Fall Local Lifestyle Playlist 2024

Fall Festivities with Adam Crellin-Sazama

Sawyer's Farm

At Sawyer Farm on Turnpike Road in Jaffrey New Hampshire, they are pros at growing and harvesting the perfect pumpkins. Alfred and Rachel Sawyer are the operators of this pumpkin patch. They originally started growing pumpkins over 15 years ago, selling squash out of the back of their Subaru. Now, years later, the pair grow pumpkins on over three acres of land, harvesting hundreds that go to their stand for the community’s enjoyment.

Next >>

Courtsey of Photographer, Geoffry Settles

Growing pumpkins is no easy feat. In New England, pumpkins are typically planted in May or June, taking up to 120 days to fully produce the ripe squash we love so deeply, requiring careful care for the entirety of their growing time. The average pumpkin vine can easily reach up to 30 feet long, producing pumpkins of a variety of colors and sizes, typically ranging from 5 to 30 pounds (though the largest pumpkin ever grown was over 2,700 pounds!).

At Sawyer Farm, you can find quite a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Alfred and Rachel Sawyer are in and out of the pumpkin stand most days of the week, carefully curating the perfect spot for your next fall adventure. The stand consists of a beautiful old wooden barn, full of charm and fall flavor. Spilling out in every direction are more pumpkins than one could imagine!

Next >>

Carve the scariest jack-o-lantern, bake the sweetest pumpkin pie, or purchase the perfect all-around decor to last the whole season. Additionally, if you’re looking for a gorgeous location for your fall photoshoot, Sawyer Farm is your place. The vibrant oranges, yellows, greens, and whites of the pumpkins against the quaint wooden barn make it a great stop to get in your cutest fall photos!

As a matter of fact, you might not be the only person there taking photos. The farm is such a great photoshoot location that it has become a favorite stop for well-loved local photographer, Geoffrey Settles who’s photo can be seen on the cover of this article.

Next >>

After you buy your pumpkin from Sawyer Farm, make sure you stay up-to-date with all the other delightful pumpkin festivities happening locally. The Keene Pumpkin Festival is right around the corner, coming up on Saturday October 12th. At this fest, you can see hundreds of intricately hand-carved pumpkins from area children, boasting some of the most creative designs you have ever seen! So mark your calendars, and make sure you pick up your Sawyer Farm pumpkin in time to bring your own jack-o-lantern to the Keene Pumpkin Fest, and all the other fall festivities soon to come!

Next >>

>>Event Info<<

Come Celebrate Heritage Craft with us November 16! This Free Family event celebrates our New England Heritage Crafting Traditions!

Find 20+ Vendors in the Community Greenhouse with handcrafted items just in time for Holiday Shopping.

Live demonstrations will include Flax Spinning, Basketry, Wool Spinning, Rug Hooking, Steambending, and Blacksmithing.

SEE YOU THERE!

The Craft School at Mill Hollow Works

A Heritage Craft School in Keene NH offering Boatbuilding, Woodworking, Carpentry, Crafts and more.

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

For the Frame of It All

Talking Shop with Nathan Bagster

If you happen to be window shopping on Main Street in Keene, then you’ve probably found yourself gawking at the amazing artwork on display at the Indian King Framery. The curator of the window dressing is none other than owner Tyler Rogers!

Having previously spent 20 years at Creative Encounters, Tyler was looking to take his experience with framing and start a new adventure. His journey with Indian King Framery began when he started working there part-time in the fall of 2020. As luck would have it, the opportunity to take over the shop arose, and he didn’t hesitate.

Next >>

Since acquiring the business, Tyler has put his personal touch on everything—from the carefully curated selection of frames to the welcoming atmosphere that greets each visitor. A standout feature of the shop is its impressive collection of frames – as it should be. “Right now, we carry close to a dozen different vendors, which vary in styling,” Tyler shares. Visitors can find upscale handmade frames from Italy, alongside well-known names like Roma and Bella—brands that are new to the business.

Next >>

The real draw though, is the artwork. Walking through the front door, you’re thrown into a gorgeous display of works in all different shapes and sizes, ranging from movie posters to modern art, along with a classy sprinkle of ‘nerd’ culture. Framed pictures of comic book scenes, concert posters, and even figurines touch just about every inch of the room.
But this isn’t just about filling space and covering up the wallpaper. As Tyler says, “The artwork on the walls is about finding the right frame and matching the aesthetic. Using these examples demonstrates to our clients what a specific matte could look like against several different colors. It’s a visual showcase that shows off the options.”

Next >>

The clever part? It’s also a showcase of the final product, working as a portfolio for Tyler and the crew, and highlighting their experienced craftsmanship.

As we draw closer to fall and cool days for long walks, Tyler and the team will be getting into the spooky season and decorating windows with Halloween designs. “We love the creepy and weird stuff, and it’s probably the most exciting season for window displays,” Tyler says. So be sure to add their display to your list of Main Street stops. Who knows, maybe it will spark a desire to frame up that old photo you’ve been hanging onto!

Next >>

>>Connect with me<<

"Financial planning is like the reaping of a harvest: what you gather tomorrow depends on the seeds you plant today. Just as a rich harvest needs the care and nurturing of spring and summer, your financial future thrives when tended with intention and love. By nurturing your financial garden, you’ll ensure a future full of abundance and peace."

Isis Latham
Regional Vice President, Primerica
Teacher + Networker
+ Financial Mary Poppins
603.554.4399 | Isislatham@gmail.com
100 Emerald St suite E-1 Keene NH 03431

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Tap Along with Erin Scollans

Contra Dance!

The art of contra dancing has been practiced in New England for centuries. It’s difficult to put an exact date on when the tradition first started, but its roots can be traced as far back as the European settlement days.

“As soon as the European settlers had enough spare time beyond surviving, one of the first things they did was hold social dances based on traditions primarily (but not exclusively) in England, France, and Africa,” explains Monadnock Folklore Society board member Lisa Sieverts.

“The concept of contra dancing is a ‘prompted dance’ either in a long line or squares; it’s something that’s been practiced in the region for more than two hundred years,” Sieverts continues.

“It’s very much a living tradition - the dances keep changing and evolving over time.”



Next >>

Curtesy of Photographer Doug Plummer

Think of contra dancing as an extension of the more well-known square dancing. It provides that same social role of mingling with different dance partners during a live music performance. Some folks take it more seriously than others, but many are in it for the sense of community (and giggles).

You can typically find the group of dancers in a community hall, led by an instructor (or “caller”) who guides the room and gives direction based on the level of experience and number of folks dancing on that particular night. With that being said - there is no experience necessary! Contra dancing is a social, multi-generational tradition with the goal of getting people on their feet and into the groove. And if you arrive a little earlier, you can typically even join a short tutorial.


Next >>

“It’s addicting!” says Erich Kruger, one of the Brattleboro Contra Dance Committee members. “In this day and age where people are coming together socially less and less, [contra dancing] is needed now more than ever.”

Perhaps one of the best aspects of contra dancing is how it has adapted societally over the last couple of centuries. These days, committees have ventured away from using gender-based role terms. In other words, instead of using “ladies” and “gentlemen,” the language has adapted to terms like “larks”and “robins.” For someone like Sieverts, who has been dancing for the better part of 60 years, it’s been especially exciting to witness firsthand some of the changes thanks to the younger folks entering the scene.



Next >>

“It’s been revitalizing for me!” Sieverts exclaimed. “Younger generations have taught us that gender terms are not necessary or helpful, and it’s made the experience better than ever.”

There are a few places online to find out about the local dance committees in the Monadnock Region and beyond. The Guiding Star Grange offers a comprehensive list of monthly dance events in the greater Greenfield, MA area. The Brattleboro Contra Dance Committee holds contra dances consistently the second Sunday of every month, with their Facebook page routinely updated. Kruger emphasizes that these dances are for everyone (including families with children). Not only will the caller accommodate the folks in attendance, but there are specific dances that center around small children, making the experience all that more fun for everyone.

Next >>

Another great thing about contra dancing is that you don’t have to come with a partner; attending solo gives the option of socializing with other community members and hopefully walking away with a few new friends at the end of the night.

The Monadnock Folklore Society’s website is also an excellent source of information for dances held monthly in the region, including Peterborough’s popular Contra Dance. This Folklore Society also holds quarterly scholarships for folks interested in expanding their traditional contra dance knowledge. According to the website, The Johnny Trombly Memorial Fund Scholarship provides “funds for students to use for lessons, mentoring, music, dance camps, etc.”

Quarterly scholarships are awarded (with preference being given to those under 18 and who reside in the Monadnock Region), with the next scholarship deadline being October 1st.





Next >>

Curtesy of Photographer Doug Plummer

There is a weekly Nelson Dance every Monday night; it is a contra dance featuring a variety of different callers and musicians, from “local regulars to visiting dignitaries” (the-nelson-monday-night-dance). Not only is this a great option for newer dancers, but musicians are always welcome, as well! The Monadnock region is blessed with fabulous musicians, and it’s a great opportunity for those who might be newer to playing live music, giving everyone a chance to jump in when they feel comfortable, musically or otherwise. The great thing about contra dancing is that there is always live music - fiddlers, guitarists, pianists - just another awesome reason to join in on the fun!

Be sure to grab your cleanest soft soled shoes, dress comfortably, and don’t hesitate to jump in at your next local dance night! Who knows, you might just find your newest favorite local hobby and make some new friends along the way.

Next >>

Curtesy of Photographer Doug Plummer

>>Visit US<<

"The golden light of Autumn draws us outdoors and up into the hills. The forest is a vivid canvas that infuses us with energy and reverance. Preserving the garden's abundance provides both immediate the comfort of cooking and winter food security. Canning and baking brightens my soul and heightens my senses."

Patti Powers
Owner, Cheshire Garden
A small, organic farm specializing in heirloom berries, fruits, herbs, and preserves.

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

Livin’ It Up Locally with Sandy Parsons

Get Your Maple on at Maple Station!

Ben’s Sugar Shack & The Maple Station Market are known for a maple-forward theme, obvious from the moment you enter the doors. You’re welcomed with a beautiful “sugar shack” located in the middle of the market. Inside are all the sweet, nostalgic maple products, syrups, and candies Ben produces. (Did you know he first started tapping trees at age five?!) 

Next >>

As if maple treats, like donuts and ice cream available year-round weren’t enough, the market also stocks groceries, including fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, and bread from local farms, and features an amazing full-service deli.

Next >>

I arrived at lunch time and ordered the Grannie Sandie Sub, which was full of fresh veggies and apple slices with a maple mustard. I opted to add tomatoes and caramelized onions, too, which was delicious. Make sure you enjoy a maple ice cream cone, cider donut, or gourmet coffee while watching staff assemble the maple candy behind the viewing glass.

Next >>

Fall décor has also arrived at Ben’s, and I couldn’t resist picking up a fall wreath for my door. Stop in and see why this is one of the largest maple producers in New England. Located in Temple, NH right on Rt. 101.

For information about Ben’s Sugar Shack, the Maple Station, and their products, visit bensmaplesyrup.com.

Next >>

>>Listen Now<<

"Shop Local, Eat Local...Read Local! Cozy up this autumn with New Hampshire author interviews on my podcast ReadLocalNH. Together, we celebrate Granite State writers, independent bookstores, libraries and of course, you, the reader. Fall is the perfect time to leap into the abundant literary talent all around you."

Laura Knoy, Former NHPR Host of "The Exchange" and Award Winning Journalist brings us:
ReadLocalNH - A Podcast for Book Lovers
Expand your literary horizons by reading from your own backyard.

Saddle Up with Sonja Bolton

Appreciate Autumn From Horseback

I really like hiking. I can get on board with biking. But what really rocks my socks off is the splendor of seeing autumn with an equine companion. How the miles fly by. You can summit new heights and search for grand views, the menagerie of colors crunching under hoof. The cool weather and lack of bugs mean my mount and I can literally wander for hours and hours along the region’s network of trails. Here are four horse-friendly haunts, even if you don’t own your own horse.

Next >>

In fact, that’s a good place to start. Let’s say you, like many, do not have a horse of your own but love to ride. Look for ways to ride with friends! A great way to get connected with local horse lovers is the Monadnock Happy Trails Association,  a non-profit equine pleasure trail riding club in the tri-state area of sNH/cMA/seVT based in Swanzey, NH. You can also book a trail ride at the Inn at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH. They have a barn full of kind, well trained horses for every level rider.

Next >>

We, in the Monadnock Region, have a tremendous state gem at our fingertips: Pisgah State Park. The largest state park in New Hampshire boasts over 13,000 acres of pristine woodlands, wetlands, ponds and the complete watershed of the Ashuelot river. And, it is one of 6 state parks that allow horseback riding and the only one who does so in Cheshire County. It is a must see no matter how you ride. The NH Parks Service asks that you “check the NH State Park and Rail Trail pages for the horseback riding symbol and for parking areas.”

Next >>

And speaking of Rail Trails, the Cheshire Recreational Rail Trail, Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail and Monadnock Recreational Rail Trail are all ideal for relaxing walks, brisk trots, and ground covering canters. One of my favorite places to launch a trail ride is the old Troy B&M Railroad Depot and then head south past Rockwood Pond. Be it biking, hiking, or riding, enjoy our region’s most colorful season by scheduling some trail time!

Just be sure to wear your orange hunting vest for safety if you're treking through hunting season.

Next >>

>>Visit US<<

Fall is the season to embrace the crisp air, scenic drives through vibrant foliage, and the last moments of freedom before winter settles in. It's a time to celebrate the open road, the beauty of the open road, and the bond shared between car fanatics and their rides.

Nathan Bagster, Founder & Content Director
Monadnock Hit & Run
A Digital Car & Driver Magazine for the Monadnock Region

Dinner Time with Sandy Parsons

The Perfect Cut at West Swanzey Meats

I’m always excited to try a new butcher shop when the opportunity arises. West Swanzey Meats is a local business staffed by experienced butchers who are passionate about their products. Knowing the area has very limited options for meat shops, they opted to open West Swanzey Meats right in town.

You may have a hard time choosing from the large butcher case filled with beef, chicken, and pork, all USDA quality cuts. Shop directly from the case or order a meat bundle. Some cuts are marinated and prepped for easy meals and others you can dress yourself. Need a little help? I found the staff knowledgeable and ready to answer questions so you can plan the perfect meal for any occasion.

Next >>

West Swanzey Meats also offers a full deli case of salads, meats, and cheeses. In a hurry and hungry? Grab-and-go meals will get you fed in a jiffy. Cheeseburgers are their best lunch seller, but if that’s not what you’re craving, they also have hot soups and other prepared foods. Tasty and just in time for fall’s arrival.

Not only is it a meat market, but they also offer a mini grocery store! In need of vegetables, bread, spices or beer? You can get them here. Whenever it’s available locally, they also offer up fresh fruit and vegetables from local farms.

Next >>

Check out this great local spot on Facebook for weekly and daily specials. We are so fortunate this much-needed specialty shop chose to open right in our community!

Location: 919 West Swanzey Road, West Swanzey, NH, United States, 03446

Next >>

LOVE this content?
(We know; it's irresistible 😉.) 

Click Here to Become a Featured Sponsor

Sinking into Nature with Caroline Tremblay

The World Needs More Art

“I didn’t really start devoting time to art until about 10 years ago. I had always been, and continue to be, a jack of all trades,” describes Kyle Higgins. Back in high school, he played three sports, sang in the choir, and acted in the school musical. Eventually, he became close friends with an art teacher and began regularly bending his ear about his process. “When COVID hit, art became my escape,” Kyle says. And he fell in love with printmaking because of several artists he discovered on Instagram.


Next >>

“There was something so pleasing about carving linoleum that allowed me to just be present in the moment and let go of the chaos of the day,” he explains. He also finds the simplicity of the work satisfying. “Working with one color and negative space creates such a fun challenge when you’re trying to create art.”


Kyle creates at home, and though he has a dedicated work space, he ends up taking it all over the house. “I’m sure my wife does not appreciate the little bits of linoleum in all of the nooks and crannies of every table we own,” he laughs. Typically those tiny shavings add up to something nature-inspired. Most of his work features landscapes, flora, and fauna. Birds are a particular favorite.

Next >>

This fall, he’s looking forward to leaning into the nature of New England in his work. “There is so much beauty around us, and I love sharing it with people,” he says. He’s also hoping to participate in a few shows and events locally. “I still feel like a newcomer but definitely am starting to feel at home,” he shares.

Next >>

In addition to his art-making, Higgins is a full-time educator, teaching Social Studies at Keene Middle School. “I have taught many things in my career and worked with amazing educators, but I feel truly blessed to work in this school,” he says. His advice for anyone who may not be an experienced or full-time artist just yet is this: “If you are at all interested in making art, do it. Do it for yourself. Do it because it makes you happy. Do it because the world needs more art and more artists. If you don’t know where to start, ask someone that makes things you like.”

Find Kyle’s work on Etsy, at Hannah Grimes Marketplace in Keene, or by messaging him on Instagram.

Next >>

>>Find More<<

"This year, it feels like fall has rushed in with a gust of energy and urgency. So many local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs ready to share their stories. Now is always the right moment to share the story of your local business because together, we make a community."

Caroline Tremblay
Owner & Content Director, Owl & Pen
Exceptional Written Content to Help Local Businesses Thrive...
Wherever Your Local Is

Popping Over to Swanzey with Caroline Tremblay

Scents of the Season 

Cold-process artisan soaps, soy candles, and heavenly scents that make you say Ooh La La—these are the delights The Purple Goat is known for. You may recognize this sweet little shop from its former home on Old Homestead Highway. But it has since moved to 63 Kempton Rd. in Swanzey, right to owner Heidi Hurt’s property. The big reason for this move was becoming a mama. The shift allows her to pack and ship online orders lickity split while also being able to offer brick-and-mortar hours more easily. “It was important to me that I still kept a retail shop where my customers could come shop and smell our products,” she says.

Next >>

While scents like Cranberry Orange, Almond Honey, and Balsam & Cedar (among MANY others ranging from fun to fancy) are quite a draw, Heidi’s ingredients are the main attraction. “We're known for using quality ingredients in our handmade products,” she explains. In fact, after her mother passed away from cancer, Heidi poured herself into research, discovering the astounding number of toxins we’re exposed to through everyday living. That’s why everything she makes, from bath bombs to makeup to body wash uses high quality, non-toxic ingredients.

Next >>

For many, The Purple Goat is their go-to for body and home products that are simultaneously safe and decadent. And for locals, being able to pop over and sample new scents is a big perk. The shop is open one weekend per month on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The next open weekends include September 14th & 15th, October 12th & 13th, November 23rd & 24th, and December 7th & 8th. “We aim to make our shop a sweet, fun experience, even offering goat's milk lattes for cozy shopping,” Heidi describes. The shop is also open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 4pm on-demand. Just pop by and ring the doorbell. She’s found people are nervous to do it but shares, “We want everyone to know that we welcome and look forward to it!”

Next >>

Also be on the lookout for The Purple Goat’s annual Cookies & Cocoa event, which takes place in December. “Our products make great gifts, so a lot of our customers shop during the holidays and then shop online throughout the year, too,” Heidi says. This year, she’s added more gifts to the shop, including hand-crocheted plush toys and freeze dried candy. “We’re super excited for a fabulous holiday season!” she says.

So mark your calendar and plan a visit; in fact, make a day of it! “We are a part of the West Swanzey Market Mile where there are a ton of shopping establishments along a mile-long stretch on Route 10,” Heidi notes. Check out Frogg Brewing after a fun time shopping or grab some lunch at Angie's Pizza or Jeanne's Diner. And remember that you can always find Purple Goat goodies online anytime.


Next >>

@bestphotographerever

Just a small town girl.

Before they sold out typewriter cred hashtag leggings health goth banh mi single-origin coffee selfies, selvage pok pok. Intelligentsia scenester actually, iPhone la croix banjo forage meditation cold-pressed vinyl XOXO. Occupy flannel hashtag echo park. Prism freegan plaid pug slow-carb 90's, chillwave activated charcoal cornhole.

Truffaut ugh pok pok waistcoat artisan. Swag air plant vaporware, tumeric la croix microdosing offal hexagon tbh. Chambray roof party typewriter coloring book intelligentsia mlkshk lomo umami blue bottle drinking vinegar locavore PBR&B viral. Heirloom poke biodiesel, unicorn wolf leggings hella celiac adaptogen migas. La croix hexagon cold-pressed XOXO art party. Cornhole slow-carb church-key subway tile. Art party master cleanse intelligentsia fingerstache swag craft beer raw denim palo santo salvia pug scenester narwhal occupy single-origin coffee glossier. Stumptown pok pok fashion axe cornhole health goth celiac. Knausgaard YOLO mumblecore lyft glossier.

- I'm obsessed with red shoes
- My iphone 7 is my lifeline
- frogs scare me
- I will do anything for a peppermint mocha
- I've never been on an airplane
- Mountain dew should be a food group

A Walk in the Woods with Adam Crellin-Sazama

The Ultimate Challenge: Tracing Monadnock

Standing tall at 3,165 feet, Mount Monadnock watches over all of Southern New Hampshire. With its bald top, the mountain is an icon in the region's skyline and a symbol of home for so many that live nearby. After Mt. Fuji in Japan, Mt. Monadnock is the most hiked mountain in the entire world, with an estimated quarter of a million people coming to hike it every year, and we absolutely understand why.

Mt. Monadnock offers incredible views, reaching more than a hundred miles in any direction across New England on a clear day and is home to some of the most incredible flora and fauna across the state.

It’s a beautiful climb in all seasons, and hikers trek the mountain year-round. As we head into fall, Mt. Monadnock will become a fiery painting of reds, yellows, and oranges and will be one of the best places in the region to venture to see the fall foliage. 

Next >>

The iconic bald top of Mt. Monadnock sticking into the sky (Wikipedia)

When hiking Mt. Monadnock there are a number of different trails to choose from, all offering different experiences, some with longer distances, some with more challenging ascents, but all with stunning vistas. Each hike brings its own perspective on Mt. Monadnock, with a new experience every time you head up a different trail.

A number of local hikers make it a goal each year to hike every single trail the mountain has to offer. These people trace lines on a map of every completed trail until they have hiked the entire mountain, thus the term “tracing.” The map can then be submitted in exchange for a badge, proving that you are a true Monadnock hiker. There are even social media groups dedicated to people attempting this feat, where climbers can share stories and pictures of their favorite hikes, ask others for tips, and show off their amazing accomplishment once tracing is complete.

Next >>

Mt. Monadnock with stunning fall foliage (Photo by Jeffrey Newcomer/Patridge Brook Reflections 

Some hikers take on this challenge over the course of a few months, while others take their time, completing it over years. The opportunity to trace the entirety of Mt. Monadnock draws in people from all crowds, with many hikers living near the mountain, while others travel from farther away. Some like the sense of achievement and others talk about how much the natural beauty and diversity of one hike to the next inspires them to continue.

We had the opportunity to message with a few people who are working on or have completed the challenge of tracing all of Mt. Monadnock, asking what drove them to trace the entire mountain and any advice they may have to others wishing to start. When sharing her story of how she traced all of Mt. Monadnock, Karen Lanou Herk said: “What I didn't expect was for it to take me so long to complete every trail. Mainly because I had my favorite trails and kept going back to them. When I finally committed to new trails, I was amazed at the beauty of the less traveled trails.... moss covered rocks and trees, hidden streams and waterfalls, crazy shaped rocks, wildflowers and berry bushes. There was always something new to see and take pictures of.”

Next >>

Patch earned for completing the tracing of Mt. Monadnock (Grand Monadnock Facebook Page)

Herk suggests that new hikers pack essentials and “take in all the mountain has to offer.” Leigh Richardson, another hiker who has traced the mountain, told us that her advice to others is “never stop climbing. The challenge is rewarding one step at a time. Grand Monadnock is home to me. I have met the kindest people here who I now call family.” Both of these hikers are an example that there is a strong, supportive, and encouraging community of people who have made it their mission to trace Mt. Monadnock, welcoming in others who are looking to join the club!

Next >>

Map of trails on Mt. Monadnock (Picture from NH State Parks)

Just as the mountain itself is ever-changing and evolving, the tracing community is, as well. The term ‘tracing’ is a newer term that is entering hiking communities, and we’ve been intentional about choosing to use it here. When looking for more information one will likely encounter the term “redlining” to refer to the same practice. This comes from the original idea that a red line was put on every completed trail on a map of a mountain. But many have pushed to move away from this term due to its other meaning, referring to the federally sanctioned practices used to discriminate against people of color in the United States. Though most hikers use this term without any malice at all, it is understandable that others feel uncomfortable with its use. And tracing has been offered as a more inclusive and accepting form of language in the hiking community.

As seasons change and autumn foliage begins to emerge, Mt. Monadnock presents a stunning opportunity to go for a hike and see the views. This special peak, which has drawn artists, authors, and adventurers alike, has so much to offer. It’s the perfect place to get outdoors and connect with the beautiful natural world right in our own backyards.

Try hiking as many Monadnock trails as you can and explore all the mountain has to provide. In the words of Richard R. Nelson, “There is more to learn from climbing the same mountain a hundred times than by climbing a hundred different mountains.”

Next >>

Instagram

follow us on

Having a Ball with Sonja Bolton

Weaving Together Strands of Community

For me, fall means early nights cozying up with the fam and a new crochet project destined for the holidays. Now, you can go to those big box stores and get the same old yarn everyone else has and make the same hat year after year. Or you can relish in deliciously touchable, one-of-a-kind threads made by your very own neighbors.

Wow, do we have skeins in spades around here! Let’s do a little local yarn round-up, alphabetical-style!

Next >>

The Craft School at Mill Hollow Works puts the C in creative. They offer all kinds of classes, including all things textile: crochet, sewing, spinning, and you guessed it - yarn dying. Last year they teamed up with Nomad On Toast for an Acid-Dyeing Yarn series with Dye Master Dave. Love those vivid colors. Get ready for lots of new fiber offerings coming soon, too!

Crescendo Acres is capital C for Cute - alpacas that is. And talk about soft! You can pick up a skein of distinctly alpaca yarn or cut straight to the chase and buy the alpaca socks, toys, snowmen, and so much more in their farm shoppe. You’ll be stopping back for that Christmas tree once you’ve wrapped up all your fall projects! And don’t miss the chance to say hello to the farm’s latest new addition, Poppy, a miniature Zebu cow who’s only months old.




Next >>

Crescendo Acres is capital C for Cute - alpacas that is. And talk about soft! You can pick up a skein of distinctly alpaca yarn or cut straight to the chase and buy the alpaca socks, toys, snowmen, and so much more in their farm shoppe. You’ll be stopping back for that Christmas tree once you’ve wrapped up all your fall projects! And don’t miss the chance to say hello to the farm’s latest new addition, Poppy, a miniature Zebu cow who’s only months old.

Marching right along to Harrisville Designs. These guys are truly serious about their fiber crafts and offer everything A to Z that you’ll need to begin or advance your fiber art, including ongoing classes. When it comes to materials, their skeins of yarn are even listed by the individual sheep breed. Searching for Shetland? Want to highlight a Highland? Harrisville Designs has your back. Great gifts for kiddos as well as you think ahead. Remember those sweet, potholder weaving kits? You can find those and plenty of other kid-friendly activities here.

Next >>

Fine Fleeced Shetland Photo Curtesy of Alchemy Shetlands in Westmoreland, NH 

Now Let's magic circle it back to the Knitty Gritty Yarn Shop Knitty Gritty Yarn Shop - self-described as "a little shop with a big heart". Filled floor to ceiling with skeins and skeins of color. You’ll want to dive in, touch everything, and ask all your knitting-curious questions.The owner, Laura Clayton, will take the time to walk you your knitting ABC’s, aka, how to pair yarn weights correctly with needle sizes regarding your pattern’s stitch per inch chart so your hard work actually fits your gift recipient.

Throwback to our Summer Playlist, let’s not forget Meka Farm and Homegoods. And now, that’s a wrap - acid dyed, hand spun, homemade shall I mean. 



Next >>

SHARE ON:

menu