Say my name: When kids get to dub the family pet

This was his first visit after being adopted from the SPCA over the weekend. He was a bit pudgy at 40 pounds—a middle-aged Beagle mix with a lazy demeanor and drooping ears. He was adorable, but with his squat legs and lumbering gait, I could never describe him as dynamic. I glanced at his chart, […]

Connecting the dots: UVA takes part in a nationwide autism study

Eight local autistic children are participating in a nationwide study that could change the way developmental disorders are perceived and treated. Most existing autism medications only treat the irritability and aggressive aspects of the disorder, and for the first time, doctors are testing a drug that could improve social interaction and communication skills. ConnectMe is […]

Enemy at the baby gate: When grandparents go bad

As a new father with no significant prior experience with small children, I worry I’ve missed something big and obvious about infant care. I’ve taken classes and read a little bit here and there, but there’s no substitute for experience. I have a gnawing suspicion there are things I should know that were not covered […]

Five Finds on Friday: Tomas Rahal of MAS Tapas

On Fridays, we feature five finds from local chefs and personalities.  Today’s picks come from Tomas Rahal of MAS Tapas, who focused on some of his current daytime favorites.  Rahal’s picks: 1)  Double Macchiato from Shenandoah Joe.  “Sometimes this is a meal, others a reward.  Perfect pitch by the baristas at Shen Joe.” 2)  Blueberry […]

The manor reborn: Belle Haven blooms through the seasons

“It hadn’t been touched for 50 years and was a beautiful disaster.” That was Belle Haven, Jan Glennie-Smith’s historic Scottsville estate, when she moved there 22 years ago. The house, built around 1880, overlooks the James River and anchors a sweeping tract of woods and fields. “I started just by uncovering the foundation gardens,” she […]

Star of the show: Now 20, l’étoile keeps shining

Gourmet food is moving downscale. The work of talented chefs is increasingly available to diners who don’t wish to dress up or pay a small fortune for a good meal. While the proliferation of inexpensive, casual, high quality restaurants has generally been a good thing, one downside is the squeezing out of a dying breed—a […]

Inside, out: A Belmont home boasts two kinds of kitchens

Bill and Jessica Norton’s Belmont home boasts two kitchens. The first, at the rear informal entrance to their home, is a warm, welcoming space with built-in seating, a vintage porcelain sink picked up on their honeymoon, concrete and copper countertops, chicken-themed everything (upholstery, paintings, dishes, and assorted tchotchkes) and a custom made second sink by […]