McLean, VA December 2025

The Magic of the Season

There’s something undeniably magical about December. The lights seem to twinkle a little brighter, the air feels a bit crisper, and everywhere you turn, there’s a sense of joy and connection that only this time of year can bring. Whether it’s shopping for that special gift, attending a holiday concert, supporting a favorite charity, or simply sharing a smile with a neighbor—you can truly feel the warmth of commu nity all around.

As we close out the year, I find myself deeply grateful to be part of such a wonderful and generous community. The kindness, creativity, and spirit of giving that fill McLean and Great Falls make this area not just a place to live, but a place to belong.

One of my greatest joys this year has been sharing the gift of local artistry showcasing a local artist on the cover of each edition. Each piece tells a story, capturing the beauty, passion, and individuality that make our region so special. It’s a privilege to celebrate their work and to highlight the incredible talent that surrounds us.

This season reminds us that the greatest gifts aren’t found under a tree—they’re found in the connections we make, the kindness we extend, and the moments we share. From the entire McLean City Lifestyle family, thank you for welcoming us into your homes and hearts each month.

Wishing you a joyful, peaceful, and truly magical holiday season. Warmly,

SUZANNE PURDY, PUBLISHER @MCLEANCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Purdy | suzanne.purdy@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Yankel Polak | yankel.polak@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jane Jones

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Arsine Kaloustain, MIndy Wester

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Proverbs

city scene

1: Jennifer Fordham, sourcing the latest in luxury furniture, fabrics, and design for her McLean-area clients. 2: JMA Architects winning 'Home Of The Year' at Northern Virginia Building Industry Association’s GALA 3: Our November Invisalign event was a huge success! Stay tuned for more in 2026! 4: Annandale OBGYN celebrates the grand opening of their new Reston Location 5: Spotted in McLean, keep an eye out for our neighbors! 6: The United States Botanical Gardens 7: The National Capital Tree

business monthly

Costa Dentistry Glo Whitening is the Perfect Holiday Gift

Costa Dentistry is now offering professional Glo Whitening treatment certificates at a discounted rate! Give the gift of a whiter, brighter smile this holiday season and purchase Glo treatment for a loved one at $150 off.

Scan to read more

Pembrook Interiors Founder Named Interior Design CEO of the Year

Jennifer Fordham, founder of Pembrook Interiors, has been recognized as Interior Design CEO of the Year 2025 - Virginia by CEO Monthly magazine. The award honors Fordham's proven process that blends haute couture precision with corporate discipline, transforming residential and hospitality spaces across the D.C.-metro region and St. Lucia. Pembrook Interiors serves

Scan to read more

James McDonald Associate Architects Wins 'Home of the Year'

We are excited to announce that James McDonald Associate Architects Came away with top Awards at this years Norther Virginia Building Industry Association’s Great American Living Awards (GALA Awards) held in Tysons Corner on October 8th.

Winning both Grand Awards of “Home of the Year” and “Custom Home of the Year” as well as several additional “Winning Awards” and “Awards of Merit”.

Scan to read more

Annandale OBGYN - Now Serving Reston

Celebrating our 20th anniversary with our newest, 6th location in Reston, Virginia. Women in Reston now have access to the comprehensive OBGYN care our practice is known for. We provide a full spectrum of women’s health services, including prenatal care, delivery, gynecology, screenings, and preventive wellness. Our mission is to provide holistic healthcare, above the standard of care to support women at every stage of life. Call us today at 703-642-7522 to schedule an appointment

Scan to read more

Rose Restoration, For Your Home's Elegant Surfaces

AT Rose Restoration, we take pride in being a locally rooted, family-owned business with over 40 years of experience, producing excellent craftsmanship and cherishing strong client relationships. When you choose us, you not only get our best, but you also get the best out of your time, values, and money. For more information on how we can restore your home's surfaces (countertops, tables, floors, patio, garage, front door, etc.), please visit www.roserestoration.com or call 703-327-7676.

Scan to read more

Falling Safely: 6-Week Workshop at Flexx Fitness

Starting Monday, January 12 at 6 PM, join our 45-minute  Falling Safely class designed to help you prevent falls and minimize injury risk. Held every Monday through February 16, this six-week program teaches essential balance, mobility, and safe falling techniques—empowering you to move confidently and protect yourself from common injuries. Perfect for all fitness levels! Call or email us for pricing details.

NEW TO GERMAN?

No problem! Our FastTrack program welcomes motivated students and families ready to embrace bilingual learning. With dedication, strong academic habits, and our support, your child can join a community that values effort, growth, and global citizenship.

OPEN HOUSE – JANUARY 16, 2026

Grades K through 12

RSVP today: giswashington.org/openhouse

At the German International School Washington D.C. we nurture curious minds from age 2 through Grade 12 in a diverse and globally focused environment. Our students don’t just learn, they thrive through discovery, innovation, and language.

As leaders in STEM and World Languages, GISW prepares students to think critically, solve creatively, and engage confidently across cultures.

Join us and see how GISW opens doors to a world of opportunities.

As Susan, one of Redwood K-Wellness Center’s founders, neared her 50s and noticed her hair shedding, she sought answers in South Korea, known for advanced beauty science. Her journey inspired a partnership with Erika, a master esthetician with years of experience. Together, they founded Redwood K-Wellness Center uniting medical insight, Korean innovation, and expert care from nurses, estheticians, and cosmetologists.

Book now for a FREE consultation!

ARTIST Jill Banks:

Painting Life, Love and Serendipity

ARTICLE BY YANKEL POLAK

“I started this journey in 2003 with drawing and painting classes,” says artist Jill Banks, whose joyful, light-filled paintings have become beloved throughout Northern Virginia and beyond. “It took no time at all before painting was an all-in passion. My dream from almost the beginning was to travel, to capture life in oils, and to support a full, exciting life through my art. I’ve now been painting — almost every day — for 22 years.”

Her work radiates warmth, energy, and emotion — much like Jill herself. “Shifts in my painting have been both deliberate and natural,” she explains. “Moving from the controlled lighting of the studio to the wildness of plein air — painting outdoors — changed everything. Subjects move. Light and shadows shift. Clouds roll in. New subjects arrive. It’s totally invigorating! Somehow, what the place and day feel like transfers to the canvas. I love that — it places you right by my side to enjoy the view. Now I’m painting the air and movement too. My emotion, imagination, ideas of what I want it to be make it so much better.”

Jill often describes her process as part magic, part choreography. “One of my solo shows was called Serendipity because magic happens all the time,” she laughs. “I couldn’t plan for it — but I recognize those amazing occurrences and go right to work on painting my sweet visitors into that spot that needs them.” That sense of wonder fuels her passion for painting outdoors. “At first, I said plein air was the one thing I’d never do — bugs, creepy crawly things, the loneliness of painting nature,” she admits. “Then I realized I could paint urban scenes with bustling life all around me. I could meet the characters in my paintings and share the pure joy of creating. I love everything about it — the challenge, the sights and sounds, capturing life as it happens, being in the middle of all the fun. No photo could ever replace the experience of being there.”

>

THE GIFT OF ART

For Jill, art and giving are inseparable. “Like many artists, I put my heart and soul — all that hard work and training — into creating each piece for others to enjoy. I paint with a fully open heart and joy, and I know that my art brings that feeling to people. Helping them see the world through my grateful eyes is my gift.”

That gratitude flows naturally into her work. “I feel warmth, connection and joy all around me — and it translates naturally to the canvas,” she says. “The world’s full of generous people who make it better: the market vendors, shopkeepers, restaurateurs, gardeners, musicians, preservationists, dreamers. I love that people love my work and tell me how it affects them. They’re giving me a great gift. I love that people say “yes” when asked if I could set up my easel in their shop/restaurant/garden/etc. They are letting me capture something special I couldn’t do otherwise.”

One painting especially stands out as a memorable gift. “Early on, my dad came up with a series of large-scale still lives for me to paint. He and my mom once owned a flower shop called Holiday Florist — with the tagline ‘Make Every Day a Holiday.’ That’s how I grew up — joyful, fun, celebratory, memorable. My favorite setup was one Dad brought to my studio at Christmas in 2012. It was overflowing with flowers, fruit, and a favorite doll from my mom’s collection. I could barely pause the week it took me to paint it. Garden Girl was the result — and it hung proudly above their piano. Dad passed away in 2021, but he’s still out there rooting for me.”

QUICK BRUSHSTROKES

Favorite color to paint with: Quinacridone Red and King’s Blue

Favorite place you’ve painted: A calanque in Cassis, South of France

A scent that reminds you of creativity: Lavender

Best artistic advice received: “Paint like a pig eats. Joyfully.”

Grateful for today: “This amazing journey and the people who’ve supported me along the way.”

“Somebody out there is writing this marvelous script because subjects show up in just the right spot when I’m ready for them.”

A GRATEFUL HEART

“My journey started in Great Falls and blossomed from there,” Jill shares. “Being part of the Great Falls art community and the Washington Society of Landscape Painters has given me friendships and experiences I’ll cherish forever. When someone takes one of my pieces home, it’s amazing. They’re happy. I’m happy. It’s a shared joy. They tell me how the painting makes them feel, where it hangs, how it changes during the day. That connection — that’s everything.”

Looking ahead, her goals are clear: “Larger canvases! People say they feel like they can walk into my paintings — I want to amplify that feeling. And I want to dig deeper into relationships and individuals in my work.” She smiles. “And I couldn’t do any of this without my husband, Randy. He’s my engineer, framer, driver, packer, everything. We’re a team in life and art. That’s the greatest gift of all.”

As the holiday season approaches, Jill’s work reflects the spirit of giving, gratitude, and connection. Through her paintings, she shares the joy she experiences every day — the magic of light, the beauty of human connection, and the generosity she sees all around her. Every brushstroke is a celebration of life, and every painting a gift she passes along to her collectors and the world.

Creating a HOME

WINTER in a glass

HOLIDAY COCKTAILS & COZY CREATIONS

SPICED CINNAMON RUM FLIP

A luscious holiday cocktail with warming spices, rich texture, and a beautiful cinnamon garnish.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz dark or spiced rum

• 3/4 oz cinnamon simple syrup

• 1 oz heavy cream

• 1 whole egg

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Dash of vanilla extract

Garnish: cinnamon stick and a light dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon

Make Cinnamon Simple Syrup:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, and 2 cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Simmer for 10 mins, let cool, and strain. Store in the fridge.

Add rum, cinnamon syrup, cream, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of nutmeg to a shaker. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds to emulsify the egg. Strain into a coupe or stemmed glass like the one in your photo. Top with a cinnamon stick across the rim and a dusting of nutmeg or cinnamon. Optional: Add 1/2 oz chilled espresso for a coffee kick.

FESTIVE CRANBERRY GIN FIZZ

A bright, elegant cocktail with a foamy top and a hint of holiday spirit.

INSTRUCTIONS:

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz gin

• 1 oz cranberry juice

• 3/4 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 1 egg white

Optional: splash of sparkling water or club soda

Garnish: fresh rosemary or thyme sprig

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, cranberry juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to create the frothy top. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to get that smooth, foamy top. Add a small splash of sparkling water if you’d like a bit of fizz. Gently place a sprig of rosemary or thyme on top of the foam.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these holiday drinks are guaranteed to bring a little extra cheer to your cup.

BOURBON VANILLA BEAN HOT

CHOCOLATE

An ultra-creamy, chocolatey holiday drink with a hit of warm bourbon and a vanilla bean twist.

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 cup high-quality dark chocolate (chopped or chips)

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp sugar or maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

• 2 oz bourbon

Topping: 4 large marshmallows

Optional garnish: grated dark chocolate, whipped cream, cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, cream, cocoa powder, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth and heated through. Add chopped dark chocolate and stir constantly until melted and silky. Lower heat if needed to avoid scorching. Remove from heat, then stir in bourbon. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength to your liking. Top with marshmallows. Add whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and shaved chocolate. Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne for spicy depth

Kid-friendly version: Omit bourbon and add peppermint extract or caramel syrup instead.

ALL THINGS FRAZIER FIR

BELLA FIGURA | CRANE | STONEWALL KITCHEN

JULIE VOS | SMATHERS & BRANSON | MARYE KELLEY ENEWTON | SUSAN SHAW | LILLY PULITZER KATE SPADE | KAREN ADAM’S

SCOUT | OH MY MAHJONG...AND MANY MORE BRANDS!

TRANSFORMING OUTDOOR LIVING IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA FOR OVER 20 YEARS LANDSCAPING • HARDSCAPING

CUSTOM LANDSCAPING & HARDSCAPING

From curated plantings to patios, walkways, and retaining walls — using 3D modeling, we design cohesive outdoor spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.

OUTDOOR CONSTRUCTION

From pergolas and outdoor kitchens to artificial turf and full backyard makeovers, we build spaces that blend comfort and craftsmanship.

DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS

Protect your property with engineered drainage systems that solve water flow issues and safeguard your landscape long-term.

703-973-6097 |

BREAKFAST HOLIDAY

The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast; they are sure to impress your guests.

CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT

Casserole Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes

• 3 cups mixed berries

• 1 package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup  sugar

• 5 eggs at room temperature

• 2 cups half and half at room temperature

• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract

• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice

Lemon Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions:

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.  Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

HEARTY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 8 eggs

• 2-3 cups torn bread pieces

• 3 ½ cups heavy whipping cream

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 cups shredded cheese of choice

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 1 teaspoon rosemary

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Spray 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.

MONKEY BREAD

Ingredients:

• 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls

• 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

• ¾ teaspoons cinnamon

• ½ cup brown sugar

Instructions:

Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!

THE MAGIC OF GIFTING

The holidays have a way of bringing out the best in all of us — that childlike excitement, the joy of discovery, and the spirit of giving. And when it comes to choosing toys that truly spark imagination and connection, there’s no better place to turn than McLean’s beloved Child’s Play — a local treasure inspiring creativity and generosity for decades. In a season overflowing with wish lists and flashing “hot toy” trends, Child’s Play offers something deeper: guidance from true toy experts who know that the right gift can do more than entertain — it can ignite curiosity, foster connection, and create memories that last a lifetime.

“We spend all year testing toys, attending conventions, and listening to our customers,” says the Child’s Play team. “Every toy we carry is there for a reason — and every toy we don’t carry is, too. We rarely chase a ‘hot list’ item. Instead, we help each person find something meaningful for the child they love.” That thoughtful approach is what makes visiting Child’s Play such a joyful tradition for McLean and Great Falls families. From toddlers discovering their first puzzles to grandparents seeking the perfect board game, the team takes time to ask questions, listen, and guide shoppers toward gifts that truly fit each child. “The majority of what we carry encourages creativity or connection,” they explain. “Board games, for example, are one of our favorite ways to bring people together — from quick toddler games to multi-hour strategy challenges for the whole family.”

But Child’s Play’s impact extends far beyond the shelves. Each holiday season, the store embraces the spirit of generosity through community giving. This year, they’re once again serving as a Toys for Tots drop-off location — part of their long-standing commitment to supporting families in need. “We’ve partnered with Toys for Tots for many years,” the team shares. “We also

support smaller local drives and collect toys and books yearround for children in hospitals and shelters.”

For those eager to give back, Child’s Play makes it easy. Shoppers can purchase a toy to donate directly in-store — with expert help, of course — or leave a monetary donation for staff to choose something special. Even the store’s holiday wrapping tip jars support local charities like the Braden James Fund, LiverMommas, and Goods for Good.

And while the holidays can be hectic, a visit to Child’s Play offers a moment of nostalgia and warmth. It’s the kind of errand that feels more like an outing — where parents and kids alike light up at the sight of the store’s signature fish wrapping paper, a cheerful tradition that has come to symbolize care, quality, and joy. “We hear so many stories from children who get excited just seeing the paper,” the team says. “They know it came from a store that cares about the product and the people.”

Each December, moments of kindness fill the aisles — families shopping for toy drives, longtime customers stopping by just to say hello, and even local sports stars joining in the fun. “One year, players from the Commanders, Washington Spirit, and Mystics helped with a toy drive,” they recall. “They shopped, signed autographs, and inspired kids to see giving as something fun and meaningful.”

That sense of connection — of neighbors coming together to make the season brighter — is what makes Child’s Play such a special part of McLean life. “We’ve had generations grow up with us,” the team says. “Many who once shopped here as children now return as parents. For so many families, visiting Child’s Play is part of their holiday tradition — a reminder of the joy that comes with giving, playing, and being together.”

And their wish for everyone this season? “Take time to find joy in choosing gifts — whether for yourself, your loved ones, or those in need. And above all, play and have fun.”

Luxury in Great Falls

Discover refined living in this exceptional 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath residence tucked within the desirable Falcon Ridge on the Potomac community—one of the few neighborhoods with direct access to the 900-mile Potomac Heritage Trail along the river. Step inside to a sun-filled two-story foyer and find hardwood floors, high ceilings with recessed lighting, and elegant flow throughout. The main level offers a private home office, sunroom with deck access, and an open-concept kitchen featuring a center island with seating. Walk-out lower level to pool, with rec room, sauna, BR, bonus room & storage. 1.72 acres.

Pauline Thompson: Queen of Tysons

A Legacy of Leadership, Generosity, and Gratitude

As the holidays bring warmth and reflection to Northern Virginia, few stories embody the spirit of perseverance, gratitude, and generosity quite like that of  Pauline Thompson, Founder, President, and CEO of  Tysons Realty, Inc.

Known affectionately as  “The Queen of Tysons,” Pauline has spent more than four decades helping to shape one of the region’s most vibrant communities. Her name is woven into the very story of Tysons—its buildings, its growth, and perhaps most importantly, its sense of possibility. But behind the professional milestones is a woman whose success has always been rooted in integrity, compassion, and a deep respect for others.

Pauline’s journey began with determination and an unshakable work ethic. Early in her career, she broke a 25-year company record by selling five homes in a single day— on Thanksgiving. That moment became symbolic of who she is: grateful, relentless, and always ready to give her best effort, no matter the circumstances.

With no financial backing—only faith, grit, and a clear sense of purpose—she founded Tysons Realty with a vision built on excellence and ethics. Within a year, she had assembled a team of 50 agents and began teaching evening classes on contract law, negotiation, and property management. Helping others reach their goals was as natural to her as closing a deal.

ARTICLE BY YANKEL POLAK

Her first sale was a modest home for Senator Ed Muskie’s daughter. Her largest—a 650,000-square-foot, $260 million lease—remains a landmark in her company’s history. Yet when asked which meant the most, Pauline smiles and recalls a $1,000 apartment rental that led to a million-dollar referral. “Every client deserves the same respect and attention,” she says—a philosophy that has guided her throughout her career.

Long before Tysons became the thriving hub it is today, Pauline saw what it could be. Her ability to envision the future while building genuine relationships helped bring that vision to life. Over the years, she’s become known for her steady leadership, fairness, and generosity—a trusted advisor to clients, colleagues, and friends alike.

“Her integrity and commitment make her not just a leader, but a friend,” one longtime lender shared.

Beyond real estate, Pauline’s impact reaches deep into the community. She is a former trustee of the  George Mason University

Foundation, and sits on the boards of  In Series Theatre and  The Cold War Museum—roles that reflect her belief in supporting education, the arts, and preserving history. She’s also shared her knowledge with students and professionals alike through lectures at George Mason University and business forums across the region.

“A mentor doesn’t create followers,” Pauline says. “A mentor creates future leaders.”

Despite her many accomplishments, Pauline remains grounded in the same values that guided her from the start—honesty, empathy, faith, and gratitude. She believes that the true measure of success has little to do with wealth or titles.

“Success isn’t measured by the size of your transactions,” she reflects. “It’s measured by the lives you touch along the way.”

Today, as Tysons continues to grow and evolve, Pauline remains a guiding light—encouraging others to dream boldly, work hard, and give generously. Her story is one of courage without entitlement, leadership with heart, and gratitude in every season.

In this season of giving, her life reminds us that success isn’t about what we build—it’s about the people we lift, the integrity we keep, and the kindness we share every day.

PAULINE THOMPSON’S TOP 5 BOOKS FOR SUCCESS & MINDSET

1. Tongue Fu! by Sam HornWin verbal battles—communicate powerfully and gracefully, even under pressure.

2. Never Eat Alone by Keith FerrazziSuccess is built on relationships. Cultivate real, lasting connections grounded in authenticity.

3. Who’s Got Your Back by Keith FerrazziBuild your inner circle of trust, support, and accountability—it’s your strongest foundation.

4. On Character: Choices That Define a Life by General Stanley McChrystalA powerful look at integrity and leadership, McChrystal reminds us that true success stems from courage, discipline, and purpose.

5. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen CoveySuccess begins with character. Covey’s timeless lessons offer a framework for leadership, mastery, and balance in all areas of life.

Voted #1 in McLean, Island Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics has proudly served young smiles for over a decade. From infants to teens, our gentle, personalized care makes every visit fun, friendly, and fear-free—for kids and parents alike.

10+ Years of Trusted Pediatric Care Specialized for Infants, Children & Teens State-of-the-Art, Kid-Friendly Office Compassionate, Experienced Team Join the families who trust us with their children’s smiles.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 1ST

Tysons Winter Lantern Festival

Lerner Town Square at Tysons II, 8025 Galleria Dr, Tysons, VA | 5:00 PM

Celebrate cold season like never before at Winter Lantern Festival — a limited-time event where art, tradition, and technology light up the night. Set in a charming outdoor space, it’s perfect for cozy evening strolls and unforgettable memories. Tickets are limited — don’t miss the magic! Nightly throughout December 5:00 PM–10:00

DECEMBER 4TH

Mark O’Connor’s Appalachian Christmas

4 The Barns at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA | 7:30 PM

Husband and wife duo Mark and Maggie O’Connor celebrate  An Appalachian Christmas at The Barns. Their buoyant vocals, rousing emotions, and rich string arrangements allow both classic and new holiday offerings from their forthcoming album, A Christmas Duo, to reverberate with the joy and jubilation of the season.

DECEMBER 6TH

Shipgarten Tree Lighting Ceremony

7581 Colshire Dr, McLean, VA | 1:00 PM

Join us Saturday, December 6th in kicking off the holiday season! Santa’s elves have been hard at work decorating Shipgarten's Winter Wonderland and Santa's Workshop. Grab one of our many hot drinks and enjoy the holiday lights and Christmas carols. At 5pm gather around for our ceremonial lighting of the Christmas Tree.

DECEMBER 7TH

McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival

1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean, VA 22101

This three-day indoor juried show features gifts for every budget, including pottery, glass, jewelry, holiday decor, fashion accessories, fine art and more. Friday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

DECEMBER 7TH

Great Falls Holiday Tree Lighting & Celebration

Great Falls Village Centre Green, 776 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA | 4:30 PM

Visit the petting zoo and pony rides before Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by fire truck to light the tree at 5:00. Children are then welcome to share their holiday wishes with Santa.

DECEMBER 7TH

McLean WinterFest Parade

Old Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, VA | 3:30 PM

McLean Winterfest 2025 will include:

— Pre-Parade Performance, Showcasing Local Dance Troops and Other Performing Artists

— McLean Winterfest Parade, Featuring Marching Bands, Floats, Dance Performances, and Many Community Organizations

— Winterfest Block Party, With Santa Claus, Music, Arts, Food, and Great Fun

— Downtown McLean Christmas Tree Lighting

DECEMBER 7TH

Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long

Filene Center at Wolf Trap National Park, 1645 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182, | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Gates open at 2:00 PM)

Kick off the season with this free, family-friendly musical celebration featuring the United States Marine Band and sing-a-longs of Christmas carols and Hanukkah songs with local choirs. Guests are encouraged to bring bells and candles for the candlelight procession during “Silent Night.” Toys for Tots donations (new, unwrapped toys) are welcomed at the entrance. Website: wolftrap.org/calendar

DECEMBER 10TH

FLEXX Fitness Holiday Party

1356 Beverly Rd. Ste 100. McLean, VA 22101 | 6:30 PM

Celebrate the season with FLEXX Fitness! Join us for our  holiday party open to all on Wednesday, December 10th at 6:30 PM. Enjoy raffles and door prizes, delicious food from local McLean restaurants, live music, and more. Don’t miss this festive evening of fun, food, and community!

DECEMBER 13TH

Frostivial Winter Market at The PARC – Tysons

The PARC at Tysons, 8508 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA | 12:00 PM

Celebrate Fairfax invites you to join us for the 5th Annual Winter Market at The PARC at Tysons on Saturday, December 13, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM! Immerse yourself in a festive winter wonderland and shop local this season from 25 local makers, artisans, and crafters offering unique gifts perfect for the holidays. Enjoy a day filled with holiday cheer and family-friendly activities.

DECEMBER 14TH

The Nutcracker – Capital One Hall, Tysons

Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons, VA | 12:00 PM

Featuring breathtaking costumes, stunning dancers, and renowned guest artists, the beauty, elegance, and charm of the Centre Company's full-length performance of the  Nutcracker  ballet will leave you astounded. Come join us at the Centre Company  Nutcracker, for all who want to experience the season with childlike wonder.

DECEMBER 14TH

Songs of the Season: A Holiday Celebration

Capital One Hall 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons, Virginia 22102 | 3:00 PM

Celebrate the season with an enchanting program featuring excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker and Swan Lake, along with beloved holiday classics including O Holy Night and Silent Night. Led by Margaret Woods, we invite the audience to join in a joyful holiday sing-along—a treasured tradition for all ages.

DECEMBER 20TH - 21ST

Christmas Illuminations at Mt Vernon

3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121 | 5:30 PM

Kick off the holiday season with an evening of festive lights and spectacular fireworks over the Potomac River. Talk to soldiers at an 18th-century winter encampment, and meet our holiday guest, Aladdin the Camel.

Winter Simmer

Magic

ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES

Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 1 teaspoon whole cloves

• 3 star anise

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.

This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.