Bull Run Winery
As a look for a place to spend the new year, I like to think back on some of the great venues that I visited this year. It was my daughter Brandyn's 21st birthday earlier this fall. Since she was now 21, I took her for a fun little girls day at the Winery at Bull Run in Centerville, VA. I like this winery because it is right outside of the city, it is surrounded by historical landmarks and just has a old world charming vibe. Especially at night. They have live music on Fridays and tons of fun little events. It is also a top wedding venue in the area because of its beautiful rustic vibe and amazing sunset views. Our favorite wine there is definitely their Pinot Gris. I am generally not a Pinot fan but it was not dry and so citrusy and delicious. Can you tell we are fans? Bull Run is a great place to checkout if you are in Centerville. Too bad they are already sold out for New Years! I guess I will keep the search alive. What is your favorite local winery?
Couchtopia: Netflix Binge Worthy TV-Shows
During the holidays you may have a few days to catch up on a few series. Personally when I have a few days off I like to watch shows with multiple season. Here are a few that will keep you watching:
- Marco Polo- Marco Polo takes you on a decadent adventure through13th century Mongolia exploring different worlds and friendship with Kubli Khan. Orneate sets and brilliant battles sciences makes this must see TV!
- Vikings- Ragnar Lothbrok, the famous blue-eyed warrior guides us through the passionate, bloody adventures of the Norse Vikings. You can't help but to fall in love with the beautiful scenery, powerful women and clever interworking of the Viking mind. This is a must see!
- Dexter- The witty internal banter of a serial killer trying to ride the world of bad guys getting by the justice system is surprisingly engaging as he teaches himself social cues and how to gauge the world to look normal. There are so many creepy people out in the world.
- White Chapel- Serial killer like Jack the ripper have a lot of creepy copy cates, these BBC coppers use history to track down modern day copy cat and ride the streets of crazies. Gotta love the BBC!
- Narcos- A detailed look into the rise and fall of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. Be transcended back in time and into to the mind and relations of a criminal.
Parka-Yourself at the Mall
The week after Christmas is great because you get to go spend all of your gift cards at the mall. This parka is a great option for through all your shopping, exchanges and returns. It is will keep you stylish and warm without all of the bulk of winter jackets.
Get the look:
Aviators: Vince Camutto (similar)
Purse: BCBG (similar)
Boots: (similar)
Skinnies: (same)
Parka: Forever 21 (same)
Netflix Couchtopia: The Duff
As always, Mae Whitman brings the rain in the movie The Duff! Her authentic swag, even though this movies tries to smother it, is forever present. In this movie, she plays the "DUFF"- designated ugly fat friend that people use to get to her hot friends. In this mashup of Can't Buy Me Love and She's All That, the hot guy (Robbie Amell) helps the girl find her cool. He gives her the how too on life, date night lighting, una-boob destruction and she teaches him how to do what he wants and drops lines like "only you can define yourself". Which for him is to leave the new mean girl, Bella Thorne. She plays the role so well. -By Shawna Walker
Getting Rid of Cabin Fever
I was getting a little cabin fever after the holidays and so I had to get out and go on a walk-about. For my little city self, a walk-about is nothing like Crocodile Dundee's adventures, mine usually takes me to TJ Maxx or Nordstrom Rack. This Nine West cross body bag is perfect for a quick trips to wherever you heart takes you. Where do your walkabouts take you?
Get this look:
Apple Watch: (similar)
Bag: Nine West (similar)
Necklace: Target (similar) (similar)
So Fancy with Fall/Winter Florals
Pumps: Calvin Klien (similar)
Purse: Kate Spade (similar)
Dress (similar)
Bangles: JCrew (similar)
Necklace with brooch: Gift (similar)
Earrings: Marshalls (similar)
Netflix Couchtopia: Hello My Name Is Doris
Hello, My Name is Doris is an engaging view of life from an older, ecelectic women's perspective. The kinky interworking of Doris's mind is un-expecting. Her old school, quirky flavor is interesting and her journey is hilarious, sometimes creepy but her risky behavior is courageous. Sally Field plays Doris a quirky, original and Max Greenfield (Schmidt from New Girl) plays a young, confident stud at her office that opens her mind to a brave new world. Wendi McLendon Covey plays the sister in law from hell trying to force Doris from her home. The film is full of fun statements like "there are seven days in the week and someday isn't one", "you guys a the stuff of life", "your a true original"and "I am possible".
