Important Announcement
PubHTML5 Scheduled Server Maintenance on (GMT) Sunday, June 26th, 2:00 am - 8:00 am.
PubHTML5 site will be inoperative during the times indicated!

Home Explore Willowsford Spring 2019 Issue

Willowsford Spring 2019 Issue

Published by agl_design, 2019-03-26 12:18:55

Description: Willowsford Spring 2019 Issue

Search

Read the Text Version

WillowsfordLife Spring 2019

Join CSA in 2019 Personal Share $25 Sign Up Today! Designed to support the weekly vegetable WillowsfordFarmCSA.com needs of singles and couples, or families that eat fewer vegetables. In Community Supported Agriculture, we plan, grow, and harvest vegetables using organic Family Size Share $39 farming practices to fit your household’s needs at any size. CSA subscriptions allow us The family size share contains the same varieties to match production to demand, and invest of vegetables found in the personal shares, but in growing the highest quality produce! We in quantities appropriate for families of 3-5 harvest three times a week to delight you people. with the freshest ingredients from kitchen to dinner table. With a flexible schedule Adventurous Eating Share $6 and multiple pick-up locations, Willowsford Farm’s CSA is the most convenient way to Surprise your palate with new flavors! While eat seasonally, and support local agriculture our other CSA shares will provide you with and your community. seasonal mainstays, this special “Add-On” will be lesser known herbs, rare cultivars, hard-to- FARM STAND & GARDEN find heirloom varieties, and unique crops we only grow in small quantities. May – November, 2019 23595 Founders Drive I Ashburn, VA 20148 Our popular Farm Eggs, natural Milks, pastured Meats, and fresh Flowers will also be available in shares this spring! CONTACT US [email protected] WillowsfordFarm.com

The Hometown Pros Willowsford Homeowners Trust Call us 703-463-2044 No More Weekend Projects Get more free time and the property that’s the envy of the neighborhood. “Rock Water Farm far exceeded my expectations in every way. The project is flawless and I recommend them to everyone!” Scott Ramsey, Willowsford Homeowner Over 60 5-star reviews on Google See recent Willowsford projects at RockWaterFarm.com/local Insuring our clients’ personal and business needs since 1981. business financial personal Call us today for a consultation! Business Solutions: Personal Solutions: 571-386-1000 Professional liability Home www.griffinowens.com Cyber Liability Auto Technology liability Collectors’ items Commerical Property Umbrella Liability

Manager’sLetter Manager’s Letter On the operations side, the Design Review Committee is entering peak season with members working their A Note from Willowsford Lane way through the abundant stacks of fence, patio, and pool applications each month. Facilities staff are working with vendors to enhance landscaping in several common areas, completing repairs and maintenance of the amenities, and preparing the pools for opening day on Saturday, May 25th. Our newest amenity, Willow Grove Pond & Splash Park is expected to open this summer so be on the lookout for more information. by Rebecca Lyons, CMCA ®, AMS ®, PCAM ® Speaking of amenities, are you planning a special HOA Community Manager event this year? If you have a graduation party, baby shower, milestone birthday, or wedding in the works, It seems like it’s taken forever, but spring has finally consider hosting your event at Sycamore House, arrived in Willowsford. The trees are budding, birds The Lodge, or one of our outdoor pavilions. Visit singing, and flowerbeds erupting. Plus, our team has WillowsfordLife.com for rates and more information. been working EGGstra hard to plan an exciting season for you and your family. Check out The Lifestyle section Now, to our many new residents, welcome home! If to find out what’s hopping your way this season! you need key fobs, website access, trash receptacles, would like to attend the next Willowsford 101, or simply have a question about the community, please email [email protected]. It is our pleasure to assist you in ensuring you and your family enjoy all this unique community has to offer. WillowsfordLife Vol. 2, No. 2: Spring 2019 Copyright 2019 © Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. WillowsfordLife is a quarterly publication of Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc., 23506 Founders Drive, Ashburn, VA 20148. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. reserves the right to reject or edit any articles or other content submitted to it for publishing. Any opinions expressed by the authors of articles or other content published herein are the opinions of such author and in no way, represent the opinion of Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. reserves the right to reject advertising determined to not be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by WillowsfordLife does not constitute an endorsement of products or services advertised herein. Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. does not take responsibility for and does not undertake effort to validate any representations by advertisers. Willowsford, Willowsford Conservancy, and are all trademarks of Willowsford, L.L.C. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication is expressly prohibited. Liability in the event of an error is limited to a printed correction. Printed in the USA. 4 WillowsfordLife

WillowsfordContacts SycamoreHouse TheLodge 23506 Founders Drive 41085 Willowsford Lane Ashburn, VA 20148 Aldie, VA 20105 (571) 297-2586 (571) 297-2584 Monday-Wednesday 9 AM - 5 PM Monday CLOSED Thursday-Friday 9 AM - 9 PM Tuesday-Wednesday 9 AM - 5 PM Saturday 11 AM - 6 PM Thursday-Friday 9 AM - 9 PM Sunday 11 AM - 4 PM Saturday 11 AM - 6 PM Sunday 11 AM - 4 PM WillowsfordContacts ImportantContacts [email protected] LCSO Emergency – Dial 911 HOA Questions, Comments & Concerns LCSO Non-Emergency – (703) 777-1021 [email protected] Animal Control – (703) 777-0406 Exterior Modification Applications Republic Services – [email protected] [email protected] Trash – Tuesday & Friday Lifestyle Programming & Amenity Rentals Recycling – Tuesday [email protected] Yard Waste – Wednesday Willowsford Development Team NOVEC Electric – (703) 335-0500 Washington Gas – (703) 750-1000 [email protected] Loudoun County Sanitation Authority – (571) 291-7880 Conservancy, Trails & Campsites Verizon Fios Phone & Cable – (800) 837-4966 Verizon Fios Internet – (800) 438-3467 [email protected] Willowsford Farm Team SFMC, Inc. – (703) 392-6006 [email protected] 5 Farm Stand & CSA Program Spring2019

9 26 38 14 23 32 12 18 29 6 WillowsfordLife 16 34

Spring 2019 Event Spotlight Paws & Claws 9 26 The Lifestyle Conservancy 12 29 In the Kitchen Farm 14 32 Community Clubs Just for Kids 16 34 Meet the Halls Winter Roundup 18 38 Community Standards 23 Spring2019 7

Most ERs aren’t equipped to care for kids. But Inova Fair Oaks and Loudoun Hospitals are. Child Life Specialists • Child-friendly sedation Facility and therapy dogs • Direct access to Inova Children’s Hospital inova.org/KidsER

EventSpotlight Kickstart YOU the end of the day, the group had come together in a in 2019 way they hadn’t expected. A Mind & Body Retreat Yes, there was yoga. And yes, there was cutting and pasting of magazine photos to create beautiful vision by Elena Sonnino boards. But there was also something much deeper. Willowsford Resident & Life Coach There was connection, which is what makes a retreat so unique. Retreats are more than just a self-care Motivating. Enlightening. Uplifting. Transformative. indulgence. Within the context of a day and shared Clarity. Gentle. Encouraging. We hear a lot about experience, comes an energy that is unique to each goals and New Year’s resolutions at the beginning of group that comes from showing up to be seen and each year. But as often is the case, those goals come realize that you are not alone. with layers of expectations and feelings that our lives need to be fixed. This year, Kickstart YOU in 2019: A “I was able to identify patterns that are holding me Mind & Body Retreat set out to foster a new paradigm, back and also recognize that weights I have are one that comes from mindfulness, and connection to a similar to those of my neighbors,” said Sara Lazarus deeper understanding of our heart’s desires. of the day. The group may have started as individuals, some neighbors, and a few brand new faces, but by The group assembled at The Lodge on January 5th, all the end there was a sense of vulnerability shared by for different reasons. Some were intrigued by the idea of a retreat in their own backyard. Others were drawn “...we create space for in by the promise of yoga. Others looked forward to what matters to truly getting crafty to make their own vision board. But by stand out .” Spring2019 9

EventSpotlight each participant that felt supportive, nurturing, and Throughout the retreat, participants moved through motivating. yin yoga, individual reflection, and group discussion to create space, attune to, and envision what their hearts Most of us move through our days on a continual crave. Nourished by delicious and healthy bites created loop of to-do’s and taking care of others. But when by Chef Natalie Ortiz, we stop to de-clutter there was sustenance. our lives–in our body, There was laughter. in our mind, and in our As we move into spring, consider these questions There were some tears heart–we create space to help you clean the mind-clutter and create and many hugs. There for what matters to truly stand out. The space for what wants to bloom! was honesty, courage, and commitment to question is, how do we What am I learning? stay connected to the release those patterns and stop waiting for What is shifting? inner strength and wisdom that emerged. the conditions to be What thoughts or stories are on repeat in my As Andrea Goldwater just right when we are mind? described the day, doing our very best to What is keeping me stuck? “It made me stop keep all the balls that we juggle in the air? And once you’ve created space, ask yourself: and reflect, which I What does my heart crave? rarely take time to It is easy to offer do. I learned how to mindfulness as a cure- better set myself up for all. But what is often left out of tips and tricks to be success.” more mindful or present in our daily lives is a shift in Don’t miss the opportunity to join me for the next focus from one of fixing and self-improvement to one retreat, Let Yourself Bloom, taking place Saturday, May of self-compassion and awareness. When we start 11th from 9 AM – 4:30 PM at The Lodge. Treat yourself from where we are, with less judgment and more to a day of relaxation, nurturing, and connection as acceptance, we are able to create space in our lives you honor all that you do and all that you are–just in for how we want to feel and what we want to amplify. time for Mother’s Day! “The retreat helped me better understand what I crave. That it is truly up to me,” said Eileen Sidaros. Elena Sonnino Life Coach Learn more about Elena at ElenaSonnino. com or through her Sunrise in Your Pocket podcast available on iTunes or Spotify. You can also join Elena for yoga at The Lodge on Wednesday and Friday mornings, or register for the next full-day retreat. 10 WillowsfordLife

• Custom Decks & Porches • Masonry & Retaining Walls • Patios & Walkways • Outdoor Kitchens & Landscaping Ask your neighbors about us!

TheLifestyle Willowsford 101 What to See, Thursday, March 28th Where to Go, When to Do Spring EGGstravaganza Springtime in Willowsford Saturday, April 13th WillowsfordLife by Susan Walters HOA Lifestyle Manager Spring brings so much beauty and life to Willowsford. Flowers are blooming and our best outdoor events and activities are on the horizon. One of my favorite upcoming events is the Spring EGGstravaganza featuring a visit from the Easter Bunny himself. Carpe Donuts will be on-site serving delicious treats and hot cider. Cuddly, baby farm animals will make an appearance and our egg hunt will be even larger than last year—over 7,000 eggs to fill your baskets! How many will you find? Also blooming this spring is a Farm-to-Table Brunch featuring a delightfully seasonal menu from Chef Jason Maddens, owner of AhSo in Brambleton. Sycamore House Courtyard is the perfect setting for this beautiful, outdoor meal showcasing a bounty of in-season ingredients. We love teaming up with local chefs and bringing fresh talent right here to Willowsford. In early May we get together to kick off the first outdoor concert of the year featuring Willowsford’s own Beltway Rockers. May is also when we celebrate the most important women in your life at our annual Mother’s Day Brunch hosted by Willowsford Kitchen. Reserve your seat today! Spring events wrap up with a Movie on the Lawn at Ellenvale Park in The Greens. This is the perfect outdoor location for a fun, family-friendly movie with lots of room to frolic. And as spring gives way to summer, we look forward to the pools opening on Saturday, May 25th and enjoying many splash parties and dive-in movies. Visit WillowsfordLife.com > Calendar to keep up with everything happening at Willowsford. 12

TheLifestyle Mother’s Day Brunch Sunday, May 12th Farm-to-Table Brunch Saturday, April 27th Summer Concert Movie on the Lawn Friday, May 3rd Friday, May 17th Spring2019 13

TheLifestyle In the Kitchen Spring Green Salad with Pickled Radishes Parent & Child Culinary Workshop by Chef Bonnie Moore Willowsford Culinary Director Culinary Workshops are a great way to spend quality time with your child and introduce them to cooking Pickling mellows the sharp, spicy flavor of radishes and eating in an exciting and interactive way! These and broadens their appeal. All you need is vinegar classes are designed to give children and their parents or lemon juice, salt and sugar. From there you can a chance to share a culinary experience enhanced by experiment with adding garlic, chilis, ginger, herbs our own Farm’s harvest, make a meal together, and and other aromatics. The radishes begin to pickle in enjoy a farm-to-table supper with neighbors. just a few minutes at room temperature or they can steep in the brine for several days in the refrigerator Unlike Jr. Chef Academy and Camp Willowsford, where their bite will continue to mellow. Serves 4. these one-time classes offer the adult/child team a chance to try a class without making a 5 to 6 class Ingredients commitment. In these fun, two hour-long sessions, 6 radishes kids learn and play with tastes and textures as they ½ cup red wine vinegar get their hands dirty mixing, measuring, and rolling to ½ teaspoon salt create their own meal. ½ teaspoon turbinado or brown sugar 6 cups mixed spring greens, such as butter crunch Parent & Child Parent & Child lettuce, arugula, watercress, and baby spinach Culinary Workshop Culinary Workshop 2 tablespoons (or to taste) Dijon Vinaigrette Ages 5 to 8 Ages 9 to 13 freshly ground black pepper to taste Tuesday, April 9th Wednesday, April 10th The Lodge The Lodge Instructions 5 - 7 PM 5 - 7:30 PM 1. To pickle the radishes: wash, trim and thinly 14 slice the radishes. (Fresh, tender radish leaves can be washed and added to the mixed greens). Toss the radish slices with vinegar, salt and sugar. Let stand for 5 minutes or refrigerate for several days. 2. In a large salad bowl, toss the greens with the Dijon vinaigrette, a pinch of salt and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle the salad with pickled radish slices and serve. At the Stand Look for radishes that are smooth, brightly colored and feel heavy for their size. The round red ones are a classic, but keep an eye out for multi-colored Easter egg radishes or nubby-looking French breakfast radishes at the Farm Stand. How to Store Radishes will keep for a week or more stored in the refrigerator. Trim the leaves keeping a bit of the green stem and refrigerate unwashed in a plastic bag. WillowsfordLife

Bug protection at the touch of a button! Retractable Screen Expert with over 15 Years of Experience As The Authorized Distributor of Phantom Screens • Motorized Screens • Motorized Shades • Motorized Vinyl Panels • Retractable Door Screens • Custom sizing on all projects Tri-State Retractable Screens 540-751-1269 www.TriStatescreens.com [email protected] a great dental experience for your child! Your Child’s SAFETY Comes First! Dr. Bushra Bhatti, DMD and our caring, experienced dental team make sure your child is comfortable during their entire visit! Convenient Evening Hours NEW PATIENT SPECIAL! Gentle, Caring Staff FREE Fun, State of the Art Office Cash Price for Cleaning, Polishing, Sedation Dentistry Consultation/Second Opinion Convenient Financing X-Ray, Dental Exam - $79 Valued at $86 Valued at $230 Expires in 30 days big smiles for little kids CALL:703-542-7300 24565 Dulles Landing Drive, Ste 150, Dulles, VA 20166 PediatricDentistLouNedxt too thue nNe.wcWoalmmart

CommunityClubs Raise ‘Em High 16 Bourbon Club Spotlight by Anthony Fiorillo Willowsford Resident As America’s native whiskey, bourbon is a tightly regulated product with distinct characteristics. It is high proof and aged in barrels for a premium taste. Bourbon’s general flavor profile is described as having big vanilla, oak, and caramel notes, which make it ideal for mixing into cocktails or enjoying straight up. If you’re a fan of Kentucky’s finest, then Willowsford’s Bourbon Club is the perfect opportunity to sip with like-minded neighbors. Bourbon Club was founded in September 2016 by former resident Frank Del Re and myself, a current resident of The Grove. Since then we’ve grown from two members to nearly 300 and continue to expand rapidly. There’s always room for new recruits who share an affinity for bourbon and learning about (and tasting) rare, premium, and small-batch bourbons. We typically host 4 to 5 events at The Lodge each year. A few of our favorite events include a MurLarkey Community Clubs Joining a Willowsford-Sponsored Community Club is a wonderful way to meet your neighbors, become familiar with the community, and make real world connections. Visit the Community Calendar online to view all upcoming club events and details. Each club also has a Facebook Group which residents can request to join. Archery Club Bourbon Club Brew Club Bunco Babes Club Retro-Fit WillowsfordLife

Distilled Spirits private tasting and a Kentucky Derby CommunityClubs event co-hosted with the Wine Club. We look forward to co-hosting a couple of events with other Willowsford- 17 sponsored Clubs this year. On February 1st, we teamed up with the Brew Club to sample beer aged in bourbon barrels and learned all about the process from guest speaker Wes Nick, Brewmaster at The Farm Brewery at Broad Run. On Saturday, May 4th, we’ll team up with the Wine Club once again for Derby Day. You can get more details on upcoming events from our Facebook page: Willowsford Bourbon Club. We would love to hear any ideas you have for future events. Please contact Tony Fiorillo at [email protected] with suggestions, comments, or any questions. We look forward to sharing a drink with you soon! Saturday, May 4th Derby Day Join us for the annual Willowsford Bourbon Club and Wine Club collaboration! We’ll celebrate the “two greatest minutes in sports” with Mint Juleps and plenty of fun. Check the Willowsford Weekly and Facebook group for more information. Details TBD. Community Garden Club Illustrious Novel Enthusiasts Mountain Bike Club Networking Group Recreational Sports Club Social Club Supper Club Willowsford Cares Willowsford Wheels The Wine Club North The Wine Club South Spring2019

Meet the 18 WillowsfordLife

FamilyFeature Halls Life in The Grove by Kacie Ward HOA Communications Coordinator The Halls were the very first family to settle onto Turkey Oak Drive in 2015. Now, almost four years later, their street is complete and filled with neighbors. “It was amazing because we were able to meet each new family as they moved in. We couldn’t have picked better neighbors if we tried,” Ryan and Erica say. The Grove became just what they were looking for, the perfect place to raise their four daughters. Ryan and Erica met through mutual friends in Los Angeles, CA, nearly 17 years ago. At the time he was stationed at L.A. Air Force Base and she had recently moved out west after experiencing a particularly long, cold, and snowy Boston winter. Ryan proposed to Erica on a dreamy hot air balloon ride overlooking the beautiful vineyards of Temecula, CA. They tied the knot in Cape Cod, MA in 2005. “We couldn’t have neighborhood, and fell in love when we checked it out picked better neighbors for ourselves,” Erica says. if we tried.” The recreational aspect of Willowsford also was a big draw for the family. The Halls enjoy spending time Ryan’s next military assignment brought them to outdoors, whether it’s jogging on the trails, ziplining Virginia where they spent the following seven years, at Overlook Knoll Park, digging in the garden, or before moving onto Tampa, FL. They enjoyed three swimming laps at the pool. Erica, a personal trainer years in the Sunshine State, filled with lots of beach and fitness instructor, teaches Bootcamp classes here trips to the Gulf of Mexico and visits to Disney World. at The Lodge, where she’s known for her encouraging For Ryan’s final assignment they wanted to put down attitude and endless energy! She also runs EveryMom roots and felt that Northern Virginia was already Fitness, offered at The Fieldhouse in Chantilly, which home. “We had heard about Willowsford—the farm- features Bootcamp classes that cater to moms—and to-table living and opportunities to be involved in the their kids and babies who are welcome to tag along. Spring2019 19

FamilyFeature Although their home is teeming with girls, Ryan fitness classes, loves doing squats and burpees, and doesn’t mind being outnumbered. “We have been enjoys cheering her sisters on in all that they do. blessed with four amazing daughters!” he says. This spring the Halls are busy planning their annual Summer, 11, is the eldest. Easter scavenger hunt. As a competitive gymnast “Instead of finding Easter she keeps the family busy with her practice Do you know a family that should be featured in eggs, we find clues around and meet schedule. This the next issue of WillowsfordLife? We are looking our neighborhood and the last clue leads us to year she is competing for candidates that have a unique, interesting as a Level 7 gymnast story to share and are actively involved in the a big prize!” says Kaia. with Gym America. Kaia, community! Nominate a fellow household by It’s something the family 9, loves softball, Girl e-mailing [email protected]. began doing in their old Scouts, and running— neighborhood in Florida and especially with the Girls then continued when they on the Run program at her moved to Willowsford. They school. Tatum, 6, is in kindergarten and loves soccer, had no problem convincing their new neighbors to join swimming, and pretty much anything else where she in on the fun! The Halls adore their life in The Grove, can be active. The littlest edition to the family, Emory, surrounded by a village of neighbors who quickly 3, is Erica’s mini instructor-in-training. She helps teach became great friends. 20 WillowsfordLife

OPEN 7am- 7pm & Saturdays! CARING DENTISTRY NEW PATIENT SPECIAL Cleaning, Exam & X-Rays - $79 INCLUDES FREE Take Home Teeth Whitening Kit! Valued at $376 Expires in 30 days FREE EMERGENCY EXAM Includes Necessary X-Rays and Screening for New Patients. Not to be combined with any other offer. 3D Imaging for Precise Root Canals Warm, Caring New patients only. Implant Placement Veneers Staff Valued at $118 Expires in 30 days Implants Crowns Digital X-Rays TMJ Treatment with Less Radiation MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED VOTED TOP DENTIST Dr. eo Batistas, DDS • Dr. Faline Davenport, DDS • Dr. Andrew Pham, DDS LoudounDentalAsso70c3ia-5te4s2.-c7o60m0 24565 Dulles Landing Drive Suite 190, Dulles, VA 20166 | Next to the New Walmart

Ted Britt Ford Lincoln of Chantilly would like to extend an exclusive offer to Willowsford residents. YOUR NEXT OIL CHANGE IS ON THE HOUSE! TED BRITT 4 LIFEStop by with your copy of WTiMllowsfordLife and experience our exceptional service. We look forward to earning your business for future maintenance and repairs. LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service ON ALL NEW & PRE-OWNED VEHICLES WITH LESS THAN 100,000 MILES!Loaners - NitroTire Fill - ComplimentaryVirginia State Inspection TED BRITT 4 LIFEPowertrain CoverageTM | Battery Replacement | Windshield Replacement Virginia State Inspection | Complimentary Service Loaner | Nitrogen Fill LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery ReplacemenCte- rStearvinicerestrictions may apply. Consult a sales representative for details. Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection TED BRITT 4 LIFE TM 4175 Auto Park Circle, Chantilly, VA 20151 LIFETIME VEHICLE COVERAGE Sales: (703) 454-0008 | Commercial Sales: (703) 544-2648 Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service Service: (703) 454-0012 | Parts: (703) 454-0014 Loaners - Nitro Tire Fill - Complimentary Virginia State Inspection TedBritt.com Powertrain - Windshield Repair - Battery Replacement - Service

CommunityStandards Design Review Committee Information Here are some upcoming DRC dates to keep in mind. Throughout the busy season, the Committee meets more frequently, every three weeks. If you have any questions about the process, please reach out to [email protected]. Note that DRC dates are officially advertised through the Willowsford Weekly emails and on the Willowsford Community Calendar online. Dates listed herein are subject to change. My Tree, April or Not My Tree? April 3rd – Application Deadline That’s a Good Question! April 9th – Pre-Review by Christine Massey April 17th – DRC Meeting HOA Assistant Manager May – First Session Perhaps you’ve noticed that the streets of Willowsford are beautifully lined along both sides with trees that April 24th – Application Deadline are, more often than not, located on homeowners’ April 30th – Pre-Review property. We call these street trees and it seems they May 8th – DRC Meting can cause quite the confusion. Who planted them and why? Who maintains them? Who replaces them? Well, May – Second Session here are answers to these and other frequently asked questions! May 15th – Application Deadline May 21st – Pre-Review What is a street tree and why was it planted on my May 29th – DRC Meting property? 23 Street trees are a requirement of Loudoun County and are planted in accordance with the approved County construction plans. Street trees are not permitted within the VDOT Right of Way, line of sight easement, or storm sewer easements. As a result, they often are located farther back from the street and within homeowner property boundaries. Spring2019

CommunityStandards Who is responsible for maintaining street trees? Spring into Action The Association is responsible for maintenance This winter has been particularly long, frigid, and including mulching, pruning, pest control, and snowy so thank goodness it’s coming to an end! weeding of the street trees. Residents should avoid As the deep freeze begins to melt away, it’s time mulching to ensure the trees are not over mulched. to prepare your home for spring. Here are some steps you can take now that may help avoid costly If street trees are within my property boundary, why am I not responsible? maintenance repairs later on: Street trees are located within an easement that Inspect the roof and gutters for damage; it’s was established for the purpose of maintaining likely taken a beating all season. They’re sure and replacing street trees, sidewalks, and signage. to clear gutters of debris as clogs can lead to water damage. Who plants street trees? Clean and repair driveways, fences, decks, and Initially the Developer plants the trees in accordance patios. Spray away salt, sand, and de-icers, with the approved County construction plans. then fill any cracks, holes, or gaps. Who do I report street tree issues to? Examine your windows, doors, and seals for any damage. Sealants can crack in extreme cold, If you have any questions or concerns regarding leading to water damage and drafts. a street tree, please contact the HOA at [email protected] and a work order will be Inspect the paint on the outside of your home. put in place for the issue to be investigated. Make any necessary paint repairs or try a fresh look–but be sure to submit an application for Who is responsible for replacing dead or dying street any paint color changes! trees? Examine your chimney. If needed, hire a chimney Street trees that need replacement within one year sweep to check the exterior for damage and or less of being planted will be the responsibility of clean the flue. the Developer, since there is a one-year warranty in place. Trees older than one year will be replaced Prepare lawn equipment. Make sure your lawn by the Association. mower and weed whacker are clean, gassed up and ready for the first spring cut. When are street trees replaced? Last, but not least–pull out your springtime Street trees that are determined to be dead or clothes, open up the windows, and turn on the dying, will be replaced in late fall, usually November music! or early December. Appointed to the DRC Meet Max We are excited to announce that residents Max “My wife Gigi and I moved from Harwell and Scott McIntosh have been appointed Herndon, Virginia where we lived to the DRC by the Founder! The Committee now for 29 years. We have four adult includes four members: one consultant, one children who live in the local area Development Team member, and two residents. with four grandchildren and one Thank you to all volunteers and we look forward to more on the way. At our last adding more residents in the future! residence, I was a member of the HOA Board for 15 years. While I was on the HOA Board the most important item that I felt that could affect the community was architectural changes. I want to help control that here in Willowsford, and that’s the reason I wanted to be on the DRC.” 24 WillowsfordLife

WF53119 WF53119 WF53119 Bobbie’s Bridal SPRING SALE 20% off entire purchase from stock Offer expires April 30, 2019 (Must bring ad to receive offer. This offer is not valid on prior purchases.) Bobbie’s Bridal Boutique 11258 James Swart Circle Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 273-2629 www.bobbiesbridal.com

Paws&Claws Ticked Off The Pet Corner by Alice Ignaszewski, DVM, MS Willowsford Resident It’s the first of the month, which means it’s time to give Songs chart, it’s because they’re a big deal. Ticks your pet his flea, tick, and heartworm medications. But can transmit numerous diseases to you and your how much do you know about these pesky, bloodthirsty pets, including, but not limited to: tularemia, Rocky critters you’re helping your pet fend off? Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. Since ticks feed on the blood of their The flea has solidified its place in history as the likely host, heavy tick infestations can lead to a low red cause of the Black Death, an outbreak of plague that blood cell count, a condition called anemia. This may killed 25 million people in Europe. Fleas are jumping leave your pet feeling tired and unable to exercise. insects that can set up shop on you or your pets. Fleas A lesser known condition, tick paralysis, is caused by lay eggs that fall off the host and into the surrounding neurotoxins found in tick saliva. Interestingly, in 2016, environment. This means that if your pet is infested, the euthanasia of a paralyzed dog was called off after flea eggs can be found in bedding, rugs, furniture, a veterinary student discovered a tick on the dog’s upholstery, and more. Once fully developed the fleas ear. The tick was removed and the dog was walking will look for a host and the cycle starts over again. 10 hours later! Fleas cause occasional itching and possible hair loss, but infestations can become serious. Pets allergic to The third parasite those monthly pills are working flea saliva suffer from flea allergy dermatitis, which to control are heartworms. The heartworm lifecycle is characterized by intense itching and skin lesions. begins when a mosquito ingests immature worms, Itching may be so intense that your pet is licking and called larvae, from an infected animal. While in the chewing at their skin continuously, potentially leading mosquito, the larvae will mature slightly before being to secondary infections. deposited into the blood of the mosquito’s next meal. If you love country music, you’ve probably heard Brad Paisley’s song Ticks. If an ectoparasite earns the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot Country Essential Spring Cleaning dishes in a bleach/water solution for about 10 Checklist for Pet Owners minutes, then run them through the dishwasher on high heat. Wash & Sanitize Toys Pet toys should be cleaned when visibly dirty or Refresh Bedding smelly (once a month at a minimum). Wash soft toys Just like your bed sheets, it’s recommended that in a garment bag with a mild detergent and dry in you wash your pet’s bedding once a week. If a pillowcase. Wash hard toys in the sink with a 50% you’re unsure how long it’s been since your pet’s water/50% vinegar solution, or throw them in the bed was washed, consider purchasing a new one dishwasher. and keep it on a cleaning schedule. Deep Clean Bowls Litter Boxes For a double dose of disinfecting power, soak the How often do you completely replace the litter in your cat’s litter box? If you routinely just scoop 26 WillowsfordLife

Paws&Claws Once in their definitive host, the larvae migrate to Willowsford the blood vessels of the lung where they become Off-Leash Areas adult heartworms. This infestation of worms living in the heart and lungs of an animal is what causes Let your pups run free this spring! Our heartworm disease. It is characterized by coughing, dog parks feature plenty of grassy open exercise intolerance, and heart failure. space, rolling hills, and even dog-friendly water fountains. If you don’t already have Fleas, ticks, and mosquitos all thrive in warmer a Willowsford resident dog tag, stop by weather, but practicing year-round prevention will Sycamore House or The Lodge to get yours help keep your furry family members healthy. It is good today and start enjoying the amenities. practice to regularly perform flea and tick checks, and eliminate potential breeding grounds for mosquitos. Everfield Community As always, consult your veterinarian if you think your Park pet may be sick. The Grant the box and then add new litter, use this time to completely replace the litter and scrub the box. Grassland Community Park Pet Pantry Check the dates on your pet foods. Fresh and frozen The Greens foods have a much shorter life span than dry and canned foods, but you should check them all anyway. Winston’s Walkabout The Grange Air Filter Trap airborne dust and dander with a filter to reduce lingering pet odors in your home. Look for filters made especially for pet owners; they come with built- in ionizers that minimize allergens and help deliver a boost of air freshening. Spring2019 27



Open May 1st-October 31st WillowsfordConservancy Cedar Pond Pavilion, Hidden Meadow Event Willowsford Field, Grant Family Wayfinding Campsite Conservancy Announcements Book early! With three beautiful venues for rental, residents have a range of options for camping, by Iris Gestram birthday parties, family events, scout gatherings, Conservancy Executive Director and similar opportunities to enjoy time in nature. Trail Improvements In addition to The Grant Family Campsite for Throughout winter we improved some notoriously families and smaller groups, Hidden Meadow wet trails in all villages that were impacted by the record amount of rainfall in recent months. Spring is Event Field & Group Campsite offers space and the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy all that amenities for group camping and events for up Willowsford has to offer! to 200 people. Cedar Pond Pavilion’s unique pond and woodland setting is the perfect location for In The Greens, a new section of wooden boardwalk family or club events, sleep-overs, and gatherings was constructed and mulch added to stabilize the trail for smaller and medium-size groups. To find out surface between mile markers 6.5 - 7.5 along Wetlands more and book your venue, visit the Venues section Way. A perpetually wet trail section behind Quadrille Court and Iron Harrow Court was raised to reduce of WillowsfordConservancy.org. standing water and mud in that section. Along The Grange Farm Loop, two sections downhill of the Farm fields received underdrains (known as French Drains) to better drain water into the ground. In The Spring2019 29

WillowsfordConservancy Grove, new trail connectors were added to the Tall Cedars Trail at Chatham Green Circle and Freshfields 30 Court. The existing trail connector at the corner of Black Willow and Trailhead Drive was improved, along with sections of the Tall Cedars Trail between mile marker 1.5 – 2.0. In The Grant, we conducted bridge and culvert repairs to address concerns with standing water in several areas. The heavy rainfall this year created many wet spots for which we continue to develop long-term, sustainable solutions. “Spring is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy all that Willowsford as to offer!” While enjoying the trails, you will notice new signage throughout all villages. We added landmark signs to identify amenities and points of interest and also updated the trail markers so they can be viewed from both directions. We will continue to improve the trail systems, so if you see an area that may need improvements, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the Report a Problem function in the Trails section of WillowsfordConservancy.org. Smartphone App for Trail Navigation Debuting this spring, we are excited to share our new smartphone app for navigating the Conservancy trail system! The app will offer digital maps with information about Conservancy and HOA amenities along the Willowsford trail network. To download the app, simply search Willowsford Conservancy Trails in the Apple or Google app store. Once installed, the app contains different maps to download individually. Map downloads require a username and passcode to ensure maps are accessible only to Willowsford residents. More information will be shared with residents upon official rollout of the app and will also be available on the Conservancy website. After a map has been downloaded, users can begin exploring the trail system in whichever village they choose. WillowsfordLife

WillowsfordConservancy The Maps screen will show users’ location as they Upcoming Conservancy travel, making trail navigation as simple as taking out Programs your phone. Points of Interest appear as clickable map icons and provide in-depth information on amenities Please visit the Calendar of Events at along the trails. Points of interest can also be browsed WillowsfordConservancy.org to view more via a Trail Stops screen where the points on the map are listed with pictures and interpretive information. information and register The Conservancy trail app will be unveiled in March for Right Plant, Right Place: Native The Grange and Grove villages. By the summer, maps Plants for the Home Garden of the trail system in all four villages will be available. We look forward to seeing you on the trails! Wednesday, April 3rd 6:30 – 8 PM: Sycamore House Springtime Sightings March, April, and May are great times to explore Beavers at Work the trails and spot wildlife. You may have noticed different animal tracks in the snow over the winter. Wednesday, April 24th (Rain Date: May 1st) If you remember their location, you may be able to 5 – 6:30 PM: Meet at Cedar Pond Pavilion catch sight of the furry friend that made them. Fox, Beaver, Eastern Cottontail, Muskrat, Woodchuck, Voices in the Night: Amphibian Walk Chipmunk, Moles, and many other species can be spotted throughout Willowsford. The best time for Thursday, April 25th (Rain Date: May 2nd) bird watching and listening is early in the morning, 6:30 – 8 PM: Meet at Sycamore House between sunrise and 8 AM. The evening hours before sunset are great for spotting nocturnal animals. Feathered Fosters Always remember to only take photos and respect our wildlife neighbors by keeping your distance. Please let April 27th – May 4th us know what you find! 11 AM – 2 PM: Pickup at the Farm Stand Trail App Nature Walk in The Grange Saturday, May 11th (Rain Date: May 18th) 4 PM: Meet at Sycamore House Bluebird Walk Sunday, May 19th (Rain Date: June 2nd) 10 AM – 12 PM: Meet at Pin Oak Park Spring2019 31

WillowsfordFarm What’s Sprouting? crops. Don’t like kale? No problem! Let us know, and we’ll never put it in your box. Love sweet peppers? Super, we’ll make sure you get plenty. We will use your saved preferences to build your custom share, From the Farmers each and every week. Of course, the more variety in vegetables you select, the more variety you’ll see in your CSA. We know that’s awesome, but there’s even by Collin Thompson & Ashley Swensen more to love. Farm Manager Retail Manager With our new system, you can log in each week, see CSA Custom Shares your share before pick-up, and make changes. That Willowsford Farm is so lucky (and grateful!) to have means you can grab extra tomatoes to make a sauce had strong support from our community since its or more eggplant if you’ve got company coming for inception. We know that just as we have put our efforts dinner. If you normally love pac choi, but you need into growing food, you’ve put effort into planning your something else for a recipe that caught your eye, you meals around seasonal produce, trying new recipes and can swap! Your box can have any combination of what cooking techniques, and arranging your schedules to we’re harvesting each week, with just a few clicks at accommodate CSA pick- your keyboard. ups. Our goal has always Meat & Dairy Updates been to make CSA as fun and convenient as Join CSA in 2019 Our Farmer’s Choice possible for you, and this Pastured Meat Shares got year, we’re stepping up our game! Willowsford rave reviews over the winter, Farm is now using new technology to help us Sign up today! Willowsford Farm’s CSA is the most so we’re thrilled to continue manage your CSA. What does that mean for you? convenient way to eat seasonally, and support this option for the full 2019 A truly customized CSA experience. local agriculture and your community. season. Each distribution is Veggies – Eggs – Milk – Meat – Flowers a pre-selected combination WillowsfordFarmCSA.com of high-quality frozen meats from both Willowsford Farm and our partners at Whiffletree Farm. Possible items for the bag each week When you create your CSA member account for either a include Whiffletree’s free-range chickens and grass-fed Personal or Family Size share, you’ll have the opportunity beef, wild caught salmon, and Willowsford Farm’s own to tell us how you feel about every one of our planned pork. You can expect to receive 7-12 lbs. of meat per week. An example of a weekly bag could be: a 4.5 lb. Collin 32 WillowsfordLife

WillowsfordFarm $2 bottle deposit for each half-gallon. If you choose glass, recycle your bottles with us at the Farm Stand and receive a $2 merchandise credit for each return. Fresh-Cut Stems Bring the beauty of the outdoors into your home with weekly, beautiful, seasonal bouquets from Loudoun County grower Barbara Lamborn at Greenstone Fields in Purcellville. CSA bouquets are usually 12 to 20 stems of currently available flowers and fillers. Barbara’s flowers are Certified Naturally Grown, freshly cut and arranged to highlight what’s blooming each season. whole chicken, 1 lb. of chorizo sausage, 1 lb. of bacon, 1 Feathered Fosters lb. pork tenderloin, 2 lbs. beef stew cubes, 1 lb. salmon filet. This share is slightly different than our veggies, One of the most important things we grow and the CSA contents are set each week. Although is the connection between our community we cannot accommodate substitutions to the weekly shares, for those of you who currently eat a variety of and their food sources. We’re nurturing meats, this is a convenient opportunity to keep your that connection with a new program this freezer stocked with products that are locally sourced, year, Feathered Fosters. At the end of April, humanely raised, non-GMO, and antibiotic free. For we’ll have pairs of newly hatched broiler those with different dietary preferences, we also chicks for you to take and care for in your provide a subscription for whole broiler chickens only. homes for seven days! The Farm will give you all the information and materials you Please join us in welcoming South Mountain Creamery’s need to keep them healthy during their grass-fed milk to the dairy shelves! Your CSA milk will stay with you; all you’ll need to provide is now be traveling from the family farm of Randy and care. Through this program, your family Karen Sowers, in Middletown, MD. They’ve been dairy can have a truly memorable “hands-on” farmers for almost forty years, and in 2001, they began processing their own milk right on the farm. The South learning experience in the joys and re- Mountain Creamery herd of Jerseys and Holsteins live sponsibilities of caring for baby livestock a pampered life with full access to pasture. Their non- animals. Available April 27 - May 4 with GMO supplemental forage is wholly grown for them pick-up 11 AM – 2 PM at the Farm Stand. by the Sowers in an awesome example of a closed Cost: $30. Keep an eye on our social media loop agricultural system. They are never exposed to hormones, and any cows requiring antibiotics to for sign-ups this spring! maintain their health are pulled from milk production. Because the production facility is located on site, 33 your gently pasteurized milk is unbelievably fresh and delicious. The milk doesn’t leave the Sowers’ farm until it comes straight to you. In our taste test at the farm offices, we found first-class quality not just in flavor, but in everything from color to texture. All milk share options (cream top, whole, 2%, skim, chocolate) will be available in your choice of glass or plastic half-gallons from SMC. The price of glass half-gallons includes a Spring2019

JustForKids The Art Gallery April Showers Bring May Flowers Sydney Sadowski, Age 6 Emili Sadowski, Age 7 Nathan Ewaldsen, Age 11 Sonali Kapoor, Age 4 Next Issue Katie Clarke, Age 9 Want to be featured in the next issue of Springtime Fun WillowsfordLife? It’s almost time for Camp Willowsford! Campers: please submit a Spring brings us many of our favorite things: birds, drawing showing what you’re looking flowers, butterflies, and warmer weather. Here are forward to this year, whether it’s kayaking some fun, outdoor activities to try this season! on Willow Lake, cooking with Chef Bonnie in the kitchen, or something else entirely. Go on a Ladybug hunt. Grab your magnifying glass and head off on a Ladybug hunt. When Simply “fill the frame” on the opposite page you find one, carefully count its spots and then and drop off artwork at Sycamore House gently let it go. or The Lodge by May 4th. On the back of Explore surprises along the trails. Enjoy some submission please include: child’s name and age (may be published), plus parents’ names WillowsfordLife and address (used for verification purposes only). All submissions become the property of Willowsford HOA and may be published in a future issue. 34

JustForKids Want to be featured in the next issue of WillowsfordLife? Fill the frame! fresh air and take a walk to discover Bear Barn have beautiful dried flowers. Tree House, Log Cabin Tree House, and White Oak Tree House. Adventure awaits. Spend the afternoon at Overlook Knoll Park in The Grove which features a mini zip- Splash in the puddles. Don’t let the rainclouds get line and various adventure bridges arranged in a you down! Put on your raincoat and boots and go circuit surrounding a wooded picnic area. outside for a good ol’ splash in the puddles around the neighborhood. Plant seeds. There’s something special about squishing your fingers into the soil. Take great care Press flowers. All you need are some fresh flower to water daily and wait patiently for the first sign of heads, plain paper, and a very heavy book. green to pop through the soil. Sandwich the flowers between two sheet of paper and stick inside the book. After a few days you’ll 35 Spring2019

JustForKids 2019 WEEK 1 WEEK 4 Camp Willowsford 6/10 – 6/14 7/8 – 7/12 Looking for an amazingly fun, one-of-a-kind experience Culinary Camp Big Circus Art Camp for your child this summer? Camp Willowsford will Location: The Lodge Location: Sycamore House instill in your child a lifelong love for nature, good food Ages: 5-8 Ages: 5-8 and healthy living, foster talents and explore unknown capabilities - all in your very own backyard. There’s not 3D Art Camp Discover Camp another camp like it. From time spent on the Farm and Location: The Lodge Location: Sycamore House in the Kitchen to Willow Lake, from recreation spaces in Ages: 9-12 Ages: 9-12 Sycamore House and The Lodge, to the Conservancy’s new Cedar Pond Pavilion, learning opportunities at WEEK 2 WEEK 5 Willowsford have no bounds. 6/17 – 6/21 7/15 – 7/19 Camp Willowsford registration is open! Sign up today Culinary Camp Lego Brick Build Camp at WillowsfordLife.com. Location: Sycamore House Location: The Lodge Ages: 5-8 Ages: 5-8 STEM Camp Discover Camp Location: Sycamore House Location: The Lodge Ages: 9-12 Ages: 9-12 WEEK 3 WEEK 6 6/24 – 6/28 7/22 – 7/26 Challenge Island Fort Farm Camp Island Camp Location: Sycamore House Location: The Lodge Ages: 5-8 Ages: 5-8 STEM Camp Culinary Camp Location: Sycamore House Location: The Lodge Ages: 9-12 Ages: 9-12 36 WillowsfordLife



WinterRoundup Santa Visited Willowsford Santa and Mrs. Claus made a special visit to Sycamore House on Saturday, December 8th to hear holiday wishes and to take family photos. Here are some of our favorite moments from the day! 38 WillowsfordLife

WinterRoundup Spring2019 39

Willowsford Homeowners Association, Inc. 23506 Founders Drive Ashburn, VA 20148


Like this book? You can publish your book online for free in a few minutes!
Create your own flipbook