Our country home

A hot and rainy summer

Dear readers, One of my favorite country artists is Randy Travis, and a line from one of his songs is resonating with me lately: “As long as old men sit and talk about the weather …

Springfever

I returned to Sullivan County in late April, after spending half a year in Oaxaca, Mexico. There, the produce is abundant year-round, and only occasionally does a vendor tell me that some fruit or …

Local farmers' markets

The warm weather brings an abundance of opportunities to buy fresh produce. Luckily, our area has a bounty of farmers’ markets. Of course, it’s fun to grow some of your own stuff, …

Easy outdoor living

As the summer months unfold, warm weather creates a unique chance to expand our living space to include the outdoors. Regardless of the size of your home, a thoughtfully decorated outdoor space, …
Biophilic design doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, I know. It’s the fancy term for designing your space with natural materials and actual nature to blur the line between inside and …
By JUDE WATERSTON It sure is winter. The snow, when first falling in thick, wet, pristine flakes, is stunning and magical to see. And imagining a cognac snifter warming in my hand as I stand by …
There’s a certain poetry in light, and Stone Hill, a beautifully constructed home in the meadows of Narrowsburg, NY, captures it perfectly. Set on 26 rolling acres, Stone Hill is tucked off …
Warm sun, fresh air and the early blooms of crocus and forsythia are the sure signs of spring. It’s a great time to take advantage of mild temperatures, freshen up the house, and tackle spring …
Do you ever find yourself looking around your home and the overwhelm sets in? You hate the kitchen, the living room is a mess of toys, and items are overflowing from the nonexistent entryway. …
If you’re a beginner gardener, and live in a moderate growing zone such as 5 or 6—as we do here—you’re about to learn what experienced gardeners have found throughout the …
Dear Readers, After a lively summer and a fantastic fall, it’s chilly again. Now’s the time to cozy up inside (but do get outside, at least a little bit every day. The fresh air will …
REGION — If you’re a novice or expert gardener, you’ll probably encounter critters in your garden. The culprits eating your plants or vegetables are most likely deer, rabbits …
We love spending time outdoors and opening the windows and doors of our home to let in the summer breezes and sunshine. But oftentimes, unwanted critters find their way indoors, and it can be …
PARKSVILLE, NY — It’s not your grandfather’s Quonset hut from World War II: a local couple have created a state-of-the-art, highly energy-efficient home nestled in the woods, with a …
(Family Features) In the world of design, what’s old inevitably becomes new again, and a similar pattern is inspiring today’s on-trend color palettes for home decor. The latest styles …
The kitchen is often thought of as the heart of the home. It’s a multifunctional space that hosts a full spectrum of experiences, from quiet morning coffee and contemplation to boisterous …

Before, during, after: Essential tips for surviving a hurricane

(BPT) - Hurricane season is here. Are you and your home ready?The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season goes from June 1 to Nov. 30. After several particularly active hurricane seasons, the need to be …
More ideas for your home
A well-built barn can help keep horses happier and healthier.

Maximizing Barn Design

Thursday, September 14
(NAPSI)—Keeping horses safe and comfortable is the No. 1 priority when constructing a new equestrian barn. But owners also want a …
Planning for Power During National Preparedness Month

Planning for Power During National Preparedness Month

Tuesday, September 12
(NewsUSA) - Severe weather events in the United States are increasing in frequency and impact, according to a report from NOAA’s …
5 signs you may have problem water at home

5 signs you may have problem water at home

Tuesday, September 12
(BPT) - Fall is just around the corner and many homeowners are starting to compile their home maintenance checklists. With cooler …
Proper planning can protect your home—and wallet—from the ill effects of rough weather.

Keep Power Bills Down

Tuesday, September 12
(NAPSI)—Now is the time for Massachusetts residents to make sure their homes are as energy efficient as possible for when storms and …

A simple outdoor project to improve your property before winter

Saturday, September 9
(BPT) - Looking to make improvements to the overall look of your property before it gets too cold or snowy? This is a great time of …