General Contractor- Ronald Jimenez

General Contractor- Ronald Jimenez  

RJ Painting & Drywall, 703-932-0551

I am not only the founder of Aphioni.com, I am also a satisfied client! A guest of my site recommended Ronald Jimenez as an excellent general contractor back in February, and it wasn’t until April that I needed a contractor to do some dry wall work on my kitchen ceiling (see the F.H. FURR review for complete details!) and after yet another referral for Mr. Jimenez, I called him up.

 

He showed up right on time to assess the job, removed his shoes at the door, and politely introduced himself. After I showed him the damage, his quote sounded pretty low, so I went over the details again of everything I needed done- drywall repair to a gaping hole my ceiling, repainting in several spots that were stained from the 2nd floor leak. he asked if I had the paint so he could do the touch ups, and I told him there were about 20 paint cans in the basement but I didn’t know which one was for the ceiling. He said he likely had the right paint, not to worry, & confirmed that his price was inclusive of everything. SOLD!

 

Mr. Jimenez called when he was on his way to confirm that I was ready for him, and arrived moments later with everything he needed. I work from home and spend the day on the phone with my clients, and Mr. Jimenez was so quiet  with his set up I thought that maybe he was taking a break, so i peeked around the corner to see… He had already set up his ladder and tools, and had put up what looked like a circular, plastic, shower curtain around the work area to prevent the powdery residue that the drywall work would produce from flying everywhere. I really appreciated that touch!

 

The curtain must have muffled the noise as well; while I could hear him working less than 20 feet behind me, I was still able to work without interruption. After he painted, he waited to ensure that the paint matched the ceiling. It was close- but not perfect- so he asked to see the paint collection languishing in a corner of my basement. Since crutches and basement stairs are a recipe for a disaster (or for $10,000 on America’s Funniest Home Videos,) I pointed him in the right direction and wished him luck. This guy knows his paint- there were at least 5 shades of some sort of “white” down there, and he got it exactly right. When the ceiling dried, it was as if the hole was never there. Smooth work, no ridges or bubbles, perfectly repainted with no streaks and glops. When The Man came home he couldn’t find a single thing to criticize, which- trust me- is miraculous!

 

Ronald Jimenez’s craftsmanship on this small job is indicative of the pride he takes in his work, no matter how simple. His professionalism and courtesy were a stand out in a field where quite often you come across the direct opposite. Neighbors and Aphioni guests have hired him to install chair rails, molding, exterior and interior painting, and even artistry for children’s bedrooms and bathrooms! I’m so pleased to write this review because Mr. Jimenez’s ethics and standards represent what Aphioni.com is all about- the “hidden gems of the industry”!  Without question~

 

Ronald Jimenez of RJ Painting & Drywall Passes with Flying Colors!

   

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Casual Dining- Village Grill

Village Grill

http://www.villgrill.com/

 

44260 Ice Rink Plaza   Ashburn, VA 20147

703-726-9563

 

When dining out, your expectations do as much to determine your experience as the actual S.A.M. (Service, Atmosphere & Menu) itself. When I make reservations at Ruth Chris, I expect precision and perfection in the meal and its service. And when I walk in to Village Grill, I expect exactly the same thing- and they have come through with well- Flying Colors!

 

Village Grill now inhabits the corner of Ice Rink Plaza that Beef O’Brady’s quietly disappeared from. The atmosphere beckons families and adults alike to enjoy anything from Nachos to Pineapple Plum Glazed Chicken. The menu straddles pub fare and upscale entrées with relative ease. But I’ll get back to the food in a minute… from the moment we entered Village Grill it was clear that we had not one waiter, but a team to look after our needs. Smiles all around, recommendations on meals, friendly banter with my son- good vibes from the get go.

 

The atmosphere is casual and pleasant- high backed wooden booths keep your conversation from being the focus of the party behind you, and vice-versa. TV’s showing sports, news and cartoons are visible from every seat in the house. The free wii available to kids of all ages is another nice touch- so much better than listening to The Boy’s mantra “how much longer for the food??” which we would normally have to endure from 30 seconds after the order is placed! Diversionary tactics- love it!

 

We lead off with the crab dip which is served with grilled pita chips, and simply delicious, especially if you enjoy garlic and lumps of crab in your dip!  The Boy ordered the Kid’s BBQ Chicken Leg with fries and steamed veggies. The kid’s meal comes with a drink and a big ol’ tub of Dibs ice cream all for just $6.00! I am proud to say The Boy ate his broccoli without even making a face, so it must have been good. The three tasty chicken legs made him very happy since he had worked up an appetite during his baseball game. The Man had a Chicken Cobb Salad, Coconut Shrimp with pineapple salsa, and a side of crisp, tasty onion rings- guess he worked up an appetite too! The salad was delicious- well balanced with strips of chicken, crumbled smoked bacon, egg, avocado and bleu cheese, pre-tossed in a chipotle ranch dressing. Plenty for two to share. I am allergic to shrimp but The Man enjoyed them, and he is a pretty harsh critic! I enjoyed the roast beef and havarti sandwich on grilled sourdough- the beef was tender, the cheese was subtle, creamy and a nice complement to the horseradish spread on the sandwich.

 

We are also impressed the diverse beer selection Village Grill offers. I opted for the robust Brooklyn lager while The Man drank in “liquid summer” in the form of a refreshing, smooth, Belgian Hoegaarden. They have original brews to choose from as well as standard domestic favorites, and a wine list that I have yet to sample.

 

Overall, Village Grill is a comfortable, friendly neighborhood restaurant where you could bring a variety of people and find something for each of them to enjoy from the menu. The outdoor dining area adds to its appeal, and with plenty of parking- it’s a no-brainer to meet up here for a casual get together, after the game, or to watch a game! No matter what your reasons, your expectations will be met and exceeded, because~

 

Village Grill Passes with Flying Colors!

 

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Mediterranean Breeze

Mediterranean Breeze

http://www.mediterraneanbreezeashburn.com/

 

20693 Ashburn Rd.    Ashburn, VA 20147         

(703) 726-1045

 

It’s very simple. Excellent meals start with excellent ingredients. And when you correctly combine those ingredients to create a menu item, you get nothing short of fabulous! That’s one of the secrets to Mediterranean Breeze’s success: high quality ingredients from the word go.

 

One of my favorite sandwiches on earth is the gyro. The Man pronounces it “jy-ro”, as they must, in NYC. I pronounce it “ghee-ro”, and when I tried to order one in Manhattan, I got the 5-second blank stare, the waitress turned to my husband with this “is she serious?” look on her face, to which he replied- “a jy-ro.” Sorry- I digress…

 

Med Breeze makes- and should be expectedto make- an excellent gyro with fresh, pillowy, pita bread, house made Zaziki sauce, fresh diced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and a sprinkling of feta cheese, all spread on top of the premium ingredient, the gryro meat- spiced and sliced from a spindle. Absolute perfection- the meat is hot, tender and infused with the spices of the Med. You never need to order the extra Zaziki unless you are taking some pita to go for tomorrow’s snack.

 

Also fantastic- the Mousaka- layers of potatoes, sliced eggplant, and seasoned ground beef topped with bechamel sauce. It’s an easy dish to get wrong- tough eggplant, sauce too thick or without flavor, an uneven combo of the ingredients… it can really be awful. But at Med Breeze- the layers are perfectly balanced, the potatoes are the right size and consistency, the eggplant is tender and flavorful, and the sauce is smooth, creamy and the perfect compliment to the seasoned beef. If you’ve had a bad Mousaka, and sworn off of it- as I had done- hit Med Breeze and find out what it is supposed to taste like- hints of cinnamon and cumin give it an original flavor that few other dishes serve up!

 

The atmosphere is truly Grecian, accented top to bottom with the deep and cerulean blues of the sky & ocean, the murals of columns and ancient architecture of historic Greece; it’s an impressive, spacious and beautiful dining area. The service is also above reproach: polite, efficiency at its finest. Your meal comes out at the pace you set- not the kitchen. Every nuance here signifies the pride the management takes in making your experience a personal and fully enjoyable one.

 

They also specialize in Italian dishes: pastas, pizzas, meat & seafood specialties- large portions, and they look fabulous. But I have never been able to stray from the Greek Specialties to try their other meals. I’m confident they are just as well made and delicious as the appetizers and entrées I havedevoured- Dolmades, Souvlaki, Hummus, Mousaka, and of course, my beloved Gyro.

 

Ashburn is blessed with several superior Mediterranean restaurants- Lebanese, Turkish & Greek specialties around town… to have so many amazing choices is truly a gift, and we should appreciate the jewels of the Mediterranean that have made our town their home. So if he wants Chicken Parmesan, and you want Chicken Shish Kabob, you are in luck because you can get them both in one place, prepared with care and presented with pride, because~

 

Mediterranean Breeze Passes with Flying Colors!  

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Italian Cuisine/Pizzeria- Sal’s NY Pizzeria

Sal’s NY Pizza

Broadlands Town Center
43145 Broadlands Center Plaza
Broadlands, VA (Ashburn Area)

(703) 729-7791

 

Before marrying a boy from Brooklyn, this naïve Nebraska girl thought pizzas only came in small, medium or large, and were always delivered within 30 minutes or they were free! Ordering a “slice” sounded like just buying 2 eggs instead of a dozen to me- it simply, wasn’t, done. So when he took me to Manhattan in 1994 and gave me a true education in pizza, New York style- I was truly amazed by the massive size, variety of ingredients, and the crisp, thin crust on these slices!  And not until Sal’s NY Pizza, have I experienced this bliss in NoVa.

 

Gotta start with the atmosphere- what a pleasant, casual, family-friendly place to get a slice. Flat screen TV set on Nickelodeon aside, Sal’s is original with charming accents of both New York and Italy. Comfortable seating for two or for large groups, interesting decor, and a welcoming feeling. When the weather is fine, you can dine al fresco near the fountain, and people-watch in the plaza. The service is straightforward and efficient- they take your order, they get the order right, you collect your food, baddaboom, baddabing!   

 

The Man ordered his standard favorite- a Chicken Parmesan sub. It was stuffed with tender, juicy, fried chicken breasts, covered in a hearty, flavorful sauce and mozzarella cheese. It was hot, tasty, on a fresh Italian bread, and simply delicious. He also ordered a rice ball, smothered in sauce and ricotta cheese, an Italian traditional side filled with meat, rice, peas and cheese. The Man’s used to rice balls being just about the size of a baseball; Sal’s are the size of a softball! A wonderful and tasty treat, but do yourself a favor- only order one- it will serve a family of four!  

 

I am somewhat adventurous, so I tried Sal’s White Pie- a sauce-less delight with fresh garlic, ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan cheese on thin, crisp, Neapolitan crust. I added sausage- which was not ground, to my surprise, but cut from links and generously covering the slice. Wow. It was spectacular, the ricotta and mozzarella came just about to the edge of the slice, the creamy ricotta melted in your mouth, and the garlic flavor was delicate and a perfect accent to the sausage. What a slice! I can’t believe I ate the whole thing…

 

We finished off with what The Man called the “true test” of Sal’s ability to bring NYC to the Broadlands- the Zeppolis: globes of fried dough covered with powdered sugar, so simple, yet- the only good Zeppoli, is a great Zeppoli!

 

Sal’s staff kept a watchful eye on our progress through our meal and had our Zeppoli’s ready just as we finished stuffing ourselves on our dinner. They were served exactly as we had them at the San Gennaro Feast in Manhattan in 2000- in a brown paper bag, piping hot, the powdered sugar becoming a decadent, sweet paste. Better have clean hands, because you don’t use napkins to get that sugar off of your fingers- you become a kid again, licking every finger clean. It ain’t health food folks, these deep fried treats are the Italian version of homemade cake donuts with no rules and no holes! The bag absorbs most of the grease, the sugar absorbs the rest! (Your thighs will absorb any grease that’s left.) Thick, delicious, and lip-smacking good- a great Zeppoli doesn’t taste greasy at all! From the first bite, the boy from Brooklyn was very impressed, and made it clear that Sal definitely brought Brooklyn home to the ‘burbs.

 

Summer is coming and we look forward to walking to Sal’s for a slice and some authentic Italian Spumoni, to booking Sal’s for Little League end-of-season parties, and to The Man getting a taste of home without driving four hours, because~

 

Sal’s NY Pizza Passes with Flying Colors!

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Plumbing, Heating & Cooling- F.H. FURR

F.H. FURR
Plumbing · Heating · Air Conditioning, Inc.

http://www.fhfurr.com/index.html

703-430-1374

 

There are 3 professionals we must all inevitably deal with- and it’s rarely out of choice, but necessity: lawyers, the IRS, and plumbers. Unless you have suddenly come into a huge amount of money- you rarely contact (or are contacted by) these folks unless there is trouble- and then- they gotcha! So when The Man looked down and saw a puddle in the kitchen, and The Boy looked up and saw a leak in the kitchen ceiling- we knew our tax refund was in grave danger. Turns out the leak was coming from the master bathroom, likely that the tub was the culprit.

 

While The Man called a few buddies who are pretty handy, knocked out bathtub tiles, and speculated about the likely problem, I called the wifeof one of the handy buddies and got a referral for a plumbing service. She instantly recommended F.H. FURR, saying they’ve had a service contract with them for years and have always been pleased with their work.

 

After easing my husband off of the “testosterone ledge” that made him think he could fix the leak himself (you can do it ladies- be persistent!) we set an appointment with F.H. FURR. They showed up right on time- calling first to ensure that we were home and ready for them. Casey, our technician, was personable and professional from the moment he stepped into our house. He covered his shoes in disposable booties before walking through our home- showing the kind of respect for our home that I have rarely seen from a service company- impressive start! My dear friend who referred them to us asked her technician about the booties, and he replied, “Mr. Furr would not want dirty boots walking around his home, he treats his customers the same way.” 

 

Casey carefully assessed then set about fixing our leak. He described every detail to The Man, showed him exactly what caused the leak and what needed to be done to repair it.  Casey provided a static pricing list of what it would take to fix it. This was yet another business practice of FURR’s that we truly appreciated- he didn’t come up with a rate off the top of his head- he had set pricing that was in a book. And to our surprise- the price was below our “pain point”- even lower when combined with one of the coupons on FURR’s website- woohoo!

 

While we waited for some… thing to dry so Casey could check the leak site (The Man paid attention- I didn’t!) before he left, he checked other pipes in the house, offered some advice on several things to watch to avoid future problems, and was just plain ol’ helpful and pleasant overall. They rechecked the leak site, all appeared to be fine, so Casey and The Man settled up and he left, removing his booties at the front door. The site did begin to leak again soon after Casey left- it was the kind of thing where it would take water flowing for awhile to tell if anything would happen, which he had explained in advance.

 

So we called the office, and he responded right away- willing to come back again that same evening to fix it. But The Man was able to temporarily stop the leak (he told me how but again- did he really think I was paying attention?) and we arranged to see Casey the next morning. Again, he called first, arrived right on time, and was as efficient and professional as before. Now, days later, all is perfect, we paid less than we expected to- they have great coupons on their website- and I heard The Man utter the words that made my day: “I’m glad I didn’t try to fix that leak myself…”

 

You can call around, get a bunch of quotes and be given a wide variety of hourly and by-the-minute rates. Or, you can take a chance on non-licensed and uninsured business because of a cheap quote, and later pay dearly by getting a shoddy, unprofessional job, and having that company strangely disappear off the face of the earth, so you have to call another company to get the job done. Or- you can call a solid, professional and well-established home grown business= confident that you will get fair pricing, efficient service from a knowledgeable technician that will respect your home, and a follow up call from their office to ensure that your experience was up to F.H. FURR’s standards. It will be tough to get us to call anyone else for our plumbing, heating and cooling issues, because~

 

F.H. FURR Passes with Flying Colors! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Specialty Shopping- Go Bananas!

Go Bananas

http://www.gobananastoys.com/index.html

Brambleton Town Center

42395 Ryan Road, # 122

(703) 327-1900

 

 

Rumor has it that, as parents, we are required to give our kids more than just food, water and shelter to avoid allegations of child neglect and abuse- we must also provide them with constant entertainment and the latest cool toys. While Lincoln Logs, Yahtzee and marbles were good enough for us- apparently there are a “few” more options out there for our kids now. With all the recent recalls and poisonous chemicals found in toys from China, we’ve decided to skip the big chain stores altogether and look for higher quality, interesting, amusements when buying kid’s gifts: enter Go Bananas!

 

It’s like Zazu for kids- nooks, crannies, and corners filled with everything from colorful educational supplements like flash cards, maps and games, to fun stuff like Webkinz, puzzles, music, doodads, and toys that will delight kids of all ages. There are noisy toys to get back at your friends who bought your 2 year old maracas before they had their own children, there are manipulative toys that help develop fine motors skills and offer multiple options to keep the kiddos interested for at least 15 minutes at a time! Music, books, outdoor toys- more wonderful options than I could even begin to name.

 

We found delightful princess-like girly-girl gifts for my husband’s Goddaughter’s birthday. More Do-a-Dot books to go with the Do-A-Dot art set we got her (obviously from Go Bananas) for Christmas, a princess doll dress up book, the cutest mini-purse with a mini-pocket dog in it- and of course a charm bracelet- every 4 year old needs bling from her Godfather!   

 

The Boy loves this place too- dynamic building and science projects that nine year olds find fascinating, balls that do more than bounce, slimy, slithery reptilian and brain teasing games. I even have a hard time getting The Man to leave- we’re always on the way out the door when they see yet another cool “mom- you have to see this” that keeps us from leaving for a few more minutes, and a few more dollars.    

 

In the whirlwind of fun that is Go Bananas, the first few visits can be overwhelming. That’s where their friendly and well trained team comes into play- literally! I’ve observed them play with the kids, show them the way things work, and they’ve led us to discoveries we wouldn’t have made without their input. They seem to have as much fun working there are the customers do shopping there.

 

Go Bananas is locally owned and supports the community by donating to and continually participating in charitable events. Not only do they carry above average products- their good works make them above average neighbors. They truly exemplify what Aphioni.com looks for in a business, and I’m pleased to say that~

 

Go Bananas Passes with Flying Colors!

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Marketing Materials- Print100

http://www.print100.com/global/index.aspx?uid=3776

Many of you have seen and been impressed with my business cards- aren’t they unique! Almost like thin credit cards, water-resistant, rounded corners with gorgeous colors and features. I’ve been impressed from start to finish with Print100- from the products to the customer service.

Customer service makes a huge difference when dealing with a company you will be giving regular business to- especially one whose work will represent your company! The customer service I’ve received from Print100 has been above and beyond my expectations. The original color on my cards was too dark- it was more brown than red. I contacted my rep and they acted instantly. They sent me a file to confirm the color correction, Fed Ex’d the corrected cards with the proper color my way.

I am almost glad there was an error on my cards- it gave me the chance to experience their problem resolution skills first hand, and they did an excellent job for me. By the way- my order was minimal- less that $100.00- and yet they treated me like a very important, high level customer, which- NOW, I will become! Thank you to Print100 for helping me to advance my business. If you want your business cards to make an impression, and stand out in the pack, I highly recommend you compare several prices and options, then check out Print100, because~

Print100 Passes with Flying Colors!

 

 

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Cleaning Services- H&R Maids

H & R Maids

571-259-6064

tony@hrmaids.comiews

 

If you’ve read other Aphioni reviews, you know I’m big on judging 3 variables, depending on the business type, then on the experience itself. When we decided to hire someone to clean our home (I had another ankle surgery recently, but that’s no excuse- I’m a lousy housekeeper even on two good feet…) we counted on these 3 R’s: Referrals, Reliability, and Results. Of course price matters, but $20 either way is inconsequential depending on the differences in the 3 R’s.

 

Referrals: a year or so ago, we used H & R Maids based strictly on Referrals. Slick marketing and recognized brands of other companies meant much less than walking into someone’s home and being wowed by how clean and shiny everything is. Friends and neighbors referred H & R Maids repeatedly, so we hired them and were really impressed by their work. But because staff changes sometimes result in performance changes, I felt that I needed to check them out again to confirm all was still well before considering awarding a Flying Colors Review. I’m so glad I did- H & R Maids did yet another amazing job.

 

Reliability: the owner, Tony, responded promptly to my last minute request for a cleaning, and answered all of my questions precisely. They arrived on time and ready to go. Tony’s team is down to business, and aren’t there to chat- they started work immediately. Tony followed up and checked in afterwards to ensure we were pleased with their work.

 

Results: first- you need to know they provide all of their own cleaning supplies and equipment. This influences the pricing you get from local housekeeping services, so be sure to ask when comparing quotes. Unless you request that they use your products- they bring everything from the vacuum cleaner to the chandelier and fan brushes. I left them the stainless steel cleaner we like and our preferred granite sealer, and that was it.

 

When I walked- crutched- back into my home after my meeting, the “lemony fresh scent of pure clean” wafted into the garage. I turned corner and felt like they had transformed  my home into a 5 star hotel suite. Beautiful vacuum pattern and stains treated on the carpets, folded corners on the toilet paper, light bulbs were dusted, and my hardwood floor- which suffers from dog and nine year old abuse, was smooth and shiny- no sign that wet sneakers and paws had trekked across it just hours before! The glass showers sparkled, grout white again, and the banisters and baseboards- which I normally wouldn’t notice- were noticeably clean.

 

The attention to detail and pride in a job well done was evident- they even nicely arranged the Sponge Bob Blanket I stole from The Boy, neatly displaying it across bottom of our otherwise matching bed linen set…  whimsical touch- I loved it.

 

Life is already so full of “Have to do” that we sometimes neglect the “Want to do”, can you relate? So on the weekends, when given the choice of having some fun family time with The Boy and The Man, or cleaning baseboards and windows, the choice is it clear. Paying someone else to deep clean now and then is worth of dollar and every minute that I get to spend my family instead. Knowing that I will return to a gleaming home- cleaner than I would ever even attempt to make it, (unless we were moving, of course!) means I accomplished a valuable “Have to do” and enjoyed a “Want to do” at the same time! Now that’s effective multi-tasking… When it’s time to make that choice on who you will trust with your home-

 H & R Maids Passes with Flying Colors!

 

 

 

 

 

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Michelangelo’s

http://www.michelangeloitalianrestaurant.com/

43150 Broadlands Center Plaza • Ashburn, VA 20148

(571) 223-2245

Three words for Michelangelo’s – Authentic Italian Cuisine. Three more words- Italian Mother Portions! One last 3 worder: San Vito’s PLUS. Same family, similar recipes- but some new twists that are sure to please 99.9% of us who have eaten at San Vito’s in the past. Fresh ingredients, original, appetizing dishes and great service all culminated to create yet another satisfying family dining experience.

It goes without saying that the fresh pesto/olive oil mix served with lightly seasoned hunks of fluffy Italian bread just out of the oven- is an excellent way to start your meal. 3 more words: Share A Salad. I ordered a Caesar Salad to start that was large enough to feed me and my husband. With an original Caesar dressing with a tangy full flavor that folded Italian flair into Caesar dressing in a very complementary fashion: generous shavings of fresh Parmesan and bacon flakes topped off a great salad- they should rename it. It was far better – to me than a traditional Caesar salad. 

The Boy and The Man stuck to traditional faves: 4 Cheese Ravioli and Chicken Parm with angel hair pasta, respectively. I went for something new- Penne Francescana- penne with chunks of sweet tomatoes and tender eggplant in a creamy aurora sauce (a smooth mix of alfredo and marinara sauces.) We shared a side of meatballs- each one almost the size of The Boy’s fist, homemade and simply delicious. My pasta dish was fantastic- I added a touch of crushed red pepper to zest it up a bit. The fresh basil leaves were a wonderfully fragrant and delicious touch- and the eggplant melted in my mouth. The Boy polished off quite a bit of this dish as well. 

As always- the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The frescoes on the wall, the brick oven, the straw wrapped Chianti bottles on the table, and the occasional Sinatra or traditional Italian songs in the background… families, couples, groups of friends… everyone seemed to be laughing, eating and truly enjoying themselves. The open layout really creates a unique opportunity to take in the entire restaurant and bar without having to peek around booth corners. For quieter, a bit more private dining, there is a section somewhat separated from the main dining area. 

Service has always been more hit than miss- our waiter or waitress typically knows the menu, wine and specials, and make excellent recommendations. Tonight was no exception- our waitress was friendly, energetic and attentive.  I need to add that the presentation of the dishes is simply beautiful. From chiseled lemon garnishes on some seafood dishes, to the sliced strawberries perched on fresh cream- care goes into the preparation and display of each dish. I appreciate a chef who takes in pride in how the flavor and appearance of the meal. 

I almost forgot- the tiramisu. Wow. Creamy and light as air- the espresso perfectly balanced with the ladyfingers and mascarpone cheese filling… how delicious this freshly made tiramisu was. Ashburn has a truly authentic home-style Italian Ristorante right in the Broadlands. When the weather is nice I’m glad it’s within walking distance, because~

Michelangelo’s Passes with Flying Colors!

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Indian- Banjara Indian Cuisine

Banjara

http://www.banjaracuisine.com

44050 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Shop # 191
Ashburn VA 20147  (703) 723 0040    

The best thing, about a good thing, is when it becomes an even better thing. That’s how my family felt about dinner at Banjara tonight. We’ve been dining at Banjara for 5 years, but I haven’t been in quite some time. While I’ve always enjoyed the experience, I didn’t feel comfortable writing a Flying Colors Review unless I knew the quality hadn’t changed since my last visit. I’m please to report that the quality has changed- it is even better than ever. 

I’ve always felt comfortable in Banjara- whether I was there for the spectacular lunch buffet or a peaceful dinner with friends or family. But tonight I noticed the peacocks etched in frosted glass, the gorgeous paintings depicting various aspects of Indian culture, the pleasant ethnic music and the low lights… it’s a beautiful place, and always smells tempting.  We always receive a warm, friendly greeting when we walk through the door, and are led to a cozy table or booth.   

We’ve tried something new every time we’ve dined at Banjara, so I have sampled every soup and most appetizers on their menu. Tonight we warmed up with the Mulligutawny Soup- a lentil puree, sprinkled with fresh cilantro and the perfect blend of spices and lentils for a tasty palate-opening start to your meal. The crispy, roasted Papadum make an excellent contrasting accent to the soup- crisp, paper thin lentil crackers with subtle flavor throughout. We moved to the appetizer, and instead of opting for our typical Samosas- which are excellent at Banjara- not greasy, and stuffed with potatoes and peas, or even the Onion Bhajji, we tried something totally different that The Boy picked out- Cut Mirchi. It was described as “cut pieces of chili peppers stuffed with chickpeas”… what could possibly go wrong with that? Nothing. What was placed on our table was a bowl piled high with fried, bited-sized pieces of stuffed peppers in a dumpling wrapper- delicious! No need to describe it- the ingredients are exactly what you taste. It was enhanced when dipped in the mint sauce- which is homemade- tonight’s had a pleasant kick that I had never noticed in the past. 

And now, to the main dishes- I have to add here that the S. in S.A.M. made the biggest impact on our meal. Saby, our waiter had been attentive and friendly (yet unobtrusive) the entire evening. So when I asked him for a recommendation between the Lamb Madras (chunks of lamb stewed in a tomato based sauce with onions, garlic and spices) and Hyderabad Keema, he recommended the latter, saying that it was made with ground lamb and I would “like it very much.” Oh, how right he was. Imagine a beanless chili, created with ground lamb and fresh peas, tangy with Indian spices from cumin to ginger, and a pleasant balance of onion and garlic. Combine that with Banjara’s fluffy, fragrant basmati rice, and you have an incredibly different and original Indian dish unlike any other. The Boy called it “the best food on the table.” That one dish would have easily fed all 3 of us- we ended up bringing some home for my lunch the next day- can’t wait! The Man ordered a new dish <to us> as well- Chicken Mogula- juicy, boneless breast chunks slow cooked in a khurma sauce of almonds and raisins. We sopped up every ounce of the sauce using the fresh, hot Naan bread that must accompany every meal. For the first time ever, I had no room for their amazing rice pudding. They have a new array of tasty desserts that I may have to start with on my next visit, and work my way back to a Samosa.

With a variety of vegetarian dishes, South Indian entrées and Tandoori delights, it’s no wonder Banjara maintains its excellent reputation as one of the most highly regarded Indian restaurants in Ashburn. If you’ve been looking for authentic, superior Indian Cuisine- look no further. It has been a staple of the Ashburn restaurant landscape for many years, and will continue to define the standard for exceptional Indian Cuisine, because~ 

Banjara Passes with Flying Colors!

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Sushi- Samurai Japanese Restaurant

Samurai Sushi

http://samuraisushiashburn.com/ 

43150 Broadlands Center Plz.  #163  

Ashburn, VA  •  703-724-9696  

Let’s clarify one thing right away: I am not a connoisseur of all types of sushi and by NO MEANS an expert. I’ve tried all, and don’t like most- types of sushi. Nigiri: filleted raw or cooked fish atop rice- naaah- too much fish for me. Sashimi: raw fish typically served with a side of daikon, again- more fish than I enjoy. Maki is the type of sushi I truly enjoy- tightly wrapped rolls in seaweed with a smaller portion of fish and a combination of ingredients that complement each other. So if you are serious about Nigiri or Sashimi, skip this review… unless- you know a Maki-sushi lover or want to introduce sushi to a newbie- then, read on- Samurai Sushi will easily satisfy all levels of sushi enthusiasts.   

For my husband and me, a sushi meal has 4 primary facets aside from S.A.M.: the presentation, the balance, the ingredients’ freshness, and the quality of the wasabi. When you enter Samurai Sushi, you instantly know that the A. in S.A.M.- Atmosphere- is guaranteed to be delightful- the lights are pleasantly dim, the very Japanese décor transports you from a strip mall in the Broadlands to a chic, metropolitan sushi bar. The only thing that may seem slightly out of place is the high-def flat screen television next to the bar, but the volume is low and I’m sure lone diners appreciate the distraction. At the bar, the friendly chefs take a moment to greet you with “con-ni-chi-wa!” (hello in Japanese) while they create edible works of art: tightly wrapped sushi rolls made with fine ingredients in a pristine, spotless atmosphere. Your demure, polite waitress waits patiently until she sees that you are ready to order, and will efficiently appear to take care of you.   

The miso soup is quite possibly the best I’ve ever had in Virginia. It’s a hearty broth- normally it’s a thin broth- emboldened with fresh green onion slivers, herbs, and small tofu chunks – steaming hot and full of flavor. Order the manage-ably sized salad to try the zesty ginger dressing over fresh lettuce and shredded carrots- the dressing is not only rich yet light, robust yet nor overpowering- but it is also an excellent digestive aid to help you handle the wasabi to come….!  

The true treat arrives when you receive your sushi rolls- beautifully presented on platters, sometimes with a drizzle of special sauce- always with the gorgeous fresh ginger rosette and a generous dollop of spicy, freshly made wasabi. Why is Samurai Sushi better than several other sushi bars in Ashburn? Balance. The difference from the other 4 sushi bars I’ve tried in this area is that Samurai doesn’t “cheat” you by filling your roll with rice or other cheaper ingredients instead of a generous portion of fish in each bite. Your palate experiences a balance of fish, seaweed, rice, and whatever else you’ve chosen (roe, avocado, cucumber, etc.!) and with a slice of ginger and dollop of that amazing wasabi- oh delish.    

Not in the mood for sushi? Their Japanese Ramen is a generous bowl of noodle soup with plenty of beef and vegetables to warm you up on a chilly day.  They have tempura, chicken dishes, a scallion pancake that overflows with flavor, and several other non-sushi dishes that will satisfy the not-quite-ready-for-sushi friends that tag along with you to Samurai. If you live in Ashburn, you don’t have to go far for superior sushi in an inviting, authentic atmosphere.

 

Oh- I almost forgot the sake! Hot or cold- they have a high quality sake menu with a range of prices for all comfort levels. From light and fragrant to deep and complex- there’s a sake for everyone on Samurai’s menu.  I still have several other sushi bars to try in this area- but it is always hard resist heading back to Samurai to my favorite Philly Roll, California Roll or Jazz Roll. I vow to try them all, and while several other may make the grade, none of them will change the fact that~  

Samurai Sushi Passes with Flying Colors! 

Chiropractor- CHHC Sports Medicine, Dr. Nagel

CHHC Sports Medicine

 

Dr. Douglas Nagel (Certified)

46960 Cedar Lake Plaza, Ste. 150
Sterling, VA, 20164
(703) 444-7613

&

4238 Wilson Blvd, Ste. 2264
Arlington, VA 22203
703-778-2880

www.drdoug.biz

Let’s do a little simple math: 30-something year old man + beer league softball + delusions of athletic talent = knee, back, hip and/or elbow injuries. YOU know it: whether you are married to or dating him, or you ARE him! Choosing the right doctor can be the difference between a chronic ache each time it rains and living the dream of playing shortstop for just one more year- one more year…  I taught kickbox fitness classes for about 9 years, and had apparently torn a muscle in my back pretty early on. But I ignored it, just iced it when it hurt, and ended up years later with a visible, painful knot of scar tissue that could no longer be ignored.

I saw 4 different sports medicine doctors in as many years. After months of treatment, it was always the same story: they would be able to relieve the pain for a week or so using the typical treatments, but I was basically told to live with it, take Aleve, see them twice a week with a $30 copay for the rest of my life- NOT. Then along came Dr. Nagel…  His wife- actually led me to him- she attended my fitness classes and noticed my discomfort. She told me I should see her husband, he could definitely help. Since I figured it couldn’t get any worse, I gave Dr. Nagel a shot. In just about 4 ½ months, the pain and the lump- were gone. GONE. I couldn’t believe that the discomfort I’d been living with all day every day for years simply wasn’t there anymore! This is starting to sound like an infomercial… 

The difference was his methodology- ART- (Active Release Techniques) and a very innovative & effective treatment called the Graston Technique®. I won’t bother explaining either (like I really could, geez!) all I know is that it works. It’s often performed on professional athletes who constantly tear and re-tear the same muscles, have overuse soft tissue injuries, and need to be back to 100- no – 110% as quickly as possible. Since Dr. Nagel is the team chiropractor for the Washington Capitals, he’s quite in tune with the physical as well as the emotional recovery that athletes and fitness professionals fight through- weekend warriors included! I won’t lie- it was painful progress. If he wasn’t actually making that lump of pain go away, I would have dreaded my appointments. And, it didn’t hurt that he is easy on the eyes… what? I’m married- not dead!

Anyway, he knew how to treat my specific injury according to my lifestyle needs- he didn’t reach into his textbook and follow a treatment formula for “scar tissue build up near scapula.” Dr. Nagel listened to me. He asked about my daily activities, if I worked on a computer, what I wanted to be able to do that I couldn’t do now, or had pain while doing. All of this determined not just how he would treat my problem, but how he would be able to keep it from affecting what I wanted to in my everyday life.

I was able to teach fitness classes- without pain- 5 months later, and although other factors made me decide to move away from kickboxing- (bad ankles- you’ll see my surgeon’s review if I’m walking again by May!) simple things like typing, lifting, sleeping- were no longer activities to just tolerate- they became and effortless part of my day.

But you don’t have to have a sports-related issue to benefit from a visit to CHHC Sports Medicine; there are many other services that Dr. Nagel provides. For example, Olga Sharova of OlgaYoga offers private yoga instruction here as well- a huge benefit ( in many cases) when it comes to speeding up your recovery. Dr. Nagel’s website gives you a clear idea as to whether he can “fix what ails ya.” But if you’ve tolerated discomfort and pain with no success from different doctors- give him a call. There’s a difference in his care, technique, follow up, and most important: results.  

As an active 30-something, I know that it only takes something as simple as trying to impress your son with a slide into home or wow your daughter that you can still do a cheerleading toe-touch jump to land in a doctor’s office for months of treatments!  Save yourself the frustration of searching for a doctor that can get results… Dr. Nagel at CHHC Sports Medicine~ 

Passes with Flying Colors!

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Cosmetic Procedures- Aesthetica

Aesthetica

http://www.gotobeauty.com/

19450 Deerfield Ave #275

Lansdowne, VA

703-729-5553 

I’m not the type to spend a lot of time or money on my face- I use an Avon scrub I found under the sink about a year ago, a Mary Kay moisturizer, and if I can’t find either of those- soap and water will do. I don’t go to spas for skin treatments of any kind; typically, I find the process a bit demoralizing. The barely perceptible disapproving look that briefly flickers on the skin specialist’s face when you disagree that you need your eyebrows tweezed or your lip waxed, the “ooh- you should come back every week for $120.00 treatments since your skin looks like that of a woman 25 years older…” So I try not to get extremely close to anyone who might examine my pores. 

But my recent experience at Aesthetica has forever changed my perception of getting my face scrutinized by a professional. I received a free gift certificate for a European facial- which happened to actually be performed by a European- Bettina from Germany. The comfortable waiting area is medically professional with a spa-like welcome. Bettina came to fetch me for my facial and introduced herself with a smile and firm handshake. I laid back on the table ready to subject myself to “hmms” and “tsk tsk tsk” about how little I take care of my skin. Instead, I felt warm hands massaging a cool gel onto my face with gentle circular massaging motions. Then she removed the gel with a soft, warm towel and spread some herbal scrub onto my face and continued soothing strokes on my skin. More warm towels, more cool gel and soft lighting- why didn’t any tell me before that facials could feel so pleasant? 

We chatted amiably- I lived in Germany for 5 years so I took the opportunity to revive my dormant German skills with Bettina. She was very knowledgeable about the other services offered by Aesthetica: laser hair removal, Botox, surgical and non-surgical enhancement procedures, microdermabrasions, and many other services. I’ve met Dr. Chang several times- once being my own free consultation for particular cosmetic procedure. I found him to be so kind, so professional and very forthcoming about what he would recommend. I’ve witnessed the superb work he’s done on several of my friends and neighbors, and have heard rave reviews about his follow up, post-operative care and honest approach to cosmetic procedures. 

I’m looking forward to going back to Bettina for another facial soon- if for no other reason, for the fact that I really enjoyed the entire experience. Oh- and she didn’t insult my face! Check out what Aesthetica has to offer before considering any cosmetic or laser procedures- you may discover what I did- an atmosphere of trust, kindness, lack of judgment, and comfort with confidence in your choices. Vielen Dank, Bettina! 

Aesthetica Passes with Flying Colors!  

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Restaurant- Spicy Pickle

Spicy Pickle

www.spicypickle.com

Who didn’t grow up loving a good grilled cheese sandwich?? Warm, melted, gooey cheese… maybe a little ham or turkey inside- all on warm, toasty bread. Throw in some soup and Kool-aid, and I am 6 years old again sitting cross legged on the floor watching Scooby Doo cartoons! Maybe that’s why one of my favorite sandwiches in world is a Panini- grilled cheese for grown ups. I try them every place they are available, and so far, no local panini has come close to the Spicy Pickle. 

This cool little sandwich shop won my heart with its Sausalito Bandido- Sausalito turkey, roasted red peppers, sundried tomatoes, pepperjack cheese and chipotle mayo. Balance is so important in a great sandwich- you don’t want to take a bite and taste all mayo but no turkey! Spicy Pickle layers the meat, veggies, cheeses and condiments just right so that you savor each distinct ingredient with every mouthful. I’m also a big fan of the Sinker- Spicy Pickle tuna, lettuce, tomatoes, pepperjack cheese and horseradish mayo. (Try it with honey mustard instead of mayo sometime- excellent!) My biggest complaint about tuna sandwiches is how soggy they leave the bread- not so with a Spicy Pickle Sinker! Their tasty tuna is fresh and not loaded down with mayo, and the fresh sub roll keeps it texture. Petty? Maybe, but little things can ruin a sandwich- am I right?? Like veggies that are too big, or not well drained, meat that’s not tender or too fatty, or a roll that isn’t absolutely fresh.  Never experiences any of these issues at the Spicy Pickle, and I’ve been at least 8 times (make that 12, I recently updated this review!)  

You can even create your own sandwich from a large menu of ingredients and condiments, but so far their combinations have been so well done I haven’t felt the need to do change a thing. They’re not your typical ingredients, so they aren’t your typical sandwiches. Artichoke hearts, corn relish, spinach- combine that with a wide variety of meats and spreads and you can have a new experience every day! 

And of course- the crowning accent- the spicy pickle itself. A fat, juicy pickle soaked in a special brine that has that secret something extra that makes it a darn good pickle with a kick.  Not since the New York delis I’ve dined in while visiting my in-laws have I had such a hearty pickle. You can grab a bag of chips on the side, or better yet- try one of their homemade soups. The She–Crab soup is a rich creamy delight that will fill you up quickly, laden with crab and full of flavor. I wish I could review the other soups but I can’t bring myself NOT to get She–Crab every time I go!  Somebody please come with me and order Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup so I can try a bite…

There are traditional and original salads as well: like the El Rancho- Romaine lettuce, mesquite turkey, black beans, corn relish and chopped tomatoes served with spicy ranch dressing.  

The fast, friendly service makes this a nice place to stop for lunch or a light dinner, and the atmosphere is pleasant: clean, uncluttered, and comfortable. Plenty of local papers are lying around for you to browse through while they build your sandwich.

Outdoor seating adds to the experience when the weather is good- people watching while enjoying a great meal just can’t be beat. If you haven’t given this sandwich shop a try- take the time to go- it’s worth it to try the innovative creations and if nothing else- that special, spicy pickle! 

Spicy Pickle Passes with Flying Colors!   

 

 
http://spicypickle.com/index.htm

44650 Waxpool Rd Ste. 125  

Ashburn, VA 
703.723.9420

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Travel Services- Cruises Inc. with Karen Hart

Cruises Inc. with Karen Hart

Click here for a Promo from Cruises Inc. with Karen Hart! 

888-740-1160  or  703-729-8329

http://khart.cruisesinc.com/travel/cruises/index.do

http://www.locotravel.blogspot.com/

Anyone who has ever booked their own travel online, or used a national travel service, knows the pitfalls: hidden charges, lack of follow up, booking errors that go unaddressed, and never hearing from your contact/agent again after they have your money, or even addressing issues once your trip underway. Who wants to spend their vacation working on – the vacation??  We haven’t got the time or the resources to effectively research the options, shop for prices, sweat the travel details, and find the right vendors for excursions while in the destination. We want someone to put us on a plane, train or cruise ship and simply- relax. So leave it to a pro- and a local one at that. 

When you choose a travel agent, trust is a huge factor. You are putting your precious time, hard-earned money, and “will-never-let-you-live-it-down-if-this-trip-sucks” family in the hands of whoever will define your ultimate getaway. So when family after family recommends a spectacular local travel agent who calls them 48 hours before their trip to ensure that they had everything they need, gives them her cell number in case of any hiccups after they’ve departed, follows up quickly on a detail that you hadn’t even considered- one has to take a second look!  It’s not often that I will do a Flying Colors Review based on testimonials alone, but so many people that I know personally have spoken very highly of Karen Hart of Cruises Inc.- they  unknowingly “wrote” this review.  

I read several glowing testimonials from her return clients. I called my friends who had booked vacations with Karen- they thought I was looking to take a trip and were effusive with their praise. They shared personal stories about how she pulled off miracles with their “unique requests” and how her genuine enthusiasm & attention to detail gave them even more confidence that it would be a vacation to remember. Within all of the sincere compliments Karen’s clients paid to her- the common thread is professionalism & incredible customer service.

Karen impresses her clients with her endless knowledge about the travel industry, and her expertise in matching the vacationer with the appropriate experience. Whether you are booking a romantic couple’s getaway, a family Disney cruise, a group vacation for your organization or even a family reunion- Karen focuses on personalized service and pays close attention to your smallest needs. A family with toddlers doesn’t end up on a cruise with 100 college spring breakers, because Karen won’t let her clients make a bad decision. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the travel world and its trends, and gives you the best possible prices; she has no overhead or marketing costs to pass on to clients. When your referral and word of mouth business is that strong… your service speaks for itself and your customers speak for you! 

As a budget conscious traveler herself, Karen “gets” what travelers in LoCo need and appreciate: accurate information, swift follow up, valuable insights, great prices, and above all- the ability to shape a personalized and seamlessly executed getaway.  

Savvy LoCo travelers put themselves in Karen’s capable hands and rest easy knowing that they have a caring, knowledgeable, professional ambassador of the travel industry on their side. Karen Hart has booked multiple vacations for my friends, my neighbors, and eventually- me- because~ 

Karen Hart of Cruises Inc., Passes with Cruising- and Flying- Colors! 

“Voyage, travel, and change of place impart vigor”” ~ Seneca, Roman Philosopher  

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Educational Resources- Teacher’s Apple

 

Teacher’s Apple Promo- click here!

Teachers’s Apple

www.teachersapple.net

  

RE/MAX Cornerstone Center 20937 Ashburn Rd

Suite 150, Ashburn      

703.723.APLE (2753)

 

Did anyone else have a really tough time buying presents for children Christmas 2007, finding creative gifts to avoid all of the recalled- past, present and future- toys from China? We did. I combed online websites, polled my friends and neighbors, and almost decided to just give my 1 year old Godson a cardboard box, since that’s what they always end up playing with anyway… Until an “aha!”moment toward the end of my shopping anguish made me think of Teacher’s Apple. I called first, and the friendly voice informed me that they had more than just teaching supplies and had some wonderful gift ideas for children.

 

My husband and I headed out- it’s next to Entrée Vous on Ashburn Road so we had no problem finding it. The educational & original items were a welcome sight- I wasn’t afraid I would poison or harm the children in our life! We picked up an adorable Melissa and Doug brand art smock for our dearest friends’ 4 year old daughter- the perfect accent to the messy paint set we had already purchased. We also noticed colorful posters we could use to help our nine year old study everything from geography to multiplication tables. There are developmental toys and tools to help educate your children- from toddlers on up- at home, and decorations and training aids for classrooms.

 

I know there is so much more to Teacher’s Apple, and once I am off my crutches I’ll be back to browse, find more durable, imaginative, non-lethal gifts for the precious kids in my life, and pick up educational posters, much to my son’s dismay, or so he thinks!

 

Check out Teacher’s Apple if you want to give the kids in your life something other than cheaply made yet over-priced toys, complete and utter junk with clever marketing that makes every kid clamor for it, then ignore it, or video games aka “carpal tunnel creators”. It’s not just for teachers, and it’s not just school supplies. Kids will be surprised at how much they can enjoy something powered by them- not batteries.

 

By the way, the art smock and paint set were a big hit- take that Dream House Barbie! It’s a short drive to Ashburn Road to enrich and enlighten your children, because~

 

Teacher’s Apple Passes with Flying Colors!

 

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

~ William Butler Yeats

Pet Supplies- Doggone Natural

Doggone Natural

http://doggonenatural.com/index.html  

20693 Ashburn Rd Ashburn, VA 20147

703-858-1112

After reading the ingredients in Sunny D, I swore to never let my son drink it again! The same thing happened in my brain when I read the ingredients in my dog’s food and treats- I couldn’t believe how much corn syrup and empty fillers were used in many of the standard pet treats. Find me one dog owner that says “Gee, I wish my dog was more hyper and pooped more…”  So, I went on a quest for better food for my dog. When a neighbor told me about Doggone Natural- a new, natural, holistic pet supply shop for dogs and cats- I was excited, but wary about overpriced hoity-toity pet accessories.

I envisioned a bunch of Paris Hilton wanna-bes with their dogs in purses, buying toenail polish and ribbons for their pampered pooches. I was afraid that I’d find nothing but rhinestone studded collars and pâté for Persian cats, and a pretentious matron holding a 3 lb. yapper under her arm. But instead, I was greeted by a down to earth couple with the coolest Dachshund I’ve ever met and learned a ton about how a typical grocery store diet affects our pets’ behaviors and health. There were toys, training aids, organic dog and cat foods and yes- even a selection of rhinestone collars!   

A short conversation showed their true interest in and knowledge about animals. After discussing my dog’s needs, they stuffed my bag with samples so I could see what he liked, and gave me some wonderful insights on the changes these products would make in my pup. He was a good dog anyway, but now that his diet is Candidae® dog food, which is protein based instead of wheat flour and corn syrup based, he eats less, sleeps more, and yes- poops less! No sugar crash after a burst of hyperactiveness, because there is no hyperactivity. His coat shines, and he sheds less because of the Grizzly Salmon Oil™ that we add to his breakfast. We’ve found some durable toys and delicious treats for our 4-legged son as well. 

Aside from the superior products, Doggone Natural reminded me of what I grew up with in Nebraska: warm, caring shop owners whose work is their passion. A local store where you get more than a bag & a receipt on your way out the door- you get personalized attention, they know your pet by name, and they give you breed-specific recommendations based on your needs, not what’s currently in stock. Best of all- the prices are not bloated, and their products are often regionally made, and truly are organic and natural. 

One visit to Doggone Natural will let you see the other side of pet stores- the side that focuses on smaller selections of higher grade products rather than row after row of lower grade food, snacks and toys. If they start selling snacks for 9 year old human boys- I will have a one stop shop… 

Doggone Naturals Passes with Flying Colors!

“Women and cats will do as they please, and men and dogs should relax and get used to the idea.”
– Robert A. Heinlein

 

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