Posts with tag 'Family'

There are places that are more than buildings.

Places that hold memories, spark connection, and quietly shape the soul of a neighborhood.

The Grandin Theatre is one of those places.

For nearly a century, this historic theatre has stood as a landmark in Roanoke not just as a movie house, but as a gathering place for the community. It has weathered change, growth, and generations of stories, remaining a constant where people come together to laugh, reflect, celebrate, and connect.

Walking into the Grandin feels different. You sense its age in the best possible way with the original details, the patina, the echoes of decades of shared experience...

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When was the last time you enjoyed a meal outdoors? Dining al fresco—a fancy way of saying "eating outside"—isn't just a change of scenery.

Research shows it can boost both your physical and mental health.

A sunny day outdoors means a healthy dose of Vitamin D, which can improve your mood, strengthen your bones, lower blood pressure, and support your immune system.

Breathing fresh air instead of recycled indoor air naturally relaxes you, helping you take deeper breaths and get better oxygen flow without even trying.

And let's not forget the views. Here in Roanoke, plenty of restaurants offer outdoor seating where you can soak in mountain vistas or the energy of downtown.

For example, El Rodeo on Electric Road has a welcoming patio with scenic mountain views—perfect for gatheri...

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Thinking about adding a pool to your property in southwest Virginia? MKB, REALTORS REALTOR® Heather Couture shares some insights on the process, the work associated with it, and the impact on your home

Owning a pool can feel like the ultimate backyard luxury—especially during the hottest days of summer. There's nothing quite like walking outside and cooling off in your own private oasis without having to pack a bag, pay for a membership, or share space with strangers.

That said, pool ownership is not all sunshine and floaties. As the owner of an in-ground pool, I can honestly say it's been a lot more work than I envisioned.

• MAINTENANCE COSTS

Each season starts and ends with professional help to open and close the pool (which costs money, unless you take on the labor yourself),...

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If you're looking for a cool treat with serious local flavor, Blue Cow Ice Cream is a must-visit.

This locally owned shop serves up homemade, small-batch ice cream that's anything but ordinary. Known for its creative and unforgettable flavors like Goat Cheese Blueberry, Banana Pudding, and the wildly popular Cow Patty, Blue Cow takes ice cream to the next level. When you walk in the door, the smell of the homemade waffle cones pulls you in. My go to flavor is the goat cheese blueberry, but in the fall they add dark chocolate raspberry, which is to die for!

Each scoop is made with care, using fresh ingredients and bold combinations that surprise and delight. Last time I was there, they told me they even roast the...

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As someone who grew up in the Alleghany Highlands, I can honestly say there's nowhere else quite like it. This quiet corner of Virginia isn't just beautiful - it's home to me. Life moves a little slower here, and that's part of what makes it so special. In a world that's always rushing, there's something grounding about growing up in a small town where everyone waves, you bump into at least 3 people you know at the grocery store, and nature is always just a few steps away.

Whether you're a fellow local, a weekend visitor, or someone just discovering this area for the first time, I hope you'll find as much joy in these places as I always have.

1. Falling Spring Falls

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