If "home-insteading" ever becomes an official term, you heard it here first. What I mean by home-insteading is the notion of choosing home over other options; choosing home instead.
I'll admit, I spend most of my life's greatest efforts on my own family. Mother Teresa once said, "If you want to change the world, go home and love your family," and those words have always stuck with me. Our world has issues, and you can just keep zeroing in until you arrive at your own front door. This is where the important work must be done, starting with treating ourselves and the people we love with kindness and fairness. Then we branch out and share that with others. It's inevitable that we'll bring home grievances but it's what we do with them that sways our hearts to stay rooted and firm in our core beliefs. My core belief is to make the world a better place, truly. I may not be here to see it but I hope the idea is passed down to my children and their efforts go to the same notion.
So, back to home-insteading. On one of the darkest days of the year, back in December, I told my husband I was bringing home another living thing. He immediately started in with the questions: is it an indoor or outdoor animal? It's inside? We have to feed it? Chelsea. If you know me by now through these letters, you know we have a small farm with one too many animals. But the thing I was bringing home wasn't an animal per se, though it is living. Cue the sourdough movement of the Agro household! A sourdough starter, freshly fed and mine all mine thanks to my neighbor.
Sourdough making and baking has been what seems like a global phenomenon. But it isn't really. As a society, we're collectively coming back around to simpler times and practices. Money can be tight, time is short, and my desire to expand on what we do and make at home is getting stronger and stronger. And you can do it, too!
I've included a beginner recipe for everyday sourdough sandwich bread on page 20. It's a pretty easy recipe for getting started on your own sourdough journey and it tastes like your regular store bought loaf (but better). I hope freshly baked bread makes your house smell like home.
CHELSEA LYN AGRO, EDITOR @MVLMAGAZINE
PUBLISHER
Mike Tucker | MTucker@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@CityLifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Marla Huggins | Marla.Huggins@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Erika Spaulding | InspiredByMontana@Gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Chelsea Lyn Agro, Shelby Humphreys, Susie Wall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Logan Lefler, Alla Ponomareva, Teleport Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
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Want to make your home more intentional with the items and products that you use? Three Bales Home Supply is our neighborhood home store for the most purposeful and thoughtful tools and objects that we use every day. All items are tested and carefully sourced by the owner Paige. Stop in and see her at 1425 South Higgins Avenue or visit ThreeBalesHomeSupply.com.
No home is complete without art. Radius Gallery carries contemporary fine art and world-class ceramics that will add the perfect personality to your home. They have many local artists and exhibitions. Stop by their location at 124 North Higgins Avenue #120, or visit them online at RadiusGallery.com
Modóry Home Furnishings brings the finest in luxury home furnishings to our community and beyond. Browse living room furniture, bedroom furniture, and dining room furniture in addition to rugs, window treatments, and home decor. A vision for renewal can come to life by stopping in at 1121 West Kent Avenue or by visiting Modory.com
A simple description of The Hohnstead is to say that it’s an Airbnb property twenty-five miles northeast of Missoula off Highway 200. But for those looking to escape the daily grind and unceasing call of digital devices, it is a place to unwind, unplug, and reconnect in a simpler way. Picture it: five rustic cabins surrounded by 100 forested acres.
To The Hohnstead’s proprietors, Alla Ponomareva and Garrett Hohn, it is a labor of love that provides them opportunity for months of travel once the snow begins to fly in Montana.
Around the time the concept of The Hohnstead emerged, Alla and Garrett
were teaching at a university in South Korea and coming home for summer vacations to the Hohn family plot high up on Gold Creek Road where Garrett’s mom, dad, and sister live. One day, Alla said to the family, “So there’s this Airbnb platform. Do you think if we do that up here, people will come?” The initial response was doubtful as no one believed people would actually pay to stay in the woods. Slowly that initial response changed and the decision was made to go for it.
The couple is proud of their work transforming this property into a popular retreat that still retains its
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ARTICLE BY SUSIE WALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY LOGAN LEFLER, ALLA PONOMAREVA, TELEPORT PHOTOGRAPHYrugged beauty and peaceful nature. Visiting
The Hohnstead today, it’s difficult to fathom the time and physical labor it took. “We really started from humble roots,” says Garrett. They had just a few months at a time to get the project off the ground since they continued to work abroad for most of the year, and the budget was very tight. “In the beginning, we had no construction skills whatsoever,” says Alla. “Garrett’s dad offered guidance since he was in the construction business for 30 years, but we did the work.”
In the end, they paid someone to pour a small concrete slab and create a blueprint for the A-Frame cabin. The rest was their own labor and their own vision. “We wanted to avoid building the same thing five times,” says Garrett. “That’s boring and why compete with ourselves? We grew and learned and decided what to change as we went along. Touring the cabins, you can see how we evolved as builders. Every one has its own fingerprint.”
The first year in 2017 wasn’t incredible in terms of business, but Alla, Garrett, and Mom and Dad Hohn came to realize that people would pay to stay in the woods. The couple also found that they loved this job. They loved meeting people and connecting with them. They also realized they just might have discovered the perfect side hustle.
When you tour the rustic accommodations, you can see that the term “cabin” is used loosely as the A-Frame, Blind, Ranch Hand Canvas, Shanty, and Shed are all tiny, off-grid, and dry. There is no electric grid and no water running to any of them. What each cabin does offer is a small solar panel, stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and cozy spaces both inside and out to meditate, read, and regroup.
The A-Frame is bathed in natural light boasting one wall that can be propped open to welcome in the smells and sounds of the forest. The beds in the Blind are perfectly
"We grew and learned and decided what to change as we went along. Touring the cabins, you can see how we evolved as builders. Every one has its own fingerprint.” Garrett Hohn
placed below translucent panels for optimal stargazing. Alla says, “These living spaces may not be super comfortable, but we believe that when you experience something totally different from your normal life, you will remember it better.” “And you’ll appreciate different things” Garrett adds. “Our guests really thrive on the uniqueness of it all.”
The cabins are approximately 75 yards apart from each other, and from the shared Common Area where guests will find a small kitchen, a sitting area, and internet access. Alla and Garrett spend summer days in their cozy home attached to the Common Area. Outside sits a rented portable toilet and a solar shower. “We explain to guests that if it’s sunny, you have hot water, if it’s not sunny, sorry,” says Alla with a shrug.
To ensure relaxation, The Hohnstead is an adults-only property, but four-legged friends are welcome. It operates May through October, or until the snow flies, and rates range from $120 to $200 per night.
For those wanting a little adventure, Alla and Garrett can recommend activities both on the property and in the surrounding area. One of Alla’s recent ideas is a scavenger hunt in which guests follow a two-mile trail with
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six stations. Each station allows you to experience life in the woods whether it be panning for gold or splitting wood. The couple jokes that it’s also a way for them to get some free labor.
A few guests have been unsettled by the remoteness but most seem to relish the isolation. The majority have hailed from out of state but lately more locals are visiting. These guests seem especially interested in the lifestyle Alla and Garrett have carved out for themselves. “We’ve had so many people say, I want to do what you’re doing,” says Alla. “I’m like, are you ready for all the work?”
Tending to their guests, the constant upkeep, and preparing the cabins for the next round of visitors—it’s all a lot of work, but Garrett especially enjoys the routine. “It all seems to get done eventually and it’s not really difficult work. I enjoy the repetitive nature of it all,” he says. Alla goes on to say, “I think we complement each other where he enjoys the repetitive things and I love to create.” Alla uses this creativity to produce enticing photographs and videos
to promote the property, and she offers photography sessions to guests at an extra cost. Both Alla and Garrett enjoy getting to know their guests and sharing some of Garrett’s home-brewed beer around the campfire.
All this hard yet rewarding work during the summer months affords the couple the chance to spend the off-season traveling abroad and enjoying what they call a “six-on-six-off” lifestyle, as in six months of work and six months of play. But The Hohnstead is never far from their minds, even if it’s far on the map. “I don’t think it will ever be done,” says Garrett. “We’re always trying to improve. We’ve been to 25 different countries and have stayed in many different places, so we get tons of ideas about what to do and what not to do. One of the most flattering things we hear from guests is that we’ve thought of everything.”
Visit The Hohnstead TheHohnstead.com Instagram: @TheHohnstead
"These living spaces may not be super comfortable, but we believe that when you experience something totally different from your normal life, you will remember it better.” Alla Ponomareva
Caring for and baking with a sourdough starter isn’t as daunting as it may seem. I’ll admit, it is a bit overwhelming at first (especially for my math-challenged friends out there like me). But fear not! See if your neighbor has a starter that they can offer you or simply ask the internet. A Facebook group
• 1/2 cup of starter
• 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
• 1 tablespoon of honey (preferably raw unfiltered)
• 1/2 tablespoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of salted butter (softened)
• 4 cups of unbleached all purpose flour
or friend of a friend is sure to have one that they’ll love sharing with you for free. Take that little sticky goopy “pet” home, set it on your counter, and feed it approximately eight to 12 hours before you want to bake this beautiful sandwich loaf recipe below. You’ll never buy bread again. Really, it’s that good.
In a stand mixer, add water and starter to mixing bowl and set mixer to low speed until incorporated, Add honey, salt, and butter. Using the dough hook attachment, slowly add the flour. After all ingredients are incorporated, let dough hook knead for 10 minutes or until the dough is very pliable in hands (should feel soft and pillowy). Put dough in a greased bowl, cover with fabric or plate and set somewhere warm for dough to rise and double in size (about an hour). Lift dough out of bowl and transfer to a greased loaf pan, seam side down. Seam is where the dough comes together. Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove from loaf pan and place on rack or block to cool before slicing. Brush top with butter while still warm to keep crust soft. Enjoy!
"You'll never buy bread again. Really, it's that good."ARTICLE BY CHELSEA LYN AGRO
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1. I LOVE THIS IDEA OF "DESIGNING HAPPINESS." CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT THAT MEANS TO YOU AND HOW YOU WERE INSPIRED TO MAKE THIS YOUR CAREER MISSION?
Designing happiness means deliberately shaping a lifestyle that truly resonates with who I am. Living purposefully involves curating an environment that aligns with my essence—embracing my own strengths, values, dreams, passions, and all sources of joy while letting go of elements that no longer serve me, much like decluttering. This applies to people, behaviors, beliefs, physical belongings, and the spaces I inhabit, among other things.
VISUAL
KJELSRUD
What inspired me to make designing happiness my mission is the realization that I could design my own “happy place.” The constant influx of external influences—social media, societal norms, work, family, trends and life's whirlwind—often drowns out our inner voice. The inspiration came from understanding that amidst this chaos, one can calm their mind, introspect, and develop self-awareness.
2. HOW DOES INTERIOR DESIGN INFLUENCE OUR DAY-TO-DAY LIVES?
Interior design, especially wellness design, shapes our daily experiences, impacting our mood, productivity, physical and mental health, our level of happiness and overall well-being. Research has shown that between work, life, and sleep, we spend a staggering 90% of our time indoors. This fact highlights the profound impact our environment has on our well-being, emphasizing the need for our spaces to harmonize with and uplift our desired lifestyle.
3. TELL US ABOUT YOUR MINDFUL ONE-ON-ONE SESSIONS. HOW MUCH INFORMATION DO YOU GET FROM YOUR CLIENTS DURING THIS TIME AND HOW DOES THAT TRANSLATE INTO THE SPACE YOU CREATE?
The one-on-one lifestyle alchemy sessions are my flagship program where I guide my clients through a parallel external and internal transformation that
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unfolds over a 12-week period. During this makeover, which features one weekly session, we choose a specific space for transformation while exploring various mindfulness techniques like meditation, journaling, goal setting, color healing, therapeutic art coaching, and more. The idea is simple: to design a space that truly aligns with your dreams and authentic self.
4. I UNDERSTAND THAT ENVIRONMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY AND WELLNESS PRACTICES ARE INVOLVED IN YOUR DESIGN PROCESS. CAN YOU DESCRIBE HOW YOU INTEGRATE BOTH OF THESE?
This quote by Mark Twain probably says it better than me: “To us, our house was not unsentient matter - it had a heart, and a soul, and eyes to see us with.”
My approach to space design views our spaces as an extension of our energy field and is about blending mindfulness with the science of how our minds and environments interact.
Integrating them involves a holistic approach that prioritizes both the psychological impact of the spaces and the overall well-being of the people who use them. By integrating principles from environmental psychology, such as mindful color selection, optimal lighting, and thoughtful spatial layouts, with wellness design elements like biophilic design
and eco-friendly and sustainable materials, the goal is to create spaces that positively influence occupants' mood, cognition, and health.
5. ART, PARTICULARLY FINE ART, CAN FEEL SO OVERWHELMING FOR SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO INCORPORATE IT INTO A NEW OR REDESIGNED SPACE. HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT FINDING THE RIGHT PIECES THAT SPEAK TO A PARTICULAR CLIENT?
As a visual artist with a decade of experience in both mixed media and encaustic paintings, my passion lies in artistic expression. While I have expanded my expertise to include interior and lifestyle design services, my core identity remains that of an artist and art lover. Creating bespoke pieces for clients' spaces is a great honor, and this offer extends beyond my own artwork. As a result of my artistic path, I've cultivated strong connections with fine artists, photographers, sculptors, artisans, muralists, and others. I humbly offer my clients access to this magnificent world, providing expert art advice and procurement services.
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6. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF! HOW DID YOU BECOME A VISUAL ALCHEMIST AND WHAT DOES THAT TRULY MEAN TO YOU?
Ever since I was little, and for as long as I can remember, whenever I couldn't control what was happening "outside," I would decorate my room at home and later my classroom, and spend hours creating art, sort of wrapping myself (and others) in beauty. Somewhere along the way, without even realizing it, that innate coping mechanism turned into a career.
In my early 20s, I read "The Alchemist," and the part about the merchant avoiding fulfilling his dreams because if he did, he would have nothing else to dream about hit a nerve, leading me to make a simple promise to always follow my heart.
Somewhat similar to alchemy, I use transformative tools and processes such as art therapy, color healing, mindfulness, coaching, psychology, philosophy and interior design to peel away layers of noise and clutter and reveal gold, using my unique bag of tricks to help clients shed light on the real magic, both in their spaces and within themselves. My journey is all about personal and spatial transformation, connecting the dots between what's outside and what's inside, and helping others do the same.
Go from active fashion to posh leisurewear without missing a beat. Ella’s collection reflects the light, natural vibe expressed throughout the shop.
The longer, thinner fibers of Turkish cotton make these cozy blankets extra soft. Designs found in-shop complement a modern style while offering luxury comfort.
A sleek design from this distinctive brand will subtly infuse your home with essential oils like Cabana and Black Velvet. Uses waterless, cold-air diffusion technology.
Eminence
coconut moisturizer
Feel your skin instantly tighten and lift with this natural moisturizer. Coconut, shea butter, and grape seed oil combine with green apple stem cell technology to offer lasting age correction.
These pieces are made from high quality Acacia hardwood and an eco-friendly resin to create a one-of-a-kind piece of serving ware for your home. They’re the perfect gift for a housewarming, wedding, or maybe just for yourself. Multiple designs and sizes in store.
Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet.
ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDAHow you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.
It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.
Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. A large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.
Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-toceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for out-of-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.
Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.
Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.
The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!
Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions.
Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily.
Lighting is everything in a closet. Gone are the days of dim recessed lighting being sufficient. Consider adding a statement lighting fixture like a chandelier or pendant that provides ample bright lighting to your space, no matter how big or small.
WHY USE AN ARMCHAIR WHEN YOU HAVE ROOM FOR A SOFA? SLIDE UP A STOOL AND COLORFUL AREA RUG TO COMPLETE THE LOOK. IF YOU HAVE EXCESSIVE WALL SPACE, CONSIDER A MINI GALLERY WALL OR A STATEMENT WALL WITH WALLPAPER TO POLISH THINGS OFF.
MARCH 10TH
Spring Skating Spectacular
Glacier Ice Rink | 2:00 PM
The Missoula Figure Skating Club presents the Spring Skating Spectacular on Sunday, March 10 at 2 p.m. at Glacier Ice Rink. Learn to Skate students will show off their new moves while club skaters will dazzle the audience with new routines.
MARCH 16TH
Run for the Luck of it
Missoula County Fairgrounds | 8:30 AM
Feeling lucky? On Saturday, March 16 Run Wild Missoula offers a chance to run in the most unpredictable season so expect rain, snow, sleet, ice, or an unseasonably warm day. Follow their Facebook page for more specific recommendations in accordance with the weather as it grows closer.
MARCH 22ND
Missoula County Fairgrounds | 5:00 PM
The Little Red Truck Spring Market is back! Go on Friday, March 22 between 5 and 8 p.m. for $10, or on Saturday, March 23 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. for $5. Browse cottage, collected, and artisan goods.
