Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Nature

May’s Flower Moon: A Celestial Celebration of Spring’s Peak

The next full moon, known as the Flower Moon, will reach its peak illumination on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 12:56 p.m. Eastern Time. This full moon marks the height of spring, named for the abundance of blooming flowers that signal the season’s vibrant growth across much of North America. About the May 2025 Flower MoonName & Meaning: The May full moon is traditionally called the...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Nature

The Violet: A Flower of History, Myth, and Beauty

The violet, with its delicate petals and vibrant hues, has enchanted admirers for centuries. More than just a fleeting bloom, this remarkable flower—thriving across woodlands, meadows, and gardens of the Northern Hemisphere—carries a rich legacy steeped in mythology, folklore, and quiet resilience. In the Southern Shenandoah Valley, where spring arrives early and violets linger well beyond Summer, their enduring presence sets them apart from other...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Nature

Easter Week’s Sky Lights Up with Shooting Stars, Plus Two Meteor Showers Coming in May

As Earth journeys along its path, it sweeps up trails of comet debris that ignite our skies with meteor showers, also known as shooting stars. This year, the Lyrid meteor shower is poised to deliver a spectacular celestial show, peaking on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22. As the first major meteor shower since the Quadrantids, it’s a highly...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Nature

The Pink Full Moon Rises Tonight – And It’s Showing Up With A Few Surprises…

Tonight, Saturday, April 12, step outside a little before 8 PM to witness the fourth full moon of 2025 rising above the horizon. Known as the Pink Moon, it’s the first full moon of spring — and this year, it’s showing up with a few surprises.Called the Pink Moon, it marks the first full moon of spring. Its name comes from Phlox subulata, or moss...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Food and Beverages

Battle of the Rockbridge County Smash Burgers: Hardens vs. Holy Cow 

What is a Smash Burger? A Smash Burger is characterized by one or two thin, crispy beef patties formed by smashing a loose ball of beef onto a searing hot griddle. This technique creates caramelized, jagged edges packed with flavor while locking in a juicy, tender center. It's typically crowned with a unique special sauce for an extra taste dimension. I have enjoyed smash burgers from Holy...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Savoring Nature’s Bounty: The Story of Halcyon Days Cider Company

Halcyon Days Cider Company, located at 4135 S Lee Hwy in Natural Bridge, Virginia, invites visitors to enjoy its scenic surroundings and taste the product of their authentic cider-making process in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. The cidery offers a peaceful atmosphere where guests can explore its 1.7-mile labyrinth that winds through thousands of apple trees, sample a variety of small-batch ciders, and relax in a...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, History and Museums

A Journey Through Valor and History: The VMI Museum Experience 

In the historic town of Lexington, Virginia, the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) stands as an enduring emblem of military tradition and academic excellence. Central to this institution is the VMI Museum, which has the distinction of being Virginia's first public museum. Here, visitors can explore the detailed narrative of VMI's past, which began as America's first state-sponsored military college in 1839. Let's delve into what...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Grounds for Growth: Asunder Coffee Roasters’ Crafting Quality and Community Spirit

Located in downtown Buena Vista, Virginia, Asunder Coffee Roasters stands as more than just another coffee shop; it's a beacon of community revitalization and a testament to the art of coffee roasting. Located at 2037 Magnolia Avenue, this establishment isn't just about serving coffee; it's about crafting an experience, fostering community, and pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be. A Commitment to Quality and SustainabilityAsunder...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, History and Museums, Shopping

Discovering America’s Largest Antique Store on a Rainy Vacation Day

We were enjoying our second stay with Rock River Experiences and had planned a day around some of their outdoor recommendations. As raindrops pattered against the windows of our cozy vacation rental, these plans took a backseat. Little did we know that this rainy day would lead us on an unexpected adventure to what is recognized as "America's Largest Antique Store"—the Verona Factory Antique Mall,...
Continue reading
Blog, Experiences, Family Activities, Food and Beverages, Shopping

Enjoy Local Craft Wine, Beer, or Cider at 10 Locations in Rockbridge County! 

Rockbridge County, Virginia, is home to a vibrant community of local breweries, wineries, and cideries. Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, a wine lover, or a cider connoisseur, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to 10 must-visit places in our area.  Brew Ridge TapsLocated in the heart of Lexington, Brew Ridge Taps offers an excellent selection of craft beers, with a rotating menu of local...
Continue reading