The temps are cooling and those beautiful autumn days are coming. While fall is full of festivals, apple picking and harvests, we do love to squeeze in a day trip to a winery or two…or more. We asked our contributors to share their faves within driving distance of Alexandria.

The reality is, summer did fly by, and the kids are already waiting at the bus stop. When you’re on the go 24/7, trying to savor every precious (and humid) moment of summer – August immediately follows July 4th weekend. We asked our contributors to share what they’re squeezing in before fall arrives.

After doing some research, we discovered Juno Moneta, the Roman goddess of money and protectress of funds. She is often depicted on ancient coins, and is shown holding a pair of scales with which to measure out the pile of money that lies at her feet. She is also believed to have been the guard of the Roman temple Capitoline.