I know there is so much to be said for international travel and I’m all for it. I mean who wouldn’t want to jet set around the world staying in beautiful hotels complete with equally beautiful décor, and eat fancy foods prepared by French or Italian trained chef, and swim in gorgeous beaches. Man, that sounds good doesn’t it?
But here’s my reality: I’m a product manager, working mom raising a pre-k four-year-old with a busy active toddler life complete with swim lessons; throw in a couple of pets, a house, and all the mommy chores and well, you guess it, I have zero time to fly around the world.
I love local towns, old towns to be exact—the architecture + history, corner restaurants + coffee shops, local businesses, gorgeous historic homes with beautiful details on beautiful tree-lined streets. Recently, I took a day trip to explore historic Leesburg,  located 33 miles west-northwest of Washington, D.C. along the base of Catoctin Mountain and adjacent to the Potomac River.

Old town Leesburg is a quintessential Virginia town with its rich history and beautiful homes. It is located in Loudoun County, the happiest county in America! Just an hour outside of Washington, DC, old town Leesburg has historical elements everywhere you turn from architecture to shops to people that made me feel so happy just walking around.
The best way to see the town is by walking, driving is not recommended at all; you will see more of the town. I’m so glad we walked around because we stumbled upon the Cooley Gallery. The Cooley Gallery is owned by ex-Redskins player, number 47, Chris Cooley. He is an artist now, in addition to his radio gig, and he often teaches classes. {What a nice surprise, huh?!}

Displayed upstairs was the beautiful work of this month’s featured artist, Joseph Sand, Wood Fired Ceramic Artist.

Anyway, we went into the gallery and were pleasantly surprised to see unique paintings and pottery displayed so beautifully! We walked around for a few minutes and got to meet local artist, Marcia Klioze (www.kliozeart.com). She specializes in portrait, character studies, and lifestyle illustrations and paintings. So, you guys, come to find out that that that night there would be an art class being taught by none other than Marcia! It was one of their Paint and Cork classes.
Naturally, we immediately signed me up for the class on the spot! I was so excited. It was such a great way to end the day doing what I love –painting and drinking wine!

…Now, about that international travel bucket list…I’m thinking Thailand?
Do you like old towns and what is your favorite? I am always looking for new old towns to explore, so please don’t be shy, let me know some of our faves in the comment box below!

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