Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
If you’ve ever had back or neck issues, you know how painful a misalignment can be. Having the right chiropractor in your corner can be life-changing.
Today we’re highlighting Dr. Yi with Bodnar Chiropractic, where the entire staff is dedicated to helping you get aligned and get moving.
After a consultation, Dr. Yi will come up with your personalized treatment plan, which can be complimented with acupuncture, massage, and more.
The friendly staff will help you schedule your consultation and appointments can be easily scheduled… just don’t take mine! Click or call today! 703-721-0500.
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
We live in the shadow of Amazon’s HQ2, and while that comes with some serious perks, Amazon doesn’t do cute and community like our neighborhood bookstores!
Today we’re featuring three local bookstores where you can enjoy a personalized shopping experience. These local bookstore owners are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Visit and discover new books and authors that you may not have found otherwise!
Hooray for Books is a children’s bookstore that has been a fixture in Alexandria since 2008. They have an extensive selection of books for kids of all ages and a knowledgeable staff that can help you find the perfect book for your child. They also have regular events like story time and author signings to create a sense of community around reading for our younger readers! Visit them at hooray4books.com.
Old Town Books is another independent bookstore that has been operating in Alexandria since 2018. They also host a variety of events, including Puppy Storytime with Guiding Eyes for the Blind. As part of their training to become guide dogs, puppies practice socializing with humans of all ages during storytime (so cute!). Twenty percent of all proceeds from the time slots go to Guiding Eyes for the Blind. To register or learn more, visit them at www.oldtownbooks.com.

Harambee Books & Artworks is a bookstore that has been serving Alexandria since 1987. They specialize in books by and about people of African descent and have a vast selection of titles that are difficult to find elsewhere. They also sell art and crafts from Africa and the African diaspora. Visit them at harambeebooks.org.
These local bookstores continue to thrive and offer an alternative option for locals who value community, a personal touch, and the discovery aspect of book buying. Whether you’re an avid reader or looking for a unique gift, they’ve got you covered (pun intended).
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Have you started making involuntary sounds when you sit down or stand up? It’s okay… you can admit it.
Better (grunt-free) movement might be a message away.
No? Not you? Perhaps you haven’t had a facial since pre-covid times.
No? Still not you? Perhaps you need some acupuncture to relieve muscle tension. If any of these sound like you or someone you know, a skilled technician can help.
This week we’re back at Fort Hunt Health & Wellness Center, highlighting their “hands-on” services. My favorite? The medical massage. Combined with a facial, the package makes one terrific Mother’s or Father’s Day gift!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Allergies got you in a fog? Achy muscles keeping you from doing what you love? Or maybe you’re just looking for true preventative health care.
If any of these sound like you, this two-part series has got you covered. We’re taking a tour of Ft. Hunt Health & Wellness Center — and they’ve likely got something you need!
Part one of our series, owner Szilvia Balazs, focuses on the many “stand-alone” services offered. This isn’t your typical “spa” offerings. We cover hyperbaric chambers, float tanks, and more.
Take a listen and get on the road to true health and wellness!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Spring has sprung, and that means outdoor dining in the city!
If you’re a local, you already know that one of the fabulous perks of Alexandria life is the outdoor dining scene. Sidewalk seating and cafes are part of what makes this city special.
If you haven’t had a chance to reserve a table at some of my favorites, what are you waiting for? There’s only one rule… you have to save me a seat!
- BARCA Pier & Wine Bar: It’s as close to being on a boat as you can get! This fantastic spot puts you on the water and in the mix of wonderful foot traffic. Stare at the water and relax or make some new friends!
- Ada’s on the River: Take an umbrella-covered table or sit fireside and enjoy waterfront views. With indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll be able to enjoy water views from any delicious seat in the house!
- Hank’s Oyster Bar: This is one of the most delicious rooftops in the city! Enjoy terrific city views while feasting on a masterful menu.
Hopefully, I’ll see you at one of these hot-spots soon!

To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
We don’t bring “breaking news” to the Live Alexandria series… but today, we’re happy to introduce a new “coming soon” coffee shop, The Greenery!
Located at the corner of Queen and Henry, this sweet space offers a cozy vibe and a cup of coffee that’s good and good for you! Add a dash of protein with collagen powder and feel great knowing that once you’re done drinking your magical beans, your cup will be recycled.
As a sister brand of TLC Design, sustainability is part of The Greenery’s ethos.
Keep an eye and ear out for this newest addition to Alexandria!
Happy caffeinating!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Picture it… the perfect 70-degree afternoon has arrived. The Washington area humidity hasn’t hit yet, and it’s blue skies above.
You can’t wait to fire up the grill and soak up the great outdoors. Then, BAM! You remember your yard is a swamp, the leaves were never removed from last fall, and the patio has been taken over by prehistoric ground cover. Anyone with a yard knows the pain of poor land design, installation, and maintenance.
Enter Pat Moran and Tactical Land Care.
Pat’s on a mission to make your land all that it should be. “Protect the world by caring for the land” is a directive he takes seriously. TLC won’t just simplify and improve your outdoor life. They’ll maximize the sustainability of the natural resources in your area while giving your property the look you’ve always wanted.
With a class A general contractors license, TLC can install patios, decks, permeable hardscapes, and more.
Visit TLC Design to book your consultation. Don’t wait… it’s already close to 70 degrees and who knows what’s living under that ground cover!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
That’s right, we want YOU to send us your favorites.
Is there a shop that makes your days brighter? A service that makes your life easier? A business owner who always has a smile for you?
Tell us!
We want to shine a light on businesses that make this city what it is. Nominate your favorites by sending me a DM on Instagram @SandyMcMaster; they may be our next feature!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Ahhh — Valentine’s Day. A day to appreciate the ones you love. Especially those who love you unconditionally — your pets!
Jenna Gotch of Passionately Pets keeps the pets of Alexandria happy and healthy. She and her trained staff provide professional dog walking, pet sitting and house-sitting services.
Passionately Pets was created to serve pet owners with busy lives (which I think includes all of us, right?!)
During dog walking, pet sitting, and overnight visits, a Passionately Pets team member will spend quality time with your pet, providing exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. They also know how to tell if your pet needs veterinary attention.
Their goal? To make you feel comfortable while you are at work or away, knowing your pet is safe and happy (even Cupid uses them!)
To learn more, book a service, or purchase the perfect Valentine’s Day treat for your pet, visit PassionatelyPets.com and be sure to follow them on Instagram!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Where can you find people smiling, praying, and cursing at the same time?
The gym! Especially a CrossFit Gym!
Today we’re showcasing co-owner Adam Murphy with Crossfit Neighborhood.
Adam and the coaches of Crossfit NBHD have a unique combination of formal education, professional certifications, and real-world experience. The coaches have trained CrossFit Games athletes, fitness newbies, and everyone in between.
Their goal?
They want each member to achieve their health and wellness goals. That may be getting a first pull-up, competing, losing a few pounds, or simply doing life better.
Classes run from 5 a.m.-7 p.m. There’s even an “open gym” you can visit 24/7. So, yea…no excuses!
To sign up for a trial class, visit their website at The-NBHD.com. You’ll be surrounded by folks who share a commitment to health, wellness, and maximizing performance. I’ll see you there!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit www.