Spring Local Lifestyle Playlist 2023
A Visit to His & Hers Farm with Caroline Tremblay
Living the Calm, Country Life
If part of what you love about New Hampshire life is being surrounded by that vintage country feel, there is a destination in Acworth well worth a visit. His & Hers Farm, located along scenic Route 123A, is a delectable blend of rustic and refined.
The cozy, attractive B&B is matched in farmhouse style by a thoughtfully restored dairy barn draped in fairy lights and made timeless by numerous original and repurposed features.
Next >>
Owners Wendy & Dean Gowen began transforming the property in 2020, when they left Buffalo, New York. For Dean, this meant a return to family roots. With years of combined business, hospitality, and landscaping expertise, the pair has created something truly special with this old New England Farm.
Next >>
As if the lovely property with its terraces, arbors, and stone bowl firepit weren't inviting enough, the view is just incredible. Across the street, there's an expanse of open field, bordered by the Cold River. The farm has become a retreat for guests from all over and a place of beautiful memories for many couples and families who have held weddings and events there over the last several years.
What a treat it is to step inside, step back in time, and enjoy a truly New Hampshire experience.
Next >>
If you'd like to experience the magic yourself, I hope you'll join us for our Spring Community Pop-Up being hosted by His & Hers Farm on Saturday, May 20th from 10-3. Stroll the property, explore the barn, say hi to neighbors from across the region, and soak in springtime!
Anyone who attended our last pop-up at The Craft School Mill Hollow Works can attest to the good vibes and wonderful community feel of these events. We look forward to sharing this next one with you!
Next >>
Don't miss our Spring Community Pop-Up Happening May 20th from 10-3!
With makers, music, and morsels, this event is going to be a blast! Plus, it's being hosted by gorgeous His & Hers Farm in Acworth. Explore the grounds, tour the restored, historic barn, and enjoy all things local at the same time!
Inspiring thing number one. Title, description goes here.
Place the full description here. Speak directly to your ideal client, to create an undeniable bond with you and your values.
Inspiring thing number one. Title, description goes here.
Place the full description here. Speak directly to your ideal client, to create an undeniable bond with you and your values.
WE LOVE LOCAL
Spring Shavings
All spruced up with Nathan Bagster
Patti Powers, Owner of Cheshire Garden - A small, organic farm specializing in heirloom berries, fruits, herbs, and preserves. Tiny Farmstand in Winchester reopening this spring. Mail order available on the website.
"The most unforgettable part of spring is working in my little greenhouse, starting seeds and potting them up. I play music to the young seedlings to encourage them, and outside, the wren sings along. The winds blow, but inside the greenhouse it’s warm and moist and the aroma of the soil is intoxicating. By the end of May, the kids are ready for planting in the long beds..."
A Trip to the tulip bar with Sandy Parsons
Spring Means flowers
Cold New England winters and snowstorms don’t stop the ability to grow beautiful tulips at The Farm of Wolf Pine Hollow. They have mastered a way to “Force Grow” tulips in their cellar, where temperature and humidity can be controlled into the perfect growing environment.
Every year I eagerly wait until tulip season arrives as tulips are my favorite flower. With the Tulip Bar nearby I had to check out the farm stand I’ve been hearing so much about. I no longer must wait until early spring to enjoy them!
Next >>
As I approached the front door, I was met with a stunning waterfall of different colors and varieties of tulips. I was able to literally pick from what looked like tulips grown in milk crates and pull them from the dirt. Next, I was told to pick a vase, which I used to create a lovely arrangement with the help of staff. What a wonderful experience! I was one happy tulip lover.
So many more flowers than tulips call Wolf Pine Hollow home. Grown on acres and acres at the farm, you will find tulips, dahlias, sunflowers, cosmos, zinnia, gladioli, marigolds, snapdragons, and even a ridge of lavender. With their flowers available at the farm store, cutting gardens and cut-your-own events, there are many opportunities for you to enjoy nature’s blooms.
Next >>
Also offered at the Wolf Pine Hollow are farm stays where you can experience the farm-to-fork experience. You can even help with farm chores if you choose by collecting eggs, picking vegetables in the garden all of which you can later cook for dinner. If cooking is not your speed a private chef can be hired for you.
For more information and events check out their website. Happy flower picking!
Next >>
Kippis! Esther Jalava
Owner of Nordshire Farm Bakery & Cafe
Specializing in Finnish & Scandinavian Baked Goods
“The thing we love about the spring here in the Monadnock Region is the rebirth and beginning of life again! New babies, birds, chicks, flowers and gardens everywhere. The same can also be said for us as we begin the next chapter here on the farm with the opening of the new storefront for our Finnish & Scandinavian bakery! Looking forward to seeing you all here!“
Reveling in an incredible read with Caroline Tremblay
Mysterious Modern Folklore
Brattleboro author, GennaRose Nethercott has described the road to publishing her debut book, Thistlefoot, as a long one. But thankfully it's a journey she stuck with, delivering an evocative folklore experience that takes readers through the door of a quirky house on legs and into a painful time in history.
Thistlefoot, a contemporary fairytale, draws on Jewish myth, using the modern-day Yaga siblings and their traveling puppet show to explore the decades-old trauma their ancestors experienced in Eastern Europe.
Next >>
In an interview with Nethercott, Mallory Yu of NPR's All Things Considered described, "Retelling her ancestral story was an intense experience. After finishing one particularly difficult scene, Nethercott says she burst into tears. Still, writing the book helped her recognize herself a little more."
What is most stirring about her writing is the striking detail. It feels as if you could step right into the story, especially when main character, Bellatine, brings readers back to Vermont, where she's been woodworking. When Bellatine and her brother tour Brattleboro to perform their puppet show, it feels a bit surreal as a local looking on.
Next >>
Like her characters, Nethercott is an accomplished puppeteer, who has recently been on tour, offering readings and performing pieces of the novel.
Named as one of the Best and Most Anticipated Books of the Year by multiple publications, as well as the Jewish FIction Award Honoree, Thistlefoot has made quite an impression.
Nethercott was even shocked recently when a dedicated reader connected with her on social media to show off their tattoo of the eccentric, chicken-legged house featured in the book.
This talented writer from the woodlands of Vermont is one to familiarize yourself with and Thistlefoot is likely to become your favorite read of the season.
Next >>
Nathan Bagster, Founder & Content Director
Monadnock Hit & Run
A Digital Car & Driver Magazine for the Monadnock Region
"Spring in the Monadnock Region allows us as automotive enthusiasts to be free without any restrictions. In New England, winter rules most of the time, and driving can become dangerous on slick roads. But when spring rolls around, we're able to cut loose, drive a little faster than usual and smell that sweet spring air mixed with fuel and freedom."
Once Upon a Yarden By Sonja Bolton
Let’s Talk About the Birds and the Bees
You know how the story goes right? Monarch meets milkweed and it’s love at first sight. Like the prince in a fairytale, every pollinator has highly specific host plants they depend on for survival. If you are looking to attract rare, endangered or even common pollinators to your garden, take a close look at the plants they love most.
Then, fill your garden, or even your yard-garden (also known as “yarden”), with a grand variety of 3 season blooms. In particular, plant flowers native to your region, called native plants, which have evolved in concert over centuries with adaptations specific to our region’s native bees, butterflies and birds.
Next >>
If you're not ready to delve into the intricate workings of biodiversity, let Michele Chalice of Healthy Home Habitats design a comprehensive native “yarden” plan for your home. Chalice is an area environmental landscape expert who will co-garden with and mentor you until you have your best garden ever.
Don’t skip the veggies or flowers you love. You can have your garden and eat it too! Native gardens and traditional gardens can blend together to foster everything you want and need from your outdoor spaces. Chalice specializes in trellis gardening and simple and inexpensive soil amendments (like the leaves you are always hauling away!) for your home grown vegetables and endless blooms.
Next >>
Chemicals and synthetic fertilizers are expensive and toxic. But many people simply don’t know how to make beautiful, bountiful living landscapes without all this added waste. It’s clear that if you are gardening at all, you’d rather be doing it in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet. Chalice can help you break the chains of chemical dependency.
And here’s a hint. It’s all in the soil. Rich, biodiverse soil alive with a multitude of micro and macro fauna from fungus to frogs is key to healthy plants. It is the building block for biodiverse beneficial insects who keep your plants healthy and birds well fed and returning to your yard season after season.
Next >>
In her blog, she details the many benefits to shifting to sustainable native gardenscapes. Beyond bringing new and old pollinator friends back into your home, native plants are much less high maintenance. Having evolved right here in New Hampshire, they are adapted to our micro-climates demands. Hardy with much larger root systems, they need much less water, less mowing, less fertilizer, less weeding and grow and spread season after season.
Next >>
Plant nerds like Chalice know the difference between natives and their cultivar cousins. While an echinacea from a big box store may be double petaled or be a unique color, they often lose the very qualities the pollinators depend on like high quality nectar. If a plant has a cute nickname rather than a latin scientific name, wait for the real deal - your butterflies will thank you.
Next >>
Native curious but not ready to commit? Attend one of Chalice’s informative workshops at her demonstration garden or follow her on Facebook and Instagram. There you can witness the wealth of garden splendor native plants provide.
If you want a happily ever after garden where you can witness the wonder of attracting bright and beautiful birds, bees and butterflies, start by delving into the delightful world of native plants.
Next >>
FREE Easing Your Gardening Workshop with Healthy Home Habitats in Keene on May 20th from 1-2
Make vegetable growing easier and more joyful!
An Enchanting dining experience with sandy parsons
Fairytale Fare Right here in nh
Pickity Place is an enchanting restaurant that was the inspiration for Little Red Riding Hood children’s book cover. It looks and feels like you’re heading to grandma’s house as you drive down the dirt road. You feel like you might be lost, but suddenly you appear at the quaint red house in the woods. Come see why New Englanders travel near and far for an incredible culinary experience here.
Next >>
I was excited to finally try this restaurant I have heard so much about. Every course was thoughtfully created and was presented beautifully. Each course is served to all the tables at the same time, and you could tell the expert staff has this well-orchestrated serving dance down to perfection.
Next >>
The five-course gourmet herbal menu is created using fresh herbs and edible flowers that you may see in one of the surrounding gardens. The menu changes monthly with items that are in season. Pickity Place is open 7 days a week with 3 seatings for lunch. While not required, reservations are highly recommended.
Next >>
Plan to relax before or after lunch strolling through themed gardens (butterfly, silver, oregano, bird, healing, and moonlight), then make sure to hit the gift shop for unique gifts for you or a friend.
Located at 248 Nutting Hill Rd, Mason NH 03048. Call 603 878-1151 for more information and "Have a Pickity Day1"
Next >>
Let's work together to support community banks, credit unions & locally owned businesses so we can see more benefits from our $$$!
Learn How
An Adventure in Pen & Ink with Erin Scollans
A Dash of Magic and Story
“I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows…”
-Obernon, Scene 1 of Act 2 in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Although it may not be Angela Smith’s favorite Shakespeare play, this particular line has always stuck with her. Smith’s official profession is theater acting, but her passions extend to paper: after a brief hiatus from illustrating, it was the pandemic that reignited her passion for this particular form of art. As a result, Nodding Violet Studios was born in 2021.
Next >>
Whether her art focuses on the changing seasons, incorporates the symbolism of plants and flowers, or depicts a Tolkien-esque scene, it is clear that Smith’s magical imagination comes out in every piece. Smith is mostly self taught when it comes to the elements of illustration, having taken a few classes in high school and college. She’s been drawing since she was young, but it wasn’t until the pandemic when she returned to the hobby full time. What started out as a form of meditative relief from the unpredictable outside world eventually culminated into a full-fledged practice.
Next >>
Smith has always enjoyed the depiction of imagery when it comes to theatrical performances, so it was relatively easy to translate those fantastical, magical elements into her work. Smith’s primary medium is pen and ink, and her illustrations absolutely come to life on paper. She sees drawing and illustration as a natural extension of stories and storytelling; her work transports the viewer into the depths of her imagination. A majority of her pieces are depicted as portals, frames, or windows that open up into a magical scene, with added elements of symbolism and mythology. She offers an array of greeting cards, prints, bookmarks and stickers, giving her work an additional element of practicality and accessibility.
Next >>
Smith has found great joy in expanding her art to an audience, giving room for interpretation from all parties. She’s been pleasantly surprised by the myriad of interpretations her art takes on by the folks who view it. “It’s been a really delightful part of my business,” she says.
Next >>
Nodding Violet Studios has gained some significant traction since it first opened two years ago. What started as a few in-person markets grew into vending around VT, NH and MA, including art fairs and markets in Peterborough, Brattleboro, and quickly became a permanent fixture at Hannah Grimes and on Etsy. Last year, Smith started working with printmaking (textiles, t-shirts, totes), and has high hopes of expanding mediums within her business in the coming years. She and another fellow artist have an exhibition in the works at the Peterborough Town Library later this year, so be sure to keep up with her social media for more details!
Next >>
"The most unforgettable part of spring in the Monadnock Region is the incredible scent of damp soil and cold snow all mixed together. It's bright and unmistakable and hints of new adventures ahead."
Caroline Tremblay
Content Director, Owl & Pen
Exceptional Written Content to Help Local Businesses Thrive...Wherever Your Local Is
Beyond the Bridle with Sonja Bolton
Taking Local by the Reins
Everything about The Cheshire Horse in Swanzey, NH makes it my happy place. The smell of new leather tack, the extensive, well-researched inventory, and best of all, the friendly staff who are just as crazy about horses as I am.
Next >>
I am not alone in my appreciation for this local gem. Family-owned and operated since 1997, what customers value the most about this animal haven is “the personalized service” and “expansive inventory of high quality products” that keep customer’s pets “happy and healthy,” says Elizabeth Hamshaw, The Cheshire Horse’s General Manager. You can even bring your canine companion into the store with you to sniff out a favorite new toy.
This sweet Golden Retriever, Oliver, recently stopped in for a visit with owner Dave.
Next >>
Hampshaw says The Cheshire Horse is “proud to work with many rescues and charities in the region,” including a recent campaign supporting Saving Grace Animal Shelter of Sullivan, NH. The Cheshire Horse’s employees are pet owners themselves, which inspires their efforts in aiding the well-being of animals across the Monadnock Region.
Next >>
One of my favorite times of the year at The Cheshire Horse is when you can pop in and hear those adorable little peeps at the front of the store. If you are looking for rare or heritage breeds of chicks, ducks, geese, turkeys or guinea hens to raise a “diverse and colorful flock,” Hamshaw describes, they offer over 50 different breeds.
Throughout Chick Days, The Cheshire Horse will have coupons for flock supplies and feed and showcase new inventory. In order to access this sale, Hamshaw says that customers should fill out a pre-order form as their Chick Days is a highly popular event.
Next >>
The Cheshire Horse carries so much more than sweet little chicks and everything a horse owner needs from smooth tails to new trailers. You’ll find gifts for animal lovers of all ages, durable clothing like their organic merino wool clothing imported from Europe, pet food, toys, and supplies for all kinds of animals.
Next >>
There are lots of ways to benefit from The Cheshire Horse’s staff’s dedication and extensive knowledge. Their blog covers tons of interesting and educational articles like animal training, access to local outdoor animal friendly spaces, and a range of health topics to name a few. You can browse their online shop and use the flexibility of in-store pick-up, nationwide shipping, loyalty rewards, price match guarantee, saddle trial program, gift certificates or even take a road trip to their second location in Saratoga Springs, New York. Follow them on Instagram or Facebook. Happy Trails!
Next >>
Outside-the-box wellness with Erin Scollans
A Spring of healing
Audra Wilson’s small slice of paradise is located in Gilsum, NH. Appropriately named Restoring Eden, her space exposes folks to a world of healing from the outside in. Wilson originally opened in February of 2021. With clients coming from all over, it’s safe to say her one-of-a-kind approach has certainly gained traction. She has a passion for healing the body through a combination of holistic and western medicine. Her outside-the-box thinking is inclusive to all elements that could help the individual. “You’d be amazed by what the body can do when it’s given what it’s needed,” she says.
Next >>
Wilson has a background in labor and delivery nursing. Although an advocate for traditional Western medicine, it wasn’t until Wilson dealt with a personal bout of lyme disease when she found the power of holistic healing to be personally beneficial. As a result, Restoring Eden incorporates all aspects on the medicinal spectrum, acknowledging just how crucial diverse approaches can be. While she can offer holistic alternatives, she can also refer her patients to other doctors if what the individual needs is beyond the scope of her services.
Next >>
Wilson loves her first interactions to be personal, one-on-one visits in order to ensure a cohesive doctor/patient relationship. Her initial, extensive health evaluations help to determine what option is best for the individual. She sees patients of all backgrounds and tackles a range of emotional and physical ailments, from aching joints to peace of mind and holistic ways of coping with cancer diagnosis. An avid supporter of the individual experience, Wilson aims to personalize her journey with each individual, providing a unique and thorough look into one’s spiritual being.
Next >>
Restoring Eden offers myriad options and resources, depending on what the individual needs for their healing journey. Wilson’s credentials and certificates include: Holistic and Integrative Health, Meridian Stress Analysis (Bioenergetic Testing), and Halotherapy. Her services range anywhere from a sound bath in the Salt Room to BioMat therapy and an infrared sauna to a bio-charging session. She is also authorized to order labs, bloodwork and DNA testing in order to gather a better idea of her patient’s predispositions. Wilson is a big proponent of body optimization - in other words, making sure to move the body in a healing direction if the body is ready to receive it.
Next >>
Community-oriented and a firm believer of acquiring as many tools in the proverbial toolbox as possible, Wilson is always looking for folks in the world of medicine to work alongside. She has two massage therapists on site and is very open to the idea of exploring a team of chiropractors and acupuncturists. Restoring Eden’s Event Room is also a great sharespace for local healers and teachers to utilize for workshops or sessions.
Wilson’s books are open for the 2023 year and she’s accepting new members! Make sure to check out Restoring Eden in person - if you visit, and tag her in a social media post about it; she’ll offer 20-25% off your visit!
Next >>
Inspired Local Music with Nathan Bagster
An intimate approach to classical
Founded in 2017 by Louisa Stonehill and Nicholas Burns, Ashuelot Concerts was created with the goal of throwing classical-style music back into the foreground. They believe that this genre has had a great impact throughout history, and the likes of Mozart and Beethoven, as well as more modern pieces have more to offer our future generations.
They have stated that the genre is lost to time, referring to a 2018 statistic that placed classical in a marginalized 1% of musical interactions.
Next >>
To combat this and grow its audience, AC has worked hard to encourage curiosity and engagement by selecting its musical programs with the utmost care. “We choose the music carefully so that each program is balanced, emotive, and inspiring,” they share on their site.
Another step they have taken is to engage their audience by sticking around after each performance, allowing concert goers a chance to chat and learn from the musicians over refreshments. It’s inspiring to see how this local group continues to build a devoted and enthusiastic audience.
Next >>
If you would like to learn more about them, visit ashuelotconcerts.org. For a short list of their upcoming concerts, read on:
Friday, March 31 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Rachmaninov, Dvořák, & Ravel – Piano Trios
Stonewall Farm 242 Chesterfield Rd, Keene, NH
International Cellist Guy Johnston returns with his Stradivarius Cello to join Nick & Louisa for a program of Rachmaninoff, Dvořák & Ravel. Program Rachmaninov - Trio Élégiaque No.1 in G minor Dvořák - Piano Trio No.2 in G minor, Op.26 Ravel - Piano Trio in A minor Louisa Stonehill - Violin, Guy Johnston - Cello
Next >>
Sunday, April 2 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Rachmaninov, Dvořák, & Ravel – Piano Trios
The Park Theatre 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH
International Cellist Guy Johnston returns with his Stradivarius Cello to join Nick & Louisa for a program of Rachmaninoff, Dvořák & Ravel. Program Rachmaninov - Trio Élégiaque No.1 in G minor Dvořák - Piano Trio No.2 in G minor, Op.26 Ravel - Piano Trio in A minor Louisa Stonehill - Violin, Guy Johnston - Cello
Next >>
Friday, April 21 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Doric String Quartet performs Beethoven, Haydn, Elgar
Stonewall Farm 242 Chesterfield Rd, Keene, NH
The Doric Quartet performs Beethoven, Haydn, & Elgar Program Beethoven - String Quartet No.11 in F minor, Op.95 “Serioso” Haydn - String Quartet in D major, Op.50 No.6 “The Frog” Elgar - String Quartet in E minor, Op.83
For additional shows, visit their website here.
