View from Masonic Temple, in 1930

Life Lessons from the 24

Ever wonder if this is the best you'll have in your life?  Is what you've done to this point making you proud to be you?  Will you leave behind a legacy to smile about or one that only embarrasses? The simple fact of life is that we all need help.  Another obvious thing that life will prove to us is that with this help, we must help others. Yesterday was the end of an era for the sport of NASCAR.  A legend and icon completed his last laps as a full-time driver in the Sprint Cup Series.  When Jeff Gordon came across the start/finish line, it was a moment in time that will never be forgotten. He has been able to succeed, against all odds.  With the loving assistance from his mom and step dad, his talent was realized and the rest is history.  His heart is just as big as his level of talent, the world has realized. Some people in this world, come into it and leave without so much as a whisper as to who they are and what they have done in life.  Others move mountains.  Jeff is the latter. More posts will fill these pages with my thoughts on this genuinely wonderful person, but for now I just want to say, "Thank you!" to him for what he has done for the sport and the world.  The changes he has brought this world have been full of  impact indeed.  His personality will be an asset to the booth next year and years to come as he begins his career as a NASCAR announcer. Don't know anything about the sport or Jeff?  Look him up on jeffgordon.com, jeffgordoncellars.com, AARP.org and jeffgordonchildrensfoundation.org.  You'll soon find out that he is worth the time you just invested. If now is the time to find that new place to settle in before Daytona in 90 days, use the guide below and check out the listings also.

Click Alexandria to search homes and condos for sale in Alexandria VA. Or check out one of these neighborhoods in Alexandria VA:

Alexandria Citizens Band, marching on Cameron St, in 1928

A Life Lesson to Ponder

Having a bad day?   Have you ever been in a situation where you sit back and think - why me?  Do you think that things may be out of control?  Do you feel unsure about the direction you may be going? If any of these were answered with a "yes", I hear ya.  Life is interesting and a bit of a challenge, no matter which brick on the path of life you're on currently.  One thing is for sure, things will change.  Whether or not they change for the better is not only your choice.  This involves many people. Is it that some people just don't want to get involved, for fear of failing again, or is it just that they are timid when dealing with life itself?  Either way, the assistance or lack there of, can alter the very state of our lives. People are of the utmost importance in this sort of situation.  Having a strong support group of people (friends and family) will greatly increase the odds that you come out of the situation with minimal mental anguish.  Knowing this will also allow you to realize how important you are to others.  Stress is constantly stinging people.  Some have subtle ways of showing it, others not so much. No matter what, caring for these people when they need it may be a small thing to you, but the positive impact it may have on them could monumental.  Think about it next time you see someone in a state of stress.  What would your little bit of assistance be worth to them?  Move the mountain, one pebble at a time and this world will be better for it. Still looking for the ideal place to ponder your deepest thoughts?  Look below for some help.      

Ranger Hal at Rose Hill elementary school, in 1955

Should I Rent or Buy?

Is it time to take the plunge into the home buyers' world? If the idea of purchasing your first home or just buying the next home is on your mind, I have some thoughts to add to the collection you've already been making in your own mind.  Sometimes moving seems like an exciting experience and other times just a nuisance.  The act of actual moving is totally irrelevant, though when it comes to actually achieving movers happiness. In order to gauge the level of success you've achieved from a move some factors must be taken into account.  The first that I've noticed when trying to understand this is whether or not I find myself smiling on the way home or annoyed, dreading another night there.  Where we lay our head at night is a big part of happiness.  Finding a place that draws us to it is a key to achieving the level of happiness that we've dreamed about for probably all our lives.  I know I have an ideal mind set and when heading home over the years, different houses and apartments that I've lived in have conjured up thoughts of peace as well as dread. This is why I have a suggestion if you are moving into a new area.  Do you know the neighborhood?  Do you know the neighbors?  Do you feel comfortable with your morning and evening commute? If any of these make you a bit hesitant, please do some research before buying and dedicating yourself to an area.  Maybe now is the time to rent a home to take a year and investigate the location a bit.  This may give greater insight into the desired location you want to buy.  Maybe something just isn't right.  If so, the lease will end and you can pick up the iMac and the six iPads and just move the family. When it finally feels right, it'll feel right and then you know without a doubt that you're ready to lay down roots in the area.  If now is the time to test out new areas, check out the guide below and the listings that just may help you on your search for happiness.

The term "garden-style" condo usually refers to a condominium residence in a building that has less than three stories. Most garden-style condos have balconies or patios for each residence. Many garden-style condos have a main entrance that opens to a common-area hallway. Additional common areas include the green space and "gardens" surrounding the structures. If you're interested in garden-style condos you'll have a lot of options in Northern Virginia.

From the suburban feel of Kingstowne to the central location of Bolling Brook from the vintage charm of Belle View to the chic feel of Carlyle Square, are just some of the many Northern Virginia condominium communities we feature.

What’s a good condo to buy for less than $300k?

Midtown Alexandria currently has properties listed for under 300k. These condos are walking distance to Huntington Metro and have a a array of modern amenities. The ground level showcases a well kept cyber cafe offering free wi-fi and a quite space to work/study. The fitness center has a number of treadmills, elliptical machines,  and free weights. A gym membership is not needed if you live here! The outdoor pool is directly outside, perfect for the fitness enthusiast. The party room is spacious and can be rented for a small fee. Pool tables, a bar and big screen tv make this a great place to hang out with friends. For under 300k, these condos are tough to beat.
Midtown Alexandria
Midtown Alexandria
Midtown Alexandria Cyber Cafe
Midtown Alexandria Cyber Cafe
Midtown Alexandria's Party Room
Midtown Alexandria's Party Room
Midtown Alexandria's Fitness Room
Midtown Alexandria's Fitness Room
Midtown Alexandria Pool
Midtown Alexandria Pool