The holidays are quickly approaching. Family gatherings may change significantly due to the pandemic. If your children will be home for the holidays, whether they are visiting or living with you, no matter what their age, it is a great time to access the mess. Read more
Two years ago, I met Julia Whitney Barnes at a house party via mutual friends. Through the power of social media, lives and talents are revealed. Her work is stunning. Here is her story. Read more
We easily fall into the habit of shopping online in the comfort of our own home. When we shop locally, we not only support a small local business, we also get to meet our neighbors and experience personalized customer service. Since moving to Newburgh, I’ve enjoyed shopping local year-round. Read more
Happy Mother’s Day! I associate this weekend with flowers and planting. Maybe not this year with the chilly weather, but it is usually safe to plant flowers on Mother’s Day weekend. Gift me a live plant to put outside or a hanging basket and I’m a happy woman. Flowers just seem to brighten any day.
The month of December brings joy, excitement and a lot of stress. As I write this I’m all packed up waiting to move so this month will be spent unpacking. Moving and the holidays equates to an overwhelming sense of chaos.
Here are some helpful tips for to make the season less weary and more cheery. Read more
As I dismantle my house in preparation to move, there are memories of milestones including past holiday celebrations. Moving is not easy especially during the holiday season. Read more
Inspired by The Beekman 1802: Boys A Seat at the Table book I thought, “Why not host an open house showcasing the local artisans featured in my last column?” It was during one of my busiest weeks. My house wasn’t decorated except for a few Poinsettias. No time to make appetizers or signature cocktails. It was a run to the store for food to thrown on my table and felt like a deer caught in the headlights. This was not my plan.
What did I learn? It didn’t matter. Everyone had a great time, friends brought food and drinks and the vendors sold merchandise. Everyone was relaxed but me. It was a great turnout. My new mantra is ‘lighten up’. Life is hectic but if you are spending it with people whose company you enjoy, that is all that matters.
As much as I love the convenience of shopping online, I love to support local artisans and small independent business owners. Some have storefronts, studios, are web based or by appointment only.
Are you making a list and checking it twice? As we get closer to Christmas, the pressure rises and so does the crowds. Shopping small local businesses can make the experience less stressful. Here is my list of suggestions of local spots to hit to make the season merry and bright.
Homes sell all year round and the holidays are no exception. If buyers are looking during one of the most hectic times of the year, they are serious. The benefit of selling at this time is there is less competition.