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© Best Version Media PUBLICATION TEAM Publisher: Gloria Fonseca Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas Proof Reader: Stefanie Stayin Account Executive: Crissy Moore Hall Designer: Hannah Argall Contributing Writer: Katie Culligan Photographer: Tatiana Dove 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. CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINE (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.)

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McLEAN MOMENTS: SETTING NEW YEAR GOALS WITH ALLEGRA Hey McLean community! As we embrace this 2024, I wanted to share a little more about my parenting journey. So as some of you may already know I'm a single mom to my amazing 12-year-old, Allegra, and this year, we're all about setting goals, dreaming big, and making memories that last forever. Shared Dreams, Shared Goals: The coolest thing we started doing is setting New Year goals together. Allegra and I went out on a cozy evening to buy some steaks from the organic butcher and cooked together and had wine (not together lol) with fun and laughter, we wrote down our dreams for the upcoming year as we had our yummy steaks. From personal aspirations to shared ones, our goal-setting session became a heartwarming way to connect and align our expectations for the year. Navigating McLean Together: Living here offers us endless opportunities to grow and explore. Allegra and I did a cute list of local activities and experiences we want to do together this year. Whether it's discovering hidden spots in our neighborhood for our monthly date night out, volunteering for community projects, or playing more tennis together In our lovely neighborhood where we have private courts such as the amazing Mclean Raquet & Health Club or some of our community courts, the plan is to stay local in all that we do, to turn Tyson/McLean into our personal playground. Our NEW New Year's Eve Tradition: On New Year's Eve, in addition to reflecting on the past and envisioning the future, Allegra and I created a tradition of creating a "dream board" together. We cut out pictures and quotes from magazines that represented our goals, dreams, and wishes. It's now proudly displayed in our home, serving as a daily reminder of the fun journey we're embarking on together. (l will share a picture next issue) Practicing goal-setting into our lives has become a powerful way to instill a sense of purpose and shared accomplishment. It's not just about what I want to achieve, but about fostering a sense of teamwork and empowerment in her life. Here's to a year filled with shared goals, McLean adventures, and the magic that happens when dreams are not just spoken but lived. May 2024 be a canvas for Allegra and me to paint our story together, one goal at a time and for all of you to achieve your goals and dreams.

photography by www.tatianadove.com

Gloria McLEAN LIVING | 3

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES Iche Chiu | 360 CPA 866-550-2050 | 360.cpa

HEALTH & FITNESS Janine Serio | 2 Health Nuts 410-935-9241 | 2healthnuts.com

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

HOME SERVICES: ROOFING Esequiel Alvarez | Falcon Roofing & Solar 703-826-5306 | falconroofingva.com

BAKERY Sandra Panetta | Sweetbites Cafe 703-4448-1115 | sweetbitescafe.com

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

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

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

COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT Maryam Khavandi | Medjuvenis 703-345-8322 | medjuvenis.com

LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 888-929-8188 | groundguys.com

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

MASTER PEDICURIST & ONCOLOGY-TRAINED ESTHETICIAN Lisa Tep | Sesen Spa 703-281-0822 | sesenspa.com

EDUCATION Jinsil V. Kim, MBA, M.Div. | C2 Education of McLean 703-288-4400 | c2educate.com

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

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION Emily Yosmanovich | Trinity Preschool of McLean 703-790-2767 | umtrinity.org/preschool

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Gema Island | Island Children Dentistry & Orthodonticst 703-790-1320 | islandchildrensdentistry.com

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

REAL ESTATE Brian Mason | Signature Move Real Estate 703-936-6501 | Signaturemoverealestate.com

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

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

GASTROENTEROLOGY & HEPATOLOGY Dr. Ramin Farboud | Advanced Gastroenterology & Hepatology 703-345-6655 | aghofgreaterwashington.com

TRAVEL AGENT/VACATION PLANNING Emmy Hoffman | Luxe Traveler Club 502-345-8938 | luxetravelerclub.com

DERMATOLOGY Dr. Pantea Tamjidi, MD, F.A.A.D. | Tamjidi Skin Institute 703-345-6677 | tamjidiskininstitute.com

JOIN THE TEAM! To learn more about becoming an EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR, contact Gloria at: 703-868-8071 or gbruni@bestversionmedia.com 4 | JANUARY 2024

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CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Social4Good Celebrates Five Years of Doing Good By SHARON GRACE Photos by EMILY BISHOP

“DO YOUR LITTLE BIT OF GOOD WHERE YOU ARE; IT’S THOSE LITTLE BITS OF GOOD PUT TOGETHER THAT OVERWHELM THE WORLD.” -DESMOND TUTU

ocial4Good (S4G) has put Desmond Tutu's words into action for the past five years and recently paused to celebrate its accomplishments. The gathering took place November 15, on National Philanthropy Day, which recognizes the importance of charitable activities in the form of donated financial, in-kind, and volunteering support to our communities. More than 75 members, nonprofit partners, sponsors and guests gathered together at The Mather in Tysons. Vienna Mayor, Linda Colbert, and Ronell Chatmon, from the Office of Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, commended the local impact of the

organization. Since August 2019, S4G has supported 40 Northern Virginia nonprofits with in-kind and financial support totaling nearly $210,000 and untold hours dedicated to supporting the needs of children, women, and families. The group heard from representatives from their two critical mission partners: Fairfax Diapers and Bringing Resources to Aid Women's Shelters (BRAWS). The evening provided for networking and discussion of future collaboration. Amy Wilker, Director of Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program, and Stop Child Abuse Network (SCAN), noted, "this was also a great opportunity to connect with the directors from the other non-profit organizations to exchange information and ideas on how we can all partner to serve our community and learn more about resources to bring back to SCAN.” In addition, the attendees heard about S4G's November project, the Nighthawk Nest Food

Pantry at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC). The goal of the pantry is to provide easy on campus access to free food and personal care products for students, faculty and staff. Working with NVCC, S4G developed an Amazon Wish List of much needed items. The result was daily deliveries of over 220 items valued at more than $3,500, which were distributed to the six NVCC pantries. “It's like Christmas every day at the Nighthawk Nest,” said La’ Tonia M. White, NVCC's Director Financial Stability and Advocacy. Ms. White explained how gifts like diapers and feminine hygiene products are impactful because they take a lot out of the students and their families’ budget. Students can lose focus when they are worried about feeding themselves and their families and are more likely to drop out. The donations to the pantry help them continue to work toward their goals.

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S4G's founder Faith Boettger reflected on the progress the group has made. "Over the past five years, we've gained a deeper understanding of what was not right in our community and worked together to do something about it. We learned to support what nonprofits say they and their clients need – and use that model every single month to make a difference. The industry calls it Trust Based Philanthropy and from the stories our nonprofit partners tell us, we know it works!" The celebration was made possible with support from event sponsors FlexProfessionals, The Mather, PBMares Wealth Management, Jodi Bentley, Katie Hunter, COMPASS; Social Burger, The Wine Outlet, and Together We Bake, as well contributions from S4G's project and leadership teams.

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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 on critical needs in our community and local nonprofits making a difference. To learn more about S4G or to support local nonprofits, visit www.Social4Good.community.

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Meet Alaia Marat A Mother of Two, A Small Business Owner and of Course, A McLean Resident By KATIE CULLIGAN Photos by TATIANA DOVE

Ready for an American success story? Come meet sisters Alaia and Dana, owners of DNA Beauty Studio right here in McLean! Alaia is a single mom who came to the US 15 years ago with her two young kids. She earned two bachelors degrees in Kazakhstan; one in economics and the other in education. Her multi-city adventure in the States brought her to Nevada, Massachusetts, and California, before landing her family in our neck of the woods. She and her children moved to McLean over seven years ago to be closer to her sister, Dana, and her family. The Marats now reside in the friendly community of King’s Manor. Alaia muses, “it’s an exceptionally clean, cozy, and beautiful neighborhood.” Alaia’s daughter, Sarah (LHS ’23), is now studying molecular and cell biology at UC Berkeley on her dream path to becoming a plastic surgeon. Son, Iskander, is a freshman at Langley who has followed in his sister's footsteps to the swim team, which Sarah captained last year. Both kids love music, dance, skiing, and traveling to new places. Iskander and his mom share a love of fishing, and the duo occasionally embark on 2-3 night stays in various fishing locations with their friends. When Alaia isn’t fishing, her other hobbies include cooking, traveling, and spending time in nature. In the past three years, she has traveled to Tokyo, Italy and spent five weeks in Thailand, taking her time to see the entire country. While she enjoys cooking all types of dishes, she relishes creating traditional Central Asian meals. She has even made homemade kefir and cheese. 8 | JANUARY 2024

While Alaia already had two bachelor’s degrees in her home country, after immigrating she chose to focus on her children’s education. This guided her to take smaller jobs that helped to support her children’s growth rather than her career. As her children aged and became more independent, she and her sister, Dana (older by one year), decided to start their own business. The business, after some trial and error, became what is now known as DNA Beauty Studio. Dana, mother of five, moved to the US seven years ago. While her children attended boarding school in Connecticut, she fell in love with the climate that the mid-Atlantic region has to offer. She persuaded Alaia to move from sunny, warm California to the four seasons of McLean, Virginia, so the families could grow up closer together. Dana's oldest son, Dan, is 27 and serving in the US Army. Twenty-three year old twin daughters Dina and Dilly studied business/marketing, and art, at Northeastern and Boston University, respectively. Son, Tim, is 19 and a college freshman, studying fashion at the New School in New York. Lastly, her youngest, Amir, attends 8th grade at Cooper Middle School. Dana’s husband, Talgat, is the coowner of DC’s restaurant, Cranes, which garnered a Michelin star last year.

FEATURE STORY

McLEAN LIVING | 9

Alaia reminisces, “I still remember the long hours we would spend together brainstorming the foundations of our business after our kids went to bed.” Both sisters believe that beauty is timeless and an important aspect of taking care of oneself, so they began to focus on their own goals and earned licenses through the Aesthetician Institute. While there, they studied a variety of beauty procedures and trained in safe and clinically advanced treatments. Alaia and Dana both chuckle as they call to mind the day that they came prepared for their practical test for the Virginia State Board Exam for Aestheticians. They dressed up in their uniforms, brought boxes full of their equipment, and then realized that the test was a theoretical test and not practical. So, the sheepish sisters put their boxes away, took the theoretical exam, and happily passed their exams with flying colors! Their brick and mortar labor of love is located in McLean, convenient to their respective homes, and officially opened its doors in September of 2022. The co-owners aim to

10 | JANUARY 2024

provide the best treatments for their customers and enjoy seeing them leave satisfied. They are currently focused on facial treatments and skincare, but hope to eventually use their three story building to become a full beauty and wellness destination, including a nail tech and massage therapist. When asked what their favorite procedures were, Alaia reported that she loves to give facials, and Dana expressed her admiration for the high tech Endospheres machine, which is a very fancy and efficient “massage machine”. Alaia states, “Dana and I are so happy that our sacrifices paid off and our children are succeeding all in their own ways here in the US.” The extended family shares so many memories and Alaia humorously recalls that she , “went camping with my son and youngest nephew and my nephew lost his Croc (shoe) while playing in the river. We searched for it all day and found it the next morning. However, when we got home, we realized the Croc was for the same foot. Turns out the Croc was not his, but yet the exact size and color...now he has two right Crocs!”

© Best Version Media When it comes to McLean, Dana rejoices in the fact that it is “very quiet and peaceful with lots of nature, and it feels like a village with such nice neighbors,” along with frequent deer sightings and calming frog soundscapes. The two sisters love the aspect of family-owned small businesses and particularly enjoy supporting fellow Asian-American businesses. Alaia concludes, “My family and I are so proud of each other’s accomplishments and continue to work hard and passionately about what we do. I love contributing to McLean’s amazing community and environment as much as it has contributed to all of us.” In a nutshell, this is the story of two tightknit sisters who always dreamed of having families who were super close, both literally and figuratively. Step by step, they created their own business and happy lives in the McLean community. They will tell you themselves, with big smiles on their faces, that it feels like their dreams have come true. Now, they want to pay it forward to give others beauty, health, and happiness in their lives. Talk about an inspiring way to start out 2024!

Alaia's Favorites Favorite McLean coffee shop: Starnut Gourmet Favorite McLean walking path/hiking: Scotts Run Favorite McLean tradition: Kids used to love McLean Day and the Antique Fire Engine Santa. Favorite McLean small businesses: Del Grano, Myagi, and Wine Junction What Do You Wish to See More of in McLean? More modern buildings and establishments to tie in a Tysons vibe

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Are they the same? By JANINE FRANK CEO & Co-Founder of 2 Health Nuts

"YOU NEED A PLAN TO BUILD A HOUSE. TO BUILD A LIFE, IT IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT TO HAVE A GOAL." - ZIG ZIGLAR Only a few short weeks into the new year, it's a time of reflection. Dreaming of sunshine and warmer days while wondering if those CRAZY resolutions were really for the birds. You know, those resolutions posted on the refrigerator, bathroom mirror, in the car, on the pantry door, reminding you of your commitment to working out two times a day, seven days a week, eating nothing but salad greens without any dressing, and swearing off sweets and treats until a special occasion. If we're being realistic, these pronouncements beg the questions: RESOLUTIONS VS. GOALS…ARE THEY THE SAME THING? Plain and simple, goals and plans keep us in a controlled state. They can be helpful to keep us on a positive trajectory as long as we allow for flexibility, embrace change, and view our failures as feedback. Don't forget, failures can be a positive we need them to help us grow! DO RESOLUTIONS KEEP US STRUGGLING? If we don't accomplish or achieve EXACTLY what we set out to do, have we failed? Resolutions come with unrealistic or unsustainable expectations. They leave us without a maintenance plan and, ultimately, leave us feeling “weak” since we were unable to achieve them. Nothing like starting the New Year feeling defeated and asking yourself “now what?” This is the very mindset that continues to keep us in a passive state. HOW CAN WE RE-FRAME THOSE RESOLUTIONS MADE ON DECEMBER 31ST ? If you're looking to get in a consistent fitness routine & promote healthy eating habits, let’s focus on the word consistency. When it comes to fitness, choose activities that excite, motivate, and challenge you appropriately. Instead of placing an emphasis on the number of days per week, for a set amount of time, listen to your body & allow movement to be your goal. Simple! Some days, a weight training session, or your favorite spin class at the gym is calling your name. Other days, a leisurely walk with some fresh air does your body good. Maybe a day of putting away your holiday decorations has your step count soaring, or playing with your kids/grandkids has you breaking a sweat. Fitness need not be complicated! We can do what works for each of us, individually. As for healthy eating habits, I have shared in previous articles my philosophy on nutrition - it’s all about YOU and YOUR goals. Just like fitness, nutrition also need not be complicated. Don't get tripped up by reading the latest 2024 diet book or magazine articles that promote losing “those last 10 lbs, in only 2 weeks,” listening to your BFF about what has worked for him or her. Suddenly, you may want to do a complete food overhaul. It almost feels like a store closing sale - everything must go! The good news is that it does not have to be this way. We simply need to dial it back; be more in tune with our body.

Here is a fun little “exercise,” pun not intended. Without getting into the nitty gritty of the carbohydrate, protein, and healthy fat discussion, which statements ring correct to you: 1. An apple with good quality peanut butter is probably a more energy smart snack than a bag of peanut M&M’s 2. Adding a serving of peanut M&M’s to your homemade trail mix is a great way to curb hunger, cravings, and never feeling deprived of your favorite fun foods 3. A dry salad with greens, bland vegetables, and no protein or dressing leaves you feeling hungry within an hour after lunch, and diving head first into a bag of potato chips & leftover chocolate chip cookies from the holidays 4. A salad with greens, veggies, grilled chicken, avocado, a little cheese, and some dressing leaves you feeling satisfied, energized, and content after lunch and cruising until dinner. Practicing healthy eating habits does not mean feeling deprived, eliminating foods, and no longer enjoying what you love. Healthy eating focuses on nutrient rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, veggies, lean proteins and healthy fats that give you energy and a feeling of satisfaction, all while sprinkling in those deliciously fun foods. Some may call this moderation, the 80/20 rule, or, as I like to say, eating for you, your individual goals, your likes, and what makes you happy. Eat to fuel your body, mind, and soul. It’s just that easy!

McLEAN LIVING | 13

LOOK

WHAT'S RETAKING CENTER STAGE

IN FURNITURE TRENDS FOR 2023 By JONI FOERTER Owner Front Porch Furniture Rescue

We’re all for timeless design. Incorporating a trend that’s well, maybe nothing new but it’s new to you, can refresh your space! BOUCLÉ FABRIC This textural white fabric is still having its moment as it lends itself to an array of furniture styles. Curved and modern furniture goes really well with this fabric. Update your traditional style with reupholstery or adding in throw pillows. Going coastal? Boucle looks great on your counter or bar stools. Using boucle in smaller doses, think chair seats, counter or bar stools, ottomans and throw or lumbar pillows, can be just enough to refresh your space. CURVY FURNITURE Today our homes are an inviting space used for relaxing and socializing. Incorporating a furniture piece or two with full-on or gently rounded curves or waves softens the overall look of all the straight hard lines. A curved sectional or swivel tub chair may be the first pieces that come to mind and they just might be the right choice for some living spaces. However, subtle curves are timeless. Think about a buffet console with a slightly curved front, a wavy front console or a curved-corner coffee table.

CAPSULE SHAPE This is a shape that is very adaptable to many furniture styles and types. Capsule coffee tables are great for those with young children. A small capsule table would fit anywhere. Perhaps you’d prefer this shape in a mirror or upholstered ottoman.

MULTIPLE OR BUNCHING COFFEE TABLES AND OTTOMANS Multiple coffee tables or ottomans can give you options and help you adapt to different needs. Not every room warrants a large coffee table. Doing multiples can solve that dilemma. If you need to fill up a room, two long ottomans can be pushed together or spread out, whatever is needed. Three smaller accent tables could work well as coffee tables with a sectional sofa. Tables designed to nest together offer flexibility and can be broken up and used in different seating areas if needed. BURL WOOD FURNITURE Wood burls are external knots or growths on trees that form intricate wood grain patterns. The random wood grains create denser, stronger wood that’s ideal for furniture and highly prized for its beauty. Trees form burls when they experience some type of stress or injury. Although created out of trauma, burl wood evokes intrigue and drama. Like a precious geode, the appeal of burl wood becomes apparent from its interior. On the inside, burl wood features swirling, knotted, kaleidoscopic or other organic wood grain shapes that catch the eye and add a unique look to the wood furniture. Small burl wood tables fit any style, traditional, modern and anything in between. SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS We continue to make more mindful choices as we look look into how we can do our bit for the environment. This includes continued efforts to make environmentally conscious decisions in our homes from green energy to paint, furniture and accessory choices. The importance of sustainability has us moving away from fast-furniture and investing in designs that can truly stand the test of time, from the use of wood to furniture crafted from recyclable materials.

14 | JANUARY 2024

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

VINTAGE AND THRIFTED FINDS As we approach our lives in a more sustainable way, it is no surprise that vintage, pre-loved furniture is having a welcome resurgence. While the cost of living continues to rise, there is a realization that you can get better quality and unique pieces at a fraction of the price, all without an environmental price tag. Supply chain issues are still at play, so it has become a quicker and more efficient way of purchasing for our homes. There is also a resurgence of antique sourcing, repairing, reclaiming, restoring and upcycling. Considering what you already have and reworking it in a different way can be more rewarding and personal.

CAREFULLY CONSIDERED PIECES Carefully considering every single piece of furniture in our home establishes a more individual and collected look. An elegant blend of the old with the new creating a unique union of styles and themes. Over the last decade there has been a pattern of trends being influenced by historical references. As this continues, vintage integrates with contemporary design aesthetics to create one cohesive scheme throughout a room or your home. PAINTED FURNITURE Due to the versatility and ability to customize, painted furniture is still at the forefront of design. Paint lends itself to the classic look of a more traditional home as well as more modern, linear designs. The advantage is the limitless choice of colors allowing free reign to express yourself whether period or contemporary, farmhouse or urban. You can always repaint to change the color or update later on.

FURNITURE COLOR The focus is on using colors that influence our moods and wellness. Natural woods are moving away from cooler tones with more browns and black woods taking over. Earthy grounding color palettes create calm and tranquil environments with the focus on green, brown and cream shades (olive, basil, terracotta and softer whites, think alabaster not snow white). Looking to refresh your space? Visit us at The Furniture Rescue and let us help you blend a trend into your world. Check out our on-trend furniture pieces and paint colors. After all, anything old can be new again!

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BUSINESS PROFILE

Catching up with Dr. Negar Tehrani at McLean Aura Dentistry By KATIE CULLIGAN

You may remember Dr. Negar Tehrani and her beautiful family as our feature article from our December 2022 issue. Let's catch up with Dr Tehrani and McLean Aura Dentistry. Dr. Tehrani established Aura Dentistry (now McLean Aura Dentistry) 14 years ago. At the end of 2023, she moved her practice to a new, more convenient location in McLean, on Whittier Avenue. The new location is easier to access, located on the first floor directly above underground parking.

Dr. Tehrani's business philosophy involves treating everybody like family and how she "would like to see . . . [providers perform} on my mother, father, sister or brother.” She emphasizes that she's about patient care. She is not in the business of selling, she's in the business of taking care of people. She elaborates that “being a mom starts at home and carries through my day to day” at work as well. She sees her practice as “healthcare with a touch of beauty and aesthetic”.

When asked what brought her into this line of work she lights up and says, “I love serving people, improving their smiles while helping to build their self esteem and release pain.” She truly enjoys working with her hands, which also includes her hobbies of sculpting, painting and even producing carvings of teeth. The doctor's biggest inspiration is her dad, both as a parent and as an entrepreneur. He's been in business in his home country of Iran for many years, producing plastic from petroleum residues, and is known for his honesty. She warmly expresses that he has inspired her to be a good person.

Dr. Tehrani enjoys the ability to take her time with her patients and often gets the pleasure of meeting the patient's family, as this is a family dentistry practice. She says how nice it is to not have to rush through appointments, a feeling that so many of us know far too well. She boasts about her amazing team and their work-life balance. “We know how to work hard and play. We do happy hours, lunches and even family events, because everybody here is also a mother.” One of her most memorable experiences as a dentist was the time a very frightened patient came in for a compromised tooth extraction. Dr. Tehrani had to sedate the patient due to the severity of their anxiety. When this patient awoke to see the new implantsupported restoration, they couldn't stop smiling while crying

Continued on Page 18 McLEAN LIVING | 17

happy tears. That's realtime validating feedback! Dr. Tehrani's favorite moment at her job was when her extremely dentophobic patient, who could not even sit on the chair or open her mouth, came back after her first appointment with beautiful drawings of her favorite animal, a sloth, along with a thank you note for making her able to finally see dentist without being so scared. The Doctor exclaims, “My heart filled with such an overwhelming joy! I realized once again, why I love what I do for living so much.” Revisiting Dr. Tehrani's family, we find her two daughters, Sophie and Harper, attending Cooper Middle School and Churchill Road Elementary School, respectively. She laughs that both girls sweetly offered to help her move offices. Her husband, Dr. Chang Yi, is still working at his own practice, Fairfax Corner Dental. Not to be left out, the two rambunctious Cavalier King Charles puppies, Daisy and Rosie, are a year older, and “much calmer”.

Dr. Tehrani affirms, “I love Mclean. It's my home and where my kids go to school. I love to serve my friends and neighbors here. Not only is it my business, but's where I live.” She appreciates bumping into her patients in the grocery store and downtown McLean. She strives to see all her neighbors and friends in the community being well cared for.

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Virginia Beach is a treasure trove of arts, culture, and natural beauty. It’s no wonder, then, why Virginia was recently named the best state to retire by WalletHub, outscoring Florida and the Carolinas in a national study. No community captures all of this area’s grandeur quite like Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay. Ideally situated on the city’s scenic coastline, our bayfront campus offers luxurious residences with gorgeous views, fabulous amenities, and the full continuum of care under one inclusive fee, all available now. And there is even more to come with the Bay Tower, our brand-new 22-story Independent Living tower. Visit today to see for yourself! Want to learn more about resort-style living? Please call (800) 996-9794 for more information or to schedule a personal tour today. Or see us online: https://www.wcbay.com/

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20 | JANUARY 2024

Navigating a Fallen Tree on Your Roof A SIMPLE GUIDE By MILENA BU State Farm Insurance Agent

Imagine a tree crashing through your roof. This is an unexpected and stressful situation for all of us, and I'm here to guide you through the necessary steps to handle it effectively. Before you dial your local State Farm insurance agent let's ensure your safety and take the right precautions. Prioritize Safety - Evacuate the Premises: Your safety is paramount. Quickly and calmly evacuate your home, ensuring you grab your pet, your IDs and any valuable items. If the fallen tree has created a makeshift skylight, use it as a quick escape route. Remember, safety is the top priority in any emergency. Document the Damage - Take Pictures: Before addressing anything else, capture the extent of the damage through photographs. Take numerous pictures from a safe distance, covering various angles. Ensure you capture shots of the tree, the damaged roof, and, yes, even your concerned expression. This visual record will be invaluable when dealing with your insurance company.

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Mitigate any further damage - Cover the Hole/Stop the rain: Now that you're safely outside, take a moment to cover the hole in your roof. Get creative – if you have spare furniture or an area rug, use them. Alternatively, a garbage bag and some duct tape can provide a temporary fix. The goal is to prevent further damage to your home from rain or snow. Get in Touch with Your Insurance Agent - Milena Bu: Once safety is ensured and temporary measures are in place, it's time to reach out to your trusted insurance agent – me, Milena Bu, from Northern Virginia. My team and I are accustomed to handling unexpected incidents like trees falling through roofs. Share the pictures you took, and let us take care of the rest. We've got your back, even in the most unusual situations. Fallen tree on your roof is undoubtedly a serious matter, endangering on of your biggest investments. However, by following the steps above, you can transform a potentially stressful situation into a manageable one. Remember, safety comes first, and your local insurance agent is here to support you through unexpected challenges of your everyday life. About Milena Bu – State Farm Agency We are a local small business, with an amazing team of 8. We are your one stop shop for all your insurance and financial needs. We are proud to not only focus on finding you the best price, but also discovering your needs and ensuring you are not under or over protected.

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22 | JANUARY 2024

COMMUNITY

Jessica Wu, Cara Schantz, Lacey Obry, Ang Golder, Rebecca Valerin, Sarah Farzayee Second: Lacey, Sarah, Jenny Gregory, Jessica, Cara, Ang

By DANI BANEGAS Photos by Tatiana Dove

The June issue of our magazine showcased the remarkable display of community spirit, dedication and outstanding effort of the McLean Central Playground Team. Comprising five passionate local parent volunteers, this incredible team has been at the forefront of planning and fundraising for the revitalization of McLean Central Park's playground, with the singular aim of creating a delightful space for our community's children. Their ambitious goal, set at a substantial $400,000.00 by December 31st, 2023, seemed, for many, like a mountain to climb. Today, we are thrilled to shower these remarkable women with a resounding round of applause. Through their unwavering commitment and tireless work, they not only reached but surpassed their goal. As of this morning, the dedicated team has successfully raised an impressive $401,123.00. Bravo! You've done it!

This achievement is not only a testament to the incredible efforts of these women but also a nod of gratitude to every person, business, and neighbor who helped them soar beyond expectations. Thanks to these determined individuals, our children will soon have a captivating and inviting space where they can forge lasting bonds and create cherished memories. Join us in extending heartfelt congratulations to the McLean Central Playground Team for turning their vision into a reality and ensuring a brighter, more playful future for our community's youngsters. Well done! McLEAN LIVING | 23

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

New Year, New Home: THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST FOR MOVING SUCCESS WITH PETRA MOVING COMPANY By CORTEZ MAHDY Petra Moving Company

As the year comes to an end and a new year begins, the spirit of change takes hold for many individuals. For some, this translates into the exciting prospect of moving to a new home. If you're considering a move, look no further than Petra Moving Company to ensure a seamless and stress-free relocation experience. In this article, we'll equip you with the essential checklist for ensuring a successful move. Whether you're downsizing, upsizing, or simply craving a change of scenery, these practical tips are your compass for not just a change of address, but a smooth and triumphant transition into the unfolding year. PLAN EARLY BY CREATING A MOVING CHECKLIST Start your year off right by planning your move well in advance. This begins with a moving checklist! A comprehensive checklist serves as your roadmap, detailing the tasks and milestones leading up to moving day. Begin by establishing a timeline that aligns with your anticipated move date. Break down tasks into manageable steps, from decluttering and packing to coordinating with utility providers and notifying essential parties about your change of address. The moving checklist not only streamlines the process but also provides a visual guide, allowing you to track your progress and ensure that no detail is overlooked. As you tick off each item, you'll not only feel a sense of accomplishment but also set the stage for a well-organized and stress-free move into your new space. CREATE AN INVENTORY OF YOUR ITEMS Keep track of your items by creating a detailed inventory. This step is crucial in ensuring that none of your possessions are left behind or misplaced during the transition. As you pack, categorize your belongings room by room and document them in your inventory. Consider using a spreadsheet or a dedicated mobile app to make this process more efficient. In the case you hire a moving company, an inventory not only simplifies the unpacking process but also serves as a valuable reference in the unlikely event of any discrepancies or insurance claims.

COORDINATE WITH A MOVING COMPANY If you are planning to hire a moving company to take the stress out of your move, it is best to coordinate with a company you can trust. When searching for the right company to hire check their reviews and company website. Besides the reviews, consider their approach to safety, customer service, and additional services offered. Luckily, Petra Moving Company is a trusted local and long-distance moving provider dedicated to offering top-quality moving services nationwide. Whether you opt for Petra Moving Company or another moving provider, prioritize reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction for a positive New Year moving experience. SECURE PACKING SUPPLIES Before the excitement of your New Year move kicks in, ensure you have the right tools for the job. Gather highquality packing supplies to safeguard your belongings during transportation. Sturdy moving boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper are essential items. For extra protection, blankets and shrink wrap are a great way to keep furniture safe from being damaged. If you're unsure about quantities or need advice on specialty items, our moving experts at Petra Moving Company are here to guide you, ensuring your possessions are well-protected throughout the journey to your new home. As you embark on the journey of moving into a new home in the coming year, embrace the excitement and possibilities that come with a fresh start. Following our ultimate moving checklist will not only streamline the process but also allow you to focus on enjoying your new home. With careful planning, decluttering, and the right logistics in place, your transition can be seamless and stress-free. Here's to a smooth move and the beginning of a wonderful chapter in your new home in 2024!

McLEAN LIVING | 27

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Winter Skincare Woes No More By LISA TEP Owner Sesen Spa

It happens every year, the moment you turn the heat on at home. Your skin takes a slow, but determined path towards uncomfortable. The colder and harsher climate can leave your skin less able to protect itself, resulting in a compromised barrier. When my clients come in for their winter quarterly facials, the most common concerns include dryness, irritation and sensitivity. A few key seasonal changes to your daily skincare regimen will help restore and rebalance your skin's health. TOP 3 TIPS FOR WEATHERING WINTER SKIN CLEANSING Make sure your cleanser is great at cleansing, but not so much that it's stripping your skin. The winter months are a good time to switch to a milky cleanser, which are generally milder and can be more moisturizing. Better yet, now is THE perfect time to cleanse with an oil. Yes, cleansing with an oil can be a gamer changer! Oil attracts oil – it's simple chemistry. The oil cleanser is going to draw out impurities like a magnet. I like to follow with a milky cleanser (2nd cleanse) for that extra clean feel. EXFOLIATING “I don't know why my skin is so dry, I lather on moisturizer but that just doesn't seem to help” – sound familiar? Save that moisturizer for newer, fresher skin and in order to reach that skin, you need to exfoliate the outer most layer of dead skin. Avoid harsh exfoliants; instead, choose milder options – alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are perfect. I love overnight masks because they're super effective but gentle because they usually have a creamy or encapsulated and time released formulation. MOISTURIZING A hydrating focused moisturizer (moisturizers have different ingredients that are focused on varying results) formulated with a heavier consistency should provide the added support your skin needs during the colder months. If you use a water-based moisturizer, consider adding a few drops of facial oil to amp up the hydration effect.

DON’T FORGET HANDS & FEET DURING THE WINTER I'm always amazed at how many clients tell me they “don't get pedicures in the winter”. I usually ask them if they stop walking in the winter too. Just like the skin on your face and body are impacted by the colder climate, so is the skin on your hands and feet. Just because your toes are not visible in summer sandals, doesn't mean you should ignore proper foot care. MANICURES Pivoting to a more specialized manicure treatment may be necessary to alleviate dry, cracked skin on your hands. Ditch the water and rely, instead, on a dry e-file method for cuticle detailing. Consider a manicure that incorporates serious skincare techniques – exfoliating peel, hydrating serum infusion and LED light therapy. It's like a “facial for your hands”. Keep a rich and emollient hand cream nearby at all times. Cuticle oil is a must – use it all day, every day. Pro tip: use an exfoliating hand cleanser to routinely shed that outer layer of dead skin cells. PEDICURES Proper foot care should happen all year round. Period. Not just in the summer. All. Year. Round. Winter is the perfect time to elevate your foot care. Ditch the communal buffing blocks that are so common in most pedicure services and opt for intensive exfoliation (using specialized e-file pedicure bits) to effectively address dry skin, corns, calluses, cracks and fissures. Follow that with foot buffing (again, using a specialized e-file pedicure bit) that pushes a hydrating mask into deeper layers of skin. The skin on your feet is unique and, as such, requires specialized care. Your foot care products should incorporate humectants and emollients for deep hydration, but should not leave your feet feeling greasy (to avoid slips and falls). Just a few tweaks and your winter skincare woes can be a thing of the past.

McLEAN LIVING | 29

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McLEAN LIVING | 31

JANUARY