The convenience of Franconia Forest

Art Festival in Old Town Alexandria VA

Will and Julie at Art Festival
At the 2009 Alexandria Art Festival
This weekend Julie and I went to Old Town with the Alexandria Fun with Friends Group to enjoy the Alexandria Art Festival. The Art Festival occurs every year around this time and features artists and craftsmen from around the area.
2009 Art Festival
2009 Art Festival in Old Town Alexandria
King Street closes to vehicular traffic and artists set-up stalls in the street. It's an easy way to enjoy lots of art from lots of folks. The weather was very co-operative, neither too hot nor too cold.
Old Town Alexandria
2009 Old Town Alexandria
This 12 foot tall image of a koi caught my eye, as did many smaller pieces.
artwork
Arts Festival in Old Town Alexandria
I found that my camera was drawn to the larger pieces, but this is probably because I knew they would photograph well. There were many smaller items for sale too. However, many of us felt that this year's festival seemed to offer more pieces that would be welcomed in a restaurant or hotel lobby than usual and a few number of the smaller pieces that look nice in a home.
harpist
Harpist
There were several musicians playing up and down the street. This harpist sang like an angel, but I have to admit that my favorite was the steel drum player.
King Street
People walking King Street during Art Festival
We walked all the way up to Washington Street before turning around and making way back to the Potomac. After some discussion the group voted to eat at the Charthouse. At the Charthouse, the ladies had a little wine and we enjoyed some relaxed conversation and then dinner. For my part, I think the food at the Charthouse is good, but not great. Even though it's a little pricey, it's worth it because of the pleasant views of the Potomac that are offered. Charthouse
Will Nesbitt About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo Alexandria and Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

The convenience of Mount Vernon Townes will surprise you

Mount Vernon Townes in Alexandria VA are close to Ft Belvoir, shopping centers, Metro bus stop and more. These affordable townhouses were built around 2001 and their prices are remarkable. Community is served by Woodlawn Elementary School, Whitman Middle School and Mount Vernon High School. For Sale at Mount Vernon Townes    

A walk on the waterfront

Fortune Teller at waterfront
Fortune Teller in Old Town
I took a walk on waterfront in Old Town Alexandria VA last night. The temperature was absolutely perfect as was the humidity. There were crowds, but it wasn't too much. I saw folks rushing to the Nina Dandy and other boats for an evening of cruising. There were several street musicians playing King St. At the pass-thru under the Torpedo Factory, a gentleman was playing the saxophone. And down along the water a street magician was showing his stuff. The balloon men were there creating animals and entertaining the children. A fortune teller was portending the future. A parrot rescue group had a flock of parrots and similar birds which were available for photos. But then a light misting rain started to fall and the crowds scattered. At first they hid in the Food Court and on the trolley. The musicians were the first to pack, and they packed quickly to ensure their instruments weren't damaged. The mule drawn carriage pulled off and soon the streets were quiet. We walked around a bit, enjoying the peace and quiet. And then we were gone as well.
Street Magician
Street magic at the water front in Old Town Alexandria VA

Will Nesbitt About the Author --- Will Nesbitt is the principal broker of Condo Alexandria and Nesbitt Realty. Will specializes in condos, townhouses and single family residences in Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Crystal City, and Kingstowne. Will resides in Belle Haven Estates just outside Alexandria VA in Fairfax County.

Featured Neighborhoods in Southern Fairfax County

I make no secret of my love of Southern Fairfax County. It's definitely one of my favorite areas of Northern VA. From upscale and luxurious homes to budget-saving cheapos, you can find it here in a community that is close to town, easy on traffic and loaded with activities and amenities. To make things a little more confusing, Fairfax County surrounds the City of Fairfax. Locals generally refer to the county as "Fairfax County" and the city as "Fairfax", but Alexandria uses the opposite nomenclature. "Alexandria" generally refers to greater/postal Alexandria, while "City of Alexandria" refers to the jurisdiction of the City of Alexandria. So if you're a newcomer here it can be a little tricky to find the right home at the right price in the South County area. Contact us if you're looking for a local expert and we'll put you on the path to finding the home that you really want. Some highlights of the Mount Vernon / Alexandria area include:

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