The hardest part will be choosing what to have. Krunch & Noodles’ ramen is a top choice on your first visit, with about 10 different combinations of meat, broth, and noodles to choose from. But the soup bowls are so satisfying, you might not have room for chicken wings or other side dishes. You could also opt for bulgogi, teriyaki chicken, or spicy pork, each served with a heaping serving of rice and vegetables. Give this new dining option in Alexandria a try Tuesday through Sunday for lunch or dinner.

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Busy days require lots of coffee, and Cafe du Soleil has organic blends, expertly created lattes, and flavorful variations on your go-to drink. Then grab a breakfast sandwich, croissant, or green smoothie, and you’re set. You can even take a whole quiche to go to heat and eat all week long. But if this is one of those rare occasions where you can take a moment, enjoy a crepe stuffed with smoked salmon and spinach, or a Croque Madame with a side of mixed greens. Lunchtime brings lovely, freshly made sandwiches and salads, along with roasted vegetables and savory toasts.

Cafe du Soleil offers online ordering via their website, as well as catering for your next home or office event. Make the café your first stop of the day.

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1. Head outside (just bundle up first). Fresh-air workouts are still an option, you’ll just have to spend a little extra time getting ready. Bundle up in weather-appropriate, reflective gear before you head out, like these top-rated items. Don’t forget sweat-wicking pants and layered tops in synthetic or wool materials, a warm hat, and gloves, and sunscreen!
2. Stay hydrated. Just because it's winter doesn't mean you don't need to stay hydrated. In fact, dehydration is harder to notice when it's colder out. Be sure to drink water or a sports drink before, during, and after your workout, even if you're not particularly sweaty or thirsty.
3. Try online workouts. Online fitness routines are having a real moment right now, and for good reason. With everyone staying at home more, virtual workouts provide a convenient alternative to in-person sweat sessions. Pay a monthly fee to access a large library of workout videos, like BeachBody On Demand, or see if any of your local fitness studios are streaming classes. YouTube also has lots of options for free.
4. Get into at-home cycling. By now, you’ve probably heard of Peloton and its pricey in-home spin bikes. But did you know that you don’t need to splurge on one in order to access its library of pre-recorded and live-streaming classes? Snag one of these more affordable spin bikes and then subscribe to Peloton’s classes ($39/month) for a full-fledged fitness studio at home.

The post How to Get the Most Out of Your Winter Workouts appeared first on Riverside Blog.

Specializing in vintage home decor and gifts with a Parisian appeal, the chic French aesthetic that captivated Phelps and countless other travelers is captured in gifts and other goods at the boutique. “This is not a small shop by any means,” writes one visitor, “but it has that very charming and welcoming feel when you enter & spend some time browsing.” That browsing is sure to be extensive: from soaps to cards and candles to baby goods, you’ll find something for every occasion, be it a birthday, holiday, or a little something special for yourself. 

Apron for Grandma? Check. Provincial bath products for your best friend? They’ll be smelling like lavender in no time. Present for your coworker mid-pregnancy? You’ll find something perfect at Le Village Marche. One reviewer put it best: “In all, a well-curated boutique that has enough unusual options you won't have to fear showing up at a housewarming/shower/wedding with the same thing someone bought at another French-themed shop.”

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Gingery Sweet Potato Pie [Country Living]
The distinct addition of ginger lends a rich, complex flavor to this otherwise traditional sweet potato pie. You can make your own pie crust or buy one pre-made to cut back on prep time. Then bake about four small sweet potatoes and mash them with milk, eggs, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and, of course, sugar. Fill the pie crust with the sweet mixture, bake it, and top with homemade (or storebought) whipped cream.

Pumpkin Crisp [Delish]
Sure, pumpkin pie is delicious, but pumpkin crisp in a cast-iron skillet? You really can’t beat that. This recipe guides you in mixing together pumpkin puree, eggs pumpkin pie spice, heavy cream, and vanilla with ample amounts of sugar. Next, you’ll craft a crumbly topping using flour, brown sugar, salt, butter, and pecans. Pour the creamy mixture into a greased cast-iron skillet, sprinkle the buttery crumbs on top, and bake for about 45 minutes—then enjoy a slice a la mode.

Apple Dumpling Bake [Taste of Home]
This recipe is much easier than apple pie, and it features one unexpected ingredient: Mountain Dew. Apple slices wrapped in crescent rolls simmer in the sweet, bubbly beverage with sugar, butter, and cinnamon for about 35 minutes. The result? Flaky, golden-brown rolls bearing the perfect balance of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet soda and sugar. For an extra-delicious dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The post Fall Sweets to Bake in November appeared first on Riverside Blog.

Stop by to see what’s in stock right now, just make sure to wear a face covering and keep your distance from other customers. You might snag a warm cream-colored sweater dress for your next date night or a fuzzy sherpa jacket to keep you warm on your autumn walks. Stylish jewelry, handbags, and shoes are all available at 3 Sisters, too. And true to the co-owners’ initial vision, they’re all sold at affordable prices.

The post Shop Affordably Priced Gifts at 3 Sisters in Alexandria appeared first on Riverside Blog.

The igloos will be heated, fully furnished, and available to rent for up to eight people. With a special menu of small bites and warm seasonal cocktails, it’s a safe way to go out to eat, even if you’re not comfortable joining others in a traditional dining room. For now, traditional outdoor seating is still available, and so is takeout. Of course, if you are ready to sit down inside for dinner, you’re welcome to do that, too. Make sure you try some of the artisan whiskey alongside a craft cheeseburger, the elevated pot roast, or the Shenandoah Valley chicken.

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