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Five Small Luxuries Bringing Me Joy This December
Lifestyle Aleyson Lifestyle Aleyson

Five Small Luxuries Bringing Me Joy This December

December always feels like a month of contrasts—crisp air and warm fires, long to-do lists and quiet winter evenings, festive plans and stolen moments of stillness. And while I truly love the grandeur of the season, it’s the small luxuries that have been grounding me lately. The simple little things that make everyday life feel softer, cozier, and more comforting.

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A Cozy December in Virginia’s Hunt Country: My Favorite Things to Do This Season
Virginia, Lifestyle Aleyson Virginia, Lifestyle Aleyson

A Cozy December in Virginia’s Hunt Country: My Favorite Things to Do This Season

December in Virginia’s hunt country carries a magic all its own. The leaves have long since fallen, the mornings are frosty, and the entire countryside settles into a quieter, more intimate rhythm. While the region is known for its grand holiday events, I’ve found that the real charm of December lies in the slower, more personal corners of the season—the small businesses, tucked-away experiences, and quiet winter walks that feel like secrets you get to keep.

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Local Sips | The Winery at La Grange

Local Sips | The Winery at La Grange

Nestled in the rolling hills of Haymarket, Virginia, The Winery at La Grange offers a romantic escape into a world where history and viticulture blend seamlessly. As you arrive, you are greeted by picturesque vineyards that stretch across the landscape, their rows of grapevines creating a serene, pastoral tableau. The historic house, a beautifully preserved 18th-century manor, stands proudly amidst the greenery, its classic architecture evoking a sense of timeless Virginian elegance. Stepping inside, you are welcomed by the inviting warmth of an incredibly knowledgeable team who can walk you through a guided tasting while sharing some of the house’s fascinating history. And, don’t forget to check out the manor’s stone cellar downstairs, where rustic charm meets modern comforts.

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From Sunrise to Sunset: An Idyllic Day in Nokesville, Virginia

From Sunrise to Sunset: An Idyllic Day in Nokesville, Virginia

Nestled in the heart of Prince William County, Nokesville, Virginia, is a picturesque town where the serenity of the countryside meets historic charm. This quaint locale is renowned for its rolling pastures dotted with horses and its idyllic landscapes that capture the essence of rural Virginia. Whether you're a local looking for a day of relaxation or a visitor seeking a peaceful retreat, Nokesville offers an array of delightful experiences. From invigorating hikes and artisanal breweries to delectable pastries and elegant wineries, here’s how to spend an idyllic day in Nokesville.

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4 Best Dog-Friendly Wineries In & Around Hunt Country

4 Best Dog-Friendly Wineries In & Around Hunt Country

Venturing out to local wineries is one of our favorite pastimes, especially in the picturesque wine and hunt country of Virginia — it’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon enjoying the sunshine, supporting a local business, and unwinding/recharging for after a long week at work. My husband and I cherish these outings not only for the exceptional views and exquisite wines, but also because we can bring our two standard poodles, Otto and Adler, along for the adventure. Finding dog-friendly wineries that offer both a welcoming atmosphere for our furry companions and a delightful tasting experience is paramount. With that in mind, here are the four (in no particular order) best dog-friendly wineries in and around hunt country that have captured our hearts.

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Quarterly Trip to Effingham Manor Winery

Quarterly Trip to Effingham Manor Winery

Although our visits are often more frequent than quarterly, we stop by Effingham Manor Winery, nestled in the quaint countryside of Nokesville, Virginia, to pick up our Wine Club bottles every three months. This quarter’s wine club, which we picked up over this past weekend, featured a King’s Ransom (a personal favorite), Cabernet Franc, and Petit Manseng. We also took the opportunity to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with a bottle of Effingham’s Sparkling Wine and the lovely views next to the koi pond on the property.

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A Visit to Middleburg
Virginia, Local Guides Aleyson Virginia, Local Guides Aleyson

A Visit to Middleburg

Set in the heart of the nation’s wine and hunt country is the charming, history-rich town of Middleburg, Virginia. In fact, Middleburg is where is first sourced my inspiration for starting this blog. There is something uniquely charming about Middleburg that reminds me so much of England’s Cotswolds.

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