HUNT COUNTRY CHIC

One of my favorite aspects of having a personal blog is the ability to go back to previous posts and read and see photos of previous memories. Having had E.T. for just over a month, I figured now is the perfect time to start an “OTTB [Off-the-track Thoroughbred] Diaries” so I can post about the previous month and be able to reflect on our highs, lows, progress, and all of the fun things in between!

It’s been a while (well, a few months to be honest) since I posted on here. To be honest, towards the end of 2024, I was feeling bored and uninspired and didn’t want that energy to translate over to this blog. However, my November took a quick and very exciting turn and I am beyond excited and grateful to be welcoming my new (and oh! so handsome) horse, Etbauer’s Secret (“E.T.”), into my life!

There is something undeniably magical about the Goodstone Inn & Restaurant in Middleburg, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of hunt country, this charming estate captures the essence of Virginia’s countryside elegance. With its classic style, warm wooden interiors, and picturesque surroundings, Goodstone Inn is the perfect blend of refined luxury and rustic charm. It was the ideal setting for their "Last Sips of Summer" dinner event, a night dedicated to celebrating the vibrant flavors of rosé wine and the summer's bounty of tomatoes.

It has admittedly been far too long since my last post! Life has been a little crazy and overwhelming lately, but mostly for the good reasons — I recently started leasing a horse! It’s been an absolute delight to get back into horseback riding this year, and I’ve rapidly reverted back into being well and truly obsessed with all things horse-related. Since August, I’ve been heavily focused on improving my dressage skills and building a lovely relationship with Rosie, the gorgeous Thoroughbred mare I’m lucky enough to be leasing.

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Linden, Virginia, Crimson Lane Vineyards offers a serene and sophisticated escape for wine lovers. Our recent visit to this exquisite estate was a true celebration of the senses, a perfect blend of elegance, refined ambiance, and the natural beauty of the countryside.

When we are looking for a quiet, relaxed afternoon with our dogs somewhere outside of our home, one of our go-to places is Cedar Run Brewery in Nokesville, Virginia. The drinks are delicious (bonus points for affordability!), the people are friendly, and the scenery is the definition of Virginia countryside. Cedar Run offers a delightful retreat during all seasons — beautiful greenery and hummingbirds a plenty in the summer, a dazzling array of amber tones painting the grass and trees in the fall, and a truly festive environment as we enter winter where you will find yourself with the opportunity to sip on a glass of warming red wine while admiring the views of a Christmas tree farm out back.

Nestled in the heart of Virginia's wine country, Barboursville Vineyards offers an enchanting blend of Italian sophistication and Virginian charm. My recent visit to this illustrious estate was nothing short of extraordinary, a symphony of senses that began with a stroll through their delightful herb gardens. The fragrant embrace of basil and rosemary welcomed us, setting the tone for a day of refined pleasures.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Haymarket, Virginia, The Winery at La Grange offers a romantic escape into a world where history and viticulture blend seamlessly. As you arrive, you are greeted by picturesque vineyards that stretch across the landscape, their rows of grapevines creating a serene, pastoral tableau. The historic house, a beautifully preserved 18th-century manor, stands proudly amidst the greenery, its classic architecture evoking a sense of timeless Virginian elegance. Stepping inside, you are welcomed by the inviting warmth of an incredibly knowledgeable team who can walk you through a guided tasting while sharing some of the house’s fascinating history. And, don’t forget to check out the manor’s stone cellar downstairs, where rustic charm meets modern comforts.

Nestled in the heart of Prince William County, Nokesville, Virginia, is a picturesque town where the serenity of the countryside meets historic charm. This quaint locale is renowned for its rolling pastures dotted with horses and its idyllic landscapes that capture the essence of rural Virginia. Whether you're a local looking for a day of relaxation or a visitor seeking a peaceful retreat, Nokesville offers an array of delightful experiences. From invigorating hikes and artisanal breweries to delectable pastries and elegant wineries, here’s how to spend an idyllic day in Nokesville.