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There's nothing like getting behind the wheel of a car that is free of debris and smells good. A clean car is a pleasure to drive and with these helpful tips, you can keep your car looking its best. Prep Cleaning “Wash Your Car, Sir?” by MTSOfan, used under CC BY 2.0 First, clear out any trash that may have fallen between the seats, lodged in cracks, or slid under the seats. Remove the floor mats and shake each one vigorously to remove excess dirt. Use hot water and soap to remove any mud stains and hang the mats in the sun to dry. Next, thoroughly vacuum the interior, using the nozzle to reach between the seats, under the pedals, around the console, inside cup holders, and storage bins. Vacuum the trunk as well. Cleaning Upholstery more Dirt, dust, debris, and other particles can become embedded in the upholstery. Depending on the type of material used in your car, use the appropriate cleaning compound. Whether you're cleaning leather, vinyl, or cloth seats, determine the depth of cleaning required, if there are stains that also need to be removed and if the material has an undesirable odor. These factors will help you choose the right cleaning product. Windows and Mirrors Keeping your windows and mirrors clean and clear is important and the process takes only a few minutes. For glass windows, use a glass cleaner and a clean microfiber towel to remove buildup. For tinted windows, be extra careful as some cleaning products can damage the tinted sheet covering the glass. A helpful tip to prevent damage is to apply the cleaning product to the cloth versus spraying directly onto the glass to protect areas susceptible to harsh chemicals. Dashboard Buttons and grooves are susceptible to dust buildup. To clean the nooks and crannies of vents, buttons, and dials, wrap the tip of a cotton swab or screwdriver with a thin piece of cloth and use it as a cleaning implement to reach difficult places. Cleaning Tools Keep your cleaning tool kit fully stocked to ensure you have everything you need to keep your car sparkling clean. Along with a vacuum cleaner, keep on hand a variety of chemical cleaning products designed for the different interior surfaces of your car such as vinyl, carpet, leather, and plastic. Materials to use for interior and exterior polishing includes non-abrasive fine cloth rags, terry cloth, and lint-free rags, and microfiber towels. Each time you use these for wiping or polishing, ensure that they are clean and free of any chemicals. Air Freshener Add a fresh scent to your car with a simple homemade recipe. Mix 5 drops of essential oil with 1 cup of baking soda and place in a sealed container for 24 hours. Then, shake the container and sprinkle the mixture over your car's floor. Let stand for at least 15 to 20 minutes before vacuuming. Keep your car feeling like new and every on-road journey will be a pleasurable driving experience.

When you plan a romantic dinner, you'll want it to be an unforgettable experience. With that in mind, consider treating your loved one to an evening at one of these local restaurants in Manassas. Tortino Mare Tortino Mare is run by Chef Noe, a critically acclaimed and highly skilled cuisine chef. The menu items are homemade using creative recipes. They include delectable entrees to tantalize your culinary senses. Arrive early for happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday for a sampling of Chef Noe's finest culinary offerings. Several happy bites such as mussels, veal ragu, crimp crostini, and calamari will be available. “Romantic Dinner” by 18SamanthaO, used under CC BY 2.0 When dinnertime arrives, choose from classic Italian pasta dishes such as Fettuccine Alfredo Del Gambero with shrimp, Rigatoni Meatballs, and Lamb Ravioli with red wine. Other options include meat-based mains like Pesce Del Giorno, Veal Marsala, Salmone Grigliato, and New York grilled steak. Whatever you choose, you'll savor the flavor of Italy with every bite. Tortino Mare is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. more Three Monkeys Pub and Chophouse Located in a vintage brick church in Historic Old Town, Three Monkeys Pub and Chophouse focuses on flavorful food and customer satisfaction. You'll dine on exquisite creations in an intimate indoor setting or an elegant atmosphere outdoors. Wherever you choose to indulge your taste buds, you and your dinner partner will receive excellent service and delicious food and beverages. Set the tone for a romantic evening at Three Monkeys, open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Vera's Kitchen Located in Old Town, Vera's Kitchen is just like home. The family-owned and operated restaurant exudes good taste in its decor, customer service, and creative dishes. The atmosphere is friendly and warm, making it an ideal choice for a quiet and romantic dinner. Chef Vera infuses her love of cooking into every dish with fresh ingredients and flavorful spices. Born and raised in Ethiopia, she eventually migrated to America and began her career in the culinary arts. At the restaurant, you'll experience the best of both of her worlds with traditional American and exotic Ethiopian choices on the menu. Start your meal with a fresh bowl of soup, a fresh salad, or an appetizer such as lentil hummus with injera crisps, then onto a choice of entrees such as grilled salmon or lamb tips. After your meal, indulge in a cup of Ethiopian coffee and an order of Vera's delectable brownies. The restaurant is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Whether you prefer to bring your special someone to a fine dining establishment with elegant surroundings, a cozy environment with candlelight ideal for conversation, or a quiet diner with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Manassas offers a variety of tasteful romantic destinations.

Mason Neck State Park offers an adventure for all ages. Situated on 1,856 acres, the park has a diverse landscape of wetlands, open water, ponds, fields, and forests providing plenty of things to do from sunup to sundown. “Mason Neck” by vastateparksstaff, used under CC BY 2.0 Recreation Enjoy the day fishing, boating, hiking, and biking at the park. For fishing enthusiasts, opportunities abound to drop a line. Hiking is a great way to see the park. You can also take a leisurely self-guided tour by bike. Rentals are available at the visitor's center. Visitors are welcome to bring their canoes or kayaks and use the car-top boat launch to set sail. Canoes and kayaks are also available to rent from April through October. Guided canoe trips are a great way to see and learn about Kane's Creek and Belmont Bay. Note that there are no designated swimming areas in the park and there is no standard boat launch. more Hiking and Biking Trails Hiking at Mason Neck offers the opportunity not only to explore the beauty of the park, but also to take scenic pictures, observe wildlife, and watch the many bird species that inhabit the park. There are over six miles of natural trails and three miles of paved trails plus elevated walkways for traversing marshy areas. Choose from nine trails to get up-close with nature. Trail lengths range from less than a mile to almost three miles. Seven of the trails have a difficulty rating of easy and two are rated moderate. Three trails are handicap accessible. The High Point trail is suitable for both hiking and biking. Camping and Cabins While there are no overnight camping facilities within the park, there are other parks in the area with overnight camping and cabins. Two places to consider are Shenandoah River State Park in Bentonville, Virginia about an hour and a half from Mason Neck, and Lake Anna State Park. At Shenandoah River State Park, visitors have access to a 2 or 3-bedroom cabin and Shenandoah River Lodge. At Lake Anna State Park, accommodations include a 2-bedroom cabin, a 2-bedroom with water view, and the Lodge. Cabin fees are dependent upon whether you plan to visit during the prime or standard season, and whether you're a Virginia resident or non-resident. Closer in, you'll find Pohick Bay Regional Park situated on 1,000 acres and less than 10 minutes from Mason Neck State Park. At Pohick, you'll have access to campsites and cabins for overnight stays. Miniature golf and a water park plus kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes for rent will add to your day of fun and activities at both parks. To enjoy the beauty of the park, make plans to experience all that Mason Neck State Park has to offer. Whether you plan a relaxing picnic with friends and family, go hiking through the forest, leisurely canoe or kayak along the Mason Neck Peninsula and Pohick Bay, or observe the wildlife, a day with Mother Nature is one you will never forget.

The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the most powerful Camaro that has ever been made. Its outstanding performance on the road makes it one of the best sports cars in 2019, and its modern specs, exterior design, and features make it one of its kind. If you love sports cars and want to get one soon, here are five reasons why the Camaro ZL1 is the sports car of your dreams. Exterior Design The Chevrolet Camaro has always had a unique design that makes everyone stare at it on the road, and the 2019 Camaro ZL1 has even surpassed all previous Camaro models with its efficient new design. In addition to its attractive look, it comes with new aerodynamic enhancements including a front splitter, a carbon fiber rear wing, a carbon fiber hood extractor, and a front air dam. All these enhancements have helped increase the ZL1's downforce and reduce its lift to keep it more stable to the track. The Engine The 2019 Camaro ZL1 comes with a massive, supercharged engine that generates an enormous amount of horsepower and torque. The 6.2-liter V-8 LT4 engine is the latest advanced engine that Chevrolet has made, and it delivers 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Its compression ratio is 10:1, and it has direct injection and continuously variable valve timing for a better performance and power output. Stability Although the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro Zl1 comes with an enhanced aerodynamic design, it has two advanced systems that substantially reinforce its stability on the road. To illustrate, the Magnetic Ride Control system senses the road and changes the damping force of the ZL1's shock absorbers automatically in 10-15 milliseconds to adjust with road conditions. Also, the eLSD system, which is integrated with the Performance Traction Management system, will let you achieve quicker labs by optimizing corner exit speeds and providing high-speed stability. Launch Control The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes with a custom launch control system designed for use in race events. It also has a Line Lock feature that locks the front wheels in their position, allowing the rear wheels to spin so the tires can warm up for the best grip on the track. The system also has the ability to modify the engine's torque, helping your ZL1 to accelerate faster off the line. Performance Data Recorder The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 has a Performance Data Recorder that will help you enhance your driving performance. The system can compare your performance with real-time performance data, which will let you work on your driving techniques and improve your lap times. If you love fast muscle cars, the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is the best bet for you. Not only does it have a powerful engine, but it is also equipped with advanced stability systems that will let you go faster on corners whenever you have a chance. In addition, it has many advanced safety and driver assistance systems that will make your long rides more comfortable. You can now choose your favorite Chevrolet model online at Lindsay Chevrolet.

A picnic is a perfect escape from your regular dining routine and can offer many benefits. You can bond with the family, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the outdoors during an al fresco meal. Here are three spots in Woodbridge, Va., that are best for picnics. Lake Ridge Park Grab the kids and pack up the cooler with crispy fried chicken and grandma's potato salad, then head to Lake Ridge Park at 12350 Cotton Mill Drive. You can even hitch up the boat and go fishing. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy this park thanks to its scenic marina on the Occoquan Reservoir. There are plenty of activities for the whole family at Lake Ridge Park, including both putt-putt and a nine-hole golf course; a walking path; and stellar picnic facilities. Leesylvania State Park Nestled along the Potomac River, Leesylvania State Park will take you on a virtual trip back in time. In addition to offering a variety of fun outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating, this historic park touts an array of landmarks and is a terrific spot for picnicking. Enjoy a family lunch along the river's sandy beach or under the covered picnic areas, complete with charcoal grills for roasting hot dogs. This area is a favorite among locals, and many pavilions get rented. Keep a lookout for "reserved" signs and remember to stake your claim by 11 a.m. After lunch, spread out and explore the park's more than 540 picturesque acres. Meander along five hiking trails and you might glimpse a rabbit, deer, or fox. Work off that ham sandwich with a jaunt around the playground or drop your line off the fishing pier. Before you pack up your gear, check out the information center and interactive museum. It's a great place to rest and retreat after a hot day of picnicking and playing outside. The WaterWorks Waterpark Grab your bathing suit and pack up your cooler with all your favorite picnic goodies. You're about to launch this picnic into a whole new realm. Combine wet and wild activities with your next picnic at the WaterWorks Waterpark at 5301 Dale Blvd. Just minutes away from Woodbridge, the water park will entice you with some soaking wet summertime fun and boasts a special area just for the littlest picnickers. There's a children's wading pool area with sprayers, climbers, and a whale slide that's just their size. If you want the kids to stay dry before lunch, visit the climb-and-slide play structure in the park's dry area. Did you forget to pack your basket? Don't worry. WaterWorks Waterpark has you covered with on-site food concessions. Take your bounty over to the picnic pavilions and relish each bite. Is there anything better than a summer in Virginia?  Woodbridge's sunny days mean more outdoor meals, and a family picnic is inexpensive, delicious, and fun. Head out for a one today. Image by Steven Depolo is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

Many Americans suffer from seasonal allergies, but who would have guessed that your car could be making things worse? Nasty particles that make you sneeze, cough, and scratch our eyes can be found throughout your car. Keep pollen, dust, and pet dander out of your vehicle for an allergen-free driving experience. Here are five tips to help you breathe easier when you're cruising the roads. Start With Your Carpet Each time you get into your car, your shoes bring along plenty of junk, including dirt, grease, and pollen. These irritating substances can get trapped in your carpet. Evict these unwanted guests before they make your car a permanent rest stop by regularly vacuuming and wiping down your interior. During peak allergy seasons--spring and fall--you'll want to suck up these particles at least once a week; during the off-peak times, once a month will do. Consider covering your vehicle's carpeting with plastic to protect it and investing in a set of washable, grooved floormats to make the job easier. Look Out for Mold Does your car have a sour smell? You may have a mold problem. Mold can lurk anywhere in your vehicle. It could be under your seats, thanks to that long-forgotten French fry, or even in dampened seat cushions that soak up spills. Treat your car to a thorough cleaning by following step one. If that doesn't remove the smell, your air-conditioning ducts may be the source of the offensive odor. The last thing you want is a face full of mold allergens blown around when you turn on your AC. Take the car into the shop to have the air filter changed and the ducts professionally cleaned. Get Rid of Dust Mites Dust mites are a part of life, but you can reduce their impact on your allergies. Avoid using fuzzy or wooly seat covers as these fabrics attract and retain more dirt, dust mites, and mold spores. If it's in your budget, opt for leather upholstery. It's the best choice for allergy sufferers, and it's easy to clean. Put Fido in a Crate If you're like many Americans, your dog gets to ride along wherever you go. However, all that fur and dander flying around your car can exasperate your allergy symptoms. You don't have to restrict Fido to the house. Instead, put him in a crate while in the vehicle to reduce the amount of shedding that ends up in your car. Keep Pollen at Bay When the sun is out, we're tempted to roll down the windows or drop the convertible for some fresh air. While letting the wind whip through our hair is fun and exciting, it's a recipe for sinus disaster. When the pollen count is high, it's best to use the air conditioner on the recirculating cycle to keep allergens out. Start allergy-proofing your car today. If you're a hardcore sufferer, you'll be glad you did. Image by Brooke Novak is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center offers many of Virginia's best eateries. This local shopping center has something to suit every taste bud. Next time you get the munchies, head to Stonebridge and discover one of these four amazing restaurants. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Located in suite 160 in the Potomac Town Center, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is a refined, yet casual restaurant featuring a menu full classic American cuisine. From fresh-cut steaks seared to perfection on an authentic wood flame to succulent seafood prepared just the way you like it, all the entrees are made right on the premises. Choose a seat indoors to enjoy the smoky aroma of local hickory, oak, or pecan wood glowing in the grill or take a seat on Firebird's inviting patio. Order a bottle of wine--you can pick from the restaurant's private labels--showcased in a custom-designed wall or try something from its selection of artisan cocktails and craft beer. Summer specials abound now through the end of July and feature seasonally inspired dishes, such as the honey-chile glazed pork chop. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Potbelly Sandwich Shop Make Potbelly Sandwich Shop your new lunchtime getaway. The friendly folks over at Potbelly Sandwich Shop in suite 190 serve up some of the area's best sandwiches. They start with only the highest quality deli meats, then top them with the freshest veggies, such as vine-ripened tomatoes and crispy cucumbers sliced daily. Stop by and experience the difference toasting makes. Each handheld creation is finished to perfection, and the end result is a melted, warm, and crunchy sandwich. Get there early to take advantage of a freshly baked cookie that's crispy on the outside and chewy in the center. Get your sandwich from Potbelly's daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Duck Donuts No list of amazing eateries wouldn't be complete without a place to grab a sweet treat. Nestled in suite 120, Duck Donuts offers dozens of flavors from one unique shop. Pick a featured donut like the patriotic assortment in celebration of Independence Day, or have a donut made-to-order. Duck Donuts offers sandwiches and sundaes, too, and is open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sushi Jin Next Door When you're craving a healthy, delicious meal, let the talented staff at Sushi Jin Next Door prepare you a plate of sushi or another Japanese dish. Located in suite 135,  this Asian venue offers a casual atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable. Why not try one of Sushi Jin's authentic drinks such as Japanese beers and sakes with your meal? These are just four of the amazing restaurants awaiting your dining pleasure at Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center. Bring your appetite and try one today. Image by Harald Groven is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

Date night is a great time to reconnect with your partner. There are many unique attractions in the Woodbridge, Virginia, area that are perfect for your next date night. Wine Tasting Spend the evening taste-testing some of Woodbridge's best wines. At WineStyles Tasting Station, you can taste, learn, and enjoy the local wines, craft beers, chocolates, and even artisanal cheeses. A helpful guide will suggest different types of wine and beer based on you and your partner's preferences. They will also offer food items that pair perfectly with the available wines including sweet, bold and spicy, earthy, and seafood. You can also purchase most of the wine and snacks available in the shop so you can recreate your wine tasting experience at home. Painting Add a little creative twist to your usual date night with a paint and drink experience. At Muse Paintbar, you and your partner will enjoy creating your own piece of art. The creative guide will walk you through the painting, step-by-step, while also allowing you to add your own personal touches to the painting. You can choose your favorite painting by booking the specific date in which it is planned. There are also special couple's nights where each partner will paint one half of a painting. When you put the paintings together, they will create a complete picture that you can proudly hang on your wall. Blueberry Picking At Great Country Farms, you can pick your own blueberries. You and your partner will have a blast as you take a stroll through the expansive blueberry fields and stock up on blueberries. You can then extend your date at home by making blueberry pancakes or a blueberry pie together. Enjoy an Outdoor Movie An outdoor movie can spice up your traditional movie-going experience. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite drinks and snacks and bring along a large blanket. There are a few places in the Woodbridge area that host outdoor movie nights including the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and National Harbor in nearby Fort Washington, Maryland. If the weather is too hot, you can also enjoy the movie from the comfort of your own vehicle. Grab a Bite to Eat What better way is there to connect with your partner than over some delicious food and drinks? Check out the Brew Republic Bierwerks. This hip brewery and tap room has a large menu that is sure to meet your dining preferences. Start your meal off with an appetizer of the spicy mac and cheese nuggets and pair it with one of the tasty craft beers. The dining room is casual and laid back and there are even board and card games that you and your partner can play while you dine. Not sure what drink to order? Try one of the tasting flights. If you are looking for something new to try for your next date night, consider any of these local attractions. They are sure to entertain, indulge, and offer you a date night you will not soon forget. Image by Groupon is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

Many Americans spend a good portion of their workweek commuting to and from the office. Choosing a vehicle that is comfortable and offers exceptional entertainment can make that commute just a little easier. Check out a few of the reasons why you should consider the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox as your ideal commuting vehicle. Reliable Power When you rely on your SUV to get you to and from work, you need something that you can count on. The Chevrolet Equinox has been awarded the “Most Dependable Compact SUV”. You can choose from an available three engines including a 1.5-liter turbo, a 2.0-liter turbo, or a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine. Capable Performance The Chevrolet Equinox also offers a capable performance. The switchable all-wheel-drive system improves your overall efficiency and alerts you when the road conditions call for a swap. The hands-free liftgate makes it easier than ever to load in and load out your groceries or after-work golf equipment. With an available 63.9- cubic feet of cargo space, you will never run out of cargo room. Comfortable Interior The 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is designed for adventure, whether your adventure consists of a deviation from your usual route or a weekend getaway. The interior features high-quality materials that ensure comfort and support, even on the longest of commutes. The driver controls are centrally placed so you can easily take control of your drive. Available dual-zone climate control allows you and your passengers to choose your preferred cabin temperature. Drivers can also upgrade to the available Confidence & Convenience Package which comes with heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and a safety alert seat. Accommodating Technology Work doesn't always stop the minute you leave the office. With the Chevrolet Infotainment System 3, you can manage phone calls and text messages hands-free. Sync your smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and access your favorite apps, right on your driver screen. The available navigation feature gives you turn-by-turn directions to grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. Opt for the available 4G LTE Wi-Fi for a reliable connection. Download the myChevrolet mobile app to manage your Chevrolet Equinox controls. From the app, you can remotely lock and unlock doors, send navigation directions to your vehicle, and even set a parking reminder. Useful Safety Features With a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you can rely on the safety features of the Chevrolet Equinox to keep you safe on your daily commute. Just a few of the available safety features include the low speed forward automatic braking, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, forward collision alert, and Intellibeam headlamps. You can also upgrade for an available surround vision camera. This feature displays video feed of the area directly surrounding your Equinox. The Chevrolet Equinox might be a smaller SUV crossover, but it is filled with many accommodating features that are perfect for your daily commute. Come by Lindsay Chevrolet today to test drive the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox.

Virginia's summers can get hot. Fortunately, there are many nearby beaches that offer family-friendly entertainment and refreshing water to cool off with. Check out a few of the best beaches within driving distance of the Woodbridge, Virginia, area. Leesylvania State Park Leesylvania State Park sits on the shore of the Potomac River, making it a historically important park in Virginia. In addition to camping, horseback riding trails, fishing, and boating, there are also a few beach areas to check out. Visitors enjoy fishing and wading in the shallow beach water. You can also bring along food to grill and set up for a relaxing beach picnic. There is also a children's playground located within the park. Chesapeake Beach Just a little over an hour drive east from Woodbridge is the expansive Chesapeake Beach. The city of Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, is home to many beaches including Breezy Point Beach and Bayfront Park. The waters are calm, making it a great area for swimming and playing. There are also many useful amenities within the beaches including restroom facilities, parking lots, and refreshments. Children will enjoy the nearby playground. Many visitors also enjoy collecting sharks' teeth that are scattered along the Chesapeake Beach. Colonial Beach Drive an hour southeast of Woodbridge and you can enjoy Colonial Beach, the second largest beach in all of Virginia. You can spend the day building sand castles, soaking up the sun, or taking a stroll along the boardwalk. You will also find a lot of fishermen along the Municipal Pier. If you are looking for a quieter beach, simply travel a little further along the beach to the north or south and you can enjoy a more private beach-going experience. Make sure you stick around until sunset as Colonial Beach has some of the best sunsets in the entire area. Aquia Landing Aquia Landing in Stafford might be smaller in size when compared to the other beaches, but it is still a great place to check out. It does not get as packed as the other beaches, making it a great spot to relax overlooking the Potomac River. There are also plenty of park benches and pavilions available so you can sit back and watch the boats go by. Gray's Beach The drive from Woodbridge to Gray's Beach can be entertaining on its own. The drive takes you north towards D.C. and along the water until you reach Gray's Beach, Maryland. Gray's Beach, sometimes referred to as Yarmouth Port, is popular among locals for its breathtaking sunsets. There isn't much development on the beach itself which allows the city to preserve its natural beauty. There is a small 800-foot boardwalk which allows you to stroll along the wavy waterway. Gray's beach is also a great place to launch your kayak. Each of these local area parks is a great option to cool off in the hot Virginia summer. Grab the family, pack a picnic basket, and enjoy an afternoon in the Potomac River. Image by Mr.TinDC is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

If summertime to you looks like visits to the beach, road trips, and outdoor activities, then it is time to make your vehicle summer ready. These tips will help you prepare your vehicle for all your upcoming summer adventures. Invest in a Sunshade Nothing ruins an entertaining day on the beach faster than returning to your vehicle with hot leather seats. Leather upholstery can get dangerously hot, especially if it is darker leather. In fact, black leather materials can get as hot as 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This can lead to severe burns in just one second. Equipping a sunshade over your dashboard window can block out the sun's rays and prevent painful burns. Swap Out Your Tires Now is a good time to swap out your winter tires if you have not yet done so. Winter tires are made of materials that are ideal for colder weather but are not the best choice for summertime. During the summer, it is best to use all-season or summer tires. This is also a good time to have your tires rotated and changed, if needed, before heading out on long road trips. Pack Beach Accessories The great thing about summer in Virginia is that the parks and local beaches are open from sun up to sun down. You never know when you might want to pull off and enjoy the refreshing water of the Neabsco Creek. Keep a beach bag packed and ready to go in the trunk for easy beach fun. Include items like a beach blanket, water, and sunscreen. Replace Your Wiper Blades The summer heat brings with it summer rain and thunderstorms. As a general rule, windshield wiper blades should be replaced at least every six to 12 months. Otherwise, they don't clear the rain as efficiently and you run the risk of scratching your windshield. Check Your Air Conditioning You don't want to find out that your air conditioning isn't running properly after you have spent a long day at the beach in the hot weather. Check your coolant levels ahead of time and test out the air conditioning in your car. If the air is not cold, then it may need to be recharged. If a recharge doesn't fix the problem, get into your mechanic as soon as possible. The temperatures are only going to increase. Give it a Thorough Cleaning If you spend a lot of time on the road during the summer months, you want a vehicle that is clean. Winter can put a lot of wear and tear on our vehicles, leaving them dirty with salt and mud. This is also a good time to replace your winter mats for summer ones. Interior mats can help to protect your interior which also protects your resale value. Preparing your vehicle now can help you enjoy the summer. With a clean interior, a refreshed air conditioner, and a beach-ready bag packed at all times, you are ready to make the most out of summer. Image by Gronkca is licensed under CC-BY-SA 2.0

There's a reason why they call it the great outdoors. From breathing in the fresh air to feeling the sun on your skin, everything about spending a beautiful day outdoors is great. If you live in or around Woodridge, Virginia, there are loads of amazing places to spend time outside. Whether you enjoy watching birds in their natural habitat, spotting native plants, or simply going for a leisurely stroll, these are three of the Walking Trails in Woodbridge, VA. Lee's Woods Historic Trail If you're a history buff, you'll love Lee's Woods Historic Trail near Woodbridge. The interpretive trail stretches 1.8 miles and features points of interest related to both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, including a small fort, the ancestral home sites of Virginia's well-known Lee and Fairfax families, a former railroad bed, the Henry Lee family cemetery, and a Confederate gun battery. Be sure to grab a guidebook from the visitor center before you start walking. The book offers brief explanations of each attraction and the best route to take along the trail. Enjoy beautiful views of the Potomac River and watch for wildlife, such as bald eagles, as you follow the signposts and wind your way through the forest. Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge Loop Located where the Potomac and Occoquan rivers meet, Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life in Woodbridge. The sanctuary's many grasslands, meadows, and marshes serve as a wilderness retreat for a wide variety of songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and butterflies. A 2.9-mile trail offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the many migratory birds and endangered species that call the refuge home. Made up of gravel roads along old military patrol routes, the quiet trail attracts birdwatchers from miles around. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in this wildlife oasis. Powell's Creek Nature Trail Looking for the perfect place to take your dog for a walk? Powell's Creek Nature Trail welcomes both humans and their four-legged friends to enjoy the 2.2-mile interpretive walk. Nestled amid the natural beauty of Leesylvania State Park, the well-used trail is suitable to all skill levels and features educational information about watersheds. Aside from a few steps, the gentle trail is easy to walk and perfect for pets. Despite its location in the middle of the busy Woodbridge area, Powell's Creek Nature Trail feels like it's a million miles from civilization. It's a great place to kick back and relax for a few hours. If you love getting up close with nature, then Woodbridge is the place to be. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy yourself. From birds to bees and rivers to trees, the sights and sounds of nature are all around. Next time you're in the mood for an outdoor adventure, soak up the sun while enjoying three of the best walking trails near Woodridge.