Issuu

CLEA LIVING M N

COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE ROY

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PUBLICATION TEAM

Publisher: Gloria Fonseca

Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas

Designer: Hannah Argall

Social Media Administrator: Andrea Simon

Photographer: Myrtle Roy

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Phone: 703-868-8071

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DEAR McLEAN RESIDENTS, CRAFTING SERENE SPACES

As we step into the month of May, I’m excited to share with you another issue full of heart, strength, and inspiration from right here in our community.

On this month’s cover, we’re proud to feature Alicia McKenzie— entrepreneur, fitness coach, and devoted mom of five. Through her empowering platform Lift Like a Mother, Alicia reminds us all that strength isn’t just physical—it’s in showing up for ourselves and our families, day after day.

You may remember the Damavandy family, who courageously shared their story to raise awareness for Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) in a previous issue. Their mission continues, and we invite you to support Rosie’s Walk on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Clemyjontri Park—a place Rosie loved and where her spirit continues to shine.

We’re also honored to celebrate a cherished local institution: The Country Day School, which just marked its 60th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing young learners and shaping generations of families in McLean.

And of course, don’t miss this issue’s expert columns—packed with practical advice, seasonal tips, and thoughtful perspectives from the professionals who help make our community thrive.

As always, thank you for welcoming McLean Living into your homes each month. We’re proud to tell your stories.

Warm regards,

Email: merrie@merriejoyinteriors.com

Mobile & Text: 703-798-7513

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

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EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Trinity Preschool of McLean 703-790-2767 | umtrinity.org/preschool

FURNITURE

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

DERMATOLOGY

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

HOME SERVICES

Dawn Crawley | STW Cleaning 703-348-2221 | www.STW Cleaning.com

HEALTH & FITNESS

Janine Frank | 2 Health Nuts 410-935-9241 | 2healthnuts.com

LUXURY JEWELRY

Alicia Villars | Helvetia 703-401-9679 | www.Helvetiajewelry.com

CUSTOMIZED SKIN CARE

Sona Sut | Derma Care 571-606-3436 | www.dermacareva.com

INSURANCE

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

MENTAL HEALTH

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

RELATIONSHIP COACH

Yousof Faryar | Fitness Lab VA, Transformation Coach yousof@ﬁtlab.co | @yousoff

LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 571.290.2219 | 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

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

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

REAL ESTATE

Brian Mason | Signature Move Real Estate 703-936-6501 | Signaturemoverealestate.com IG: @BrianMasonDMVBIZ

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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

INFANT FEEDING DIFFICULTIES & LASER FRENECTOMY

Dr. Rishita Jaju | Smile Wonders 571-350-3663 | smilewonders.com

HOME COMFORT

Justin Dobson | Comfenegy and 3 Pros Basement Systems 1.800.604.2252 | 45714 Oakbrook Ct., Suite #180 Sterling VA comfenergy.com | 3prosbasementsystems.com

BUSINESS BROKER

Erika Baez-Grimes | Transworld Business Advisor 804.750.3008 | www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Amy Griggs | Tysons Trial Law, PLLC 703-643-4021 | www.tysonstriallaw.com

Alicia McKenzie

ON FAMILY, FITNESS, AND FINDING

HER FLOW

By SOFIA

ROMAN | Professional Photos by MYRTLE ROY

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Photo By Alyona Photography

In the heart of McLean lives a powerhouse mom redefining what it means to juggle it all—without pretending it’s perfect. Meet Alicia McKenzie: wellness coach, entrepreneur, and proud mother of five. Between early school drop-o s, evening baseball games, and recording podcasts with her husband, Alicia has created a life rhythm that’s real, fulfilling, and uniquely her own.

Her crew includes Ava (18), Makayla (13), Maddox (9), Maverick (7), and little Maya (3)—each one with their own vibrant personality and packed schedule. Her mother, Rae, also resides in their multigenerational household. And let’s not forget Huck and Olive, the family’s lovable goldendoodles, who play an essential role in keeping the floors crumb-free thanks to the kids’ constant snack trails.

Alicia nurtures her entire family while also running her company

Next ChaptHer and her wellness platform, Lift Like a Mother. “It takes a village,” she says, crediting her support system for helping her stay present in both work and family life. “We’re intentional with our time. It’s not perfect, but it works for us.”

A day in Alicia’s life? Controlled chaos—with a side of grace. “I’m up at 6 a.m. making breakfast and packing backpacks. The bus picks up

hool at 8:00. Maya and I hang out until the nanny arrives at 10. Some days she stays with Grandma while I sneak in a tennis clinic at McLean Racquet. Then I dive into work, fit in a workout, maybe run a few errands, and try to be back home before the after-school stampede begins around 3:45. Then it’s dinner and springtime activities. Lights out by 10:30 p.m.— I need at least seven hours of sleep to function.”

Forget the myth of balance—Alicia literally wrote the book on letting it go. Her no-nonsense guide, Balance is Bullsh*t: A Realistic Guide to Integrating Healthy Habits, reflects her honest, refreshing approach. “Walks with the kids count as fitness. Recording a podcast with my husband? That’s basically a date,” she laughs. “All the pieces of the puzzle fit.”

The McKenzies are always up for an adventure. From catching games at Nats Park to spirited rounds of pickleball, this family thrives outdoors. “My kids are always down for a trip,” Alicia shares. “They’ve been everywhere—from Alaska to Mexico to Spain and all the places in between.” When they’re not exploring the DMV, they unwind during their slow, sun-soaked summers at their home in Isle of Palms, South Carolina.

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Sports are a big part of the McKenzie family dynamic: Ava plays volleyball for Langley High and VA Juniors; Makayla plays for McLean Youth; Maddox and Maverick hit the field with McLean Little League; and Maya? She’s the enthusiastic little sister, cheering loudest from the sidelines. Her advice for fellow moms navigating family, work, and everything in between? “Kids don’t want to be distracted—they want to be included. Cook with them, exercise with them, dance with them.

The time we spend with our kids will be 90% over by the time they’re 18. It sounds cliché, but the years really do fly by. Don’t rush it. Then you can work as much as you want.”

But Alicia doesn’t just lift her family—she lifts an entire community. Her platform, Lift Like a Mother, was born from her time as a competitive weightlifter (a former USAW and CrossFit athlete) and gym owner. Today, it’s a trusted source of wellness content for moms who want to feel strong, supported, and seen. “There’s

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no one-size-fits-all for living a healthy life,” Alicia says. “My goal is to share diverse insights so women can make informed, intentional choices that suit their own lives.”

Fitness, for Alicia, is both grounding and empowering. “I ask a lot from my body—so I take care of it. A nutrient-dense diet helps me fight o the germs my kids bring home. Physical fitness helps me keep up with my boys and gives me the strength to literally surfboard my toddler through the streets of D.C. when she refuses to walk. Being strong is so important—in motherhood and beyond.”

A certified wellness, fitness, and nutrition coach, Alicia has a lifelong love of learning and plans to pursue a degree in Dietetics to become a Registered Dietitian once Maya starts school. “Wellness keeps me grounded and helps me show up mentally and physically for my family.”

Since 2018, McLean has been home. “We love it here,” Alicia says. “There’s a sense of community I really cherish. Whether it’s kids walking to Giant or spontaneous creek adventures, this is where childhood thrives.” She admits she used to feel guilty asking for rides or help with carpool. “Not anymore. We’re all figuring it out as we go.”

Family traditions are big in the McKenzie house—especially come October. “We go all-out for Halloween—12-foot skeletons and everything!” she laughs. And next, Alicia is channeling her creativity into a brand-new project: her debut children’s book, These ABCs Belong to Me, launching in August 2025.

Her message for other McLean moms? “Don’t be shy about leaning on your village. Cook with your kids, exercise with them, dance with them. Time flies. Let’s stop rushing through it and start making more of it.”

A Quick Tip

for Busy Moms

“If you told me you only had 10 minutes to walk or do yoga, I’d never say it’s not enough. I’d say, ‘Amazing— you should be proud you found the time.’ That all-ornothing mindset is toxic to wellness. Something is always better than nothing.”

Want more tips?

Check out her Instagram: @liftlikeamother

Photo By Eunice Kin Photography

Sixty Years of Heart, History, and Hands-On Learning

AT THE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL

By MARIANNE BANE

Nestled among the tall trees and timeless charm of Georgetown Pike, The Country Day School is more than a place of early childhood education—it's a cornerstone of McLean’s community spirit. This spring, the beloved preschool celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of nurturing young learners, embracing playbased exploration, and building generations of lifelong connections. Founded in 1964 by the visionary Dorothy Bragdon McCormick, The Country Day School began humbly as a neighborhood playgroup between Dorothy and her friends. What started as a gathering of curious children in a home setting has evolved into a robust, community-rooted institution serving children from 18 months to kindergarten age.

The school’s journey is deeply intertwined with local history. Its current campus at 6418 Georgetown Pike is part of the Langley Fork Historic District. The main building—once a Civil War hospital and later a church—was originally part of Dorothy’s own property. What began as a single-floor preschool eventually expanded to three buildings: two dedicated schoolhouses

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updated, the charm of its original structure still lives on, connecting past to present in every timbered beam.

Dorothy McCormick remained closely involved with the school for the rest of her life, continuing to shape its culture, community, and values until her passing in 2018. Her impact lives on—not only in the buildings and philosophy she helped shape, but in the very people who carry on her legacy. “We still have teachers who were hired by Dorothy decades ago,” says one sta member. “Some of them started here while in high school and are still with us today.”

With a current enrollment of around 220 students, the school maintains intimate class sizes, allowing teachers to truly know each child. True to its founding values, The Country Day School fosters

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Day parents themselves—deepening the school’s sense of family and continuity.

The school’s educational philosophy is built on a foundation of outdoor learning and play-based exploration. Students are encouraged to observe, imagine, build, pretend, and, most importantly, just be kids. “Children here get to immerse themselves in play, whether they’re pretending to be forest animals or forming little families in the woods,” says Cassandre Durocher, Director of Communications and a parent-turnedsta member. “We’re outside a lot, and we love that children can connect with nature and deepen their own stories through play.”

The program is not just about fun—it’s thoughtfully designed to nurture curiosity, problem-solving skills, empathy, and confidence. Respect for diversity, individual learning styles, and each child’s unique journey is at the heart of the school’s mission. It’s no surprise that many alumni return years later, either as parents, board members, or even faculty. One teacher currently on sta was once a preschooler in the same classrooms where she now leads her own students.

This sense of tradition and legacy was deeply felt at the school’s 60th anniversary celebration—a joyful reunion of current families, alumni, and supporters. The event doubled as the return of the school’s auction, a cherished tradition that had been paused since 2019. “It was our first big event post-COVID and such a special way to honor Dorothy’s legacy and celebrate outdoor education,” sta shared. Funds raised will help enhance programs and provide upgrades to beloved playground spaces, ensuring future generations continue to thrive.

The Country Day School is a place where stories begin—where tiny feet run through fields, little hands dig into discovery, and young minds learn the joy of learning. And after 60 years, it continues to do what Dorothy dreamed of: growing children into curious, confident learners with strong roots and wideopen wings.

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Luxury Travel Skincare: How to Maintain Glowing Skin at 30,000 Feet

BY SONA SUT Licensed Master Aesthetician

Traveling in style doesn’t just mean luxurious destinations— it’s about preserving your skin’s radiance, even at 30,000 feet. Airplane cabins are notorious for drying out the skin due to low humidity, so having a skincare routine tailored for travel is key to maintaining your glow. With the right products, you can keep your complexion hydrated and refreshed, no matter the altitude.

Start with a gentle cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin. This helps reset your complexion after hours in a recycled-air cabin. Follow with a hydrating toner to lock in moisture and restore the skin’s pH balance.

A rich serum with hyaluronic acid is essential to counteract dehydration. Apply it liberally, especially to dry areas like the cheeks and under the eyes. Since cabin pressure dehydrates the skin, layering a luxury moisturizer with squalane or ceramides is a must to protect the skin’s barrier and maintain hydration throughout the flight.

Don’t forget your SPF—even on a plane, UV rays can penetrate through the windows. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF to ensure protection.

SKINCARE PRO TIP:

Pack a hydrating mist with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid in your carry-on. Spritz throughout the flight to refresh and hydrate. It helps combat dryness, pollution, and UV exposure. Your instant boost of hydration—perfect for long-haul flights or when you arrive. Safe travels!

Surprisingly great rates right around the corner.

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Why Exactly Do We Crave Foods?

By JANINE FRANK CEO & CO-FOUNDER OF 2 HEALTH NUTS

Have you ever experienced a craving for a specific kind of food? I know I have, and research shows that for more than 90% of the population this is very common. Have you ever wondered why this actually happens though? Why exactly do we crave certain foods?

Cravings have to do with a variety of factors, including the accessibility of food, habitual behaviors, and even the signals & messages the brain receives. Certain foods we eat activate the reward neurons in the brain giving an overall feeling of pleasure. In turn, we want to keep seeking out these foods. Who wouldn’t, right? (The Nutrition Source: The Neurobiology of Cravings). On the flip side, cravings can also be an indicator that our body needs more calories for energy purposes or we are lacking specific nutrients.

While this is a non-exhaustive list, these are some of the common reasons why we tend to crave those so-called “fun foods” we all know and love - why hello foods high in sugar, salt, fat! As I have written in previous articles, “fun foods” absolutely have a place in your diet and nothing should ever be o limits. These are merely insights, suggestions, and strategies to help guide your cravings and appetite when they feel larger than life.

DEHYDRATION

It’s very easy to mistake hunger for thirst or even dehydration. Have you ever been told to drink 8-16 oz of water, wait a little bit, and then see if that hunger feeling still persists? It’s definitely a great tool to see if you are truly hungry or simply thirsty. Another tactic - try drinking 1-2 cups of water prior to a meal. Not only will it provide some sense of fullness but it may even help with overeating and weight management.

LACK OF PROTEIN CONSUMPTION

Not only does protein provide essential nutrients your body needs to help build, repair, and maintain muscle mass but it also provides a feeling of satiety that can help reduce cravings. A great way to make sure you are getting enough protein is to include it in every meal. For example, if breakfast usually consists of just oatmeal, pair with a side of eggs or even a good quality protein shake. For lunch, don’t be shy with adding a hearty serving of protein on your salad, or eat alongside a plethora of veggies and complex carbohydrates. The same goes for dinner as well. You may even find that you eat less at a given meal too.

STAY ON A REGULAR EATING PATTERN

Although you may need to play around with this one, and figure out what works for you, it may be advantageous for you to stay ahead of hunger by eating small, more frequent meals throughout the day (or, at least, not skipping meals). We all know what happens when we get to that point of being hangry. Not only does hunger go through the roof, but our willpower becomes non-existent and we start making decisions based on our cravings and appetite.

HABITUAL

Our environment can directly a ect our eating habits. Have you ever found yourself sitting at your desk and, at the same time every afternoon, you start to crave something sugary and sweet in an e ort to power through the rest of the work day? You may not even realize it - or want it for that matterbut you have gotten yourself into the HABIT of heading to the local co ee shop around 3:00 pm to satisfy your sweet tooth craving. What about watching Football on a Sunday? You may not really want those potato chips but it has become a habit of what you do on game day.

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EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

One of the easiest ways to change this behavior is to stay on top of it before it gets to you. Knowledge is power, and if you know this has become an “issue,” let's change your environment. Let’s use the work example - before the clock strikes 3:00 pm, think of ways to divert your attention. Maybe it is taking a 5 minute walk outside. Maybe it is heading to the copier to copy the mountain of papers that have stacked up on your desk. If you work from home, maybe it is doing a mindless task or chore around the house.

As for Football Sunday’s, try di erent healthy snacks and appetizers. Yes, you can still have those yummy chips, but having other o erings may help to decrease the overall consumption of those oh so glorious fun foods!

SLEEP DEPRIVATION

Not getting enough sleep can have a profound impact on your hormonal balance. Adequate sleep regulates your body’s metabolic functions. If sleep is disrupted - and I don’t just mean waking up in the middle of the night - an imbalance with both ghrelin and leptin can be a ected (The Nutrition Source). Both of these hormones regulate energy and, you guessed it, appetite! If you are finding it a challenge to get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep, here are some easy ways to help get your much needed rest: Create a dark (and temperature friendly) sleeping environment, stick to a sleep schedule, watch ca eine intake in the afternoon, be mindful of the amount of food you are consuming close to bed and even workouts you do (if working out in the evening), and steer clear of electronic devices (yes, TV’s too).

STRESS

There are two di erent kinds of stress - acute stress (“temporary” stress) and chronic stress (“consistent and on-going”). While acute stress generally decreases and suppresses one's appetite in the interim, chronic stress tends to do the complete opposite. This becomes more problematic since it signals cortisol to be released which directly impacts our appetite. For many, this naturally leads to more of what we like to call “emotional eating” (The Medical News Today). Utilizing tools and strategies to manage stress is key, especially when it comes to eating and weight maintenance. Some examples include exercising, yoga, meditation, breathwork, aromatherapy, and drinking herbal tea.

EXERCISE

Research has shown that simply taking a short, brisk walk can help reduce cravings and appetite. Even engaging in longer duration activities that are high intensity in nature will, ultimately, suppress your appetite then regulate upon completion. The next time you find yourself longing for that sugary pastry, decadent dessert, or wanting to watch TV with your favorite bag of chips, try going for a 10-15 minute walk around the block. See if those cravings are still present when you are finished.

HORMONAL CHANGES

For women, appetite and cravings come and go during di erent phases of their menstrual cycle, when pregnant, menopause, or even with various medical treatments. When estrogen is low, and progesterone is high, appetite is heightened and the feeling of fullness is not as prominent after a meal. On the contrary, when estrogen is high, there is an increase in the e ectiveness of cholecystokinin which helps promote digestion and suppress appetite (The Nutrition Source).

MEDICATIONS

While this does not a ect everyone, certain medications can interfere with serotonin - a hormone and neurotransmitter which manages mood and appetite. While this is still seen as an unknown, it is believed that medications can possibly alter metabolism and brain signals that increase one’s cravings and appetite. One of the biggest culprits is prednisone - a steroid used to treat certain health conditions. Essentially, it can interfere with the role of leptin in the body, causing a constant feeling of hunger. If you have ever been prescribed this medication, and know the feeling of not being fully satisfied, just remember the increase in appetite is temporary and will subside once it has run its course (The Nutrition Source).

Content sources from The Harvard School of Public Health (The Nutrition Source: “Cravings”) and The Medical News Today (“What Causes Food Cravings”)

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How One Designer is Turning Pain Into Purpose and Fashion Into a Movement

By DANI BANEGAS

From a small village in El Salvador to the vibrant fashion scene of Los Angeles, Angela Medrano has walked a path that embodies resilience, faith, and fearless dreaming. Today, as the founder and creative force behind Ruthless68, Angela is not only redefining fashion—she’s redefining success. Her story begins in San Felipe, a village once without electricity or running water. In the early 1990s, Angela’s mother brought her and her brother to the U.S. in search of a better future. “She wanted us to have a shot at what’s called ‘The American Dream,’” Angela shares. And what a shot she’s taken.

Photo By Unchanging Photos

Growing up in Northern Virginia, Angela’s earliest fashion experiences came from thrift store trips with her mother. “She always wore the flyest fits and made sure I did too,” Angela recalls with a smile. Those childhood memories—rooted in scarcity but full of creativity—became the seeds of her future brand. With dress sketches filling her notebooks, Angela dreamed of one day creating fashion that made people feel seen, powerful, and deeply valued.

But dreams don’t always follow a straight line. Life took over, and Angela found herself on a corporate path, thriving professionally but battling privately. In 2021, at the height of her career, she reached a breaking point—facing mental health struggles and suicidal thoughts. “I ran away from my darkest moments and moved to downtown LA,” she says. It was there, alone in a hotel room, that she reached out in desperation and heard the words that would shape the rest of her life: “Love yourself.”

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From that night forward, Ruthless68 was born—not just as a fashion brand, but as a mission.

Ruthless68 stands on a foundation of faith, self-love, and social impact. The name itself symbolizes the unwavering grit required to rise from hardship with hope. Each exclusive garment is created with intention—to remind wearers that they belong in every room they walk into, regardless of background, status, or circumstance.

“The world deserves you,” is more than a tagline. It’s a call to action.

Angela’s designs speak directly to the “doers, go-getters, and dream chasers,” those who show up fueled by nothing but passion and purpose. Ruthless68’s mission is clear: to inspire humanity to have faith in love again—through fashion, faith, and a community of purpose-driven individuals.

But Angela’s story isn’t just one of success—it’s deeply rooted in giving back. Through Ruthless68, she’s creating partnerships with like-minded brands, championing suicide awareness and mental health advocacy. Her hope is to build a global community where people don’t just wear beautiful clothes—they wear confidence, strength, and healing.

Whether it’s a power blazer, a statement dress, or everyday athleisure, each piece represents more than style—it represents survival and a commitment to lead with love.

From humble beginnings in El Salvador to building a brand from a hotel room in LA, Angela Medrano proves that success isn’t about how you start—it’s about how boldly you choose to rise.

To learn more, shop her designs, or support her mission, visit ruthless68.com and follow @ruthless68_ on Instagram. You’ll be inspired to dream big, love yourself fiercely, and maybe— just maybe—become the light for someone else.

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Let’s Talk About the Truth Behind 'Perfect' Couples

By YOUSOF FARYAR Fitness Lab VA, Transformation Coach

Every couple struggles—but no one talks about it. Behind the smiling selfies, family dinners, and romantic getaways lies the pressure to keep up appearances. In a world ruled by highlight reels and filtered perfection, we often feel forced to put on a show—for our families, friends, and especially on social media. It’s the old cliché: keeping up with the Joneses. But what if that performance is actually hurting us?

The beauty of working with someone like Yousof is that there’s no show, no judgment—just honesty and growth. With decades of experience guiding couples and families, Yousof helps people stop performing and start living. His approach fosters true connection, eases stress, and reminds each family that they are enough—just as they are.

TANIA SEVILLA

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When we stop comparing and start communicating, we make space for real joy. Flourishing doesn't mean being perfect. It means being present, being supported, and being seen. And that’s exactly what Yousof helps families do—live their best lives for themselves.

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Why Every Home Needs A Bar Cart

By JONI FOERTER Founder Furniture Rescue - The Back Dorr

Many people associate the bar cart with 1920s glamour: socialites sipping cocktails as they ignored Prohibition, all while clad in black tie and silk. The origins of this piece of furniture are somewhat less racy. These wheeled, tiered carts were originally known as tea trolleys, and they came of age during the Victorian era. They still signified luxury. After all, only upper-class women had the leisure time to savor midday tea and nibbles, as well as the servants to prepare and serve the meal.

Bar carts have retained their allure. Afternoon teas and 100-proof soirees are no longer regular a airs for most of us. But these trolleys have myriad more uses. If your home doesn’t have a bar cart, you’ll find plenty of reasons that will have you wondering how you’ve survived without one.

In the dining room use a bar cart to hold beverages and drinkware, of course, but also as a place to keep side dishes when hosting a dinner. This way people can help themselves to second servings of salad, mashed potatoes, and the like without the table becoming overly cluttered.

In the living room or den use a bar cart as a plant stand or side table. You can wheel the plants in and out of direct sunlight throughout the day if necessary. As a side table; its open design makes it an airier alternative to a heavier wood piece.

In the bedroom a bar cart makes an excellent nightstand. Think of all the reading material you can stack within easy reach! There is room for a small lamp, lean a mirror on the top and leave necessities in a decorative basket for your guests.

In the bathroom a bar cart is not just for toiletries and towels. There’s no more stylish way to keep extra toilet tissue within reach. If you lack space for a proper desk with drawers a bar car can be a great option for a smaller space. Look for a wood trolley that can even hold a printer, let alone papers, cords, and the like.

Have a small wall near an entry? A bar cart is great drop zone! Keys, phone, sunglasses can be contained and organized right where you need them.

Used outside, the bar cart can hold everything from drinks and ice to extra towels, sunscreen and goggles. And if it starts to rain, you can easily move it from the poolside to a porch or indoors.

Keep in mind if you intend to move the trolley frequently, you’ll probably want one with four wheels. And you might want to have a locking mechanism for at least a few of the wheels, especially if your household includes kids or pets. A rail along the sides of the cart’s shelves can help prevent items from toppling when you move the cart.

The more you plan to move it or store on it, the sturdier the cart needs to be. You can’t go wrong with steel, acrylic, wood, or tempered glass. For outdoor, consider powder-coated aluminum or weather-resistant wicker.

If now find you just have to have a bar cart, come visit us at the warehouse. We have bar carts and furniture pieces that want to be bar carts.

By DR. FLORENCIA SEGURA MD, FAAP

In a community as close-knit and compassionate as McLean, stories of love, loss, and resilience resonate deeply. One such story is that of Rosalie Parisa Damavandy, a ectionately known as “Baby Rosie.” A joyful, radiant little girl, Rosie lit up every room with her big blue eyes, easy laughter, and loving nature. Her name, meaning “beautiful little rose” in French and “angelic” in Farsi, perfectly reflected her gentle, spirited soul.

On May 21, 2024, Rosie passed away suddenly and without warning at just 18 months old. Until that morning, she was a healthy, thriving toddler who loved to play, giggle, and snuggle with her parents, Drs. Florencia Segura and Al Damavandy, and her older siblings, Penny and George. Her death was rul Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC): a rare and devastating tragedy that claims the lives of approximately 500 children in the U.S. each year, typically between the ages of 1 and 4. Even after thorough autopsies and investigations, parents are seeking answers.

Most people, including many physicians, have never heard of SUDC. Rosie’s family is determined to change that.

Florencia, a pediatrician, and Al, a dermatologist practicing in downtown McLean, are using their voices to raise awareness, drive research, and help prevent other families from experiencing the same unimaginable loss. Their newest initiative, Rosie’s Walk: Stride for SUDC, invites the McLean community to come together in love, remembrance, and action.

Rosie’s Walk will take place on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Clemyjontri Park, one of Rosie’s favorite places to play. This family-friendly event will honor Rosie’s life while raising critical funds for the SUDC Foundation, the only organization in the world solely dedicated to supporting families, funding research, and raising awareness about SUDC. All of the Foundation’s services are provided at no cost to families.

This will be a walk of remembrance, but also of resilience, unity, and hope. Proceeds will go directly to the SUDC Foundation to support lifesaving research and family support services.

Join us to walk for every family still searching for "why."

Together, we can honor Rosie’s beautiful life and help build a future where no parent has to endure this pain without answers.

Learn more at LoveLikeRosie.org

Photos By Gina Ballentyn

The New McLean Central Playground Opens Its Gates

By CHARLIE GALLEGOS

On Saturday, March 29, McLean came together to celebrate a long-awaited milestone—the grand reopening of McLean Central Park and the unveiling of its newly renovated playground at 1468 Dolley Madison Blvd. What was once a dream fueled by determination and community spirit is now a vibrant, inclusive space where children can learn, play, and grow.

As our readers may remember, back in June 2023, five inspiring women graced the cover of McLean Living magazine—the powerhouse team behind the McLean Central Playground project. These dedicated local moms worked tirelessly to raise $400,000 to revitalize the playground and create a space that reflects the heart of McLean.

Nearly two years later, their vision has come to life.

The celebration took place at the new McLean Central Park Pavilion, where families, supporters, and community leaders gathered to honor the team’s incredible e orts. A special thanks was extended to all generous donors, whose names and businesses are now permanently showcased on benches and walls throughout the park—a lasting tribute to their support.

In attendance were members of the McLean Central Playground Team, along with contributors like Dr. Gema Island, who played a vital role in making the renovation possible. The event included the o icial Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, marking the beginning of this exciting new chapter for McLean Central Park.

This playground isn’t just a beautiful new space—it’s a symbol of what our community can accomplish when we come together.

Where Island Children's Dentistry and Orthodontist proudly stands as the premier pediatric dental practice in the region. Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed specifically for children's dental needs, ensuring a comfortable and e ective experience.

Led by our Board Certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Gema Island, our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional dental care that emphasizes a functional approach to facial development. At Island Children's Dentistry, we strive to deliver the highest standard of care for your child's oral health, making us the trusted choice for families in Northern Virginia.