This and That - Life in a Small Town

Facing the Tide: Cancer, Chemo and Healing at the Beach

In this heartfelt episode of This and That podcast, host Bryce Hall opens up about her battle with endometrial cancer in an intimate conversation led by guest host Kristine Guido.
Endometrial cancer incidence has been rising in postmenopausal women. Bryce shares the emotional highs and lows of her diagnosis, the anxiety of waiting for results, and the life-changing experience of undergoing a total hysterectomy and chemotherapy for stage 3 endometrial cancer. With honesty and grace, she reflects on the fear, the importance of self-advocacy in the medical system, and the power of emotional support from loved ones. 
Bryce also offers practical tips for navigating treatment and speaks candidly about how faith, community, and the healing comfort of mind, body and soul that she finds by the water in the Town of Colonial Beach, VA.
This episode is a raw and inspiring reminder of resilience, hope, and the quiet strength found in life’s hardest chapters.
 
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From Battlefields to Beach Town: A Life of Service, Relics, and Discovery

In a captivating interview, This and That podcast host, Bryce Hall, delves into the remarkable life and achievements of retired Army Colonel John Biemeck. His storied military career spans dramatic experiences in Alaska and Vietnam. Colonel Biemeck's tales of service are as enthralling as his deep-rooted passion for black powder relics. Settling in Colonial Beach, he dedicated years to researching and publishing extensive works on projectiles, contributing his expertise to advise on explosive ordnance. His influence extends into the local Colonial Beach community. John played a pivotal role in initiatives like introducing golf carts to the town. Being a golf cart town enhanced the town’s charm and accessibility.
Joining the conversation is Debbie Biemeck, John's steadfast partner in both life and scholarly pursuits. Together, they have curated encyclopedic volumes on projectiles. Debbie's keen editorial skills brought these works to fruition. Their collaborative efforts have led to fascinating discoveries, including artifacts like a 1780 British cannon and the creation of a cannonball monument in their yard. This stands as a testament to their shared passion for history and exploration. This interview not only highlights their impressive contributions to historical research but also paints a vivid picture of their impact on the Colonial Beach community.
 
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Beauty in the Beach: Part 1

Welcome to my This and That podcast, Beauty in the Beach, Part 1. Join Bryce Hall, your host, as she shares personal anecdotes about her favorite seasonal plants that adorn the coastal landscape of Colonial Beach's beloved Point. The ancient oaks, sycamore and towering pine trees stand as silent witnesses to the storied past of the family beach cottage, Pollyanna. Her narrative doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by the community, such as the devastation wrought by Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and the 2017 straight-line windstorm. These events, not only tested Colonial Beach but also showcased its resilience, strength and unity. #CBSTRONG
Bryce invites listeners to see The Point not just as a picturesque spot, but as a place rich with personal history, memory and community spirit. Stay tuned for Beauty in the Beach, Part 2, where Bryce introduces you to the diverse wildlife and unexpected beauty that make The Point unforgettable.Follow us on Podbean & Spotify @thisandthatCBVA and Instagram @thisandthat.cbva

A Beach House Journey: Naming Pollyanna

In this episode of my This and That podcast, we discover the fascinating tradition of naming beach houses and the stories that give them character and charm. Our journey begins in the summer of 1995 in Colonial Beach. From uncovering the rich history of a charming cottage named Pollyanna, to understanding the sentimental reasons behind beach house names. 
Once named, enhancing the experience with a family guestbook can add a meaningful touch. Over time, this guestbook becomes a treasured keepsake, capturing the essence of shared memories and the evolving story of your beach house.
Join us as we recount several heartwarming entries from Pollyanna's guestbook, revealing tales of joy, nostalgia, and the continuity of family traditions that strengthen bonds and celebrate the essence of coastal living.
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Tradition, Transition, and Connection: Kris Guido’s Story

Welcome to my This and That podcast. Kris Guido's Colonial Beach story started as childhood visits filled with beach days, bike rides and riding horses. Stories of her great-grandfather’s legendary poker game turned into a lifelong love affair with this riverside town. Kris shares how her Irish roots led her to discover Colonial Beach and how the memories made here pulled her back year after year until she finally made it home for good.
We’ll hear how she navigated the twists and turns of family transitions, embraced the auction chaos of inheriting a family home, and found her footing as a full-time resident. Through volunteer work and deep community ties, Kris carved out a meaningful life here, one connection at a time.
Her story is full of warmth, grit, and the kind of small-town magic that keeps people coming back. Whether you're a Colonial Beach local or just curious about life in a close-knit community, this episode will leave you feeling inspired.
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Discovering the true source of my Chronic Knee Pain

Welcome to my This and That podcast. Join us as we explore a deeply personal journey of enduring chronic knee pain and the surprising discovery of its true source. Over years of doctor visits, knee replacements, and physical therapy, a different story unfolds—one that underscores the hidden complexities within our bodies.
Travel the long, winding road from knee replacements that promised relief to the revelation of misaligned diagnosis, culminating in an unexpected link to the true source. Experience the emotional and physical toll of chronic knee pain, as well as the profound impact on everyday life and cherished roles, like being a grandmother.
A look into the vital importance of self-advocacy in healthcare, highlighting how overlooked connections can lead to relentless discomfort. Discover how insights and second opinions can make a world of difference, providing much-needed answers and new beginnings. Through candid storytelling, this episode offers solace to those battling similar struggles and shines a light on the interconnected nature of our musculoskeletal system.
Tune in to unravel this intimate narrative of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity, and stay tuned for more compelling stories.Follow us on Podbean, Spotify and Instagram @thisandthat.cbva

Faith, Family and Fortitude: Ethel Jenkyns at 90

Join us in this special episode of my This and That podcast as we celebrate the 90th birthday of Ethel Jenkyns, an extraordinary resident of Colonial Beach. Ethel shares her unique journey from her childhood days helping on her family's tobacco farm in Clinton, Maryland, to her vibrant life in Colonial Beach, where she has been a cornerstone of the community for over three decades.
In our conversation, Ethel reflects on her experiences growing up and her work at St. Jerome's Catholic School, her involvement in her local church, and her continuous passion for learning and trying new things, even in her senior years. Ethel also shares touching memories of her family life, including her late husband, Ernest, and her daughter, Theresa.
With insights into the significant historical events she's witnessed, such as the assassination of President Kennedy and 9/11, Ethel provides a profound perspective on overcoming life's challenges and prejudices. Her stories remind us of the importance of resilience, adaptation, and respect for all.
 
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Courage, Community, and Resilience with Donna Shelar

In this episode of my This and That podcast, we explore the remarkable life of Donna Shelar, a recently retired EMS professional with over 40 years of experience. Donna shares her journey from discovering the charming town of Colonial Beach to pursuing a career in emergency medical services.
We delve into Donna's professional experiences, from humble beginnings as a volunteer in Maryland to becoming one of the first paid paramedics in Charles County, MD. Her story highlights the challenges she faced, including personal hardships and the determination to continue her vital work in Virginia.
Beyond her professional life, Donna opens up about her personal journey. She reflects on her late husband, Jack, sharing memorable moments and cherished traditions. Her passion for music also shines through, revealing her involvement with a local choral group and her impromptu performances that touch the hearts of many.
Tune in to discover Donna's insights on beach safety, the importance of staying vigilant on the water, and debunking common myths about jellyfish stings. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on a life filled with service, community, and the joy of finding unexpected paths.
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Getting Hitched in Virginia: Unique Wedding Regulations

Welcome to my latest episode of the This and That podcast, which explores the intricacies of getting married in Virginia, particularly in the charming town of Colonial Beach. Discover the straightforward yet unique process of obtaining a marriage license in Virginia, a state renowned for its strict officiant regulations yet lack of residency requirements.
In this episode, we share heartwarming stories of Courthouse Style Civil Marriage Ceremonies without the Courthouse Environment. From embracing rainstorms during a beach ceremony to honoring cultural heritages, we look into personalized wedding narratives that highlight surprises, challenges and joys that couples experience. 
Additionally, we examine the legal nuances of officiating weddings in Virginia, ensuring your ceremony is both memorable and legally binding. Whether you're planning a quiet elopement or an elaborate affair, this episode offers valuable insights into making your special day a seamless celebration of love and commitment.
#virginiaweddings #beachwedding #civilceremony #virginiaisforlovers #virginiatourism
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New Shores: Discovering Home in Colonial Beach

Growing up as an Army Brat, the concept of a hometown was always elusive, yet it was the seashore in Connecticut that captured my heart during one of my dad’s military assignments. This love for the ocean became a constant in my life, a compass guiding me through the whirlwind of relocations typical of military life. Fast forward to my early 40s, and an unexpected opportunity arose—a chance discovery of the quaint beach town of Colonial Beach, VA. Nestled along the Potomac River, this charming town exuded a sense of community and tranquility that immediately resonated with my childhood. Embracing this new chapter, I found myself slowly adapting to and cherishing the pace of small-town life. My journey to Colonial Beach not only reconnected me with the sea but also fulfilled my lifelong yearning for a place to call home.
#militarybratsglobal #findinghome #visitcbva #virginiaisforlovers #virginiaTourism
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