It’s the end of July and the dog days of summer are in full swing. Between cookouts and beach days, paddleboarding and trying all three of the new ice cream shops here in Virginia Beach (purely in the name of research) my July has been full of good old-fashioned summer fun. July also seems to when the year starts to fly by a lot more quickly; pumpkin-spiced everything will soon grace store shelves and Halloween won’t be too far behind. After that it’s all about the food and festivities of the holidays. Before the year gets too far ahead let’s take a look at what I did this July.
The Casual Travelist contains affiliate links, when you make a purchase or book a hotel through these links the Casual Travelist receives a small commission that helps support this site at no additional cost to you.
I got a new nephew!!!
The biggest news this month is that my sister gave birth to a new baby boy! If you happen to have been keeping track she now has 3 boys, ALL UNDER THE AGE OF THREE. While my sister won’t be getting much sleep any time soon I’m so thankful she’s given me a new nugget to love and spoil. Needless to say I’m smitten with this adorable little guy.
Summer fun in Charlottesville
Lately I’ve been planning more of my trips to meet up with friends and this month I met up with one of my old Navy pals and her husband in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains near Charlottesville, Virginia. When it comes to weekend getaways it doesn’t get much better than Charlottesville. This time we made our base at the Guesthouse at Afton Mountain Vineyards and let me tell you guys, the views here just can’t be beat (not to mention Afton’s tasting room is just steps away from out cottage!).
This guest cottage is also perfect for exploring the Nelson 151 Trail, a country road north of Charlottesville lined with some of Virginia’s best breweries, wineries (including Veritas Winery, one of my personal favorites) and cideries all against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Good wine, good brews, good friends and good views; does it get much better?
Our weekend wasn’t just about wine, the great outdoors beckoned. On a sweltering southern July day the water beckoned and we couldn’t resist tubing down the Rivanna River. The Rivanna is a small river that goes right through Charlottesville and despite being right in the heart of the city the river felt like it was out in the middle of nowhere. Floating down the Rivanna was a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon.
Things I’m Loving
This pineapple-basil highball may be my new favorite summer cocktail.
I lost this rashguard from Carve Designs to the river gods while tubing. I’ve already ordered a new one.
Hoisin glazed turkey meatballs with rice noodles are healthy, delicious and quick enough for a weekenight.
Leave a Comment