The waterfront city of Alexandria, VA embraces its history, culture and Christmas with a long list of Christmas activities for residents and visitors, young and old.  This is just the tip of the iceberg: Friday, 11/23  7-9 pm  City of Alexandria's Tree Lighting Ceremony Historic Market Square in Old Town, 301 King Street. Come out Rain or shine and enjoy musical entertainment, a community sing along, caroling and a visit from Jolly Old Saint Nick!   11/25 - 1/6/13  9 am - 4pm  George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate From special Candlelight Tours, to a gingerbread Mount Vernon, to historical chocolate-making demonstrations, Mount Vernon is a Christmas lover's delight with its themed decorations and 18-th century dancing.   11/30 - 12/1  11 am  Scottish Walk Weekend One of Alexandria's ... 11/05/2012

I've tried really hard to find an official name for the row of shops on Slater's Lane in Alexandria but to no avail. So, we're just going to call it the "Slater's Lane Shopping Center." Except of course that it's not really a shopping center and it's not a strip mall either. Instead, it's a charming collection of shops at the entrance to the Potomac Greens and Old Town Greens townhouse development, across the street from the Old Town Crescent (condominiums)  and half way between the Monroe Street Bridge and the George Washington Parkway. Got it?  In other words, it's conveniently located for a lot of folks in North Old Town and Del Ray.   Here's what you will find at the "Slater's Lane Shopping Center": the Russian Gourmet Buzz Bakery Hairy Situations (dog grooming) Tropical Smoothie Ca... 08/19/2010

Canal Place is a great little community of brick garden-style condominiums located in Alexandria VA on the northern side of Old Town just off Pitt St. The community is composed of 7 three-story buildings with a total of 120 units. Between the buildings you'll find gorgeous well-manicured gardens. Most condos at Canal Place have either a fireplace, patio or small balcony. The architectural detailing on these balconies and patios is intriguing and little upscale. I took this picture while the landscapers were busy tending the lawn. The bag is filled with clippings. By the time they were finished the place was absolutely perfect. Canal Place, like many other condos, is also readying its pool this time of year. Canal Place is priced slightly higher than other similar communities like Belle... 04/21/2009