Date Archives: October 2021

When we're not busy helping buyers explore the best Rockingham County homes for sale, many of the agents at Old Dominion Realty enjoy spending their time trying new recipes. As the colder weather starts to creep in, we particularly enjoy making homemade soup. Not only is it easy to make and comforting to eat, but when you cook a batch of soup, your home will smell amazing all day long. 

If you don't have a favorite soup recipe yet, you're in luck! Next time you're in the mood for comfort food, plan to try one of these delicious recipes. 

• Creamy Pumpkin Soup
  Nothing says fall quite like a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup. This recipe has just the right amount of sweetness and is super easy to make. Best of all, you can serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin. This is the perfect way to excite the kids or make a real impression at your next dinner party. Before you serve it, top it with a drizzle of heavy cream and some toasted pumpkin seeds. 
  
  
• Slow Cooker Baked Potato Soup
  We love making soup in the slow cooker! This delicious baked potato soup gets its texture from added sour cream and is topped with cheese, crispy bacon, and chopped chives. It's the perfect hearty meal to enjoy on a cold afternoon. 
  
  
• Healthy Miso Ramen with Chicken
  This recipe for miso ramen with chicken is much tastier (and healthier!) than the instant Ramen noodles you used to eat in college. It's topped with scallions, seaweed nori, carrots, sweet corn, and boiled eggs. Once you try this, you'll want to cook your own ramen at home all the time. Feel free to experiment with the toppings so you can enjoy a different meal each time. 

• Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage
  When you're looking for comfort food, you can't go wrong with this tortellini soup. It includes Italian sausage, spinach, and kale, making it a tasty and wholesome one-pot meal. Best of all, you can get it on the table in less than 30 minutes and freeze any leftovers so you can enjoy it again on a day when you just don't have the energy to cook something new. 

• Split Pea Soup
  This classic recipe for split pea soup is both filling and flavorful. It's loaded with nutrients thanks to the carrots, celery, and onions and has plenty of protein from the peas and ham. Top your soup off with crunchy, toasted homemade croutons for a delicious and memorable meal your family is sure to love. 
  
  
• Beef and Bean Chili
  Whether you're looking for something to enjoy while you're watching the big game or you want a quick and filling dinner, you can't go wrong with beef and bean chili. This recipe has just the right amount of heat, but you can use more or less cayenne and chili pepper, depending on your taste. To make your chili even more delicious, top each bowl off with shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced jalapenos.
   
  
• Classic Tomato Soup
  A healthy twist on a classic comfort food! This tomato soup recipe is perfect for a chilly fall day and is sure to be a hit among all your family members. Enjoy it on its own, or make a grilled cheese to pair with your soup. 
   
• Creamy Turkey Orzo Soup
  This creamy turkey orzo soup is the perfect solution for leftover turkey. You can make it all in one pot in less than 30 minutes. After you make it once, you'll be craving it all the time. It's similar to a chicken noodle soup but has a creamier texture. While it's a great way to use leftovers, you don't have to wait for the holidays to make this tasty soup. Just whip up a batch of slow cooker turkey breast and shred it up instead. 

• Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
  This white chicken chili is easy to make in the slow cooker and has a ton of delicious flavor. It only takes about 20 minutes of prep time and will soon be one of your family's favorites. This soup is made with white beans, frozen corn, heavy cream, and an array of spices and seasonings. It's particularly delicious when topped with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and chopped avocado. Serve it with a lime wedge to bring out even more flavor. 

• Cheesy Cauliflower Soup
  Cauliflower soup is both tasty and comforting. This recipe features plenty of cheese, crispy bacon, and just the right amount of Cajun spice. The butter, flour, whole milk, half-and-half, and sour cream give it a thick, decadent texture, making this amazing dish is practically the definition of "comfort food." 

If you're looking for your dream home, the agents at Old Dominion Realty are here to help! We have the inside scoop on all the best Shenandoah County homes for sale and we'll help you explore your options until you find the perfect one for your needs. Contact us today.

So many of the beautiful Rockingham County homes for sale have impressive entryways. Often, this is one of the features that captivates potential buyers. However, if your entryway is cold and sterile, it can have the opposite effect - detracting from your home's overall appeal. 

Luckily, it's easy to make your entryway warm and welcoming. Whether it's drafty and freezing or just needs some TLC, the following tips will help turn your entryway into one of the best features of your home. 

1. Keep the Cold Air Out
   If your entryway is physically cold, you'll want to take care of that first. You may need to add some additional insulation and put weatherstripping around your windows and under the door. This will help stop cold drafts, keeping the heat indoors and the chilly weather out. In extreme cases, you may even consider adding a small space heater to your entryway. Just make sure you pay attention to safety concerns and only use it when someone is home to keep an eye on it.

2. Add a Rug
   Placing a rug in your entryway will add some softness and bring a splash of color and texture to the space. It can also help define the space, giving the area its own unique sense of style. While the look and feel of a rug is certainly important, you'll also need to make sure the carpet you choose is durable enough to stand up to this high-traffic area. If it's close to the door, also make sure the rug is low enough so it won't interfere with your ability to open and close it. When adding a rug to your entryway, it's also important to make sure you have a doormat on the outside. This will help keep guests from ruining your rug by tracking in dirt and moisture from the outdoors.  

4. Layer the Lighting
   The right lighting can go a long way towards making a space feel welcoming. Most entryways have an overhead light, but this usually isn't enough. If you want to warm up the space, you'll need to layer in some lighting. Try adding a table lamp, some wall sconces, or even some lanterns to help give your space a warm glow. You can also make a statement by choosing an attention-grabbing chandelier or pendant light. Just make sure the combination you choose sufficiently lights up the entire space. 
   
   
5. Keep it Clutter-Free
   Your entryway is the first impression of your home, so make sure it's not a mess. The best way to do this is to add a chest of drawers, a storage bench, or a console table to the space. This will give you a place to stash mail, keys, and other essentials so they're handy when you need them but still neatly out of sight.
   
   
6. Give it a Sense of Style
   Our real estate agents love showing homes that have entryways with a big, bold style. Whether you chose a piece of statement art, a large mirror, or some plush stools, adding interesting decor to your entryway is the perfect way to set the tone and give guests an idea of what they can expect from the rest of your home. Don't be afraid to add bright colors to the walls, paint the inside of your front door, or experiment with wallpaper. All of these things can add style and make the space more inviting. You can also use your entryway decor to ease the transition between the outdoors and the inside of your home. Adding elements like large plants, rich wood, and stone accents can help turn the space into a transitional area.  

6. Pay Attention to Scale
   Whether you have a large, grand entryway or one that's small and quaint, it's important to choose pieces that match. A tiny table will look strange in a huge foyer, and pieces that are too large will make a small entryway feel claustrophobic. Make sure you get the scale right, then add some accent pieces to pull it all together. 

7. Add a Personal Touch
   To give your entryway even more warmth, be sure to incorporate your unique personality. Consider adding a vase of your favorite flowers, a piece of art you truly love, or a framed photo of people who mean a lot to you. This will make the area feel homey and give you a warm, fuzzy feeling every time you walk in the front door. 

Are you looking for your dream home? There are many beautiful Rockingham and Shenandoah County homes for sale, and the experts at Old Dominion Realty are here to help! Contact us today to discuss your goals and learn how to get started. 

When Mother Nature brings out her fall paintbrush, the spectacular scenery around Shenandoah County homes for sale bursts with vivid color. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway are especially noted for their impressive landscapes. Our real estate agents point out where to see stunning fall foliage around the Shenandoah Valley.

• Skyline Drive - Shenandoah National Park, 3655 U.S. Hwy. 211 E., Luray, VA 22835
  Perhaps the best way to take in the glory of Shenandoah National Park is a three-hour journey along the iconic Skyline Drive. With nearly 70 overlooks along the way, you can create your own personal tour near Luray homes for sale. If you prefer sightseeing on two wheels, sign up for the Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival, returning on the weekend of October 15-17.

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• Mabry Mill - 266 Mabry Mill Rd. SE, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120
  Enjoy some classic fall scenery at Mabry Mill, located at Milepost 176 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The once-functioning mill and adjoining pond are favorite subjects for both professional and amateur photographers. Hike the half-mile Mabry Mill Trail for great views of the sawmill and blacksmith shop as well as Matthew's Cabin, an authentic building that was relocated to add to the classic setting. 
  
  
• Sky Meadows State Park - 11012 Edmond Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144
  The 1,860 acres of Sky Meadows State Park were once part of a family farm back in our country's colonial time. Today, the woodlands and gently rolling pastures are home to nine miles of bike trails and 22 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Kids will have fun watching for the red-headed woodpeckers and other species that make Sky Meadows a renowned spot for birdwatchers near Delaplane homes for sale. Park hours are 8 a.m. - dusk daily.

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• Peaks of Otter - Milepost 85.6, Blue Ridge Pkwy., Bedford, VA 24523
  Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill make up the charmingly named Peaks of Otter, overlooking the town of Bedford along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Ties to the past include Johnson's Farm, a living farm where visitors can play games and work in the garden, and Polly Wood's Ordinary, a cabin that provided the first lodging for travelers in the mid-1800s. Afterward, make a side trip to Bedford homes for sale or one of the many wineries not far from Peaks of Otter.
  
  
• Hanging Rock Overlook Trail - Potts Mountain Rd., Potts Mountain, VA 24131
  You'll feel on top of the world when you take in the breathtaking vistas from Hanging Rock Overlook Trail. Thanks to the out-of-the-way location, Hanging Rock flies under the radar for many sightseers, allowing you to enjoy the viewing in relative solitude. Amazingly, the journey to the top is less than a mile, making it easily accessible for hikers at any level of experience and a great place to take in the scenery. The reward is 360° panoramas of the Appalachians and Blue Ridge Mountains. 
  
  
• Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest - 1542 Bateman Bridge Rd., Forest, VA 24551
  Can't decide between cultural activities or outdoor adventures near Forest homes for sale? No need to choose. Visit Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest for a nice blend of history and nature. Get a fascinating look at the ongoing restoration of Jefferson's private retreat, designed to be "the best dwelling house in the state" and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. The two-mile drive to the house affords a beautiful overview of the property while walking trails wind along roads and through fields for a look at the land Jefferson loved. From March 15 through December 30, Poplar Forest is open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. with weekend hours during winter. Admission is $18 for adults, $10 for ages 12-18, and $6 for ages 6-11.
  
  

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• Natural Bridge State Park - 6477 S. Lee Hwy., Natural Bridge, VA 24578
  As the name implies, the highlight of Natural Bridge State Park is an incredible 215-foot limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The bridge has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark and named to the National Register of Historic Places. Tourists have been drawn to the site as far back as the 1800s when European visitors to the new country traveled by horse-drawn carriages to view the bridge. Don't miss Lace Falls, a 30-foot cascade that's even more delightful when framed by fall colors. Be sure to stop by after looking at Natural Bridge homes for sale. Park hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily. Admission is $9 for adults and $6 for ages 3-12.

The Shenandoah Valley is truly a home for all seasons. Contact us at Old Dominion Realty to learn more about Augusta County homes for sale. 

Women have a 1-in-8 chance of getting breast cancer, but early detection can help.

Our real estate agents know that wherever you live, regular screening is essential for overall health. By combining self-exams and regular screening, you are more likely to get the care you need as soon as possible. That leads to a better prognosis and superior health outcomes.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to help make it easier to get this important screening.

No matter if they're looking at Augusta County homes for sale or Shenandoah County homes for sale, our clients often ask us about healthcare resources in our area. Many of our local hospitals feature excellent women's health centers staffed by leaders in the field.

Harrisonburg and Charlottesville both stand out as exceptional places to start or continue a career in medicine. But when you're the one who needs care, you can rest assured that compassionate, quality help is only minutes away. 

You'll find several yearly events dedicated to raising awareness and donations for breast cancer research.

One of the best-known is the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk/Golf.

The City of Harrisonburg Sponsors the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer Each Year

Every year, folks from Harrisonburg and all over the area come together in a spirit of solidarity to raise money for breast cancer research through the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer. This year's event will be special, as it will be returning to an in-person format after the disruption of 2020.

A virtual option will also be available for anyone who wants to participate while avoiding crowds.

In combination with the traditional run/walk, there will also be a golf tournament aimed at raising more funds. Proceeds will benefit Sentara RMH Medical Center, specifically its RMH Foundation for Breast Care and Treatment. Lower registration rates are available for those who act before October 1.

The event will take place on October 16 and be centered on Heritage Oaks Golf Course.

Four Leading Local Facilities to Get a Breast Cancer Screening this October

A breast cancer screening may only take a few minutes, but it can save your life.

Both Augusta and Shenandoah Counties are home to hospitals that stand out within the region for their highly professional staff, easily navigated facilities, and technologies that make patients' lives easier. Here are just a few places where breast cancer screenings are available:

• Sentara RMH Medical Center – 2010 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Sentara RMH Medical Center is a local trailblazer in women's healthcare that was established in 1912 under the name Rockingham Hospital. Today, it serves nearly 218,000 people across seven counties. Harrisonburg homes for sale benefit from its 238-bed capacity, state-of-the-art technology, and experienced physicians, all of which make it a trusted name in health. It is part of the 125-year old nonprofit Sentara system, which operates in Virginia and North Carolina.
  
  
• Augusta Health – 78 Medical Center Drive, Fisherville, VA 22939
  Augusta Health maintains the highest standards of care. Residents of Fisherville and the surrounding area know they're in good hands with the hospital's membership in the prestigious Mayo Clinic Care Network. Representing a commitment to excellence and a patient-centered philosophy, it helps Augusta Health develop plans of care for rare and complex conditions. 

• University of Virginia Health – 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville, VA 22903
  University of Virginia Health works to put breast cancer screening within reach for all Virginians who need it. Breast MRI, breast ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced mammogram (CEM) are all available, along with diagnostic tests for those showing any current symptoms. The screening used is customized based on the patient's risk factors and medical history. UVA Health also maintains a mobile mammography bus that can visit workplaces and other locations throughout the state. All in all, UVA's health system is one of the most important healthcare resources near Charlottesville homes for sale.
  
  
• Valley Health Page Memorial Hospital – 200 Memorial Drive, Luray, VA 22835
  Valley Health Page Memorial Hospital has been a reliable name in local health for the Luray community for nearly a century now. In 2014, it moved into an all-new, 67,700 square foot replacement facility that includes modern features like private inpatient rooms, an expanded Emergency Department, and more. The old 7,000 square foot site is now an outpatient rehabilitation center. As a Critical Access Hospital, it connects locals with leading specialists and ensures Luray homes for sale are close by truly world-class healthcare.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is in October, so schedule your screening today.

Contact us to learn more about real estate around Harrisonburg.