Spring Local Lifestyle Playlist 2025
with EricA Broughton
The Art of Intaglio
Step into J. Ann Eldridge’s studio in her nearly 200-year-old barn in Bradford and experience the perfect blend of contemporary art making and centuries-old techniques. Her evocative, nature-inspired intaglio prints are beautiful to look at, and the process is fascinating to watch. Ann is drawn to the physicality and immediacy of drawing, especially with charcoal. For her, “printmaking became an extension of drawing, a way of illustrating stories and making multiple images while retaining the hand-made quality.”
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And when you watch her work, it’s obvious why the magic of intaglio printmaking speaks to her. This art form has been around since the 1400s and has allowed artists to make multiple prints of detailed work for over 600 years. To use this technique, Ann applies a coat of wax ‘ground’ to a metal plate, rolling it on as a very thin, even coat. Before she begins incising (this is what Intaglio means in Italian) away areas of the wax, she smokes this thin layer over a candle, allowing the flames to color the wax dark so she can see the intricate designs she creates.
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Once Ann is happy with the carved wax, she places the plate into an acidic solution that etches fine lines and patterns into the metal anywhere the wax was scraped away. After each plate is finished, she applies ink to the plate, allowing it to flow into all the detailed lines and crevices etched there. Any ink remaining on the surface is wiped away so the only ink transferred to paper is what’s left in the etched lines.
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The prints that come out of her press are often inspired by close-up scenes of growing things; lichen, moss, tiny hidden nests on the soil, a snail shell, or snow-covered brush. Ann will make a first print from a new plate and often choose to add additional details before the plate is complete. Intaglio allows the artist to simply add a new layer of wax and begin carving new details as many times as needed until the plate gives the exact image they want.
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Find her work for sale on her website jaeldridge.com or in person at several galleries in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. She will also be doing a print show in Dublin, NH at the DubHub in July.
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>>Connect with me<<
"Spring’s first blooms—purple crocuses and snowdrops—are a reminder that the right mix of rain and sunshine brings growth. The same is true for your finances. As The Financial Mary Poppins, I’ve got my umbrella ready—whether for April showers or life’s financial storms. Let’s make this a season of growth, both in our gardens and our goals!"
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
Stepping into Spring
with Erica Broughton
Keene is such a great destination for outdoor sports and activities, from a stroll down Main Street to a technical hike up Mount Monadnock. Ted’s Shoe and Sports has your feet covered, no matter where you’re going!
Since 2000, Ted’s Shoe & Sport has been a great resource for anyone who walks through their doors in the heart of Keene. If you’re a brand-new runner, the knowledgeable staff at Ted’s takes the time to hear your goals, look at your form, and recommend shoes that will get you started on the right foot. For the more experienced athlete, the store is stocked with the latest advances in shoe technology so advanced athletes walk out with exactly what they need too.
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Spring in the Monadnock Region is the perfect time to get outdoors, according to owner Ted McGreer. “The air is fresh, the days are longer, the bugs haven’t fully hit yet, and winter is finally behind us,” he says. “It’s important to think about your feet when becoming active again. If you're wanting to get moving more regularly—whether it’s jogging, walking, hiking, or hitting the gym—think about how old your current shoes are. If they’re more than a year old, regardless of how much you wear them, there’s a good chance the foam under your feet (also known as the midsole) has compressed, hardened, and likely doesn’t have the ability to absorb your body’s impact force.”
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Getting the right shoes isn’t limited to only runners or athletes. Ted’s is often recommended by medical providers to their patients who have special footwear needs. They specialize in orthopedic shoes, walking shoes, footwear for work, shoes for long hours of standing, and ultra-comfortable everyday shoes. As Ted explains, “Wearing old or broken-down shoes can lead to shin splints, ankle, knee, and hip pain, and it doesn’t need to happen! Come let our team of professional shoe fitters measure your feet, watch you walk, have a needs assessment, and get you into a perfectly fitted pair of shoes for your application!”
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- Expect extremely knowledgeable staff—Ted’s passion for learning extends to his employees, each of whom receives over 300 hours of instruction on how to get the right shoes on every foot.
- Expect a huge range of options—from extreme minimalist shoes to highly supportive and cushioned options.
- Expect listening ears—staff are only able to do their best work if they understand your specific needs and goals. The right shoes for someone with arthritis who wants to comfortably walk to the Farmers Market will be very different from the right pair for a marathoner training for their next race.
- Expect to walk and stand for staff to watch—a few steps will help staff see the unique biomechanics of your feet in action so they can make the best shoe recommendations.
- Expect information on more than just shoes—Ted’s has socks, insoles, hydration solutions, reflective gear, and more for athletes of all types.
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Ted’s is gearing up for another great spring and summer season full of great shoes, comfortable feet, sponsoring local races, and providing the best service available. This year that even includes a 30th Anniversary Jumanji Run on Saturday, June 21, where all runners are encouraged to wear inflatables so the streets of Keene are again full of stampeding creatures!
“Our store is loaded up with all the new spring footwear arrivals, and we can’t wait to help you,” Ted says. “Thanks for thinking local, first!”
Visit their shop at 115 Main St. in downtown Keene, or check out their website to get ready for your own warmer-weather plans!
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>>Register for Voicings Camp <<
"I know that time in nature returns me to myself. As does singing, humming, chanting, toning.
When combined- the exponential YUM results in a tangibly resonant Returning Home."
Marybeth Hallinan
Fundamentally Harmonic
Harmony ~ Nature ~ Healing ~ Community
Empowering others to retain
their voice in order
to live the life they desire and deserve.
@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
with Erin Scollans
A Hair Experience Unlike Any Other
Wicked Hair Company is a woman-owned, LGBTQIA+-owned hair salon, located conveniently on West Street in Keene. The inclusive salon provides luxurious hair color experiences and custom hair styling consultations that fit the needs and wants of the individual. Laura Howard is the owner of the salon, and she prides herself and her team on their ability to combine art, music and amazing hair for their clients. They offer a one-of-a-kind experience for all who walk into the salon.
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Howard has some serious hairdressing experience under her belt. She started off as a stylist right outside of Philadelphia over 20 years ago, and after the better part of a decade there, she made her way down to Florida to Delray Beach. With a plethora of experience gained through these experiences, Howard felt it was time to transition from student to teacher. In 2023, she moved to New Hampshire to begin the journey of opening a salon of her own.
“I have learned over the years that hair should not be just an ‘in-and-out’ type of service,” Howard explained. “It’s personal and more about the ‘experience,’ which is what we focus on at Wicked Hair.”
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Her staff stays educated with the latest and the greatest tricks of the trade by attending classes, as well as learning from Howard as well. Her goal is to bring education to the hair community. “I want people to not only love their hair when they leave, but to feel seen, heard, and experience a little extra love at the shampoo bowl.”
Wicked Hair stylists want their clients entering the salon feeling safe and included and leaving the salon feeling their absolute best. It’s an inclusive salon with the ultimate goal being a space where everyone can feel safe, hang out, enjoy great music and appreciate the amazing local art talented individuals have to offer while getting pampered with a fresh cut or color. Everyone is welcome with no room for hate.
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“Our one rule is BE KIND,” Howard said. “I am personally part of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as neurodivergent. I felt that Keene really lacked a safe, fun, and trendy space for people to come get their hair done, so my goal is bringing that to the community.”
Wicked Hair Co first opened up in June 2024, and Howard and her crew have spent the last year creating an environment that fulfills the needs of all their clients and their preferred hairstyles. The folks over at the salon specialize in blondes and vivid colors, but not much is off the table. From gender-affirming cuts to high-end extension services to Howard’s incredible “hair tattoos” (yes, you read that right), there’s nothing the talented artists over at Wicked Hair Co can’t really can’t do!
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@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
Equine Therapy for All with Sonja Bolton
Freedom Reins
Freedom Reins Therapeutic Riding Center, located in Surry, NH, is making a significant impact on the community. Led by Executive Director Denise LaRoche, this organization is the only one of its kind in the area, providing crucial services to individuals with physical, cognitive, behavioral or emotional challenges. Since opening its doors in April 2022, Freedom Reins has seen remarkable growth, serving 150 participants in just seven months of 2024.
The center has an inclusive environment with an open-barn policy year-round. Freedom Reins offers therapeutic riding lessons to those with mental, physical, and muscular challenges, as well as people experiencing PTSD, ADHD, anger management issues, or limb loss.
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The program operates from April to October, utilizing an outdoor arena and sensory trails for riding or walking. These trails provide visual stimulation, games, artwork, and activities designed to engage riders, many of whom are nonverbal. LaRoche explained how powerful the therapy of the trail can be as these riders even react to the trail with a word or two.
Last year, riders spanning from ages 4 to 76 enjoyed getting outside in a setting that is both comforting and fun. They’re able to help with chores and visit with the 10 horses, a dog named Annie, 25 volunteers, and three instructors.
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Freedom Reins is working hard to build an indoor arena to expand their services year-round as the winter break currently interrupts the physical and mental progress of their participants. LaRoche explained that “unless people have family members who experience these challenges, it’s hard to grasp how valuable a service like this is. Participants have a hard time finding alternative winter activities that match how freeing riding and spending time the horses can be to their wellness. Traditional winter activity options can simply be too stimulating.”
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That’s why they need the Monadnock Regions’ residents and businesses to pitch in and make it possible. Freedom Reins is committed to expanding its services and will be collaborating with Rolling Thunder Inc. NH3 Chapter to introduce our Veterans Program starting this April. They are also proud to offer the Bethany Thornton Scholarship, which supports 12 riders annually in addition to community give-back initiatives, such bringing the horses to Cedarcrest Center for Children with Disabilities.
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Their services are often not covered by insurance. And as a small non-profit, they face challenges in securing funding, despite having a wonderful and active board. Area businesses and individuals can get involved by supporting their upcoming June golf tournament at Brentwood Golf Course. But donations are accepted any time via PayPal, check, or direct deposit to the Freedom Reins account at The Savings Bank of Walpole.
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with Caroline Tremblay
The Sweet Smell of Spring
If you’ve had a long winter, and you’re looking to go somewhere in nature that will just take your breath away and help you hit reset, plan for a visit to Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area. This is a local trekking favorite because of the captivating woods, dramatic views, and impressive river and waterfall.
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Be ready to weave your way in and around 70-foot rock walls carved by the powerful flow of the Westfield River. It’s a compelling destination for a family hike but may be best for those with older children. The trail is just over a half mile; however, there can be tricky terrain, so be sure to wear solid footwear.
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Credit to Whitefordfalcon
The reason we saved this spot for spring is because with all the snow melt and rain this season brings, the water is particularly powerful, and feeling its thrum is quite the experience. Taking it all in is the perfect way to pause and welcome warmer days. Happy hiking!
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Credit to WalshTD
Grooving with Sandy Parsons
where Monadnockers gather
Harlow’s Pub and Restaurant is a groovy pub and restaurant set in the heart of downtown Peterborough. It's more than just an eatery—it’s a beloved institution where good food, great music, and community spirit come together. Whether you're grabbing a pint, catching a show, or fueling up with a scratch-made meal, Harlow’s is where Monadnockers gather.
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Join neighbors and friends on Wednesdays for open mic night where locals showcase their artistic skills. And enjoy the popular Fiddlehead IPA with a soft, warm pretzel and housemade beer cheese sauce. Thursday night is live Bluegrass music. The tunes go great with a Chai Maple Manhattan and double smashburger (I highly recommend both).
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Bring a date or meet a group of friends on the weekends for live music and partake in the Diablo spicy pasta dish accompanied by house made Sangria. Gluten Free and Vegetarian choices are offered, as well as a Kid’s menu. Perfect for the whole family, enjoy a great meal outside on the signature patio, which is surrounded by vintage bicycles.
Great food, service, and live music make a recipe for a perfect bite!
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Are you a fan of The Monadnocker? Join our email list to receive The Playlist as soon as it's published, plus a monthly newsletter with all things local!
with Erin Scollans
Works of Art Full of Light
When someone reaches their fullest potential, we might refer to them as being “full of light.” That’s where Emma Gardner got the name behind her handcrafted jewelry business, Full of Light Jewelry. With one look at her portfolio, Gardner's love for bright color contrast clearly shines through.
Gardner considers herself someone who has always been creative; she remembers getting lost in her fun art projects as a child. But ultimately, it was connecting with professional jeweler, Tom Burns, who eventually became her mentor in the field, that changed everything. He guided and inspired her to explore her talents in metalsmithing.
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It was a three day metalsmithing workshop at the Snow Farm Craft School in 2021 that solidified Gardner’s desire for crafting art through this medium. Her work provokes memories of a distant lifetime - the simplistic beauty of the earth, the inspiration of rock singers and songwriters, traveling the country with only what fits in a backpack. Her works of art are whimsical and freeing pieces that inspire creativity and each tell a story.
Gardner is a full-time social worker therapist by day and craftswoman by night. With the help of her assistants Jack and Ruby (her adorable rabbits) for emotional support and as pets, she manages to make time to hone her craft. Gardner works out of her studio at home, and sells her art primarily through her Etsy page as well as the Brattleboro Farmers Market. She’s a bit of a gem hunter, as well.
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Gardner has made her way out to Tucson several times, where the world’s biggest gem show is on display. Right on the Southwest/Mexican border, there are incredible gems at these shows with some of the best pickings around. Her favorite stone would have to be the Mexican fire-opal.
“My pieces are not for everyone,” she says on her Etsy page, “but the ones whom they are for are where they truly belong.” Gardner’s range is certainly impressive, from earrings to necklaces, patchwork and art. But it’s those statement rings that typically sell the best and are some of her favorite pieces to make. Gardner does custom orders as well, so be sure to reach out if you’re looking for something not listed on her Etsy site.
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>>Connect Here<<
"Believe it or not, the first sign of spring I look for here in the Monadnock Region is that restless gray color - the melting snow, still-bare trees, and caked mud. It's when I get restless for everything to come, and this spring I'm not alone. So many stories pouring in, and we can't wait to tell them!"
Freshly baked with SANDY PARSONS
A Sweet & Savory Vacation
The moment you pull into the parking lot of Fire Dog Breads, the captivating scent of freshly baked bread hits you. It arouses your every desire to go on an adventurous foodie adventure.
A freshly made, fire-baked bread, crunchy on the outside and moist inside, is one of my ultimate weaknesses. My eyes excitedly danced around the bakery, taking in all the delights, both sweet and savory. I knew this lovely culinary adventure is one I would not soon forget. With all types of French breads, pastries, coffees and more, I was truly on an ultimate foodie vacation close to home.
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I couldn’t help but go for the Banh Mi sandwich made with roast pork, pickled carrot and daikon, jalapeño, cucumber, cilantro, and mayo on a fresh baguette. Made to crispy perfection, it had just right amounts of sweetness, acid from the pickled vegetables and salt from the pork. I give a chef's kiss to this masterpiece set before me.
Fire Dog Breads offers online ordering, where you can place your order for same day pick up before 1 pm. Or order before 5 pm for pick-up orders for the following day. Not located close to Keene? No worries, you can also purchase bread and pastries at their Breadbox Mobile at Roy’s Market in Peterborough, NH.
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Have you always dreamed of learning how to make homemade French breads and pastries? Fire Dog has you covered as well with baking classes offered at specific times of year.
The owners of Fire Dog Breads, French Historian and Japanese Anthropologist by training, were once teachers but now bake out of blazing hot ovens to create their signature rustic breads and pastries for all the community to enjoy. They believe we all deserve something exceptional in our lives, especially if it’s bread!
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with Eric Gagne
Local Honky Tonk Heroes
The Rear Defrosters are a honky tonk, country, soul, rock-n-roll band with a large and rotating cast of all-star players from Vermont, New Hampshire, and Western Massachusetts. They’re most at home playing in country roadhouses, at farm weddings, for barn dances and hoedowns, and anywhere there’s cold beer nearby.
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As the house band at Keene’s Nova Arts, the Rear Defrosters regularly serve up a dose of homegrown music that locals just can’t get enough of. Whether you bring your dancing shoes (or your sitting back and listening... socks?), the Defrosters deliver a killer round of tunes, and it’s always a sweet night when they’re on stage.
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This exquisite group has such a deep songbook of classic country & western, honkytonk, and originals, it's a natural resource of the region. Hope you’ll join our Honky Tonk heroes for a great night out at Nova Arts on May 5th! Details on our Events page. And find more from the Rear Defrosters on Facebook, Instagram, and Bandcamp.
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Reading A Tale of Resilience and Faith with Sonja Bolton
The Land of the Living
The search for the American dream is something we can all relate to, but it was artfully depicted by local Author, Timothy Crellin, in his recently published novel, “The Land of The Living.” It’s a saga that spans continents and generations, reflecting deeply on the heavy price families pay in the name of war, wealth, and society.
The story follows Angela Amorelli, a Sicilian native prior to World War I, who follows her ambitious and devoted husband, Tommaso, to America, in search of roads paved in gold and a better future for any children they may have. Strangers in a strange land, brave Tommaso and resourceful Angela only begin carving out their dreams before the nation is swept up by the tides of war.
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As Italians, they face deep discrimination, fear, doubt, and prejudice in a time when Italy stands with facism not once, but twice in the wars to come. Despite the upheaval, Angela manages to bring up a baby, Vittorio, and instill her passion for faith and family.
But when life’s chances place handsome Vittorio into the path of Ellen Lathrops, a stunning and well-educated member of elite upper-class society of Harvard, his faith is tested, and Angela is confronted once again with tragedy.
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You will not be able to put this novel down until you have stayed by Angela’s side through the decades. It is a tale of sorrow, yes, but much more than that, it is a beautiful story of what it means to find home.
Most impressively, this intimate look at the strength of family reflects on the author’s own ancestors' experiences immigrating to America and his trips to their homeland. My favorite moments were his descriptions of the characters spending time around the dinner table and the sunshine only found in Sicily. Maybe I should book a flight!
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Meet author Timothy Crellin at the Richmond Public Library where he'll be speaking on March 25 at 6pm or at the Toadstool Bookshop in Keene on March 29 at 11am.
Crellin is also deeply honored to have been accepted to the Brattleboro Literary Festival, where his work will be featured this fall.
For more about Crellin, his writing, and his story, visit his website and keep on reading!
