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By Alice Levitt, James Finley, Kelly Kendall, and Michele Kettner
Picture Perfect
“Is it premature that I’m thinking about my Christmas card already? When we’re surrounded by photo-worthy backdrops, who can blame me? Since foliage is supposed to be peaking right about now, I thought it would be fun to get some images to share with my friends and family in front of Oatlands Historic House and Gardens in Leesburg.” –Alice Levitt, food editor/critic
Haunts Galore
“If you ask any of my friends, they will definitely tell you that I hate anything scary. And even though Halloween is one of my favorite holidays, I can’t handle the scare factor unless we are talking about haunted houses. Don’t ask me why, but I love them. You won’t find me leading the group through the frightening house, but I’ll be the first to suggest the spooky excursion. That’s why I knew we had to go to Cox Farms’ Field of Fears to kick-off our short haunted house road trip around the DMV.” –Michele Kettner, associate digital & research editor
High Spirits
“We recently covered the Occoquan Ghost Tour, and it’s worth nothing that both bars serving drinks on that tour are must-visits in Occoquan: The Spot on Mill Street, whose owner Denise Orsmby makes a real gin Bramble, and The Tap Room at D’Rocco’s, which is probably the most fun basement bar you’ll visit in NoVA. Order the Ghost from bartender Courtney Mahoney.” –James Finley, senior editor
Mid-Century Mania
“I’m making a beeline to Acme Mid-Century Modern, which is discounting its wares in anticipation of moving from its Alexandria shop to an online store. I love the kind of furniture and decor Acme specializes in, and while I’m mildly bummed that I won’t be able to browse the goods in person anymore, I’m happy for the owner that he’s making this switch on his own terms and is feeling solid about it. Plus discounts? Good vibes all around.” –Kelly Kendall, editor
