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Wed05232012

Last update10:53:40 PM

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Local businesses that will make your life merrier

My front door must be some kind of portal for lost thoughts because I always seem to remember things as I am leaving the house.This time of year, my recaptured memories usually have to do with holiday gifts I should be bringing along with me—to the holiday party, for the music teacher.So if you find yourself in a similar position this week before Christmas, let me recommend a couple of local businesses to you.

Winesmith
The Shoppes at Ryan Park, Ashburn,
703-729-2970
You can walk into Winesmith not knowing exactly what wine you are looking for.Trust me, I have done this. Many times.Whether I am going to a party, throwing a party or just looking for a wine that compliments a regular old pork tenderloin, I know that the staff’s good taste in and expansive knowledge of wine will suggest something extraordinary.I like, too, that their definition of fine wine does not always include a high price.

Mayflowers
19321 Winmeade Drive, Lansdowne
571-333-1230

I walk into a florist shop with the same giddy expectation of reckless indulgence that I imagine Carrie Bradshaw would feel walking in a Manolo Blahniks store.An artful flower arrangement can smooth over almost anything, I tell my boys.The arrangements in Mayflowers ripple vibrantly and impart a sense of movement.We had a small arrangement made for us for around $35 and I hated to give it away.

Blue Ridge Grill
Brambleton Town Center, Brambleton
703-327-1047

In the past two weeks, I have eaten at Blue Ridge Grill ( three times—twice for lunch and once with the fam. Each time was spectacular.What amazes me is that the food and the prices are equally terrific.Their new Brambleton location is right next to Fox Cinemas, making it the perfect place for drinks and appetizers before a movie.Although it is so nice in there, you might decide to forego the movie.

Edibles Incredible Desserts
Brambleton Town Center, Brambleton
703-722-2992

The popular bakery from Reston has opened a shop a couple doors down from the Blue Ridge Grill. Edibles Incredible Desserts have a delectable assortment of individual cupcakes.I bought two recently—one with chocolate icing and their homemade fudge on top and the other was a yellow cupcake with vanilla frosting—to take home to my kids.They loved them.The cupcakes were so rich that they could not finish them.So I had to.Motherhood is tough.

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