty mixture of bourbon, bitters, cherry preserves and grapefruit zest. Expect a pleasant evening with good service and excellent food. Another fantastic restaurant not far from you is Circa, in The Boro at Tysons, is a modern-smart casual bistro if you're in search of a vibrant, romantic dinner. They have a special menu for the holiday, starting with a delicious appetizer, an exquisite entrée, and for the end of the night, a sweet desert. The warm and genuine service at Circa is sure to make for a heartfelt Valentine's Day!

If you are looking to set an Italian mood to the night, we recommend

Aracosia

Maggiano’s Little Italy you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a little corner of Italian.

"That’s Amore" is the name of the special menu they’ve prepared for that night. But I believe the most romantic Italian dish is a classic spaghetti and meatball served with a glass of pinot noir, or maybe a glass of the famous Maggiano’s Italian Sangria.

Our final restaurant suggestion for Valentine’s Day is Wildfire Tysons, which has a cozy, luxurious ambience. This is just the place if you are looking for a perfectly charcoal-grilled steak and surprisingly delicious cornbread. Wildfire will be offering their dinner menu that you can enjoy all day and a special Valentine’s menu that includes their famous dishes like shrimp cocktail and wildfire chop salad. For the main course, I will suggest a parmesan-crusted New York strip steak, and to add some Valentine color to the night, I would suggest a red velvet cake. Remember to accompany this great dinner with just the perfect wine.

If you follow our suggestions, you are sure to have a special evening with that special someone. We have nothing else to tell you but to wish you all a romantic Valentine’s Day from the McLean Living family.

Circa

Maggiano's

YOUR BEST SKIN at Every Age

By Lisa Tep

Ready for your best skin? I know I am!

As much as we'd like to "set it and forget it," that's not how skincare works. Over time, internal and external factors (lifestyle choices, sun exposure, health, etc.) play a huge role in how our skin changes. Your skincare should adapt to support your skin's ever-changing needs. Products you used in your 20s may or may not support the skin of your 40s.

I've broken down my recommendations by decade, with each decade having an overarching focus:

• Teens- Establish

• 20s – Prevent

Skincare in Your Teens

The onset of puberty usually results in hormonal changes that may cause excess oil production and congestion, leading to acne in some teens. Whether acne forms or not, the teenage years are a crucial period for forming healthy skincare habits.

The main focus at this stage is establishing a simple routine, one that gets adopted early on and is easily incorporated as daily personal hygiene. The more complicated the routine, the less likely your teenager will comply, and compliance is key.

Hands down, there are two absolutely critical products to introduce at this stage - a facial cleanser and sun

an absolute minimum. Teens can greatly benefit from professional treatments such as deep pore cleansing facials. These sessions allow a trained and licensed esthetician to thoroughly analyze, perform extractions, and properly treat the skin. Unless a teen suffers from active acne, a facial treatment once a year should suffice.

Skincare in your 20s

Considered the "golden era," skin has structure, smoothness, and that youthful glow. Hopefully, any teenage acne will begin to or has subsided at this stage. Lifestyle choices and hormonal changes (pregnancy, stress, etc.) will have a huge effect on future skin health.

time to slowly incorporate other products into the regimen, specifically an exfoliant and serum.

Professional facial treatments, received once or twice a year, will help in the early identification and mitigation of any potential issues.

Skincare in Your 30s

Visible signs of aging begin to appear in this decade - fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. Collagen and elastin production continue to decline, and hormonal changes and/or cumulative years of sun exposure lead to pigmentation. Cellular turnover noticeably slows down, causing dull, dry, or roughtextured skin.

The focus at this stage is to stimulate the skin's natural ability to heal and protect itself and to take a more active approach to targeting skincare concerns.

Take exfoliation up a notch (either increase the frequency or use a stronger, but still appropriate - exfoliant). Introduce an eye cream to protect that delicate skin in the eye area, preventing lines and wrinkles.

Emmy is an Advisor at Luxe Traveler Club, a boutique travel agency specializing in custom itineraries and personalized service. Through Preferred Partnerships with top hotels and the Virtuoso network, she is able to add special amenities and perks to create a VIP experience.

Now is the time to incorporate serums and other topicals to address skin concerns (if you haven't already). In the AM, look to strong antioxidants such as vitamins C and E to mitigate the effects of the sun and environmental stress. In the PM, look to vitamin A (or retinol) and peptides to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, or hyaluronic acid to hydrate and boost elasticity.

For those who want a streamlined and simple regimen, look to multipurpose products. For example, a moisturizer that's formulated with a gentle AHA/ BHA, so that you're moisturizing and exfoliating at the same time.

Quarterly professional facial treatments, at this stage, are highly recommended. You should view these sessions like you view your bi-annual dental visits. You brush and floss at home on a regular basis, but your office visits allow for

targeted treatment that delivers the boost your skin needs.

Skincare in Your 40s

Visible signs of aging become more prominent in this decade. Lines and wrinkles deepen; hormonal changes can cause cystic acne (especially in the jawline), and those breakouts can leave spots and scars. Cellular turnover was already slowing down, but now it seems almost at a standstill. Skin feels texturized and dull, sun damage is more pronounced.

It's "all hands on deck" at this stage, and it's time to reach for the heavy artillery - retinol, growth factors, and peptides - for targeted anti-aging and reparative effects.

Vitamin A derivatives (retinols) increase cellular turnover and collagen production. Growth factors are proteins

that are naturally present in the body and act as messengers that tell cells to start and complete a process. When applied topically, growth factors essentially signal skin cells to jumpstart collagen production. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin. Like growth factors, peptides act as messengers, stimulating collagen and elastin production as well as skin repair functions.

While quarterly professional treatments are still highly recommended at this stage, you may want to consider a bi-annual series (3-6 treatments received every 4-6 weeks) of targeted treatments, using the latest tools and technology (such as chemical peels, nanotechnology, microneedling, ultrasound, radio frequency, microcurrent, etc.) to optimize results.

Skincare in Your 50s

Visible signs of aging are no longer avoidable at this stage as collagen and elastin production continue to sharply decline and the skin seems less plump and firm. Menopause also brings about changes in the skin. Facial volume loss and laxity, age/sun spots, dryness, deeper lines, and broken blood vessels are the hallmarks of this decade. Continuing preventative measures is important, but the focus should be on replenishing and nourishing the skin. Look to hyaluronic acid and ceramides to deeply hydrate and plumpen the skin. Powerful peptide technology that emulates dermal fillers can reduce the effects of volume loss. Look to moisturizers that are more nutrient rich and heavier in texture for added skin comfort.

Skincare, in this decade, extends beyond the face. If you haven't already incorporated a dedicated neck and decollete cream, now is the time. Be sure to treat the hands too - exfoliate, treat pigmentation & loss of elasticity

and hydrate! Manicures that use targeted anti-aging treatments can work wonders.

Quarterly professional treatments and bi-annual series of targeted treatments are a no-brainer at this stage.

Skincare in Your 60s

Hot flashes and the hormonal rollercoaster of menopause typically winds down in this decade, but the lack of density and hydration in the skin continues. The focus shifts from antiaging to optimal skin health - protecting and moisturizing is the name of the game.

While the visible signs of aging are largely here to stay, a consistent skincare routine prevents accelerated aging, skin discomfort, and further damage. While the actual regimen of products stays the same, product ingredients, formulation and texture change. Look for ingredients that soothe, calm, and comfort the skin but still get the job done. Protect with antioxidants, hydrate throughout the

INDEPENDENCE

day, and restore lost nutrients at night. As always, quarterly professional treatments will help ensure that your athome regimen is optimized to treat the changes in your skin.

Your skin knows what to do - it is an amazing organ. The decades will slow down its normal function, and it just needs a support system to optimize its performance. While I broke my recommendations down by decade, I realized that the recommendations for a 21-year-old may vary greatly from those of a 29-year-old (even though they’re in the same decade). I also know that each person’s skincare journey is unique. Finding the right skincare for you can be daunting. There’s just so much information out there, and everyone’s got an opinion. Don’t navigate it alone – find trained and qualified help at every stage. Remember that skincare is a journey. What works today, may not work next month because your skin is, well, a living, breathing, and everchanging organ.

BRENDAN MANSINNE

By Nyomi Fox

For high school athletes, especially those at a school as large as Langley High School, securing a position on a varsity team as an upperclassman is an achievement worth celebrating. Then comes the merit-based battle to earn a position on the starting squad, which is a much smaller portion of the overall

team. But senior Brendan Mansinne is an exception, starting as quarterback for the Langley High School football team for the past three years.

Starting on the varsity team, however, is not Brendan’s only accolade. He has earned First Team Liberty District Quarterback, Second Team All-Region Quarterback, and is a Washington

Post All-Met Honorable Mention Quarterback. For those more interested in the nitty-gritty statistics, he has 21 touchdowns, 5 interceptions, 7 rushing touchdowns, and a passing completion of 70%.

His current achievements are the result of years and seasons of tireless effort. Brendan has been playing organized

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE MANSINNE FAMILY

football since 3rd grade, back when physical size wasn’t as influential. In addition to playing for Langley High School, he also plays 7v7 for Northern Virginia Kings (Nova Kings). His coach remarked that Brendan’s off season dedication may be some of the best he’s seen in his entire career – which is over two decades long. When asked what he does outside of football, Brendan unintentionally corroborated his coach’s opinion, saying that he spends most of his time “working out, throwing, or studying film in order to put [himself] in the best position for the upcoming season.”

But Brendan doesn’t just play for the rewards. He plays hard for his teammates and coaches “who put so much time and energy into every season.” Out of respect for the effort of those around him, Brendan doesn’t want to let them down. Knowing that playing the game of football may not last him into retirement, Brendan wants to optimize the time he is allotted.

A player’s success doesn’t occur in a vacuum. Brendan acknowledges that the support of the Langley community has contributed to his own success on the field. Knowing that his neighbors and friends are cheering him on fills him with confidence on the field. After winning the District this year, he was honored to bring it back to Langley. To those who are a part of this supportive community, Brendan says, “Thank you for believing in me.”

All of his dedication to the sport has garnered the attention of college coaches. By this time next year, we will see this Langley alum playing on a college field.

By Gina Kovatch

Marriage is a challenge without the havoc of a move thrown into the mix, but somehow many people manage to move every year without getting a divorce. No matter how many times you’ve moved together it can add an unusual amount of tension to paradise because moving adds stress, chaos and lots of work to our already busy everyday lives. Moving poses unique challenges to us as individuals and as couples, but it can be a learning and growing process for everyone involved if we are open to the possibility of it being a positive experience. The following general advice is how you can make moving with a spouseless of a painful experience. We make no promises that there won’t be the occasional tiff or tears, but going in with some of this knowledge may help ward off some of the bad feelings.

1. Be Supportive

Sometimes when we move one spouse is thrilled while the other is hesitant to leave. Whether you are cheering or mourning the move, make sure to be understanding of the excitement or hesitation of your spouse.

2. Be Clear About Expectations

Make sure that you both understand how little or how much you expect each other to contribute to the move. Once you agree on the amount of work stick to this plan. Important note: do not bring up comparisons on contributions to the move in fights.

3. Plan the Move Together

Do you want movers? Storage? Green moving boxes or cardboard? Do you really want your mother-in-law to come over and help or you rather do it yourself? There are lots of logistics that need to be planned, and it is better if you do this part together. Spend time discussing exactly how you want to approach different aspects of the move, so that no one feels like they are left out of the planning process.

4. Communicate

I know couples get sick of hearing they need to communicate, but I’ll set it again anyways, take time to communicate about the move. This suggestion sums up the first three, so when in doubt spend time talking about all the different aspects of the move.

Teeth Cleaning & Oral Hygiene

Pediatric, Cosmetic & Emergency Dentistry

Dental Crown & Bridge

Zoom Teeth Whitening

Dental Implants

Temporamanidibular Joint Disorder

Implant Supported Dentures

Composite Fillings & Bonding

Root Canal

Tooth Extraction

Dental Sleep Apnea Appliance & Snore Prevention

Sedation Dentistry

Full & Partial Dentures

Porcelain Veneers

Social4Good BRIGHTENS THE HOLIDAYS for FAMILIES IN NEED

By Sarah Shamlal

Social4Good (S4G) is an all-volunteer, grassroots organization that brings together engaged women who want to meet new people and support the organizations that make our community strong. Each month, this column will highlight S4G’s monthly project to raise awareness for critical needs in our community and local nonprofits making a difference.

The Committee for Helping Others (CHO), www.cho-va.org, is an allvolunteer organization that helps the needy in Vienna, Oakton, Dunn Loring, and Merrifield, VA. CHO was organized in 1969 by a group of concerned churches and individuals in the area to provide simple, loving charity to those in need of goods and services they were unable to provide for themselves or obtain from government social service organizations. They support the community by providing:

Emergency financial assistance

Emergency food aid,

Clothing, Furniture

Emergency financial assistance, Meals on Wheels, Transportation

For the first time since the pandemic, 178 local families with more than 300 children had the opportunity to shop in-person at CHO’s December 10th Holiday Store where they selected coats, clothing and gifts for their families. It was a group effort supported by many donors from churches, civic organizations, local employers, and individuals who showed up to volunteer at Vienna Presbyterian Church (VPC) for the event. Over 300 seniors and those living on social security and disability received $50 gift cards.

S4G worked closely with CHO to help stock and staff the Holiday Store. We hosted a coat and gift card drive and collected over 400 new or like-new coats and purchased more than 100, $25 Walmart gift cards for teens and seniors to use during the holidays

and for ongoing programs. A social event was held at the home of Marcy Rehberger in Vienna to learn about CHO's mission to support local families in need and sort the coats so that they were ready to stock the Holiday Store. S4G members delivered the donated coats, set up the event in advance of the Saturday shoppers, and staffed the Holiday Store to help shoppers find coats in their family's sizes or escort families as they shopped throughout the Holiday Store.

" Having the support of Social4Good is amazing, both in the gift cards and stunning array of coats you donated, but also the cheerful energy you brought to help us prepare the Store and assist families while they shopped. You really lifted our spirits and made a difference for our clients."

Heather Glynn, CHO Board Vice Chair

To learn more about Social4Good or to support local nonprofits, visit www. Social4Goodevents.org.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE CHANGE?

8100 Boone Blvd. Suite 300

Vienna, VA 22182

MAIN: (703)-345-6655

FAX: (202)-450-6084

WASHINGTON DC OFFICE

1160 Varnum Street, NE

Suite 212

Washington DC 20017

MAIN: (202)-450-6081

FAX: (202)-450-6084

The SPATZ adjustable ballon offers patients outstanding weight loss results.

The adjustablity feature extends the weight loss trend, helping people change their existing habits and achieve a healthier lifestyle.

The Spatz3 Adjustable Balloon System is the world’s first and only adjustable gastric balloon. This non-surgical weight loss solution offers patients a higher weight loss success rate than ever before. With the highest weight loss results and highest success rates of all 8-month gastric balloons, the Spatz3 has proven to have an 84% success rate and 15% weight loss, far exceeding every non-adjustable balloon in non-comparative studies. In addition, FDA Clinical Trials show that Spatz balloon patients lost five times as much weight as those on diet alone.

Spatz Medical is committed to the patient’s journey, helping them achieve their weight loss goals, while learning to listen to body cues that ultimately contribute to long-term weight management success. The Spatz3’s proven success rate encourages and inspires those looking to start their journey to health and happiness.

www.aghofgreaterwashington.com