EDITOR’S NOTE
Recently I said goodbye to my grandparents’ home for the last time.
My grandpop waved from his shaded front porch as I slowly eased my van out of the driveway, and with the windows rolled down, we shouted happy goodbyes and “Love you’s” to him and decades of good memories.
My grandparents’ 1960’s tri-level home will always remain one of the happiest places I’ve ever visited. In the dining room, I can still taste the salty pretzels we dipped in Turkey Hill vanilla ice cream; in the family room, I hear the echoes of raucous laughter (likely from a classic family gift exchange). In the secluded backyard — where hydrangeas of rich hues still bloom — I see shadows of children long grown, balancing along the top of the garden wall. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Redmond visiting her grandparents circa 1994.
Sometimes the rhythms of nature parallel those in our own lives, and, thankfully, fall is a beautiful one to usher in transitions big and small. Perhaps like my Grandpop, this fall brings a period of change into your own life, sending kids to new grades or even launching them into college and beyond; we have ideas to help you update those childhood rooms, even if your eyes brim while you do it!
I find the natural beauty of this time a perfect complement for periods of transition. Take the time to rest and reflect with our handy “Sips and Scenery” guide in hand; you’ll discover eight lovely wineries and breweries throughout our region with plenty to savor. Or, borrow some inspiration from our showcase home, where Jim and Kathy have updated their 1923 home to now feature the ideal porch for lingering, reminiscing and dreaming anew.
While homes and seasons change continually, photos help us freeze irreplaceable moments in time, and I hope our feature all about family portraits — how to find a photographer, where to go, even what to wear! — will inspire you to schedule a session for you and your loved ones this autumn.
In taking on this new position as editor of HOME magazine, I’ve spent time considering my definition of “home.” More importantly than style, how do I want people to feel when they’re in my home? The answer is what I always felt in my grandparents’ home: welcome, comfort and connection.
I hope you experience all of those sentiments as you cozy up to enjoy this issue, and may you find inspiration and appreciation for whatever season you’re experiencing in your own life!
Jennifer Redmond | jennifer@jamesrivermedia.com