Keswick Life Digital Edition December 2019

KESWICK Lifestyles in Keswick and its environs - December 2019

LIFE

In this issue

Great Cause, New Name The newly created Virginia Thoroughbred Project also overheard, going out, what's cooking, properties on the market and much more

WILEY

Kesmont

Charming Cottage, Equestrian Facility & Beautiful Land

Keswick VA, Albemarle County

6 miles to Keswick Country Club • 9 miles to Charlottesville Equestrian Estate in the Heart of Keswick • Cottage Homes are known for Natural Charm & Comfort and Kesmont offers a Refined Country House • Renovated Kitchen w/Chef's Layout, Granite tops & Maple Cabinetry Open Floor Plan with Chic & Charming Living Spaces • Gunite Swimming Pool • 10-Stall Stable w/Tack Room, Wash Rack • Riding Arena • 2-Stall Barn & Run-In Sheds • Board Fenced Paddocks w/Water Guest House or Apartments w/3Bedrooms, 2Bath, 2Kitchens • Equipment & Storage Buildings • Large Pond Cottages Gardens • Outdoor Entertaining Terraces • Excellent Location Offered for $1,495,000 mls.593206 Licensed in Virginia and North Carolina

Contact Duke & Sharon Merrick for more information:

Office: 434-951-5160 or Mobile: 434-962-5658 DukeandSharon@KeswickProperties.com www.KeswickProperties.com Ednam Hall • 1100 Dryden Lane Charlottesville, VA 22903

3

DECEMBER 2019

A Virgi nia C oun try L ife

IN THISDECEMBER ISSUE 2019

BRAMBLEWOOD, A 522 acre private sanctuary in the Southwest Mountains and the heart of Keswick. The 2008 manor home, with 6 bedrooms and over 14,000 sq. ft of living space, boasts Italian plaster finishes, limestone floors, his/her studies, and 6 fireplaces. The property showcases the best in materials, craftsmanship, impressive grounds, mature landscaping, ponds, 2 other homes, and a large barn that complete this stunning estate. MLS 595091 $6,700,000

8 ON THE COVER

Great Cause, New name

The Virginia Thoroughbred Project will replace the Thoroughbred Retirement Foun-

dation, which had its lease terminated by the Montpelier Foundation last month, according to the Orange County Review. The surprise move came in the wake of an April meeting during which the chief executive officer of TRF, John Roche, told the sanctuary’s local board of directors he was moving its treasury — funds donated in support of the Montpelier TRF operation — to national headquarters in Saratoga Springs, New York. Several TRF board members resigned soon after, some in protest - get the full story on page 8!

Murdoch Matheson 434.981.7439 mmatheson@frankhardy.com

murdoch-matheson.com

10 KESWICK SCENE Grace Episcopal Church held its' annual Christmas Pageant and readers sent in the

photos! The event was held on December 15th,and is based on Jerome Berryman’s, A Children’s Liturgy for Christmas Eve. See the photos, get a sense of the scene and cast is listed according to appearance. Page 10, has the details!

4

KESWICK LIFE

A Virg i nia C ou ntry L i fe

11 COMMUNITY Dynamic relationships between young people and animals promote healthy emo-

tional development and support physical and psychological wellbeing in many ways. Read all about Little Keswick School students’ relationships with the animals on campus that provide social support, act as catalysts for human social interactions, reduce loneliness, help with emotional regulation, and increase their self-esHAPPENINGS teem. Read all about it on page 11!

FAIRVIEW, c. 1856 Brick Georgian manor home, 9,000 s.f. with 11’ ceilings and heart pine floors. Fireplaces, original moldings and woodwork. 5 bedrooms and guest cottage. Formal gardens and rose garden, farm manager’s house, horse facilities and equipment barns.

Incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in Somerset, VA. MLS 585034 $2,975,000

Hospice of the Piedmont announces 40th Anniversary And Upcoming Support Groups

12 COMMUNITY As the Hospice of the Piedmont prepares to celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2020, As we prepare to celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2020, Hospice of the Piedmont is proud to be featured in Keswick Life. We are grateful to our many friends, volunteers and benefactors in Keswick for your extraordinary support over the last forty years.

they have an special feature in Keswick Life. They are grateful to their many friends, Pictured above: Volunteers Jeanne Chamales and Melba Campbell celebrate the volunteers and benefactors in Keswick for your extraordinary support over the11, 2019 at Keswick Hall & Estate.

18th annual Run & Remember Race on May A flagship event in Keswick, the 19 annual Run & Remember 5K Race will be last forty years.

Read all the details, history and the future plans on page 12! held on May 9, 2020. We are now seeking sponsorships for this exciting event th

that attracts over 400 runners and spectators. Under the leadership of Melba Campbell, and a dedicated and enthusiastic group of volunteers, the Run & Remember 5K Race to benefit Hospice of the Piedmont is held at Keswick Hall and Estate every year in memory of Sally Carle. We are grateful to our 2019 Run & Remember 5K sponsors, especially Keswick Hall and Estate, Virginia National Bank and Home Instead Senior Care.

In addition to the Run & Remember 5K Race, we enjoy participating in the annual Keswick Farm Tour and we greatly appreciate our friends at Grace Episcopal Church who so generously support our mission.

Thanks to you, Hospice of the Piedmont has lovingly served thousands of patients in the Keswick community and has provided grief counseling for loved ones and family members. In addition, we offer counseling for those who have lost a beloved dog, cat or horse because we understand that pets are family, too. These counseling services are provided free of charge to anyone in our community, thanks to private philanthropy.

As we celebrate this holiday season, we’d like to acknowledge that this time of year—while festive and merry—can bring feelings of grief and sadness for some of our neighbors. Perhaps it’s the first holiday without a dear loved one. Perhaps you’re reflecting on the loss as you see an empty seat at the holiday dinner table.

If you’re dealing with grief this season, Hospice of the Piedmont is here for you.

As the region’s oldest and most experienced nonprofit, community-based hospice, we exist to serve and support the entire community—not just those who lost a loved one under our care.

Starting in January, Hospice of the Piedmont will launch several new support groups, which may be a good fit for you or someone you love who may be struggling this holiday season. All groups meet at our main office at 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300 in Charlottesville unless otherwise noted. Advance registration is required for the groups. Please call 434-817-6900 or 800-975-5501 to sign up or learn more.

MEADOW HILL, c. 1910 Manor House, uncompromisingly updated throughout, on views of coveted

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Eight-week support group: For adults who have experienced14 the death stunning acres in Greenwood VA. Perched above Stockton Creek with of a loved one and at least three months have passed since thethe death.

Blue Ridge Mountains. Only 15 mins to downtown Charlottesville in o Two weekday group offerings: Western Albemarle. MLS 595248 $2,300,0000 § Mondays, starting Jan. 6, 3:00pm – 4:30pm § Wednesdays, starting Jan. 15, 11:30am– 1:00pm

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Men’s grief support group: Men who have experienced the death of a loved one may want to find other men to talk to. This support group will meet for four weeks to learn about the unique ways that men grieve a loss. o Four consecutive Mondays, starting Jan. 13, 7:30am – 9:00am

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Remembering our Children support group: If you are a parent who has experienced the death of a child (of any age), we invite you to join us for grief education, support, and healing. o Meets every Monday, starting Jan. 13, 5:30pm – 7:00pm

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Ongoing drop-in support group: This open bereavement support group

14 ONLY IN KESWICK A collection of Tony Vanderwarker's short stories are featured in a special section this

is offered for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. issue – Tony was raised in New England, spent a couple years at Yale and then served o Meets every Friday, 3:00pm – 4:30pm at The Center on Hillsdale Dr. flies and the writing two years in the Peace Corps where he got bitten both by tsetse Our extensive grief support services are available to anyone who needs help If the holidays bring feelings of sadness, grief, and loss for you, let Hospice of withHe difficult emotions associated with grief loss. and We offer individual bug. went to film school at and NYU made documentaries and full length film counselors the Piedmont support you.a Our expert staff of bereavement counseling sessions, specialized support groups, seasonal events, and more— understands the grief journey and is here to help. Call us today to learn more which sellinso he decided try shorter films and went into advertising.

Fifteen all at nodidn’t cost to anyone the community, thanks to to private philanthropy. about the groups listed above or to inquire about one-on-one counseling sessions. he did “Be Like Mike” for years he had own ad agency incovers Chicago As thelater, only non-profit hospicehis in central Virginia, our service area twelve where On behalf of everyone at Hospice of the Piedmont, we wish you a peaceful counties.

Last year, nearly 1,700 patients received care and over 4,000 adults and holiday season and manyablessings for theto New Year. Learn more about Hospice Gatorade.

When his partners bought him out, Tony finally had chance write children participated in our counseling sessions including camps with specialized of the Piedmont at hopva.org. therapeutic grievinghim children and teens.more years to finally get a book published. “Who full time. programs It onlyfortook fifteen STONE’S THROW, Exceptional 42-acre country property with all the amenities. This 6-bedroom house completed in 2005 has every luxury you could hope for with an open floor cares?” Tony says, “some writers hit paydirt fast, others take longer. I’m just glad plan and first floor master suite, exercise room and media, infinity pool and pavilion overlooking my time has come.” Visit www.tonyvanderwarker.com. Enjoy, starting on page 14! the gardens, lawn, and horse facilities (7-stall barn). Privacy and proximity to Charlottesville

(12 min) with big views to the southwest and unforgettable sunsets. MLS 595734. $2,750,000

Murdoch Matheson 434.981.7439 mmatheson@frankhardy.com

18 BOOKWORM Suzanne Nash has a great list of books for children and teens on page 18, then a spe-

murdoch-matheson.com

cial treat, double feature with titles for winter reading by the fireplace on page 19!

Read reviews of all her book choices on page 18-19.

5

DECEMBER 2019

Overheard

Bravo

Bon Appetit The Inn at Willow Grove is pleased to introduce Andrew Eppley. Chef Andrew joined their team on December 11 as the Executive Chef. Along with their culinary team, Chef launched the new winter menu on December 18. Be sure to visit theirwebsite to make a reservation...

On Clay

On and Off The Market There were 9 new models placed on the market in Rivanna Ridge and 543 Drumin Road in Glenmore is available with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3322 sf at $724.9k.

Around the area there are 23 acres on Springdale Drive, across Rt 22 from Keswick Hall, available at $1.695m and a 5 acre lot on Turkey Sag Road at $115k.

. Reduced in Glenmore was 3680 Newbridge Road with 5 beds, 4+ baths and 4719 sf, down from $679k to $649k in 69 days. 3241 Village Park Road with 3 beds, 2.5 baths and 3223 sf, a previous builders model home, down from $479.7k to $464 and 3389 Cesford Grange Court with 4 beds, 4 baths and 3698 sf down from $549k to $499k.

Under contract in Glenmore is 3249 Sandown Park Road with 3 beds, 2+ baths and 3401 sf at $599k in 55 days. 3363 Darby Road with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 2888 sf at $579k, then $569k in 34 days. 756 Bothwell Lane with 3 beds, 3 baths and 3133 sf at $709.6k. 809 Club Drive in Keswick Estate with 4 beds, 3 baths and 2353 sf on 2.2 acres listed at $524.9k in 1 day. Around the area 3661 Keswick Road with 3 beds, 2 baths and 1712 sf on 2.68 acres at $349.9k in 3 days.

And to close the year out 8 homes were sold in Rivanna Ridge. 21.78 acres on Barn Field Road listed at $449k sold for $390k in 63 days. 1023 Bridlewood Trail, “Faith Ridge”, with 3 beds, 3.5 baths and 4873 sf on 12 acres listed at $575k sold for $545k in 74 days.

59 Red Maple Lane with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3240 sf listed at $409.9k sold for $395k in 155 days. In Keswick Estate 4088 Fairway Drive with 5 beds, 3.5 baths and 4873 sf on 2.98 acres listed at $1.329m sold for $1.286m in 14 days and 4017 Fairway Drive, “Keswick House”, with 4 beds, 5.5 baths and 4940 sf on 2.1 acres listed at $1.65m sold for $1.6m in 2 days. In Glenmore 3363 Darby Road with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 2888 sf listed at $579k, then $569k sold for $540k in 34 days. 3396 Dunscroft Court with 3 beds, 3 baths and 2274 sf listed at 419k then $409k sold for $375k in 185 days. 2762 Lockerbie Lane with 4 beds, 3.5 baths and 3508 sf sold for $652.8k. 3398 Carroll Creek Road with 5 beds, 4.5 baths and 4090 sf on 1.29 acres listed at $739k sold for $708.75k in 82 days and 3351 Marsden Point with 3 beds, 2 baths and 2202 sf listed at $439k sold for $415k in 51 days.

Keswick Club excited to announce the addition of two European Red Clay courts , (previously hard courts).

This authentic Cremonini material is imported from Italy by tennis court specialists Har-Tru in Charlottesville. European Red Clay is used at the Masters 1000 Italian Open in Rome along with many other top events. This surface provides a unique experience not found elsewhere in Virginia and allows for more flowing movement. It is renowned for being great for the body and looking fantastic. New state-of-the-art LED lighting will make it seem like daytime on the court after the sun goes down. Tennis Pros Tristan Venables, Carlos Romero and Gabriela Chase are available to assist you and your tennis year round.

On Tour The 2020 tour of Historic Garden Week in Orange has been named "Gordonsville: Lover's Lane to Main Street".Saturday April 18th 10am to 5pm is the first day of Garden Week. The local brochure, the state Guidebook and tickets will all be available in midFebruary .The Headquarters is The Exchange Hotel in Gordonsville The homes are Chance Farm(Brooke Royster) and the Cottage at Chance Farm (Melinda and Gordon Bennett) and Tewksbury (Jacque and Richard Juntilla). We're also featuring the Gardens at Montpelier (which are a Garden Club of Virginia Restoration site).

This year is the 100th Anniversary of the Garden Club of Virginia, and we were asked to include nearby Restoration sites. They were lucky enough to be able to include Montpelier's gardens. The Horticultural Staff will do a number of special talks throughout the day in the gardens, which we're calling "Tent Talks". A James Madison re-enactor will also be strolling through the gardens, and will give a talk several times. Master Naturalists will also be on hand to lead walks through the old growth forest.

This year's tour is more low key than last year's Centennial Tour, but they have some beautiful properties with unique homes and gardens. With the Exchange Hotel Museum (and downtown Gordonsville) anchoring it, it will eclectic and fun. Saturday April 18th 10am to 5pm

The votes have been counted and the Virginia Horse Shows Association is pleased to announce the following winners of the 2019 Special Awards: Horseperson of the Year: Sally Lamb Horse Show of the Year: Deep Run Horse Show We are pleased to announce that the following well deserved individuals and horses will be inducted this year: Ms. Mary Braga Mrs. Wendy Mathews Mr. Edgar "Eggie" Mills Mr. Don Stewart, Jr. Automation, owned by Ms. Kats Clarke Firestone Sketiton, owned by Mr. Walter J. Lee Pictured above: Reserve Champion in Adult Amatuers, Adult Equitation and Working Hunter - Elizabeth Rock and Sakky Lamb The Wheeler Museum is delighted to announce the donation by Peggy Augustus of a glorious statue by Marilyn Newmark honoring superstar hunter Waiting Home.

Peggy and Waiting Home were nearly unbeatable in the mid-1950s. A "who's who" of conformation hunters over the years have won the Waiting Home Perpetual Trophy at the Keswick Horse Show.

Wahoowa Virginia quarterback Bryce Perkins won the Dudley Award on Sunday night after leading the Cavaliers to the ACC Coastal Division championship and a berth in the Orange Bowl.Perkins won the award, which is given to the top NCAA Division I college football player in the commonwealth of the Virginia, for the second consecutive season. The other finalists were Virginia Tech linebacker Rayshard Ashby and James Madison defensive lineman Ron’Dell Carter.

The Touchdown Club of Richmond announced Tuesday that Virginia head football coach Bronco Mendenhall has been named the 2019 Bobby Ross Coach of the Year. Mendenhall also won the award, which goes to the top Division I football coach in the commonwealth

6

KESWICK LIFE

The

Going Out

Save the Dates Guide

What :Swan Lake When : Tuesday, January 21, 2020 - Sunday, January 26, 2020 Where: Kennedy Center Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures “Five stars! The show that changed the dance landscape forever” Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake returns to the U.S. with a fresh look for the 21st century! After charming our audiences in 2019 with a unique take on the fairy tale Cinderella, Matthew Bourne brings his breakout international hit to the Kennedy Center for the first time.

Retaining the iconic elements of the original production loved by millions around the world, Matthew Bourne and award-winning designers Lez Brotherston (set and costumes) and Paule Constable (lighting) have created an exciting re-imagining of the classic New Adventures production.

Thrilling, audacious, witty, and emotive, this Swan Lake is perhaps still best known for replacing the female corps de ballet with a menacing male ensemble, which shattered conventions, turned tradition upside down, and took the dance world by storm. Collecting over 30 international accolades including an Olivier Award in the UK and three Tony Awards® for Best Director of a Musical, Best Choreography, and Best Costume Design, Matthew Bourne’s powerful interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece is a passionate and contemporary Swan Lake for our times.

Performance Timing: Act One - 65 min.; Intermission - 20 min.; Act Two - 55 min.Contact Us Tickets & Information: (202) 467-4600 Toll-Free: (800) 444-1324

What: The Season’s and the Groundhogs Shadow When : Saturday, February 1 - 10:00 AM Where: Montpelier Celebrate the upcoming Groundhog Day with a family-friendly walking tour exploring the science behind the groundhog's shadow. Learn how the cyclical changes in nature, called phenology, helped Mr. Madison determine when to plant and when to harvest.

We will stroll the grounds looking for current phenologic clues to determine if the groundhog's predic-

What :Super Bowl

When :February 2, 2020 - 6:30 Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida The Super Bowl in 2020, the game that will crown an NFL champion for the 2019 season, is scheduled to take place Sunday, Feb. 2 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. That stadium, of course, is home to the Miami Dolphins, one of the NFL teams we know will not be playing in the Super Bowl in 2020.

Below is everything you need to know about the Super Bowl in 2020, including the date, location, odds and halftime show info.

When is Super Bowl 2020?

Date: Sunday, Feb. 2 Kickoff time: 6:30 p.m. ET TV channel: Fox Live stream: Fox Sports app | DAZN (in Canada) Super Bowl 54, also known as Super Bowl LIV, is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020. The official kickoff time will be determined at a later date, but the ballpark of 6:30 p.m. ET has become the traditional start time for the Super Bowl.The Super Bowl in 2020 will be played in a city that's no stranger to America's biggest game. But the venue will be a fresh addition to Super Bowl history.

Super Bowl 54 will be played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla., a city located in north-central Miami-Dade County roughly 15 miles up I-95 from central Miami. The stadium, home to both the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Hurricanes, was selected as the host venue for the Super Bowl in 2020 in part because of its warm location, but also because of recent renovations.“We were confident. It was definitely our most competitive bid ever,” said chairman of the Super Bowl host committee Rodney Barreto at the time. "A $450-million-plus enhancement to the Dolphins’ stadium. A budget of cash and incentives valued at more than $40 million. A warm weather destination that always delivers.

What :Black Tie & Boots Ball When :February 14th 2020 7:30pm – Midnight Where: King Family Vineyards

Share your Valentine’s Day with us this year! We invite you to bring your special someone and dance the night away with the amazing Wil Gravatt Band! Put on your best boots and join us for dancing, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and of course our award-winning wines!A silent auction will also be held. Net proceeds will go to benefit the University of Virginia Polo Fund to support the University of Virginia polo team. Ticket includes entry, food, and open bar for wine and beer. https://shop.kingfamilyvineyards.com/product/BlackTie---Boots-Ball Reserve Online *Attendance is limited and reservations are required.

We are unable to offer refunds for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event.

tion is true.

7

DECEMBER 2019

COVER STORY Newly formed Virginia Thoroughbred Project to replace Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation at Montpelier

BY KESWICK LIFE

Montpelier

Farm located at James Madison’s Montpelier will now be operated by the newly created Virginia Thoroughbred Project.

The Virginia Thoroughbred Project will replace the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, which had its lease terminated by the Montpelier Foundation last month, according to the Orange County Review. The surprise move came in the wake of an April meeting during which the chief executive officer of TRF, John Roche, told the sanctuary’s local board of directors he was moving its treasury — funds donated in support of the Montpelier TRF operation — to national headquarters in Saratoga Springs, New York. Several TRF board members resigned soon after, some in protest

lease.

“We are delighted that the horses, many of whom are advanced in age, are able to remain on the grounds of Montpelier, where they have resided for a number of years,” said Hart, Chair of the Board of Directors of VTP, in a written statement. “Moreover, the TRF staff, under the direction of farm manager Crystal Wever, has been together for several years and has a solid, well-established, and cooperative working relationship which will continue as a unit under the newly-formed VTP. Members of the Board of Directors are Donald Place, Connie Dulaney, Sally Hamlin, Carolyn Beverly, and Peggy Augustus. Arthur Bryant is not on the board but is an advisor. Kat Imhoff, former Montpelier CEO and Doug Trout current interim CEO have also been instrumental in forming VTP.

The TRF Montpelier program was Tax deductible donations can be sent established in the fall of 2003 and has photo above: President Sue Hart and Farm Manager Crystal Wever. to Montpelier Foundation, clearly been operating at the same location marking them FBO VTP. The address careers. since inception, according to the reis P.O. Box 911, Orange, VA 22960. The 501c3 has been The Virginia Thoroughbred Project will be led by Sue lease. Over the years, the program has re-trained and applied for.

Hart, and will care for the 41 thoroughbreds formerly adopted out dozens of ex-racehorses and provides a sanctuary for those that cannot go on to second athletic cared for by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation and will remain on the estate, according to a news re-

8

KESWICK LIFE

ONLY IN KESWICK The Joy of a Fake Christmas

BY TONY VANDERWARKER

I

wrote about the joy I felt last Christmas but when the event repeated itself this holiday season, I was even more ecstatic.

Opening the door to the basement in the cottage, I remembered the rush of excitement I felt when I was a little kid coming down the stairs on Christmas morning and seeing all the wrapped presents clustered under the tree. Only this present was even more joy-producing.

Wrapped in a plastic tarp was the fake Christmas tree we’d purchased at Home Depot last year. We’d stored it in the cellar completely assembled, replete with all its lights, thinking we’d retrieve it next Christmas.

And there it was, a Christmas tree for the taking. No driving to the Christmas tree lot, no stomping around in the cold looking for the perfect tree (by the way, there is no such thing. In my experience, every tree I’ve ever seen has missing branches somewhere, forcing you to turn the tree so the glitch faces the corner or wall. What

EIGHT ROLLING ACRES

w/

do you want for ninety-five bucks anyway?), then tying it to the top of the car, driving home, wedging it through the door and then dropping it into the tree stand. A tree stand, by the way, is one of the most imperfect devices ever invented, right up there with the corkscrew and bulb planter.

The tree stand is the ultimate time sink. Expect to spend a good hour trying to get the tree straight and then struggling to turn those dastardly bolts that are supposed to grip the trunk so the tree doesn’t topple over.

Of course it only comes crashing down when its loaded with ornaments, the kind of glad tidings you only get during the Christmas holidays, like the hot oil exploding when you drop the turkey in or the major present you hid so well you can’t find it.

Annie and I turned the tree on its side took it out through the cellar door, loaded it the Gator and drove it back to the house. Five minutes had passed and we had a Christmas tree gracing our living room. Plugged it in, tapped the floor switch and…oops! Two sections of lights blinked on but two didn’t. Was this the ghost of Christmas past coming back to haunt us? Would I have to go to Lowe’s again and buy more lights just like in the bad old days? But no, we quickly discovered that the two unlit sections had come unplugged, I guess when we stuffed it through the cellar door. When we plugged them in, the lights came on.

A half hour later, we had the tree loaded with the fa-

VIEWS 5 MINUTES EAST OF TOWN

c.

miliar ornaments we’d stored in the garage. The Mercedes hood ornament from one of our former cars, the Heineken can turned into an ornament, the lobster, the cow, etc. etc.

Thirty-five minutes total and we had an honest to goodness lighted and fully-decorated Christmas tree (that’s if you don’t look too closely or feel the needles)!

Damn, was I pleased with myself. I had totally eradicated one of the more onerous parts of the holidays.

Now all I had to do was find the spray aptly named Scentsations that gave the fake tree that real tree scent and I was in business.

So, do I occasionally feel a touch of regret for having a fake tree with a fake scent? Have a sense of guilt for ducking out of a hallowed Christmas tradition?

Not on your life. Not only have I saved a tree from being sawn down, I’ve saved ninety-five bucks, three trips to Lowe’s, countless hours untangling strands of light and frustrating bouts with the cursed tree stand--for as they sing, “There’s no place like home for the holidays…” I might add--especially when you’ve got a fake tree gracing it.

1931 CHARACTER BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED ON AN ACRE

270 Jeffers Drive • $995,000

1932 Blue Ridge Road • $3,295,000

Sited on 8 rolling acres dotted w/ mature trees 5 mins from Downtown, this expansive Cape offers 3 beds & 2 full baths upstairs, incl’ incredible master suite. 2 more beds on main level, each w/ bath. Wonderful views of Carters & Browns Mtns from the living spaces & master.

Walls of glass in the living areas highlight the dramatic parcel & views. Huge, Carrera marble master bath is a showstopper, as is the maple & granite kitchen w/ wood fireplace.

Add’l features incl’ huge rear patio overlooking the views, deer-safe vegetable garden w/ adj. shed, invisible fencing & 2 entrances. Renovations by Baird Snyder. MLS# 594642

Set on over an acre of private, beautifully landscaped lawns and gardens, this c. 1931 stone residence offers 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths, including a guest or nanny apartment on the terrace level. Large new kitchen, butler’s pantry, and mudroom by Karen Turner and new, marble bathrooms galore. Tucked away in one of Charlottesville’s most coveted neighborhoods, this home’s location in the Venable School District could not be more convenient: Moments to Barracks Road conveniences, 5-8 minutes to Downtown and points west like Boar’s Head, Farmington, and STAB. MLS# 594681

434.466.2992 lwoodriff@loringwoodriff.com

401 Park Street Charlottesville, VA 22902 WWW.LORINGWOODRIFF.COM

9

DECEMBER 2019

KESWICK SCENE

Grace Church Christmas Pageant

BY KESWICK LIFE, PHOTOS BY SUZANNE NASH

from r to left, Lucy Sutton facing left, Libby Hamilton, Cassidy Croughenour in back, Bella Rhodes holding Jane Hamilton

Lydia Jordan

Wils Nash, Montgomery Jordan, Lydia Jordan and Annabelle Brown in the back Josephine Sutton and Rose Longwell as angels. Ella Grace Morrison and Max Horner. Libby Hamilton and Crosby Scalise sitting back to back

back row, Cow - Christian Pardue, donkey - Montgomery Jordan, Star - Wils Nash, angels - Annabelle Brown and Lydia Jordan, Mary- Ella Grace Morrison, Joseph- Max Horner, Next row - three wise men - Finn and William Indoe and Wes Morrison, two angels- Rose Longwell and Josephine Sutton. Sheep - Gady Longwell, Crosby Scalise behind shepherd Lucy Sutton, sheep - Libby Hamilton, behind sheep is shepherd - Cassidy Croughenour, Shepherd Bella Rhodes holding Jane Hamilton in her arms, Shepherd Sidney Small choir members behind Sidney - Mary Leslie Tise, Julie Russell, and others. Chalicist- Cathy Bodkin.

Grace Episcopal Church Pageant Grace Episcopal Pageant, was held on December 15th, 2019.

Based on Jerome Berryman’s, A Children’s Liturgy for Christmas Eve. with a Cast According to appearance: Narrator: Suzanne Nash, Donkey: Montgomery Jordan, Mary: Ella Grace Morrison, Joseph: Max Horner, Shepherds: Lucy Sutton, Bella Rhodes, Ellie Houchens, Cassidy Coughenour, Sheep Herd: Jane Hamilton, Libby Hamilton, Gardy Longwell, Crosby Scalise, Ralston Scalise, Gabriel: Lydia Jordan, Angels: Annabelle Brown, Rose Longwell, Josephine Sutton, Camille Houchens, Star: Wils Nash and the Wise Men : Finn Indoe, William Indoe, Wes Morrison.

10

KESWICK LIFE

COMMUNITY Animal-assisted Therapy at Little Keswick School Animal-assisted therapy has been a part

BY KESWICK LIFE

visit to say hello.

of Little Keswick School since its inception in 1963.

During these visits, students may engage with Nitro by grooming, petting, talking to, or playing with him, or enjoying the sensory input Nitro provides when performing the “lap,” “visit,” and “cover” commands.

Dynamic relationships between young people and animals promote healthy emotional development and support physical and psychological wellbeing in many ways. Our students’ relationships with the animals on campus provide social support, act as catalysts for human social interactions, reduce loneliness, help with emotional regulation, and increase their self-esteem.

Academically, Nitro has helped students engage in math classes, reading groups, state assessments, and standardized testing. He is also available to help when he and Jennifer encounter a student in need of extra support. A few minutes with Nitro is often just what a student needs to shift his mindset and regulate his emotions.

Barter, our first canine staff member from a facility dog program called Canine Companions for Independence (CCI), joined LKS in 2011, followed by Kalia in 2017. We also have River and Grace, therapy dogs certified through the Pet Partners program, and Mika.

Recognizing the tremendous impact that service dogs have on our students, our Director of Academic Services, Jennifer Payne, applied to CCI and was accepted for their intensive training program this past spring. She was matched with Nitro, a golden retriever/yellow Labrador cross.

Nitro was hand-picked by CCI staff for LKS because of his fun, playful, loving, affectionate, and calming presence.

Jennifer has learned through training how to be an effective leader for Nitro by maintaining a confident, assertive presence and providing Nitro with motiva-

tion, praise, and correction to support him in executing his 43 commands. Nitro has quickly become an invaluable member of the team. He spends the majority of his day around campus, supporting students in classrooms throughout the Academic Center or in Jennifer’s office, where students can stop in for a quick

Jennifer and Nitro are committed to improving students’ academic, social, and emotional functioning through structured interventions in the school community, a goal that will only be achieved through creative thinking and strong leadership.

You can’t always be there. But we can.

the forgotten kettle

With Home Instead Senior Care, caring for an aging loved one doesn’t have to be a struggle. It’s why we offer everything from individualized help around the house to advanced Alzheimer’s care—to keep them safe and sound at home, instead of anywhere else.

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11

Take the first step.

Call us at 434.979.4663 or visit HomeInstead.com/532 DECEMBER 2019

HAPPENINGS

HAPPENINGS Local Hospice Celebrates 40th Anniversary

BY KESWICK LIFE

Hospice of the Piedmont announces 40th Anniversary And Upcoming Support Groups As we prepare to celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2020, Hospice of the Piedmont is proud to be featured in Keswick Life. We are grateful to our many friends, volunteers and benefactors in Keswick for your extraordinary support over the last forty years.

A flagship event in Keswick, the 19th annual Run & Remember 5K Race will be held on May 9, 2020. We are now seeking sponsorships for this exciting event that attracts over 400 runners and spectators. Under the leadership of Melba Campbell, and a dedicated and enthusiastic group of volunteers, the Run & Remember 5K Race to benefit Hospice of the Piedmont is held at Keswick Hall and Estate every year in memory of Sally Carle. We are grateful to our 2019 Run & Remember 5K sponsors, especially Keswick Hall and Estate, Virginia National Bank and Home Instead Senior Care.

In addition to the Run & Remember 5K Race, we enjoy participating in the annual Keswick Farm Tour and we greatly appreciate our friends at Grace Episcopal Church who so generously support our mission.

Thanks to you, Hospice of the Piedmont has lovingly served thousands of patients in the Keswick community and has provided grief counseling for loved ones and family members. In addition, we offer counseling for those who have lost a beloved dog, cat or horse because we understand that pets are family, too. These counseling services are provided free of charge to anyone in our community, thanks to private philanthropy.

As we celebrate this holiday season, we’d like to acknowledge that this time of year—while festive and merry—can bring feelings of grief and sadness for some of our neighbors. Perhaps it’s the first holiday without a dear loved one. Perhaps you’re reflecting on the loss as you see an empty seat at the holiday dinner table.

If you’re dealing with grief this season, Hospice of the Piedmont is here for you.

As the region’s oldest and most experienced nonprofit, community-based hospice, we exist to serve and support the entire community—not just those who lost a loved one under our care.

Our extensive grief support services are available to anyone who needs help with difficult emotions associated with grief and loss. We offer individual counseling sessions, specialized support groups, seasonal events, and more— all at no cost to anyone in the community, thanks to private philanthropy.

As the only non-profit hospice in central Virginia, our service area covers twelve counties. Last year, nearly 1,700 patients received care and over 4,000 adults and children participated in our counseling sessions including camps with specialized therapeutic programs for grieving children and teens.

Pictured above: Volunteers Jeanne Chamales and Melba Campbell celebrate the 18th annual Run & Remember Race on May 11, 2019 at Keswick Hall & Estate.

Starting in January, Hospice of the Piedmont will launch several new support groups, which may be a good fit for you or someone you love who may be struggling this holiday season. All groups meet at our main office at 675 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 300 in Charlottesville unless otherwise noted. Advance registration is required for the groups. Please call 434-817-6900 or 800-975-5501 to sign up or learn more.

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Eight-week support group: For adults who have experienced the death of a loved one and at least three months have passed since the death. o Two weekday group offerings: § Mondays, starting Jan. 6, 3:00pm – 4:30pm § Wednesdays, starting Jan. 15, 11:30am– 1:00pm

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Men’s grief support group: Men who have experienced the death of a loved one may want to find other men to talk to. This support group will meet for four weeks to learn about the unique ways that men grieve a loss. o Four consecutive Mondays, starting Jan. 13, 7:30am – 9:00am

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Remembering our Children support group: If you are a parent who has experienced the death of a child (of any age), we invite you to join us for grief education, support, and healing. o Meets every Monday, starting Jan. 13, 5:30pm – 7:00pm

Ongoing drop-in support group: This open bereavement support group is offered for any adult who has experienced the death of a loved one. o Meets every Friday, 3:00pm – 4:30pm at The Center on Hillsdale Dr. If the holidays bring feelings of sadness, grief, and loss for you, let Hospice of the Piedmont support you. Our expert staff of bereavement counselors understands the grief journey and is here to help. Call us today to learn more about the groups listed above or to inquire about one-on-one counseling sessions.

On behalf of everyone at Hospice of the Piedmont, we wish you a peaceful holiday season and many blessings for the New Year. Learn more about Hospice of the Piedmont at hopva.org.

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12

KESWICK LIFE

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13

DECEMBER 2019

ONLY IN KESWICK A SEPCIAL FEATURE OF TONY VANDERWARKER'S SHORT STORIES

Goldfinger

This has nothing to do with Keswick but it’s a good

same story: Who was I? Where did I come from? And where was I going? And what was that gold jewelry I was wearing?

story.

We all have reminders of who we used to be and the things we did. Photos, an old football helmet, a locket or faded handwriting on an old letter. Me? I have two gold nuggets, one a ring and the other a pendant.

I was twenty and in the Peace Corps in the Republic of Guinea on the west coast of Africa. Guinea has an important connection to Charlottesville as that’s where the basketball star Mamedi Diakite grew up. He started out playing soccer but fortunately as he began to sprout up, his parents suggested he switch to basketball. The rest is history.

But back to Guinea. The country has extensive gold mines and Guineans love to wear gold. Heavy gold earrings, gold bracelets, gold chains and bracelets. After a appreciating their gold jewelry for a year and learning that local goldsmiths could craft gold nuggets, I decided to get a couple. I’d become a touch Africanized in my year and a half in the country. Like the Guineans, I wore clear plastic Chinese sandals, brightly-printed shirts and French planter suits, so it seemed totally natural for me to sport a couple gold nuggets.

The details are now hazy. I don’t remember exactly which village the goldsmith was in or how much I paid for the nuggets but I can remember sitting on the dirt floor of his mud hut and watching the old guy make them. He crouched over his fire and carefully poured molten gold into a batch of pebbles, then, as the gold started to cool, he picked the pebbles out of the gold leaving behind an irregularly-shaped and indented ob-

This went on for six hours. Back then, I was puzzled.

Why were they retaining me? What did they think I had done? Are they going to deport me? But now I realize that with my long hair and gold nuggets, I must have looked like a drug dealer, international smuggler or NFL wide receiver. Or at least, someone worthy of suspicion.

ject that seemed to resemble what one would imagine a gold nugget to look like. He made a second one, crafted a ring to attach to the back of it, a loop to hold a chain for the pendant, threaded the chain through the loop and I was in business. I hung the pendant around my neck, put the ring on my finger, paid the goldsmith for his work and proudly strode off through the village.

It never occurred to me what a twenty year-old white kid from Connecticut would look like wearing a huge gold nugget on my left pinky and another on a chain around my neck until I got to Heathrow Airport on my way home. Going through immigration, I was surprised when one of the officers beckoned me to leave the line and follow him. He escorted me into a small office, closed the door, locked it and began to grill me.

Who was I? Where did I come from? And where was I going? And what was that gold jewelry I was wearing?

From time to time, he would get up and leave, locking the door behind him. When he returned, it was the

They finally let me go, never telling me why they’d retained me. But over time, I decided that the nuggets attracted too much attention, particularly back in the States. People looked at me like they were thinking: Why is that kid wearing a honking big gold nugget on his finger and one hanging around his neck? What’s his story?

So I stopped wearing them. But put them away until my wife, Annie, discovered them, she asked: “Can I wear them? They’re great! I’d love to wear them!” Having long ago abandoned the thought of being an NFL wide receiver, I said, “Sure, happy to have you enjoy them.”

So every time she wears my gold nugget pendant or puts on my nugget ring, it takes me back to the mud hut in Africa, the grizzled old goldsmith and the detention center at Heathrow, things I never would have experienced had I not decided, fifty odd years ago, that I couldn’t live without a couple gold nuggets.

The Ups and Downs of Country Living For all the serenity and simplicity living in the country affords, there’s a price to be paid. Sure it’s tranquil and beautiful but it has its downsides.

Praying for rain after a long dry spell? Fed up with crispy, brown grass and leaves turning color way before they’re supposed to? Well, be careful what you wish for because you can get three inches of rain that knocks out your power and disables your TV and internet. Sure the grass turns green again but you can’t get your email or watch ESPN or run the dishwasher.

Want to go for a nice walk in the woods? Get ready to get ticked off. The little suckers burrow into your shin and munch your blood. And some have the effrontery to invade your private parts laying a fat gray egg where you least want to find it.

Plant a raft of tulips in the fall and eagerly look forward to seeing them pop up and bloom in the spring? They might pop up but the deer nibble them to stubby nubs before they have a chance to bloom.

Looking out proudly on your expanse of green lawn but dreading having to hop on the mower twice a week to keep up? Well when August comes, your rich green lawn will look like someone took a flamethrower to it.

Usually, traffic isn’t a big deal in the country unless you run into an accident on 250 and decide to take 64 instead. Wrong move because the rest of the world has decided to do the same thing and 64 is now a parking lot.

Septic systems are an unseen ally until your toilet gurgles. Gurgling means your septic tank is full of you-know what and you’re suddenly into writing big time checks. You’re lucky if its only six hundred bucks to pump out the tank because you could get hit with a bum pump and then you’re out a couple grand. Suddenly you find yourself paying $3000 to go to the bathroom.

Just when you’ve got the freezer packed with all kinds of goodies you’ve harvested from the garden, a hurricane hits and knocks out the power for a week and you find yourself emptying the freezer into the trash.

You face up to the fact that you need to replace your pool cover. Get a spanking new one that matches the color of the grass so you can hardly notice it. Problem is that deer don’t notice it either and walk right over it, crashing through the cover, ripping a hole in it and cutting up your pool liner with their sharp hooves as they try to escape. The deer-drop-in costs you your insur-

ance deductible. Just feel lucky the deer wasn’t a cow because, as our insurance agent told us, domestic animals aren’t covered.

Zero turn mowers are the sports cars of the mowing world. Nimble and maneuverable, they can run circles around trees and bushes, turn on a dime and deftly respond to your every command. Problem is the two rear wheels are powered separately, which makes them agile but when one wheel gets stuck in mud, since the two wheels aren’t connected the unstuck one tells the stuck one to take a hike so the more you try to power out , the deeper you bury the wheel and mowing quickly turns into towing.

Another downside to country living is when a hurricane or snowstorm is coming, you can’t get to the grocery store fast enough. I don’t care if you go three days before, you won’t find an egg, carton of milk or loaf of bread in the entire store. When threatened with a weather catastrophe, instead of buying shovels or salt or plywood, country people buy bread, turning into locusts, devouring shelves upon aisles of loaves. Grocery stores end up looking like third-world food stores just before a currency devaluation.

Snow falling in the country is beautiful but there’s a huge downside. Snow brings out the worst in country

14

KESWICK LIFE

drivers. When they’re faced with a steep hill, they put the pedal to the metal so the rear wheels spin out and slide the car into a ditch. Same goes for going down a hill, only this time they hit the brake so hard its ditch time again, Moral of this story is, when it snows, stay home and eat whatever bread you were able to save from the grocery store.

Ponds are great, pleasing to look at and fun to fish in.

Unless the pool drain begins to leak. Since drains are way down at the pool’s bottom in case you want to completely empty it, when it leaks the drain threatens to drain the pool dry, leaving you a layer of fish a foot deep. So you need to quickly call in a backhoe guy to fix it. Now the backhoe guy knows you’re up against the wall so his fee automatically ascends. He tells you, “I can drop my current job and get over there quick and fix it but it ain’t gonna be cheap.” So the leaking drain

not only drains the pond but your wallet too.

But I wouldn’t trade living in the country for anything.

You just need to know peace and quiet can cost you

Weirdnesses In Life What got me thinking about the odd things in life was

a dental implant I had recently. In order to insure that there is sufficient bone below the sinus to hold the implant, the prosthodontist inserts cadaver bone (yup, you heard it right) to encourage my jawbone to grow, kind of a bone growth cheerleader. So I began thinking, I now have a dead guy in my mouth. How weird is that?

I guess I should thank the deceased guy (or female) for being so generous but he or she is stone-cold dead and unaware that part of them is in my mouth. Talk about having your foot in your mouth, how about having someone else’s foot in your mouth?

So on my Virginia driver’s license, down in the lower left corner is a notation, alongside a tiny black heart, that I am an organ donor. So if I go down in a car wreck, my foot could (or my arm, or shoulder, or leg) go into someone’s mouth.

I guess that’s a nice thought, better than your bone’s going into soup or something like that, but it’s still strange.

And I had to sit there in the dentist’s chair while he stuffed someone’s foot into my mouth and it was like nothing weird was happening. The office was painted a restful color, soft music played, everything the dentist and his assistant would touch was wrapped in plastic, it was all normal EXCEPT….

There are other oddities in life, like when I sing in church and nobody looks at me. Because I can’t sing, I sound like a cross between a foghorn and a coyote. I can hear it, it’s grating, so off key there isn’t a noticeable note within five hundred yards. I sound awful. Once I was presenting a commercial to McDonalds, a spot with

the McDonalds’ jingle and I was singing along and the head guy stops me and says, “Just read the lyrics, Tony, we know the song.” So why doesn’t the congregation turn and stare at me? How odd is that?

Okay, some other weird things. I like bright colors, I mean really bright colors. Like I have an orange pair of pants, not just orange, but red, yellow and blue too. I mean these pants are so bright, they are almost electric.

And when I wear them out, to a party or something, someone always points at me, sneers and says, “Nice pants,” like they wouldn’t be caught dead in them.

Does it faze me? Not at all.

But it should. I mean who wears orange pants to a cocktail party? And I usually top off the pants with a bright contrasting shirt, so I end up looking like a flag semaphore. I guess wearing orange pants and a yellow shirt to a cocktail party is no weirder than having someone’s foot in your mouth, but it’s still weird. I just avoid singing when I’m wearing orange pants, I mean why push your luck?

Here’s another weirdness: I only wear Crocs, you know, those ugly rubber shoes that kids wear with little metal emblems sticking out the holes? I’ve got a foot condition so they are the only shoes I find comfortable. I’ve got them in a light blue color, I’ve got red ones, bright green ones, orange and black ones and a pair of camouflage Crocs. I also have a couple pairs in brown suede that I wear with my orange pants so I don’t end up looking like a walking Jackson Pollock painting.

The weird thing is back in the good old days, I had a whole stock of fancy footwear. I had crocodile pumps, I had formal black Mary Janes with red piping, I had

a pair of wingtips made out of boar’s hide and I prided myself in always having the sharpest footwear. So when I go out, wearing some nifty outfit, my fancy shoe history collides with my stupid-looking Crocs and I feel weird.

Here’s another weird thing. My wife thinks I drive too slow, “You’re so pokey!” she regularly says when I’m behind the wheel. So she drives most of the time. But recently, I noticed that she constantly looks out to her left at the passing scenery. Now I have to turn my head to notice her looking out the window so now we’re both looking left. Anyone behind us must see both of us turning to look left at about the same time, both not looking at the road. And we do it almost in unison and there’s really nothing to look at besides grass and trees.

So I know the two of us look weird.

Then there’s the pool. When it rains hard, say five inches or so, because there’s only fifteen feet between the pool and the house, water weirdly accumulates between the two and causes the pool liner to float up so the pool steps end up swollen like fat pillows and the floor of the pool levitates up. That’s where the sandbags come in. It takes ten to get the steps to settle and you have to get in the pool and guide the sandbags to the correct places on the steps. That isn’t so bad, but after a couple days when they get waterlogged, getting them out is a Herculean chore. Talk about feeling weird, diving down and trying to hoist sandbags off the steps makes you feel like you’re a prospector in the California gold rush panning gold out of some river. But you’re panning sand out of a pool, not gold out of a river and I call that weird.

How To Tell If You’re Getting Older There

“Look how many of my friends are stuck to the wall.

Now they’re old.”

So here are some new metrics for you to consider.

Take me, for instance. I had a pacemaker put in and while it was no big deal (a nurse once told me that pacemakers now are as common as facelifts), it did point out to me that like a cracked cylinder head, my heart wasn’t what it used to be. It needed a machine to run in front of it to, you guessed it, set the pace. So now my heart is chasing a machine and that officially makes me old (Google says 75 is the average age for an implant--plus or minus 10 years).

are always numbers, but you can’t put much stock in them. You can keep claiming you’re 39 for a good ten years and “seventy is the new fifty” only clouds the picture. Plus everyone’s chomping down steroids, getting facelifts and taking advantage of other medical advances to disguise their true ages.

Having joints replaced, knees, hips, shoulders, whatever is a surefire sign. You’ve worn out the part God gave you, just like a crankshaft or wheel bearing, and now you have to pick a new one off the rack and have it installed.

If you have just one friend with a new part, you’re not really getting up there. But if you have three, four, six or seven friends or go to a cocktail party where new hips are what everyone’s talking about, then you know you’re really aging. I once had a dream where a mad inventor put a huge magnet on one wall of the cocktail party and when he turned it on, it sucked everyone with a replacement over to it. I remember thinking,

But the signs don’t stop there. At a certain age, the garden of aches and pains begins to bloom. This hurts there, that hurts here, my foot, my shoulder, my neck— they’re all talking to me in a way they never have before.

You find yourself saying, “Gee, that never hurt before, I wonder where that came from?”

Turns out there are a whole set of mystery maladies seemingly coming out of nowhere. “I mean, I didn’t fall, I didn’t twist it wrong, I wonder why in the hell

15

my BLANK hurts?” Problem is, they come and go like guerillas in the night. One minute, your back is bothering you, causing you to walk like a pretzel but then that goes away and three days later, you can barely bend your left elbow.

Trouble with all these ailments is that while they randomly attack and then retreat on some weird schedule, you can’t pin them down long enough to get to a doctor.

You don’t want to be sitting in some doc’s office and when he asks, “Show me where it hurts?” You have to tell him, “It did hurt right here but it doesn’t anymore.”

Talk about getting a weird look.

The other trouble is that you get no sympathy from your significant other because they too are suffering from mystery maladies. Try for some sympathy for a painful wing and you get, “You say your shoulder hurts, but my hip has been hurting for six months. And I’m not even bringing up my knee.”

Okay, so when you get into competition with your spouse over who’s got the worst aches and pains, >>>>

DECEMBER 2019

<<<< no matter your numerical age, you’re definitely up there.

Then there’s the mental side of the picture, which is not pretty. As you age, the sliding scale comes into play.

And it only slides one way. First you have trouble remembering names. While you can dredge up names from the past, the names of people you recently met vanish like hoped-for lottery winnings.

So before you tell a story, you rehearse the whole thing to make sure you can remember the names of everyone involved. Sort of lets the air out of a story when you start, “So did you hear the one about…jeez, I think I’ve forgotten his name.” You face the same situation with jokes. Once you’ve gotten to the end of a long windup and come to the punch line, it’s not good when you go blank. That’s a hole it’s hard to dig yourself out of. So before telling the joke, you make sure you’ve got the punch line down cold, which is not easy when you’re struggling to remember the body of the joke.

The dead giveaway that you are old is when you purposefully stride across the house heading to the bathroom to get, say, a Band-Aid. But when you get to the

bathroom, the Band-Aid has flown the coop and you’re left standing in the middle of the room wondering what the hell you came in here for. God forbid your spouse finds you staring blankly at a wall because she’s sure to hit you with some zinger like: “What? Did you forget what you came in here for—AGAIN?” That’s why lists are so invaluable for older people. Only problem with a list is that you have to remember to take it with you. Otherwise you’ll end up standing in a dumb stupor in a supermarket aisle. Or what’s worse, having to call the wife and asking her to read off the list to you.

Fortunately, there are machines to keep you from going over the edge to total senility. “Hey, Siri,” is like a life ring tossed to you when you can’t remember where the vacuum repair place is, how to get to Costco or what time your dentist appointment is. “Hey, Siri,” gives you a false sense of security until you forget and leave your phone at home.

The way I see it is that artificial intelligence can’t come soon enough. And I’m not talking about the artificial intelligence I used to run into in advertising. People walking around with fancy MBA’s who couldn’t recognize a big idea even if it walked up and slapped them in the

face.

I’m referring to little machines with odd names like Google Home Mini and Alexa. Losenge-like things that actually talk to you, reminding you of appointments, when your pot roast is done or the name of the junior senator from Wisconsin. Just imagine what they’ll be able to do in the future. Now the things talk to you, in the near future, they should be able to think for you.

For instance, if you find a little senility creeping in, you could activate Alexa and she will take over, monitoring your thoughts, keeping you from acting addled, answering all kinds of questions that normally stump you and making you come across as mentally sound.

“Dad was starting to lose it until he got his new Alexa machine, now he’s back in the game,” your kids will say.

Just don’t expect your Alexa will help with your mystery maladies or failing joints, you’ll still have to deal with those. But at least you’ll be able to remember what hurts where.

My House Can Talk It didn’t use to, it just sat there like a lump, saying noth-

worried that we’d be invaded, but just as an added measure of security.

Because I got a video doorbell. It’s a tiny oblong thing about the size of a Cameo Creme cookie with a doorbell, camera and microphone included. Our old dumb doorbell just rang. Our new doorbell, on the other hand, not only shows you who’s at the door, but it also lets you talk to them. And here’s where the fun comes in.

The new doorbell comes with an app that shows you who’s at the door and enables you to talk to them on your smartphone.

But I had no idea how much fun it could be to talk to people who can’t see you. So I tried it on our housekeeper, getting Annie to join me. Wendy arrives every Friday punctually at 8:20. We waited until 8:21 and sure enough, here comes Wendy up the walk. I get the message, open the app and say, “Hi Wendy.”

ing, seeing nothing. But now it’s come alive.

So you can be say, in Charleston, where we were recently and you get this “ding” on your phone and a message that reads, “Front door camera detected motion on 4-10-19 at 3:33 PM.” You open the app, activate the camera and you can see who’s there. It turned out to be the exterminator spraying around the front of the house. So I tapped the microphone and said, “You want to check the side of the house?”

When he heard my voice, the guy started swinging his head around looking for who was talking to him.

Seeing no one, he looked totally baffled. I continued, “There are ants coming in over there.”

That made his eyes bulge out. Someone was talking to him from somewhere—but where? Now he’s peering around the side of the house, then out toward the driveway. I bet he’s thinking, “The damn house is talking to me.”

I couldn’t resist so I continued, “And I mean lots of ants, millions of them. So I’d appreciate it if you could take a look.” Now he tentatively turns toward the front door as if he’s figured out where the sound is coming from— but no one’s there. He looks like he’s seen a ghost. All he can come up with is, “Oh, oh, oh, okay…”

She stops dead in her tracks. We’d told her we’d be away so she can’t figure out how we can be talking to her. I nudge the wife and she says, “I put clean sheets on our bed so you don’t have to.”

“Okay, but where are you?”

“We’re in Charleston.”

“That’s what I thought so how can you be talking to me?”

“Video doorbell.”

“Video doorbell?”

“Yup, it lets us see who’s coming and talk to them.”

“You scared the bejesus out of me, totally freaked me out.”

“Sorry.”

“I mean, I recognized your voice but you weren’t there, it was spooky. But now that I know you have one of these things I won’t be spooked anymore.”

Wendy shakes her head as she walks by the doorbell as if she’s thinking, “These sure are weird times we’re living in.”

Now I know she goes out for a smoke break after about an hour. So I wait for the next message. Sure enough, “Front door camera detected motion…” I open the app and say, “You know Wendy…”

“Thanks,” I say, and that proves to be too much for him.

He gives a weak wave and trudges off shaking his head as if he’d just visited the Twilight Zone.

Wendy goes “Eeeek!” And kind of jumps away from the doorbell.

We’d bought the video doorbell because we’d heard of a home invasion in a nearby county. Not that we were

This time she’s got a smile on her face, “You did it again to me! But now I’m wised up.”

My next victim was the UPS man. As soon as he set the package down at the front door, I said, “Thank you, you can just open the front door and put it inside--we’re away.”

Our front door is indented about three feet so he’s standing there scanning the inside of the doorway while I’m talking. Talk about looking blown-away. I can tell he’s thinking, “Okay, they say they’re away so how are they talking to me? But as he suddenly realizes my voice is coming from the doorbell, he goes, “Aha! You got one of those fancy doorbells that talks, right?”

“Right. Hope I didn’t scare you too much.”

“For a second there, I thought I was hearing things.

That’s a pretty neat device, might have to get myself one,” he said as he dropped the package off inside.

Lizzie, a friend who dog sits for us, was to be my next victim. As she came in to feed the dogs, I said to my wife, “I’m going to wait until she leaves and surprise her.”

“Nope, don’t do that, you’ll scare the hell out of her.”

“But it will be fun,” “Don’t you dare.”

That was the end of that.

Now I’m conjuring up all kinds of ways to frighten off burglars. I could say, “I’ve called 911 so you’d better get out of here fast.” Or, “I’ve got your license plate recorded so if you dare open this door, the cops will chase you down.”

But I figure just surprising them will run them off.

“Let me see,” I’m thinking, “the lawn crew arrives tomorrow, maybe I could scare the daylights out of them!”

I knew it would be cool to have a video doorbell, but I never knew how much funit would be to have a talking house.

16

KESWICK LIFE

OBITUARY BJ Meeks BJ Meeks died unexpectedly at age 79 on November 28, 2019 in Good Samaritan Hospital in West Palm Beach, Florida after a short illness. BJ is survived by his husband, Pablo Perez, with whom he had a loving relationship for over 30 years. He is also survived by his brother Robert (Karen), Cousin Violet Marie Wilson and many friends who will miss him dearly.

BJ was born on April 14 of 1940 in Parkersburg, West Virginia to the late Wanda and Robert Meeks. In 1960, in Columbus, Ohio, BJ opened a men’s haberdashery named Squire Limited and later created BJ’s Hunt Room in an adjoining space. Over time, BJ relocated to Wellington, Florida. Under the banner of BJ’s Hunt Room, he and Pablo traveled the nation to sell beautiful and unique clothing, jewelry, art and antiques at the nation’s top hunter jumper competitions.

BJ was also deeply philanthropic. He and Pablo have demonstrated a strong commitment to the Caridad Center in Boynton Beach, Florida. Among their many charitable gestures, BJ and Pablo founded the Wellington Equestrian Group which hosts an annual holiday party for over 600 underserved family members who are patients of the Caridad Center. For many of these families, this event provides the only holiday meal or gifts they will receive during the season. In addition to the holiday party, for the past 15 years BJ and Pablo raised funds to provide college scholarships for underserved students. Connie Berry, co-founder of Caridad, stated that as a result of BJ and Pablo’s efforts, “We were able to provide school supplies, book bags, school uniforms, sneakers and college scholarships for 30 students this year. BJ meant so much to this organization. He helped thousands of children.”

BJ was a graduate of The Ohio State University. He was a fantastic cook, loved to travel and loved to entertain. He was also a horseman of renown who fox hunted with the Rocky Fork Headley Hunt in Columbus, Ohio, and the Palm Beach Hounds of Wellington, Florida. BJ owned champion confirmation hunters that were shown with great success by his close friends, the Wheeler family.

per Company, Armco Steel, S. C. Johnson & Company, and SCN Corporation. He also provided leadership as chairman of the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Spartanburg Planning and Development Commission and as a member of the Business Council. He was among the founders of Spartanburg Day School where he was a lifetrustee emeritus.

As a respected business leader, he served on President Richard M. Nixon's Commission on All-Volunteer Armed Force in 1969, and was subsequently appointed Secretary of Commerce by the President, serving from February 2, 1973-March 26, 1975 and also served as President Gerald R. Ford's Special Trade Representative with the rank of Ambassador from March 26, 1975-January 20, 1977. Mr. Dent was inducted into the South Carolina Business Hall of Fame in 1994.

Funeral services were conducted on Saturday, January 11, 2020, at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, by The Rev. J. Edward Morris and The Rev. Clay Turner. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Episcopal Church of the Advent Foundation, 141 Advent St., Spartanburg, SC 29302; Mobile Meals Service, PO Box 461, Spartanburg, SC 29304; or Spartanburg Day School, 1701 Skylyn Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29307. An online guest register is available at www.floydmortuary.com Floyd's Greenlawn Chapel.

WHAT'S COOKING Vanilla & Orange Shortbread Cookie

BY SAM JOHNSON, DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF CULLINARY | 1776

Now that the Holidays are over this

will be one recipe you will use all year no matter what time of year .Here’s one that truly is delicious and simple to make. I'm sure you will love it. this cookie is delicate and will be perfect addition to any cookie tray.

BJ’s husband Pablo recalled that during their travels, BJ met many special people with whom he developed lifelong friendships. He will always be known as a loyal and loving spouse, son, friend, brother and cousin. In his memory donations may be sent to The Caridad Center, 8645 West Boynton Beach Blvd., Boynton Beach, Florida 33472. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

Frederick Baily Dent Frederick Baily Dent, 97, of Spartanburg, SC, died Tuesday, December 10, 2019, at Spartanburg Medical Center. Born August 17, 1922, in Cape May, NJ and raised in Greenwich, CT, he was the son of the late Magruder Dent and Edith Baily Dent. He was the husband of 53 years to the late Mildred "Millie" Harrison Dent and a member of The Episcopal Church of the Advent in Spartanburg.

At the age of 3, Fred's family moved from Ardmore, PA to Greenwich, CT, along with the textile sales operation of his father's company, Joshua L. Baily & Company. Founded in 1876 by Fred Dent's maternal great-grandfather, the company was a factoring and textile sales agency where he was first employed in 1946.

A graduate of Greenwich Country Day School and St. Paul's School in Concord, NH, Mr. Dent earned a BA Degree at Yale University where he was a liberal arts major with an emphasis on political institutions and also played varsity football. He also received honorary degrees from Presbyterian College, Charleston Southern University, Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science, the University of South Carolina, and Yale University. He was an avid sailor as a youth and joined the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps at Yale and was a U. S. Navy veteran of World War II. Mr. Dent was a resident of Spartanburg since 1947 where he served as president of Mayfair Mills – a textile manufacturing company with six plants, five in South Carolina and one in Georgia. Throughout his career, he also served as president of the American Textile Manufacturers Institute and South Carolina Textile Manufacturers Association. He was trustee of Yale University, the Institute of Textile Technology in Charlottesville, VA, Brevard Music Center, and the Arts Partnership of Greater Spartanburg, as well as Chairman of the Board of Mayfair Mills, Inc.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup salted butter, (2 sticks) at room temperature • 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar • 2 cups all purpose flour • seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean • 1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract • 1 Tsp Orange Zest

Instructions:

• Set oven to 350F • Cream the sugar and butter together with the vanilla bean seeds. Blend in the flour and vanilla extract. Keep stirring until the dough comes together.

• Turn the soft dough out onto a floured surface and for into two disks, like for pie dough. Wrap the disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, about an hour.

• Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut out the cookies. Place them on a parchment or silpat lined baking sheet.

• Put the baking sheet in the refrigerator while you clean up.

• Bake the cookies for about 13 minutes until firm • Dust Top with confectioners sugar

His former directorships include International Paper Company, COMSAT Corporation, General Electric, Mutual Life Insurance of New York, Scott Pa-

17

DECEMBER 2019

BOOKWORM REVIEWS BOOK WORM REVIEWS Children and Teen Book Reviews

BY SUZANNE NASH Now because I was just asked recently to give a few recommendations for children and teens I am including a couple suggestions, both old and new, for the younger readers.

With that theme in mind, consider reading or rereading Little Women prior to seeing the movie adaptation that has just come out in movie theatres. It is a wonderful book to read out loud with your kids.

The Enemy by Charlie Higson is a young adult postapocalyptic horror story that takes place in London. A worldwide sickness has stuck, turning all of the adults into something akin to zombies and the children have formed groups to combat the threat. There are the Morrison Crew, the Waitrose Crew and others who struggle to survive and find safe haven. There are seven books in this series so if you like the first one then you are set for your reading material for a while. Higson also wrote the first four book in the Young Bond series, which are also great reads if you are into James Bond!

Children who like Harry Potter style stories might find The Girl Who drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill a good choice. It was a 2017 Newberry award winner and introduces the world to Luna, a young witch who struggles to control her powers.

A Song for Ella Grey by David Almond is based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Claire is Ella Greys best friend and she is there to witness a love so strong that even death will not destroy it!

A beautiful retelling of a classic legend.The Maze Runner Series by John Dasher is a great choice for boys and girls. If you liked The Hunger Games then this series will keep you enthralled. It follows Thomas, a young boy who wakes up to find himself trapped in a constantly changing maze with other boys. It is part of a whole series that has been made into blockbuster movies but there is nothing better than reading the original!

A book to keep your eyes out for in the new year is The Dark Lady by Akala. It is a debut novel written by a British Hip Hop artist, journalist, poet and activist who I really admire and while I haven’t read this book as it is not out yet, I am intrigued and excited about the buzz I have heard thus far. Akala is inspired by the sonnets of Shakespeare and he has transformed the Renaissance world into a magical one where a young thief and orphan named Henry must find his way.

But he has magical power to combat the dark world in which he lives. I am hoping this book will be available in 2020 in the USA and I am really looking forward to picking one up!

He has also written a children’s book called Hip and Hop: You Can Do Anything that has a good message for kids about following your dreams, written in a rap format.

Lifestyles in Keswick, Virginia and its environs

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18

KESWICK LIFE

BOOKWORM REVIEWS BOOK WORM REVIEWS Winter Fireside Reading

by Suzanne Nash

BY SUZANNE NASH

As a New Year approaches it is time to stock up on a pile of books to get through the winter months that lie ahead. If you are still looking for a gift for someone because you are behind in your holiday festivities or you received gift card to your local bookstore, I have some great choices to make the winter months pass quickly.

I hope this give everyone a good selection of diverse material to take you into a new year full of reading!

In Hotel Neversink, Adam O’Fallon Price introduces the reader to generations of Hotel Neversink’s owners and the mystery that continues to haunt it through the years. This is a multilevel tale with narration from Jeanie (the original owner’s daughter), Leonard (her son), a maid named Hannah, and multiple others who have been touched by the disappearance of children from the hotel. First, a young boy goes missing then a young cousin of the Jeanie, named Alice. Alice manages to escape the killer but cannot reveal who it was who abducted and attempted to strangle her.

Built by a Jewish immigrant in the 1930’s, this Catskill hotel is loved by some members of the family and despised by others, but no one can deny that it has created a community of people who help keep it running and who preserve the history and stories of its past. Hopefully someone will discover the identity of the killer before another chid is harmed. .I immediately picked up The Spies of Shilling Lane when I saw it was published because author Jennifer Ryan also wrote The Chilbury’s Lady’s Choir, which I loved and reviewed last year. I couldn’t wait to dig into her latest novel, and I was not disappointed. Mrs. Braithwaite is quite a character. She is bossy, noisy and tends to steamroll all those around her. No one is particularly sad when she is ousted from her leadership role at the Women’s Voluntary Service (WVS). Hurt and angry, Mrs. Braithwaite packs her bag and heads to London to visit her errant daughter, Betty, only to find her missing. Betty does not have a good relationship with her mother, and she has not been completely honest about her activities to help in the war effort. Betty’s shy and retiring landlord, Mr. Norris, finds himself bullied into accompanying Mrs. Braithwaite as she goes on the hunt for her daughter. The adventures commence! It’s a lovely story that will make you laugh and keep you guessing.

Read Keswick Life Lets you in on life in Keswick

Moving from fiction to fact, Crisis in the Red Zone: the story of the deadliest Ebola outbreak in history and of the outbreak to come by Richard Preston tackles a subject the author has covered before. The subject matter is crystal clear from the title. I was introduced to the world of Ebola years ago when I read Preston’s first book, The Hot Zone, which transfixed me with the story of how this virus first emerged from a cave in Africa and described the devastation it wrought. His latest work is no less spectacular in its ability to explain the current condition and issues around this deadly virus. At the end of The Hot Zone, the conclusion was that Ebola, while scary and horrible, was containable because it only mutated within animals, but now scientists have learned through the latest outbreak that the situation has changed. While the subject matter may not be something you think you would enjoy reading about, Preston is a very talented writer who can convey clinical information in a very readable way that informs and pulls you in. He has woven the facts about the outbreak and subsequent deaths with the personalities and dedication of those who fight to keep this virus from spreading. These are remarkable people who put their lives on the line every day to help those in peril and keep the world safe. They are passionate, caring people who risk their health and safety because they want to stay one step ahead of the most dangerous viruses that exist in the world. I love Preston’s writing style and I think we all need to be aware of what the CDC, Doctors Without Borders and other organizations are doing to thwart a very real threat!

The Sisters of the Winter Wood seems a perfect winter tale to enjoy in front of the fire with a cup of cocoa. It’s a fantasy story that combines Jewish history and folklore and is a debut novel by Rena Rossner. I really enjoyed Rossner’s unique style that paid homage to her roots in Ukraine. There is a village near Moldova and Ukraine where Liba and Laya live. They live outside the village because they both come from a long line of shape shifters and their parents are determined to keep them safe and unaware of their lineage. When their parents leave them alone to deal with family matters far away, both girls learn the secret their parents were keeping. Liba finds herself shifting into a bear and swan-like Laya longs to take flight. This is a beautiful, lyric story of secrets and divisions between people. It combines the fairy tale aspect of goblins, shapeshifters, magic and animals with historical events. The language is a beautiful combination of Yiddish, Hebrew and Ukranian. What is amazing is that this fantasy is based on the very real backdrop of the Pogroms in that area. It really adds another layer to the idea of the beast that lies within each of us. I loved this story and its message!

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19

DECEMBER 2019

503 Faulconer Drive Charlottesville, VA 22903 Office: 434.295.1131 Fax: 434.293.7377

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The right realtor makes all the difference!

◆ VERULAM FARM ◆

Premier country estate on 500+ acres just minutes west of UVA off of prestigious Bloomfield Road.

Classic manor home of timeless architecture and design with over 10,000 square feet of living space.

Complete renovation with formal and informal living spaces, 10’ ceilings, 5 bedroom suites, center hall and spacious family room and kitchen. Lovely gardens, pool, pool house, 2-bedroom guest cottage, full equestrian facilities and event barn/business. The farm is surrounded by over 2000 protected acres in green spaces. MLS#597954 Andrew Middleditch, 434.981.1410

◆ LA FOURCHE ◆ Historic circa 1788 gem in the heart of Keswick, restored and updated. Main house with attached tavern and party barn on 4 acres.

Views of Southwest Mountains. Minutes to Charlottesville and UVA. MLS#587033 $2,250,000 C. Dammann, 434.981.1250

◆ RED FOX LANE ◆ Enjoy mountain views of the historic Southwest Mountains from this livable four-bedroom residence on six private acres. Convenient and quick to Pantops, Historic Downtown Mall, and UVA. MLS#594327 $895,000 Charlottte Dammann, 434.981.1250

◆ LAFAYETTE ◆ Tucked in a quiet and peaceful setting down a delightfully tree-lined lane is this attractive, three-story clapboard house. First-floor master suite, five additional bedrooms on 91 gently rolling acres, great views, stream. MLS#574119 $1,950,000 Steve McLean, 434.981.1863

◆ BRAMBLEWOOD ◆ 522-acre sanctuary with a magnificent manor home, two other residences and a barn in a beautiful and private setting in the heart of Keswick. MLS#595091 $6,700,000 Jim Faulconer, 434.981.0076 www.BramblewoodVa.com

◆ MILTON VILLAGE ◆ 21-acre lot minutes east of Charlottesville.

Level building site with well and soils tested for drain field. 4-board fence along road frontage. Creek, small pond, and automatic waterers. MLS#586469 $455,000 Mark Mascotte, 434.825.8610

◆ SUMMIT RIDGE TRAIL ◆ Expansive Blue Ridge Mountain views from this custom built residence on a protected 1.4 acres. Easy floorplan and high end finishes.

Convenient to I-64, Pantops, Downtown and UVA. MLS#597258 $1,195,000 Charlotte Dammann, 434.981.1250

www.mcleanfaulconer.com 20

KESWICK LIFE

PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET

PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET

PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET

La Fourche Airslie Kesmont Fairview La Fourche Airslie Kesmont Fairview Fair View is a La Fourche - Significant property in Equestrian Estate in the Heart of Keswick * Landmark county estate located in the beautiful Keswick hunt area of Albemarle County. House was significantly in the early 1990's Landmark countyrenovated estate located in the beautiful using only thearea finest materials and craftsmen.

Keswick hunt of Albemarle County.

House The surroundingrenovated 62+/- acresinare open, was significantly themostly early 1990's and stunning views of the west usingoffers only the finest materials and south craftsmen. mountains.

Property canacres also be with The surrounding 62+/arepurchased mostly open, additional land and improvements.

House was and offers stunning views of the south west completely renovated in the early 1990's using mountains. Property can also be purchased with only the finest materials & craftsmen. additional land and improvements.

HouseThe was surrounding 324+/- acres further completely renovated in the early compliment 1990's using the and allows the & property complete onlyhouse the finest materials craftsmen.

The privacy.

The324+/estate acres has many improvements surrounding further compliment including cottages, stablecomplete complex the house4 tenant/guest and allows the property & cattle barn.

Property numerous rolling privacy.

The estate has has many improvements pastures are fencedcottages, w/boardstable & wire. includingthat 4 tenant/guest complex & cattle barn. Property has numerous rolling pastures that are fenced w/board & wire.

For further information contact : Justin Wiley 434.981.5528 For further information contact : Justin Wiley 434.981.5528

$3,500,000 $3,500,000

Cottage Homes are known for Natural Charm & ComfortEstate and Kesmont offers a Refined* Equestrian in the Heart of Keswick Country House *are Renovated Cottage Homes known forKitchen Naturalw/Chef's Charm Layout, Granite & Maple * & Comfort and tops Kesmont offersCabinetry a Refined Open Floor Plan*with Chic & Kitchen Charming Living Country House Renovated w/Chef's Spaces Gunite tops Swimming Pool * 10-Stall* Layout, *Granite & Maple Cabinetry Stable w/Tack Room, Wash Rack * Riding Open Floor Plan with Chic & Charming Living Arena * Board Fenced Paddocks w/Water Spaces * Gunite Swimming Pool * 10-Stall* Guest Apartments Stable House w/TackorRoom, Wash w/3Bedrooms, Rack * Riding 2Bath, * Equipment & Storage* Arena *2Kitchens Board Fenced Paddocks w/Water Buildings * Large Pond * Cottages Gardens * Guest House or Apartments w/3Bedrooms, Outdoor Entertaining Terraces *&Excellent 2Bath, 2Kitchens * Equipment Storage Location.

Buildings * Large Pond * Cottages Gardens * Outdoor Entertaining Terraces * Excellent Location.

For further information contact Sharon & Duke Merrick 540.406.7373 For further information contact Sharon & Duke Merrick 540.406.7373

$1,495,000 $1,495,000

heart of Keswick with a lovingly restored & updated main property house with La Fourche - Significant in attached tavern, two dependencies & heart of Keswick with a lovingly party barn.

The gracious home features restored & updated main house with an attractive floorplan highlighted by & a attached tavern, two dependencies spacious center leading to features the first party barn.

The hall gracious home floor living, dining, kitchen & library/ an attractive floorplan highlighted by a media room.

Thehall second & third spacious center leading to thefloors first have a lovelydining, masterkitchen suite along with floor living, & library/ five additional spacious five media room. The secondbedrooms, & third floors & half baths & home office.

Just to the have a lovely master suite along with side of the house is a large patio with five additional spacious bedrooms, five views the historic Southwest Mtns for & halfofbaths & home office. Just to the numerous outdoor activities & side of the house is a large patio with enjoyment. large on the four acres views of theLive historic Southwest Mtns for and yet only minutes numerous outdoorto Charlottesville activities & & University of Virginia. enjoyment.

Live large on the four acres and yet only minutes to Charlottesville & University of Virginia.contact For further information Charlotte Dammann 434.981,1250 For further information contact Charlotte Dammann 434.981,1250

$2,250,000 $2,250,000

classic c. 1850 Brick Georgian situated in the heart of breathtaking 25 Minutes Fair View isSomerset a classicVA. c. 1850 Brick drive to Charlottesville grand Georgian situated in VA. the The heart of house includes 11 ft ceilings, glorious breathtaking Somerset VA. 25a Minutes centertohall, renovated luxury kitchen, drive Charlottesville VA. The grand expansive master with house includes 11 ftbedroom ceilings, suite a glorious privatehall, office and 2 full baths, 2nd center renovated luxury kitchen, bedroom suite on that level -3 more expansive master bedroom suite with bedroomsoffice (3rd floor 3private and 2and fullbasement). baths, 2nd course Flemish Bond with a slate roof. bedroom suite on that level -3 more Nearby Guest Wonderful horse bedrooms (3rdcottage, floor and basement).

3stables and extensive with course Flemish Bond barn withfacilities a slate roof. outdoorGuest ridingcottage, ring. There is a tenant Nearby Wonderful horse house and in "as-is" condition but with this stables extensive barn facilities building riding could ring. proveThere useful farm outdoor is for a tenant manager. is thecondition complete package. house inThis "as-is" but this building could prove useful for farm manager. This is the complete package.

For further information contact : Murdoch Matheson 434,981,7439 For further information contact : Murdoch Matheson 434,981,7439

$ 2,975,000 $ 2,975,000

Clarks Tract Little Annex Open Gate Road Annandale Clarks Tract Little Annex Open Gate Road Annandale Circa 1805 Federal brick estate located in Tucked back on a quiet country lane in Charming cottage centrally located in the heart Tucked in a quiet and peaceful setting down a

beautiful Orange County, just minutes from andestate 25 minutes Circa Gordonsville 1805 Federal brick located to in Charlottesville.

3800 just square foot beautiful OrangeThe County, minutes manor house has twelve ceilings on from Gordonsville and foot 25 minutes to the main floor andThe 10 foot the second.

Charlottesville.

3800onsquare foot The recent renovations spared expense manor house has twelve foot no ceilings on and include a new master suite, the main floor and 10 foot on the country second. kitchen, all new mechanicals.

The The recentand renovations spared no expense mostly open 63 acres includes two guest and include a new master suite, country cottages, original Sears barn (converted kitchen, an and all new mechanicals.

The into a stable and entertainment center), mostly open 63 acres includes two guest swimming extensive plantings and cottages, anpool, original Sears barn (converted anewly constructed four acre lake.center), All of into a stable and entertainment which makepool, this property anplantings ideal turnkey swimming extensive and country estate. anewly constructed four acre lake. All of which make this property an ideal turnkey country estate.

For further information contact : Loring Woodriff , 434 ,466.2992 For further information contact : Loring Woodriff , 434 ,466.2992

$1,745,000 $1,745,000 20.

beautiful Somerset, this parcel is completely by properties Tucked backsurrounded on a quiet country lane in under conservation beautiful Somerset, easement. this parcelThe is terrain gently rises 120' from the road completely surrounded by properties frontage, affording the easement. opportunityThe for under conservation unsurpassed thatroad are terrain gentlypanoramic rises 120' views from the protectedaffording in perpetuity.

The areafor is frontage, the opportunity known for deep and fertile unsurpassed panoramic viewssoils thatand are excellent water.

Aerial topographic map protected in perpetuity.

The area is is available under [D]ocuments.

Ten known for deep and fertile soils and minutes water. from the charming towns of excellent Aerial topographic map Orange and Gordonsville, 30 minutes from is available under [D]ocuments.

Ten Charlottesville, two hours from minutes from and the under charming towns of Washington.

Orange and Gordonsville, 30 minutes from Charlottesville, and under two hours from Washington.

For further information contact : Julia Lyman 540.748.1497 For further information contact : Julia Lyman 540.748.1497

$299,000 $299,000

of Keswick. Little Annex is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath Arts & Crafts home with boundless Charming cottage centrally located in character the heart that has beenLittle well maintained. in 1925, the of Keswick.

Annex is a 3 Built bedroom, 2 bath home been updated while keeping the Arts & has Crafts home with boundless character historical attributes that make Built it special.

Warm that has been well maintained. in 1925, the and features of the home includethe2 homeinviting, has been updated while keeping fireplaces, restoredthat wood floors, and original historical attributes make it special.

Warm built in cabinetry.

Improvements include a rebuilt2 and inviting, features of the home include chimney, frontfloors, porch and restored fireplaces,Brazilian restoredipe wood original antique front door, replaced gutters and built in cabinetry. Improvements include a rebuilt downspouts.

New kitchen appliances andrestored granite chimney, Brazilian ipe front porch and counters, subwaydoor, tile in replaced the baths, water heater, antique front gutters and and HVAC. Outdoors rows ofandmature downspouts.

New kitchen appliances granite boxwoods line the tile driveway, entrance. counters, subway in the house baths, and water heater, A pond and stream completerows the idyllic setting. and HVAC. Outdoors of mature boxwoods line the driveway, house and entrance. further information AFor pond and stream completecontact the idyllic: setting.

Ann Hay Hardy . 434.296,0134 For further information contact : Ann Hay Hardy . 434.296,0134

$ 469,000 $ 469,000

21 20.

delightfully tree-lined lane is this attractive, three story clapboard house.

Beautifully appointed Tucked in a quiet and peaceful setting down a and meticulously cared theattractive, over 8,000sf delightfully tree-lined lanefor, is this three house is spacious yet cozy and comfortable. story clapboard house.

Beautifully appointed With a master suite on the five and meticulously cared for,first thefloor over and 8,000sf additional bedrooms, house, house is spacious yet this cozyexceptional and comfortable. built easily gatherings Withina 2000, mastercan suite onhandle the firstlarge floor and five or simply a few by one of six fireplaces.

10' additional bedrooms, this exceptional house, ceilings, spacious rooms, and excellent quality built in 2000, can easily handle large gatherings are severala of of the or simply fewthebynumerous one of sixfeatures fireplaces.

10' home. gentlyrooms, rollingand acres, great quality views, ceilings,91 spacious excellent stream. are several of the numerous features of the home. 91 gently rolling acres, great views, stream.

For further information contact : Stephen Mclean - 434-981-1863 For further information contact : Stephen Mclean - 434-981-1863

$ 1,950,000 $ 1,950,000

KESWICK LIFE

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Lifestyles in Keswick and its environs The minds behind Keswick Life: EDITORIAL

EDITOR/FOUNDER Winkie Motley, keswicklife@gmail.com or call 434-242-8033 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Colin Dougherty, colindougherty@me.com or call 434-249-8900 COLUMNISTS Tony Vanderwarker (Only In Keswick), Suzanne Nash (Bookworm), Bonnie Matheson (Lifestyle) CONTRIBUTORS Sam Johnson (What's Cooking), Charles Thacher (Fiction/Travel) PROOF READER Staff Assistant

THE LAST WORD 2020 is a leap year, which means there will be an extra day in the year.

Leap years occur every four years.

The extra day falls on February 29, which is called Leap Year Day.

The concept of the leap year dates back to Julius Caesar. Then in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII developed the Gregorian calendar, which created a 365-day year to keep in line with how long it takes the earth to rotate around the sun.

He added leap years to account for the difference to keep the calendar in sync.

Anthony, Texas, is the official Leap Year Capital of the World and holds a festival every four years in the small town on the New Mexico border. The concept of the leap year dates back to Julius Caesar. Then in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII developed the Gregorian calendar, which created a 365-day year to keep in line with how long it takes the earth to rotate around the sun. He added leap years to account for the difference to keep the calendar in sync.

DESIGN – PRODUCTION

Why do we have Leap Years?

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Colin Dougherty Published by a division of Keswick Life PHOTOGRAPHY Submitted by Authors, Keswickians, and others as credited.

Well, we know that a year is the length of time that it takes for the Earth to revolve once around the sun. In that span, the Earth fully rotates on its axis 365 times.

Each rotation is 24 hours, i.e. one day. That’s all pretty straightforward, right? But here’s where it gets tricky. The Earth actually rotates slightly more than 365 times in the span of a year. Four years worth of extra rotation adds up to one extra full rotation, and

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thus one extra day.

“It all comes down to the fact that the number of Earth’s revolutions about its own axis, or days, is not equal to or connected in any way to how long it takes for the Earth to get around the sun,” John Lowe, leader of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Time & Frequency Division, explained to National Geographic.

“We’ve made a calendar that comes close,” he said. “But to make it work you have to do these leap day tricks that have some quirky rules.” However, according to TIME magazine, “England and its colonies didn’t adopt the new calendar until 1752. By that point, the error was up to a whopping 11 days. That year, people went to sleep on September 2 and woke up on September 14.”The concept has continued to evolve. In 1972, a leap second was created to continue to sync the calendar with the earth’s rotation.

Valentine’s Day on February 14 will fall on a Friday, perfect for a date night or a romantic weekend getaway.

The Fourth of July will be on a Saturday. Halloween is also on a Saturday, meaning that parents don’t have to worry about kids trick-or-treating on a school night. Christmas will fall on a Friday, setting up a nice weekend to relax with friends and family. And the extra day will help us head into 2021: New Year’s Day lands on a Friday giving workers a three-day weekend before heading back to work. And Leap Day, the year’s extra day, lands on a Saturday.

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Keswick Life that is... as every month we bring you the true Keswick Life, from the scoop of a party and horsey happenings to practical advice on making the most of your garden, preserving Keswick land and updates from the surrounding environs.

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© 2020 KESWICK LIFE All editorial is fully protected by copyor email to: keswicklife@gmail.com right and may not be reproduced without written consent and Keswick Life, POofBox Keswick, VA 22947 The editor asexplicit permission the32, editor and publisher. sumes no responsibility for the information and reserves Send a “Letter to the Editor” of Keswick Life or yourherein Overheard to: the right to refuse any advertising and/or editorial submission.

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For a lifestyle inspired by your potential

IVY, VA

KESWICK, VA

3495 Rocks Mill Lane

Springdale

$1,299,000

$1,695,000

MLS 598546

MLS 598196

Ann Hay Hardy 202.297.0228

Frank Hardy 434.981.0798

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA

KESWICK, VA

1443 Plymouth Road

4017 Fairway Drive

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Listed for $795,000

Listed for $1,650,000

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