TOP 10 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR RETIREMENT
Saving Matters! Remember
Financial security in retirement doesn’t just happen. It takes planning and commitment and, yes, money.
FACTS
✔ Only about half of Americans have calculated how much they need to save for retirement.
✔ The average American spends roughly 20 years in retirement.
Putting money away for retirement is a habit we can all live with.
1. START SAVING, KEEP SAVING, & STICK TO YOUR GOALS!
If you are already saving, whether for retirement or another goal, keep going! You know that saving is a rewarding habit. If you’re not saving, it’s time to get started.
Start small if you have to and try to increase the amount you save each month. The sooner you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. Devise a plan, stick to it, and set goals. Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start saving.
(. . .continued on page 6)
2. KNOW YOUR RETIREMENT NEEDS!
Retirement is expensive. Experts estimate that you will need 70 to 90 percent of your preretirement income to maintain your standard of living when you stop working. Take charge of your financial future. The key to a secure retirement is to plan ahead.
3. CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR EMPLOYER’S RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN!
If your employer offers a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k) plan, sign up and contribute all you can. Your taxes will be lower, your company may kick in more, and automatic deductions make it easy. Over time, compound interest and tax deferrals make a
big difference in the amount you will accumulate. Find out about your plan. For example, how much would you need to contribute to get the full employer contribution and how long would you need to stay in the plan to get the money.
4. LEARN ABOUT YOUR EMPLOYER’S PENSION PLAN!
If your employer has a traditional pension plan, check to see if you are covered by the plan and understand how it works. Ask for an individual benefit statement to see what your benefit is worth. Before you change jobs, find out what will happen to your pension benefit. Learn what benefits you may have from a previous employer. Find out if you will be entitled to benefits from your spouse’s plan.
(. . .continued on page 8)
5. CONSIDER BASIC INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES!
How you save can be as important as how much you save. Inflation and the type of investments you make play important roles in how much you’ll have saved at retirement. Know how your savings or pension plan is invested. Learn about your plan’s investment options and ask questions. Put your savings in different types of investments. By diversifying this way, you are more likely to reduce risk and improve return. Your investment mix may change over time depending on a number of factors such as your age, goals, and financial circumstances. Financial security and knowledge go hand in hand.
6. DON’T TOUCH YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS!
If you withdraw your retirement savings now, you’ll lose principal and interest and you may lose tax benefits or have to pay withdrawal penalties. If you change jobs, leave your savings invested in your current retirement plan, or roll them over to an IRA or your new employer’s plan.
7. ASK YOUR EMPLOYER TO START A PLAN!
If your employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan, suggest that it start one. There are a number of retirement saving plan options available. Your employer may be able to set up a simplified plan that can help both you and your employer.
8. PUT MONEY INTO AN INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT!
You can put up to $6,500 a year into an individual Retirement Account (IRA); you can contribute even more if you are 50 or older. You can also start with much less. IRAs also provide tax advantages. When you open an IRA, you have two options – a traditional IRA or Roth IRA. The tax treatment of your contributions and withdrawals will depend on which option you select. Also, the after-tax value of your withdrawal will depend on
inflation and the type of IRA you choose. IRAs can provide an easy way to save. You can set it up so that an amount is automatically deducted from your checking or savings account and deposited in the IRA.
9. FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS!
On average, Social Security retirement benefits replace 40 percent of pre-retirement income for retirement beneficiaries. The amount of your wages that Social Security retirement benefits replace varies depending on your earnings and the age you choose to start receiving benefits. You may be able to estimate your benefit by using the retirement estimator on the Social Security Administration’s website.
10. ASK QUESTIONS!
While these tips are meant to point you in the right direction, you’ll need more information. Talk to your employer, your bank, your union, or a financial adviser. Ask questions and make sure you understand the answers. Get practical advice and act now.
2025 DESIGN TRENDS
EACH YEAR BRINGS NEW TRENDS IN INTERIOR DESIGN & 2025 IS NO DIFFERENT.
As the world changes, needs and desires change. Interior design can enhance your home environment with new ideas. We want our homes to appeal to all our sensesSensorial design. Vivid colors, environmentally friendly materials and luxury comfort are a few of the current trends.
Colors such as reds, oranges, purples, and maroons will be popular. These are called lucky colors in some cultures.
Accordingly they attract wealth and business success. No more plain walls - wallpapered and colored ceilings as well as textured walls are back. In addition, bold patterns and textures add drama, depth and visual interest to your room. Ceiling treatments also create visual interest. Beams or a coffered ceiling bring texture, depth and character to plain surfaces. They also reduce noise and add a bit of elegance.
(. . .continued on page 12)
Earth tones such as terracotta, ochre, rust and sage are always popular as they reflect nature and create a calm environment that makes a space feel warm and welcoming. To add a little luxury to any space, use gold, bronze, copper or silver finishes with small touches.
Furniture tends to be comfortable and relaxed without sacrificing style. Oversized sofas, comfortable chairs, lounge chairs and even daybeds are popular again. Curved and rounded furniture as well as accent pieces will be popular. They work with either traditional or modern design.
Dark warmer wood tones are back after years of light wood. To change the look of a piece of furniture or cabinet, stain it a walnut hue. Mix in modern with traditional. Darker
tones bring a warm, grounded feeling.
Lighting is an important part of any design project. Consider a layered lighting scheme that incorporates a mixture of overhead lighting, floor and table lamps and sconces. Think of fixtures as art and jewelry for your home. Lighting helps create a functional and welcoming home. Be sure to use dimmable lights as that enhances the mood in any room.
Small changes can reinvigorate your home in keeping with the 2025 design. Paint a wall, wallpaper a bathroom ceiling, add a colorful rug to a neutral room. It’s all about enjoying your home and feeling comfortable.
2025 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
JAN 2 - 5
JAN 9 - 12
JAN 16 - 19
JAN 22 - 25
JAN 30 - FEB 2
FEB 6 - 9
FEB 13 - 16
FEB 20 - 23
FEB 27 - MAR 2
MAR 6 - 9
The Sentry + Plantation Course at Kapalua • Kapalua, Maui, HI • USA
Sony Open in Hawaii Waialae Country Club • Honolulu, HI • USA
The American Express Pete Dye Stadium Course • La Quinta, CA • USA
Farmers Insurance Open Torrey Pines Golf Course (South Course) • San Diego, CA • USA
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am + Pebble Beach Golf Links • Pebble Beach, CA • USA
WM Phoenix Open TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course) • Scottsdale, AZ • USA
The Genesis Invitational + The Riviera Country Club • Pacific Palisades, CA • USA
CLARK $3,600,000
MAR 6 - 9
Mexico Open at VidantaWorld VidantaWorld • Vallarta • MEX JAKE KNAPP $1,458,000
Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches PGA National Resort (The Champion Course) • Palm Beach Gardens, FL • USA
Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard + Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge • Orlando, FL • USA
Puerto Rico Open
Grand Reserve Golf Club • Rio Grande • PUR
+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
ECKROAT $1,620,000
2025 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
DATES TOURNAMENT
* Schedule subject to change + Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour
MAR 13 - 16
MAR 20 - 23
MAR 27 - 30
APR 3 - 6
APR 10 - 13
APR 17 - 20
APR 17 - 20
THE PLAYERS Championship TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course) • Ponte Vedra Beach, FL • USA
Valspar Championship
Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course) • Palm Harbor, FL • USA
Texas Children’s Houston Open
Memorial Park Golf Course • Houston, TX • USA
Valero Texas Open TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course) • San Antonio, TX • USA
Masters Tournament
Augusta National Golf Club • Augusta, GA • USA
RBC Heritage + Harbour Town Golf Links • Hilton Head Island, SC • USA
Corales Puntacana Championship
Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course) Punta Cana • DOM
APR 24 - 27
MAY 1 - 4
MAY 8 - 11
MAY 8 - 11
Zurich Classic of New Orleans TPC Louisiana • Avondale, LA • USA
THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson TPC Craig Ranch •McKinney, TX • USA
Truist Championship + The Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon Course) • Philadelphia, PA • USA
Myrtle Beach Classic
Dunes Golf and Beach Club • Myrtle Beach, SC • USA CHRIS GOTTERUP $720,000
2024 - 2025 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
2025 LPGA
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
FREDERICKSBURG
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
DECEMBER
DEC 7 | HONEY & HOPS BREW
Join us at the Winter Wine Fest in Fredericksburg, Va where we will be hanging out with our award winning mead for you to try. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/mrxpmyzd
JANUARY
JAN
18 | WINE FESTIVAL
Embrace the warmth of the season with us at Eden Try Winery for a delightful afternoon filled with delicious mulled wine, music, and community! Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to mulled wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/473u6sxn
JAN 25 | FROSTY BREW THRU
The Frosty Brew Thru is an exclusive craft beer, cider, wine and spirits tasting event.....limited tickets. This event will feature brews from all over our country as well as local cideries, distilleries and
wineries.. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/y642nu68
FEBRUARY
FEB 14 – 16 | HOME SHOW
This show will be all about the Home – being stuck in the house all winter we’re sure you’ll have some new projects in mind! Meet with landscapers, designers, contractors, and so much more! We’ve got you covered from the outside of the house to the inside of the house. Stop by and get your exclusive Spring Home Show deals, offers, giveaways, & more to make your home the one of your dreams! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/vs4v36x
FEB 22 | OYSTER ROAST
Annual benefit Oyster Roast fundraiser to support a local community member in need. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/yndab39d
(. . .continued on page 22)
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
FREDERICKSBURG
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
(. . .continued from 20)
MARCH
MARCH 1 | WINE & FOOD EXPO
Discover a wide variety of mouthwatering dishes prepared by talented chefs, showcasing their culinary skills. From savory bites to sweet treats, there will be something to satisfy every palate. Pair your culinary delights with a selection of exceptional wines, carefully curated to complement the flavors. For more info visit: fxbgwinefoodexpo.com
MARCH 2 | FOOD FESTIVAL
Join us on the Manassas Museum Lawn for an unforgettable day of international flavors, vibrant culture, and community vibes! Whether you’re a foodie, a cultural explorer, or just looking for a great time, there’s something for everyone. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4k36ud4e
APRIL
APRIL 5 – 6 | ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
Step into a world of creativity and
inspiration at the Spring Arts & Crafts Show, taking place on April 5th and 6th at the Fredericksburg Convention Center. This premier event is a celebration of the arts, featuring over 150 talented vendors from across the region. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, decorating your home for the season, or simply looking for a unique way to spend your weekend, this show promises an array of exciting products. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4k6n3jry
APRIL 12 | MAC & CHEESE FEST
Get your cheese on, at the FXBG Mac & Cheese Festival. Sample a variety of craft beer and Mac ‘n Cheese. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4868b2uh
MAY MAY 16 - 18 | RIVERROCK
The nation’s largest outdoor sports and music festival is Dominion Energy Riverrock, a three-day riverside experience in an urban setting with great food, craft beer
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE
FREDERICKSBURG
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
and wine nearby. This isn’t your typical festival, and we’re not your typical town. For more info visit: riverrockrva.com
MAY 17 - 19 | FOOD
FESTIVAL
Indulge in the rich flavors of Lebanon at the annual food festival, where every dish is made with love and care. From our famous pies to our shawarma, we guarantee a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more. For more info visit: lebanesefoodfestival.com
JUNE
JUNE TBA | GREEK FESTIVAL
Food, music, dancing, celebrating! We welcome everyone in the Fredericksburg community to join our Greek family and learn more about our food, culture, and history! For more info visit: fredgreek.org
JUNE 12 - 14 | BLUEGRASS IN THE BURG FESTIVAL
Three days of bluegrass fun! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/5t34pu4b
JULY
JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY
From historical happenings and family-friendly events to brewery bashes, baseball, and breathtaking fireworks displays, the Richmond Region is your destination for July 4th fun and festivities! Check out these awesome ways to spend your 4th of July in Richmond! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/duc7krbx
JULY 25 - 30 | FAIR
Founded in 1738, Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair is the oldest fair in the United States. Join us in celebrating traditional fair events, contests, entertainment, food and fun for the whole family! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/y8c3varh
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE FREDERICKSBURG
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
JULY 26 | SUMMER BOURBON FESTIVAL
This Annual affair offers up all those pleasures that true Southerners live by – Beer, Bourbon, Barbecue, Boots, Bacon, Biscuits, Bluegrass, and Smoked Beasts! It’s a great day of beer sippin’, bourbon tastin’, music listenin’, cigar smokin’, and barbecue eatin’. Your admission buys you a sampling glass so you can enjoy all you care to taste sampling of beer and bourbon. For more info visit: rva.beerandbourbon.com
AUGUST
AUG 1 - 3 | HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL
75 years ago, Robert Porterfield began a cultural experience unparalleled to our region. The Virginia Highlands Festival has continued to grow in size and scope to become a destination for tourists and a beloved regional cultural resource for the arts, history and culture of Virginia. For more info visit: vahighlandsfestival.com
AUG 10 - 11 | JAZZ FESTIVAL
This is a world-class jazz event that’s worth traveling for. Every year, the Richmond Jazz and Music Festival lines up some of the best names in jazz, funk and blues. Make plans now to join us at this monumental festival! For more info visit: richmondjazzandmusicfestival.com
AUG 16 | BOURBON & BEER FEST
Enjoy an Evening of Bourbon & Beer. Prepare to sample Local, Regional, and National Bourbon & Craft Breweries. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4868b2uh
SEPTEMBER
SEPT TBA | GOOD OLD DAYS FESTIVAL
The Richmond Area Good Old Days Festival has been held each year since 1964. The Festival is in existence due to the local volunteers that run it, the non-profit groups that participate in it, the businesses that support it, and the cooperation of the city govern-
LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE FREDERICKSBURG
PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.
ment and its departments, residents and thousands of visitors. For more info visit: richmondgoodolddaysfestival.com
SEPT 6 | HARD CIDER FESTIVAL
Come on out and enjoy this Hard Cider Extravaganza! Sample some amazing hard cider from local VA, regional and national brands! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4868b2uh
OCTOBER
OCT 1 - 5 | STATE FAIR
OCT 10 - 12 | FOLK FESTIVAL
The Richmond Folk Festival is one of Virginia’s largest events, drawing visitors from all over the country to downtown Richmond’s historic riverfront. The Festival is a FREE three-day event that got its start as the National Council for the Traditional Arts’ National Folk Festival. The Richmond Folk Festival features performing groups representing a diverse array of cultural traditions on six stages. For more info visit: richmondfolkfestival.org
NOVEMBER
NOV 1 | WHISKY FESTIVAL
Enjoy over 80+ Whiskey & Distilled Spirit varieties to sample at this massive indoor event. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/4868b2uh
The State Fair of Virginia is a tenday event taking place from late September to early October at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Caroline County, Virginia. The beautiful Meadow Park is a great outdoor setting for exciting rides, games, shows, concerts, and other family fun. The fair features dozens of fantastic events happening every day: magic tricks, log-rolling, snake handling, chainsawing, and stilt-walking. Educational activities include agricultural, technological and historical exhibitions, livestock displays and competitions such as pig races. For more info visit: statefairva.org
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT
SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
MAY 25 - SUN 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 26 - MON 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 26 - MON 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 27 - TUE 12:00 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 27 - TUE 8:15 PM 1st Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 28 - WED 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 29 - THU 12:00 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 29 - THU 8:15 PM 2nd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 30 - FRI 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single MAY 31 - SAT 12:00 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
MAY 31 - SAT 8:15 PM 3rd Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 01 - SUN 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 11:00 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 02 - MON 8:15 PM 4th Round Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 03 - TUE 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 03 - TUE 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 11:00 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 04 - WED 8:15 PM 1/4 Finals Ladies’ or Gentlemen’s Singles
JUN 05 - THU 3:00 PM 1/2 Finals Singles Ladies’
JUN 06 - FRI 2:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 06 - FRI 5:30 PM 1/2 Final Gentlemen’s Single
JUN 07 - SAT 3:00 PM Final Women’s Single
JUN 08 - SUN 3:00 PM Final Gentlemen’s Single
DATE
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
* Schedule subject to change
JUNE 30 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 1 - TUE 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 1nd Round
JULY 2 - WED 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 3 - THUR 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 2nd Round
JULY 4 - FRI 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 5 - SAT 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 3rd Round
JULY 6 - SUN 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 7 - MON 11:00 AM Men's & Ladies' 4th Round
JULY 8 - TUE 11:00 AM
JULY 9- WED 11:00 AM
JULY 10 - THU 1:00 PM
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Men's Singles Quarterfinals & Ladies’ Singles Quarterfinals
Ladies' Singles Semifinals & Mixed Doubles Final
JULY 11 - FRI 1:00 PM Men's Singles Semifinals
JULY 12 - SAT 2:00 PM
JULY 13 - SUN 2:00 PM
Ladies' Singles Final & Men's Doubles Final
Men's Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles Final
2025 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE
HEALTH & FOOD
Eating healthy and having a holistic approach to wellness focuses on mind, body and soul. Foods that enhance energy, heart health, improve sleep and increase muscle strength are growing in popularity. High protein, low calorie, and low carbohydrate meals are the way to go. The movement towards plant-based items for health and environmental reasons is here to stay.
Sugar intake is a concern for many.
A popular sugar alternative is dates which are very sweet and have been used for thousands of years. They are high in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Some say they are good for brain health as well as digestion. Eaten whole or used in baked treats, they provide all the sweetness needed.
To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different approaches you can take.
The Whole Food Diet is probably the most recommended diet. It is about avoiding or limiting processed foods, preservatives or artificial ingredients while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only is this diet healthy for you, but it is healthy for the planet as processed foods require more resources such as water and energy, thus creating more pollution.
The PALEO Diet is based on foods eaten in the Paleolithic period of hunter gatherer societies thousands of years ago, before farming.
The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate, high fat diet that helps burn fat for energy rather than carbs, thus triggering weight loss. According to Healthline, the foods to eat on this diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds, olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.
The Vegetarian Diet is made up of plant-based foods which include fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy products including eggs and other milk products are consumed. There is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. Non-dairy milk alternatives like oat, soy and almond are popular replacements for milk. New plantbased pasta alternatives like chickpea or zucchini pasta help us eat more vegetables and additional options are continually being introduced.
TRAVELING TO ICELAND.
Iceland is a small Nordic country in Europe known for its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, lava fields and massive glaciers. It is also known for its distinct Nordic culture based on folklore and mythology, dating back to the Vikings who were first to colonize the land. Later, it was
under Danish rule and gained its independence in 1944 and is a founding member of NATO. Despite having its own distinct language and being a country of only 384,000 people, English is spoken widely as it is taught in school as a second language.
The capital city is Reykjavik which is known for its lively nightlife, modern museums, excellent dining, galleries and shopping. It is the base from which to explore all that Iceland has to offer.
The best time to visit is May through October but those are also the busiest times. Iceland is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. There are so many adventures to choose from whether it is the natural wonders under the summer’s midnight sun or seeking the aurora borealis in winter months.
Spend a day touring the Golden Circle and see three incredible natural events. Starting in the capital, Reykjavik, drive into the southern uplands to Pingvellir National Park, onto the Geysir geothermal area and then the Gullfoss waterfall and end back in the city.
Pingvellir is a UNESCO world heritage site and the first place settled in south Iceland. See Iceland’s largest lake, the Langjokull glacier, hike the North American plate and see Game of Thrones scenery at Almannagja gorge and then view the amazing Oxarafoss waterfalls. If you are
really adventurous, snorkel at Silfra, one of the world’s top 10 dive sites.
Drive on to the Geysir Geothermal area in the Haukadalur Valley. See the volcanic landscape and arrive at Strokkur which is the geyser that erupts every 6-10 minutes shooting hot water as high as 130 feet into the air. Walking through the valley, view many hot springs, smaller geysers and bubbling mud spots.
The last stop is Gullfoss Waterfall which is famous for its 2 drops, falling 100 feet and view the rainbows that shoot from the spray. Finish the day with a leisurely drive back to Reykjavik allowing time for stops along the way.
The cold waters off the coast attract an abundance of sea life including over 20 species of whales, including dolphins and porpoises. Tours can be found all over the country but the best spot is in the seaside village of Dalvick in the north.
Caving is a popular and extraordinary experience. Because Iceland is one of the most active
and inactive volcanic regions. It has incredible rock formations above and below the earth’s surface. Tube caves inside glaciers form after magma flows underneath the earth’s surface and lava solidifies overhead. Tours operate safely year-round with geologists as guides. Be prepared with proper clothing and footwear as caves are chilly and there is often dripping water. Floors are
rugged, so sturdy boots are necessary. The caves are unexpectedly large and many have staircases and walkways for safe exploration. The most unique is Prihnukargigur (3 Peaks Crater) which takes you across lava fields to the cable car down 400 feet into a volcano that has been extinct for over 4500 years. The crater is the size of 3 basketball courts and as tall as the Statue of Liberty.
- a place like no other!
Bartlett Tree Experts ................................................3 CANOE RENTALS
Shenandoah River Outfitters .............................. 13
Bartlett Tree Experts 3
Builders 21 Three Oaks Enterprises LLC...................................7
Historyland Memorial Park & Arboretum.........7
Three Oaks Enterprises LLC 7
DENTAL RESTORATION
Yuh Prosthodontics Back Inside Cover
DENTIST
Yuh Prosthodontics .....................Back Inside Cover
DOORS
Window World of Fredericksburg ......................5
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Mary Long -
Edward Jones Front Inside Cover
HEALTH SERVICES
Mary Washington Healthcare .............Back Cover
Elevate Hearing Aid Center....................................5
Historyland Memorial Park & Arboretum.........7
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Three Oaks Enterprises LLC 7
PROSTHODONTICS
Yuh Prosthodontics Back Inside Cover PRUNING
Bartlett Tree Experts ................................................3 REAL ESTATE
Century 21 Redwood................. Front Cover, 18-19 Peggi Howell - Long and Foster 7
Three Oaks Enterprises LLC 7 Resurrection Builders ............................................. 21
& RESTORATION Three Oaks Enterprises LLC...................................7 RENTAL CABINS Shenandoah River Outfitters 13
PLANT SERVICES Bartlett Tree Experts 3 RIVER TRIPS Shenandoah River Outfitters .............................. 13 ROOFING
World of Fredericksburg ......................5
SIDING
World of Fredericksburg 5
TOURS
Irrigation & Lighting ................................. 11
RENTALS Shenandoah River Outfitters .............................. 13
of Fredericksburg ........................................... 13 WINDOWS Window World of Fredericksburg ......................5
