Issuu

N OV E M B E R 2 02 0

Give Thanks

lifestyle boutique

for women of all ages

525

Prince George Street Williamsburg, VA 23185

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Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

757.378.3494

of Hampton

THE

Best

Nothing Team Pendy C O M E S E E W HAT MAKES US SPECIAL

RECEIVE A

Paige: 757.504.0215 We n d y : 7 5 7 . 5 0 4 . 1 3 7 2

F R E E S U P E R WA S H when you come to the sales department and mention t h i s a d t o P a i g e o r We n d y

7 5 7 . 8 6 5 . 8 0 0 0 | 2 7 1 2 M a g r u d e r B o u l e v a r d | H a m p t o n , VA

LIFESTYLE LETTER

NOVEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Feather Wright | feather.wright@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Counting Many Blessings WITH EVERYTHING IN FLUX, WHILE CHANGES ABOUND, WE STILL HAVE MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR.

Joshua Wright | joshua.wright@lifestylepubs.com PHOTO EDITOR

Lindsey Lyons | llyonsphotography@yahoo.com INTERN + SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Rachel Burch AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe

One thing we have learned in the Williamsburg Lifestyle team is be thankful for the little blessings each day. We are thankful for more time with friends and family, less rush, family dinners, walks at dusk and streaming services! Our Thanksgiving Issue features many articles on giving; giving back to our community, where your House of Mercy donations go; giving time to others - Thanksgiving activi-

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Elizabeth Grimes, Gary Plaag, Scott Grafton, Rachel Burch CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lindsey Lyons, Gari-Ann Kia, Kellyn Wilson

ties to enjoy with family and friends; giving yourself the gift of exercise as demonstrated by Iron Bound Gym in our workout article; giving yourself the gift of a sweet treat with a southern favorite, yam cupcakes, by baker Dwan Bryant, and a cozy bedroom makeover by Williamsburg Lifestyle's Rachel Burch, where she gives tips to create the perfect space for those college kids visiting home or taking classes on-line. And Giving Thanks - a child's view of life's wonderous and delightful simplicities that

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

are often taken for granted by us busy adults, yet weave the very fabric of our lives.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

At your Thanksgiving supper or dinner try this approach to giving thanks: Rose,

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Rose, Thorn, Bud.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

Roses are expressions of gratitude for the day.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

The thorn is to release some tension or express something frustrating with those who are there to support you. And buds are what you are looking forward to in the near future.

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Feather Wright, Publisher

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6 Williamsburg Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Williamsburg areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Williamsburg Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Whether it’s a wedding, family reunion, anniversary celebration, or corporate event, Saudé Creek Vineyards offers a variety of rental options, both big and small.

The Saudé Creek team would love to host your special day!

Now offering discount pricing on Fridays and Sundays for Wedding Rentals! To learn more about pricing and packages, send an email to events@saudecreek.com. 16230 Cooks Mill Rd, Lanexa, VA 23089 | (804) 966-5896 | www.saudecreek.com

CAREFULLY CRAFTED TO LAST A LIFETIME www.carolina-furniture.com 5425 Richmond Rd. (Rt. 60) Williamsburg, VA 23188 CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2020

FEATURES 10 Cozy at Home Creating a relaxed and peaceful vibe: College Edition

12 Bake me a cake as fast as you can Local baker offers a twist on a sweet and savory fall dish

16 House of Mercy The many ways your donation goes back to supporting our community

12 22

22 Turkey Workout Pro-tips using food to burn calories

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Renovate & Refine

Culinary Creations

Giving Back

22 Healthy Lifestyle 24 Our Town 29 Faith Reflections 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Localâ€™s Choice

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CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

GOOD TIMES

Mockingbird Farmstead Mockingbird Farmstead is a small semi-urban market garden with multiple plots throughout the city of Williamsburg, Virginia. "I work hard to not only provide you with this bounty, but also the tools, techniques, and recipes to ensure your success." To find more information and sign up for the Spring 2021 farm share visit: mockingbirdfarmstead.com. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MOCKINGBIRD FARMSTEAD AND JADE WRIGHT

Sweet Tea Williamsburg Opens new location on Prince George St A locally owned shoppe since 2016, Sweet Tea Williamsburg is excited to move to Prince George Street on October 3rd. You can find a rotating selection of apparel, jewelry and accessories. They have "grab and go" gifts to take for every occasion with complimentary gift wrapping. Many of the companies represented in shoppe are woman or family owned businesses. Follow on FB & IG for updates. PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLYN WILSON

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

Midtown Row Celebrates Topping Off On September 29th Broad Street Realty and Hourigan celebrated Midtown Rowâ€™s Topping Off! The event is a culmination of the last beam of construction placed on the site. Guests included Mayor Pons, Williamsburg City Officials and Council Members, Michelle Mixner DeWitt, Director of Economic Development, and many others. Food was provided by Matchsticks BBQ and a great time was had by all. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BROAD STREET REALTY

Helping you achieve your retirement and investing goals

Lynne Williams Financial Advisor NMLS 1608153

437 W. Duke of Gloucester St. Williamsburg, VA 23185 Direct (757) 259-7124 Lynne.Williams@morganstanley.com https://advisor.morganstanley.com/lynne.williams

Investments and services offered through Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 2864095 01/20 Untitled-2 1

2/12/2020 1:07:44 PM 9 CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

RENOVATE & REFINE

CREATING A RELAXED AND PEACEFUL VIBE: COLLEGE EDITION

WHETHER YOU ARE COMING HOME TO

is a no better welcoming than a warm and

A CAVE, A STUDIO APARTMENT, OR A

inviting space to call yours.

TEN BEDROOM MANSION, THE PRIN-

When it comes to giving your space

CIPAL OF OBTAINING A COZY SPACE

a certain feeling, a lot of us do not know

REMAINS THE SAME. Seasons are chang-

where to start. This article will help stu-

ing and things might look a little different

dents achieve a cozy space in your home

as the life of a student. Coming home for

during the upcoming holidays or while

the holidays is a joyous occasion and there

studying virtually for a semester!

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

ARTICLE RACHEL BURCH

Coz y at Home

get the look

CREATE WARMTH THROUGH LIGHTING There is nothing better than good lighting to create a cozy atmosphere! Make sure you have an abundance of task lighting, table and floor lamps, and of course candles!

RUGS & TEXTILES Hardwood and laminate floors are great, but can be chilly under your feet in cooler seasons! Placing layers between yourself and the floor will instantly create a warm and cozy feeling. Rugs can be expensive but they do not have to be. Here are some places that carry affordable rugs: Worldmarket, TJ Maxx, Rugs USA, Wayfair, Overstock, or Amazon.

ADD TEXTURE Texture is the surface quality of a material. Texture adds depth and helps add warmth to a space. Instantly add texture by: + Place woven baskets around your space containing throw pillows or blankets + Mixing accessories in materials like leather, ceramic, and wood + Pile on the pillows! 4:

COZY UP WITH CURTAINS For an extra layer of warmth in the upcoming seasons, switch out lighter weight curtains for some heavy drapes with thermal lining. They will help with not only keeping the heat in, but will add softness to the room. 5:

HANG ARTWORK & MIRRORS Avoid empty walls! Your place can feel stark if all you see are bare walls. Even one piece of artwork can change a space entirely.

FRAGRANCE & SCENT The power of scent can change your atmosphere drastically. All you need to do is pick your favorite and enjoy the space you created.

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

CULINARY CREATIONS

ba ke me a ca ke as fast as you ca n LOCAL BAKER OFFERS A TWIST ON A SWEET AND SAVORY FALL DISH ARTICLE ELIZABETH GRIMES PHOTOGRAPHY LINDSEY LYONS

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

THERE IS A SOUTHERN CLASSIC SIDE DISH THAT OFTEN GRACES THE TABLE DURING THANKSGIVING. Candied Yams offer a distinctive sweet and saltiness that tempts your taste buds. So much so, that you seek excuses to make it again throughout the year. There are so many ways to prepare them, from out of the can to grandmother’s recipe with toasted marshmallow goodness oozing down the sides of the pan. And now there’s a another way to get your fix. Dwan Bryant, local baker, puts passion and love into everything she makes. Her cakes and cupcakes include unique flavor profiles that will remind you of childhood memories and favorite dishes. A native Virginian, she grew up in a tight-knit family community. She remembers her grandmother’s southern-style cooking, who was also a pastry chef, as her business inspiration today. The sky’s the limit with what she can bake, and no matter the occasion, she pours her heart and soul into each dish. When asked about her recommendation for a fall cupcake, Dwan graciously shared this delightful recipe that is sure to become a staple dessert on your menu this year.

Ca nd ie d Ya m Cup c a ke s w it h Toa st e d M a r sh m a l low Mer i n g ue Frost i n g Prep: 1 hour Cook: 12-15 minutes Total: 75 minutes Servings: 24

i n g re d ient s CUPCAKES: + 1 pound yams (peeled and cubed) + 4 large eggs + 1 cup canola oil + 1 1/2 cups white sugar + 2 teaspoons vanilla extract + 2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour + 2 teaspoons baking powder + 1 teaspoon baking soda + 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon + 1 teaspoon salt + A few pinches of brown sugar + A few pinches of Himalayan pink sea salt + Olive oil MARSHMALLOW MERINGUE: + 3 egg whites + ¼ tsp cream of tartar + ¾ c white sugar

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

CULINARY CREATIONS (CONTINUED)

d i rec t ion s CUPCAKES:

MERINGUE:

1. Place peeled and cubed yams on a foil-lined baking

1. Fill a saucepan 2 inches high with water and bring

sheet and toss lightly with olive oil to coat. Sprinkle with

to a simmer over medium-low heat. Place egg whites,

Himalayan sea salt and a few pinches of brown sugar.

sugar and cream of tartar in a glass or metal bowl and

Roast about 45 minutes until golden brown and soft (turn-

set over the saucepan. The bowl should not touch the

ing every 10 minutes). Allow to cool, then mash with a

water. Whisk continuously for 3-5 minutes until the sugar

potato masher or a fork.

is completely dissolved. (Make sure the meringue does

2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2-12 cup cup-

not get too hot, or the egg whites will cook through,

cake tins with paper liners.

and the meringue won’t be stiff but lumpy. Remove from

3. Place eggs, oil, sugar, vanilla extract and cooked

saucepan in-between to cool down a bit if necessary).

yams in a large bowl; beat with an electric mixer until

The meringue should be warm to the touch, about 160

light and fluffy. Sift together flour, baking powder, bak-

degrees. Remove from heat and beat with an electric

ing soda, cinnamon and salt. Stir dry ingredients into

mixer with whisk attachment on high speed until shiny,

yam mixture, mixing just until combined. Pour batter

glossy and stiff peaks form, for about 5-7 minutes.

into paper liners, filling 2/3 full.

2. Fill a piping bag with the meringue or use a spoon to

4. Bake 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the

dollop the cooked meringue on top of the cupcakes. Toast

center of a cupcake comes out clean. Cool in pans for 5

the meringue with food torch, garnish with candied

minutes, transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

pecans if desired. Enjoy!

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

GIVING BACK

HOUSE O F M E RC Y ANNE FRANK, THE WWII DIARIST AND HOLOCAUST VICTIM, WROTE, “HOW WONDERFUL IT IS THAT NOBODY NEED WAIT A SINGLE MOMENT BEFORE STARTING TO IMPROVE THE WORLD.” For those readers looking for a local Williamsburg opportunity to help “improve the world,” and who have the time to get involved, an easy place to begin the journey and make a mark is the Williamsburg House of Mercy. The mission of Williamsburg House of Mercy is to provide “quality, compassionate human services to all people, especially the most vulnerable, regardless of faith…[as well as] a safe and welcoming environment for area homeless to find respite, receive services, and work toward ending their homelessness, and emergency assistance and supportive services to those struggling to maintain housing and regain stability.” In short, the Williamsburg House of Mercy accompanies people through their challenges on the journey to stability. The organization’s very informative website (williamsburghouseofmercy.org), reveals a series of robust programs designed to offer those in need a “hand up,” as well as ways for volunteers to get involved in supporting their mission. Located at 10 Harrison Avenue, the Williamsburg House of Mercy occupies space and uses utility and phone services donated by St. Bede’s Catholic Church. Thus, their administrative costs are extremely low; only 5% of financial donations received support administrative costs, with 95% going to help those in need. The Williamsburg House of Mercy began as St. Bede’s Social Ministries

THE MANY WAYS YOUR DONATION GOES BACK TO SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY

Outreach, and as they grew and partnered with other local and regional agencies and organizations, they formed their own charitable 501(c)3 organization in 2015. The Williamsburg House of Mercy receives no state or federal funds and operates solely on the generous gifts from the surrounding community. The Williamsburg House of Mercy offers the following general programs with

ARTICLE GARY PLAAG PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY HOUSE OF MERCY

various sub-programs and services within each of them: + Mercy Housing – housing assistance for homeless individuals and families who are staying outside, in vehicles, or in local shelters; + Homeless Coordination of Care – the starting point for anyone who is homeless and in need of shelter, case management, and supportive services; + Food Security – large-scale fresh food distribution on two Fridays each month; + New Journey Re-Entry Services – support and assistance for ex-offenders to re-enter the community; + Hope Pregnancy Center – free, caring, and confidential pregnancy support and counseling services; + Healthy Families – items for families to more easily stretch their monthly budgets; CONTINUED >

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

Why Pure Barre? Technique. Community. Empowerment.

If you're new to Pure Barre, our Classic class is a great place to start to discover all of the benefits this workout can offer. Pure Barre Williamsburg, VA / 757- 378- 2476

FARMERS MARKET Fruits, Vegetables, Baked Goods, Prepared Foods, Live Chefs POP Club Music Tent For Kids Plants, Seafood, Mushrooms, Honey and more!

March 7 – December 19

Saturdays 8:00 am – noon

Merchants Square

Duke of Gloucester St.

williamsburgfarmersmarket.com CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

W H E R E YO U R D O N AT I O N G O E S . . .

item one 95% of all donations go directly into programming.

item two Provide food, clothing, shelter, and supportive services to those in need.

item three Help to provide a launching point to exit the cycle of poverty.

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

+ Financial Assistance and Outreach – assistance, education, and support services to avoid becoming homeless; + Community Partners – on-going coordination with faith groups and other community organizations to streamline delivering support services to those in need. It’s important to remember that many of the people who seek assistance from Williamsburg House of Mercy do so in moments of crisis. Asking for help is difficult and usually requires a significant level of trust between the helper and the recipient. Working to build partner relationships with those who come to them for assistance is a key strategy of the House of Mercy team. Helping individuals to break the cycle of poverty is not a transaction, but rather it is the building of a supportive relationship. The Williamsburg House of Mercy team has found that food stability is often the starting point to building that relationship and the trust that accompanies it. Once a trusting relationship is established, additional needs can be identified and addressed. If the Williamsburg House of Mercy sounds like the type of organization you’ve been eager to get involved with, volunteering and donating are the obvious places to start. A click on the “Volunteer” tab on their website reveals the numerous volunteer opportunities for which they are seeking assistance. Volunteers are often needed to assist as client advocates, staff of the mobile food pantry, assist at the housing office, and staff the Harbor Day Shelter for the Homeless and the Make A House A Home ministry. Recognizing that sometimes personal schedules don’t permit the donation of time, the Williamsburg House of Mercy also welcomes financial and product donations. The “Donate” tab on their website provides a list of the numerous ways to make donations. Monetary donations can be made through PayPal, by writing a check, or by making a matching gift through an employer with a matching gift program. For non-monetary donations, “wish lists” through Target and Amazon indicate how many of certain items are needed. The “Food Pantry” that appears on the “Donate” page shows an up-to-date shopping list of items that are depleted or are in limited. In addition to necessary food items, there is an on-going need for toiletries such as toothbrushes, deodorant, and razors, as well as diapers and other baby-care products. Of course, the Williamsburg House of Mercy team is always open to discussing creative donation ideas. The Williamsburg House of Mercy is a local Williamsburg charity that is eager and ready to receive help to improve their little part of the world here in Williamsburg, Virginia. As Anne Frank said, “…no one need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” If interested in volunteering and/or becoming a donor at the Williamsburg House of Mercy, please contact their team to schedule a visit. CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

Distinctive Homes Require

Distinctive Service

Williamsburg Office 5208 Monticello Ave Williamsburg, VA 23188 (757) 229-0550

HowardHanna.com

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123 Edward Wakefield • Williamsburg Experience the historic charm of The Village at Quarterpath In Kingsmill on the James. The home features a Living Room, Dining Room, 3 bedrooms including first floor owner suite, almost all hardwood floors. The kitchen has just been completely redone with white cabinets , stainless appliances and quartz counters and huge island.

Mary McNulty, REALTOR® 757-570-4663 MaryMcNulty@HowardHanna.com

186 Blackheath • Ford’s Colony On the Blackheath Golf Course UNDER $600,000! The Linden III boasts easy living, open floorplan, first floor master retreat, and a walk out lower level to the golf course! Call this Prime Golf lot with sweeping views and a NEW Home yours! Live the Good Life Here on Ford’s Colony Blackheath Course Lucky Hole #7. $599,000

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Tiffany Jolly Homes

305 Yorkshire Drive • Williamsburg

108 Machrie • Williamsburg

The charming Cape Cod exterior welcomes you to a well-planned interior that offers both formal areas and casual spaces. Perfect size and a great location describe this 3024 sq ft Cape Cod. Located in the City of Williamsburg in Holly Hills, close to the College of William & Mary and the historic area. Beautiful historic heart pine floors from reclaimed wood which gives the floors a natural beauty and character.

Designed to resemble the Governor’s palace in Colonial Williamsburg but with every luxury you could want! A truly impeccably maintained home. The impressive formal dining room features 10 piece crown molding and wainscoting along with a butler’s pantry with sink and large single drawer dishwasher.

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Jack McNulty, REALTOR® 757-254-1200

JohnMcNulty@HowardHanna.com

The McNulty Team Selling Homes in Williamsburg Since 1997

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StevenVanKirk@HowardHanna.com

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HollyRolley@HowardHanna.com

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

TURKEY WORKOUT PRO-TIPS USING FOOD TO BURN CALORIES

ARTICLE SCOTT GRAFTON | PHOTOGRAPHY GARI ANN KIA

WE ARE EXERCISING AT HOME WHILE SEARCHING FOR EQUIPMENT EVERYWHERE WITH LITTLE SUCCESS AND A LOT OF FRUSTRATION. We have scoured Facebook, Craigslist, garage sales, retail sites, and more just looking for affordable fitness equipment. Water jugs, cans, and anything we can get our hands on are supplementing our bodyweight exercises. Then Thanksgiving arrives and a new piece of equipment is available – a turkey! You can use almost anything for weight, and these come with a convenient handle. So, let’s use this new weight while we are preparing to spend time with families, friends, and loved ones. SAMPLE TURKEY WORKOUT + 20 Turkey Swings + 20 Turkey Sit-Ups + 20 Turkey Squats + 20 Push-Ups Repeat 3 rounds or as many as necessary Remember to modify as you need to be safe or simply get out and walk or run. We can all use a little time away right now, exercising and humor have so many benefits. Enjoy your Turkey Day!

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

Owner | Iron Bound Gym

“WHO KNEW THIS VENERABLE BIRD AND CENTER PIECE OF MANY THANKSGIVING TABLES COULD BE SO VERSATILE?”

01.

TURKEY-BELL SWINGS

02.

TURKEY SIT UP

03.

TURKEY SQUATS

This move involves the swinging of

Lay in a supine position with your

Hold the turkey with both hands

an object (in this case a turkey) from

arms holding the turkey directly above

slightly in front of you through the

between the knees with both hands

your chest with arms straight. Use your

entire movement. Do a squat and

in a pendulum position either to eye

core to sit up to an upright position

repeat it with good form. Remember,

level or above the head. Make sure

and end with the turkey above your

sit back like you are going to sit on

your core is tight and use your hips

head with your arms straight. Return

a chair. Once the top of your thigh

for power. Tighten your glutes at the

slowly to the ground and repeat.

is parallel with the group, stand up

top of the motion (be cautious of a

straight while squeezing the glute

loose turkey handle).

muscles at the top. CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

OUR TOWN

G AT H E R T O G E T H E R WITH THANKFUL HEARTS A CORNUCOPIA OF POST-THANKSGIVING SUPPER ACTIVITIES ARTICLE GARY PLAAG

IT’S 6 AM THANKSGIVING DAY. General

OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES

a paved street or brick walkway. It’s also

mayhem ensues as the day’s festivities com-

We are fortunate in the tidewater VA

mence. Food preparation and house cleaning

region to experience a relatively mild climate

are the order of the morning in anticipation

in late November, and easy-to-moderate

+ William & Mary Campus - A stroll

of the big meal. In the course of this high-en-

outside activity options, weather permitting,

around the William & Mary campus is

ergy ritual, someone asks, “What are we

are abundant. Below is a brief list of options.

another easily accessible, low impact, and

+ Duke of Gloucester Street - Stroll

enjoyable adventure. Start at the Wren

doing AFTER we eat today?” For some, the answer will be a nap on the couch. The more

down

health-conscious and socially engaged will

closed-to-vehicular-traffic

Colonial

Williamsburg’s Duke

(CW) of

wheelchair/scooter/bike accessible, which makes it a great option for everyone.

Building and travel the brick walkways through campus.

seek something more active, fun, and engag-

Gloucester (DoG) Street and adjoin-

+ Lake Matoaka Amphitheater – For

ing - something we can all do together. Maybe

ing closed-to-traffic roads. The journey

another easy and short stroll, consider

something outside? If the weather is not coop-

from William & Mary’s Wren Building to

parking in the Mason School of Business

erative, what can we do inside to avoid being

the Capitol is approximately one mile of

parking lot at the corner of Ukrop Way

lured to the couch for a mid-afternoon nap?

pleasant scenery and easy walking on

and Jamestown Road. Walk to the right of

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

Miller Hall to the path to the Lake Matoaka

eastern-most end of the Griffin Hotel parking

+ Waller Mill Park – The park is closed on

Amphitheater. The wooded path to Lake

lot and finish at the Golden Horseshoe Golf

Thanksgiving Day and the day after (11/26-

Matoaka is wheelchair/scooter accessible.

Club’s Green Course Clubhouse. Take the

27/2020) but is seasonally open from 8 AM-5

+ Lake Matoaka Trail – This 2.5-mile

same trail back to the Griffin Hotel parking

PM every day. Waller Mill Park is located at

circuit trail runs along the east side of Lake

lot. See the alltrails.com site for more details.

901 Airport Road, Williamsburg and boasts six

Matoaka on the W&M campus. It is not

+ Virginia Capital Trail – This 51.7-mile

trails, four are rated “easy,” and two are rated

wheelchair/scooter accessible and is a bit

trail from the Jamestown Festival Park park-

“moderate” by alltrails.com. According to

more rigorous. It is dog and kid friendly. See

ing lot to Richmond is paved, wheelchair/

the Waller Mill website, “Our wooded hiking

the alltrails.com site for more details.

scooter/bike accessible, dog friendly (on

trails provide 6¼ miles of picturesque walking

+ Bassett Trace Nature Trail – This 3.3-

leash), and an easy walk or bike ride. Parking

with water and wooded views. A two-mile

mile circuit trail is not wheelchair/scooter/

is plentiful at the Jamestown Settlement

asphalt bike trail offers a scenic connection

bike accessible. It is a moderate (not easy),

parking lot. Go as far as you want and then

between Mooretown and Rochambeau

well-marked trail requiring traversing signifi-

turn around. See the alltrails.com site or the

Roads. A short hike from the parking lot

cant inclines, downed trees, etc. Start at the

virginiacapitaltrail.org site for more details.

along the asphalt bike trail will bring you to CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

“PLAYING GAMES CAUSES EVERYONE PLAYING TO FOCUS ON HAVING FUN WHILE INTERACTING WITH EACH OTHER.”

the Lookout Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the

school in 1955 – yikes). Card games like Hearts, Spades,

water and woodlands.” There is a $2 per vehicle entrance

Crazy Eights, and Rummy are particularly fun and easy

fee. Trails map link: www.williamsburgva.gov/home/

for everyone to understand and play. Party games like

showdocument?id=8750

Charades, Spoons, and Pictionary may be just what you need if you gave the board games away ten years ago,

For a more comprehensive list of walking/hiking/biking options in our area, checkout the following links: + Williamsburg area: www.williamsburgva.gov/Home/ ShowDocument?id=801 + Greater Peninsula region: www.alltrails.com/us/ virginia/williamburg.

or they are hiding somewhere in storage. Perhaps a customized Holiday Word Scramble or a Thanksgivingthemed MadLibs tournament fits your group’s interests. Making up your own games can also be fun. + Puzzles – If you don’t have any jigsaw puzzles from 20 years ago, a trip through the toy section of Target or Walmart will reveal a large selection of jigsaw puzzles of

INSIDE ACTIVITIES

varying levels of difficulty. Generally, puzzles with 500-

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate on Thanksgiving

1000 pieces can be completed on the dining room table

Day? You can easily avoid the old standbys of napping and

between the afternoon Thanksgiving meal and bedtime.

TV-watching. If your goal is to engage with your visitors

Kids of all ages (5-105) love to be involved in solving the

through conversation and interpersonal activities, con-

mystery of what pieces go where. This activity also causes

sider some of the following options. + Board, card, and other traditional games – Younger

great conversation and can even be going on consecutively with a sporting event on television.

folks may find this hard to believe, but there really was

+ Old Fashioned Sing-Along – If you have a piano,

life before TV, streaming video, YouTube, video games,

keyboard, or guitar, and someone who can play, you’re

cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers. Many people

in luck! Grab Aunt Ethel’s great American song book

have a stack of long-forgotten games stashed away in a

from the piano bench and have a sing-along. If you have

closet, garage, basement, or attic. Legacy games like Life,

the ability to project from your computer onto your TV,

Monopoly, Scrabble, Candyland, or Twister (caution is

karaoke through YouTube is a great option. Or maybe

advised for the less limber among us) might be a fun trip

you want to try some unaccompanied harmony singing.

back in time for everyone. Games like Jenga, Scattergories

Hard? Yes. Fun and rewarding? Absolutely! Remember,

(if everyone can read), Cards Against Humanity (adults

the rule for sing-alongs, karaoke, and a cappella harmony

only!), a recent version of Trivial Pursuit, or any other current

singing is “no judgement allowed.” Everyone’s a star if

trivia games can be fun, challenging, engaging, and often

they’re brave enough to participate.

very entertaining. Playing games causes everyone playing

+ Arts and Crafts – If someone in the group is skilled

to focus on having fun while interacting with each other.

at leading arts and crafts activities, ask that person to

And isn’t that why we all got together at Thanksgiving

plan a craft event. A quick search on Pinterest.com or

anyway? To maintain collegiality and friendships before

Google.com for “arts and crafts ideas” reveals a plethora

starting any games, set some ground rules around the fact

of fun activities for all ages.

that it’s only a game. And remind Uncle Carl, who tends to hold a “take no prisoners” attitude when he plays, to be nice…because it’s a game, not a war!

So, there you have it, numerous after-Thanksgiving dinner activities to keep everyone moving, engaged, and

Some fun old-school options include a chess or

away from the couch. Select some that might work for you

checkers match with Grandma (who everyone forgot

and try them. Fun, conversation, and engagement with

was the chess and checkers champion at her high

each other are guaranteed.

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

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Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

FAITH REFLECTIONS

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day. For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above). Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend. “I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600. By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

FAITH REFLECTIONS (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com! Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all. But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction. “Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.” “Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.” After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China. And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking. “We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the

It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the

godliest people, the most committed...people that I

States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.

admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my

This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis

own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-

and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.

rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”

What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through

“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.” 30

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

values and practices like devotion to scripture,

committing

churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.

“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.” Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a

between the American church and the spirituality and Godly

growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of

lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-

life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a

ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing

non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up

issues of individualism and pride.

through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.

“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called

perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you

Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze

would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-

you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic

ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?

things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was

The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels

just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”

like it’s getting worse.” “I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.” Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’” Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals. “She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,

it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All

fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to

I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that

certain things and God has something so much better for us. I

have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”

believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that

Much like separation from his megachurch setting,

is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you

preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth

realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would

of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the

bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”

belief that people are the church.

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham

“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass

Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most

of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of

of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,

Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord

two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he

wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink

later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,

‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have

and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out

been scattered since the beginning of the church. People

his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor

were alone, people were in little groups and found each other

to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,

and enjoyed Christ together.”

planting churches.

CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

SATURDAYS WILLIAMSBURG FARMERS MARKET Merchant Square

402 W. Duke of Gloucester St Williamsburg, 23185 Over 40 vendors offer a variety of local products, among which are fresh seasonal produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, honey, cheese, cut flowers, handmade soaps, and more. Enjoy chef demonstrations, listen to live music, and learn while you shop. For more information visit williamsburgfarmersmarket.com.

7 P U T YO U R C IT Y O N O U R M A P. Start a magazine & build a legacy. Life is short. Love what you do.

LifestylePubs.com/OwnIt

HARVEST HAPPENINGS AT THE FLEA The Flipping Flea

6927 Richmond Rd Williamsburg, 23188 A day filled with Fall Fun! Freshly made cider donuts, apple cider, face painting, hay rides, fall foliage, and fabulous sales! You won't want to miss this one. For more information visit facebook.com/events/1029064424220464.

11 VETERANS DAY CEREMONY York Hall

301 Main St Yorktown, 23690 York County Historical Committee presents, “Letters from War,” theme for this annual event in which all veterans are honored. Free. For more information go to visityorktown.org/150/Events.

14 1ST ANNUAL DOWN ON THE FARM

Holly Fork Farm, Produce & Pumpkin Patch

4901 Holly Fork Rd Barhamsville, 23011 This will be a NEW event at the farm! It is sponsored by Holly Fork Farm Educational Services Inc, a nonprofit organization. This event will help support field trips and Camp Holly Fork Farm. There will be entertainment, adult spirits, brunswick stew, apple butter, carriage rides, and fall fun out in the country. 32

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

NOVEMBER

Visit facebook.com/events/609773013164164 for more information.

15 WELLNESS CLASS: HOLIDAY DIY RECIPES AND GIFTS

THANK YOU

This is a super fun class where you will learn tons of DIY

FOR YOU SUPPORT

holiday recipes, which are great gifts for the holiday

WE LOVE OUR STAFF & MEMBERS

Virtual - Full Circle Yoga + Pilates

season. Some of the recipes shared include: bath salts, rose toner, bath balms, body butter, ‘wonder’ salve, yummy smelling hair glaze, healthy perfume, holiday diffuser scents. Head over to wellnessliving.com/rs/ catalog-view.html?id_sale=3&k_id=242762&fbclid=IwAR3pi9X-US963CS1DuAD-fLWWImyQfcF7yFdAPcYEaLW0atT7howqcl3i0o to reserve your spot for only $5!

Iron-Bound Gym is proud to keep locals healthy and safe.

Cycling • Fitness • Classes P90X • Strength • Training Yoga •

Zumba •

SALSA NIGHT AT VIRGINIA BEER COMPANY The Virginia Beer Company

4325 New Town Avenue, Williamsburg

ironboundgym.com 757.229.5874

401 2nd St Williamsburg, 23185 This is a FREE event where DJ Alex will be playing some great Latin music for your dancing pleasure and Victor Haskins will be teaching a beginner Latin dancing lesson (focusing on salsa and bachata). The dance lesson will begin at 9:30 pm, and then there will be open social dancing thereafter until 12:30 am. Fuel up with fresh bites from a rotation of food trucks, and cool off with an array of small batch beers available throughout the night. Get the details at facebook.com/events/224199648579990.

24 PUBLIC HOUSE BEER DINNER Amber Ox Public House

525 Prince George St Williamsburg, 23185 Features a five course meal, composed of progressive, southern inspired dishes created by Chef Brok Kellogg. Each dish is paired with hand crafted beers from Precarious Beer Project, led

Brew

Master

Greg

Fleehart! These

dinners sell out quickly, so call or stop by Amber Ox to reserve your spot. Learn more at facebook.com/events/529911534313414. CityLifestyle.com/Williamsburg

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

ELIZABETH GRIMES

THANKSGIVING

YOU

GATHER

AROUND

TABLE

THIS

THE YEAR,

YOU’LL LIKELY BE ASKED THE PRO-

THANKSGIVING THROUGH THE EYES OF CHILDREN

VERBIAL QUESTION, “WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?” Thanksgiving can mean many things, but a child’s perspective can touch the heart, make you pause and appre-

GIVE THANKS

ciate life, especially this year. Meet Elijah, Naydia and William III from Hayes, VA. Their gratitude will delight and inspire.

Eight-year-old Elijah shares: “I’m thankful for Mom because she cooks my favorite foods, rice and corn. At Thanksgiving, I love when she makes her rice dressing. I’m even thankful for my brother and sister because they help me with schoolwork, and I’m mostly glad we have video games.”

Naydia is 14 and shares: “I’m thankful for family because they make me happy. I’m thankful for God because he gives us food and because he wakes me up each day. I’m also grateful for music because it cheers me up.”

Twelve-year-old William III shares: “For me, I love my dogs and how they chase me outside and around the house. I’m also thankful for our house because it gives me a place to sleep.” Unanimously, they all viewed Thanksgiving as a time for family, joy and love. We at Williamsburg you the same.

Williamsburg Lifestyle | November 2020

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INTERIOR DESIGN FURNISHINGS | KITCHENS

Amy Ahearn 757-378-2785 Main 757-561-6592 Mobile amy@decoratingden.com www.amy.decoratingden.com

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