1) Indulge in Fall Flavors 

As soon as fall comes around restaurants and coffee shops alike begin serving seasonal foods and beverages. Pumpkin spice lattes have become as synonymous with fall as the leaves changing colors. But that’s because it’s just that good! People love the taste of pumpkin spice, but what many crave is the aroma of a warm fall drink. This is why apple cider is another popular choice among fall drink enthusiasts. Apple cider is a classic fall drink that can be served hot or cold depending on your personal preference. Not to be confused with the bitter tasting health drink, apple cider vinegar, apple cider has a sweet and crisp taste perfect for autumn days.  

2) Enjoy Nature 

While the summer months bring their share of amazing weather. The early fall months are one of the most beautiful times to get outdoors. Even though it might be too chilly for shorts and a t-shirt, there’s nothing wrong with putting on your favorite pair of sweats and enjoying the crisp fall air. Also be sure to take in the breathtaking views of changing seasons such as the leaves falling and changing colors. A brisk walk outside can also pair wonderfully with your favorite warm fall drink in hand!  

3) Fall Decorations 

Christmas decorations are something that have been present inside and outside of homes for years, but fall decorations can be just as fun to set up and just as eye-catching as well. From autumn wreaths, pumpkins, leaves, and spooky Halloween decorations, the possibilities are endless. Entryway decorations are also becoming extremely popular and trendy as they are the first thing people see when entering your home and serve to give your space tons of personality.  

4) Fall Recipes  

Every season can be associated with a common set of flavors. However, no season has set itself apart in that area quite like fall. Apples, pumpkin, squash, corn, cinnamon, maple, sage; these foods and flavors paired together or separately represent what fall is all about. A popular method of cooking fall recipes is in a crockpot or slow cooker. Simply combine your ingredients and leave it to cook while you go about your day. You can make delicious stews, soups, chilis and more with ease. If cooking isn’t your thing, fall farmers markets are a great place to go to for the freshest foods in your area.  

5) Apple Picking  

Apple picking is a great fall activity for families, couples, and friends. Whether you’re in it just for fun or your goal is to pick apples to eat and cook with, you can definitely find what you're looking for at your local apple orchard. Unfortunately, most orchards aren’t free, but you can surely get more than your dollars' worth for the price of admission. Apple picking season begins around July and extends into early November so don’t worry; you still have plenty of time left to try it for yourself.  

6) Carve Pumpkins 

Carving pumpkins used to be something reserved for Halloween or entertaining children, but the fall practice has become trendier and more suitable for all age groups. Scary faces on pumpkins are becoming outdated as pumpkin carvings have become much more fun and sophisticated. You could carve your favorite team's logo, a special design, or practically anything you want. Don’t forget to make the most of every part of the pumpkin as the seeds can be roasted and eaten and the pulp can be used in a variety of recipes.  

7) Dress to Impress 

Fall is a great excuse to break out those comfy sweats, and there’s nothing with that! However, fall is also a great season for many other different kinds of fashion and attire. Flannel is a great option for fall as it can be dressed up or down depending on your mood and preference. If you haven’t already, fall is also a great time to invest in a solid pair of boots. Be sure to pick a pair that are warm enough for the colder weather, but not too warm so that they will feel uncomfortable. 

The post How to Make the Most of Fall appeared first on The Aspen Blog.

https://pentagonrowskating.com/  

Pentagon Row is home to the largest outdoor ice rink in northern Virginia. Still not convinced? What about the outdoor dual-sided fireplaces for guests to lounge and warm-up while taking a break from skating? Pentagon Row has all the luxuries and amenities you could ever ask for. If you’re a beginner, they also have lessons for children, adults, as well as private lessons.  

(Photo rights fxva.com) 

Old Town Manassas  

https://visitmanassas.org/shop-dine/291/the-city-of-manassas-ice-rink-at-the-loy-e-harris-pavilion/  

Old Town Manassas is one of the most historic cities in Virginia, if not the entire country. On top of their history, they also have a charming ice-skating rink at the Loy E. Harris Pavilion. A night or day spent ice skating at this location is sure to create joyful memories with friends and family alike. For a special fee, you can even rent out the entire rink to have it all to yourself!  

Reston Town Center Ice Skating  

https://restontowncentericeskatingpavilion.showare.com/ 

Reston Town Center is a terrific place to celebrate holiday traditions and create magical memories. Ice-skating at Reston Town Center allows you to experience so many great festivities all at once such as the annual Reston Holiday Parade, the arrival of Mr. And Mrs. Claus, mini-train rides, and a horse-drawn carriage. Limited tickets are available so be sure to book in advance.  

(Photo rights fxva.com) 

Ashburn Ice House  

https://www.ashburnice.com/  

The Ashburn Ice House is so much more than your average ice-skating rink. It’s home to tons of activities such as camps and hockey leagues. If you’re not an avid skater, no need to worry. Ashburn Ice House also has public skate sessions as well as group activities. Pretty much anything you would want to do on ice can be done at Ashburn Ice House.  

The post Where to Go Ice Skating in Northern Virginia appeared first on The Aspen Blog.

Chances are, you’re starting to get a little cabin fever. There are only so many programs you can binge watch or hours you can bear reading, and your news feed is full of frightening headlines. If you’ve got kids, the close quarters are probably making the household a little maddening.

Here’s a suggestion: For an antidote to isolation, get out into nature. You don’t have to go all that far. Find some way to make a trip to your nearest woodlot, creek, regional open space area, seashore, or hillside. Take the dog for a walk. Sit on your balcony or patio or take a walk in your community. As long as you’re able to do so in a way that meets the recommendations for social distancing, figure out how to get outside however you can.

Below are easy ways you can enjoy the outdoors from your apartment community! The key is to stay local, practice social distancing by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others and avoiding peak traffic times, and disinfecting anything you come into contact with.

1. Take a Walk Around your Apartment Community or Neighborhood

One of the easiest ways to take in some fresh air and get a little exercise. Walking for 30 minutes per day gets your blood flowing and can improve your cardiovascular health. Spending time outdoors can also reduce stress and boost the immune system.Take your four-legged bestie with you!

2. ExploreTrails Near You

You may notice the bike paths near you becoming a little crowded, for some extra quiet, try a nature trail in a state or national park. Trails in NOVA tend to be much larger with more room to spread out not to mention some amazing views!

Being surrounded by nature – stop to admire the animals, trees, and streams along the path!

3. Dine Al Fresco

Food always tastes better outdoors anyways so turn your balcony into a bisto! Or take your lunch to a bench outside your building and breathe in the outdoors with every bite.  

4. Open Up the Windows

It’s springtime, which brings the fresh smell of new growth in the air! Open your apartment windows while working from home and allow the fresh breeze to air out your space. While this doesn’t get you in the outdoors, it brings the outdoors inside!

These are just a few tips to help you enjoy the outdoors locally in or around your apartment. Remember always to follow good social distancing practices when leaving your home.

The post Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors While Practicing Social Distancing appeared first on The Aspen Blog.