This and That - Life in a Small Town

Small Town, Big Talent: Rebecca Anderson Hunt

In this episode of This and That, host Bryce Hall sits down with local creative Rebecca (Becky) Anderson Hunt—an artist, musician, photographer, teacher, and all-around creative spirit. Becky shares her journey from growing up as a military brat to building a life in the small town of Colonial Beach, VA.  Her creativity shows up in just about everything she does. From art and music to teaching and her love of horses, you’ll hear how all the pieces of her life connect in ways she didn’t always expect. Becky also talks about designing the town’s vintage postcard-style LOVE sign, the role community has played in her work, and what it was like balancing creativity with motherhood. Along the way, Becky offers honest, encouraging advice for anyone trying to follow their own creative path. She also offers insights into her artistic process and the importance of staying true to one's vision.  And to wrap it all up, Becky shares a beautiful rendition of “Shady Grove”—a perfect reflection of her style and spirit.    Follow us on Podbean & Spotify @thisandthatCBVA and Instagram @thisandthat.cbva

Big birds of Colonial Beach: Ospreys, Eagles and Herons

In this episode This and That podcast host, Bryce Hall, takes you into the skies above the Town of Colonial Beach's peninsula, The Point. Here ospreys dive, bald eagles soar, and great blue herons glide along the shoreline. Bryce explores the fascinating behaviors of these large coastal birds, from nesting and migration to the surprising (and sometimes messy) realities of sharing space with them, including occasional osprey mishaps and an unexpected surprise left by an eagle.  You will also discover how the community comes together to protect and celebrate its wildlife through festivals, nest cams, hands-on conservation efforts and various art mediums. With practical tips for coexisting with these incredible birds, this episode offers something for both seasoned birdwatchers and anyone simply curious about life along the water. Follow us on Podbean & Spotify @thisandthatCBVA and Instagram @thisandthat.cbva

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.   Follow is on Podbean and Spotify @ thisandthatcbva  On Instagram@ thisandthat.cbva

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.   Follow us on Podbean & Spotify @thisandthatCBVA and Instagram @thisandthat.cbva

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