Laker_Home_Fall_19

fall 2019

complimentary home | fall 2019 | 1

LAKES REGION PARADE OF HOMES “Showcasing beautiful homes built by premiere Lakes Region Builders.”

Columbus Day Weekend | October 12-14 | Daily 10-4 1

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K.A. Clason Fine Woodworking “Extensive Family Remodel” Bridgewater

Paul V Fleming & Sons Construction “New Found Serenity” Alexandria 5

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AG Structures, LLC Modern Farmhouse Sanbornton

Lighthouse Contracting Group, LLC and Lauren Milligan Design, LLC “The Refuge” | Gilford

Welcome to the 7

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Lakes Region PaRade of Homes

Meredith Bay LAKES REGION BUILDERS BUILDERS & & LAKES REGION “The Keniston” REMODELERS ASSOCIATION REMODELERS Laconia ASSOCIATION

“Showcasing beautiful beautiful homes homes built built by by premiere premiere Lakes Lakes Region Region Builders.”

Builders.”

“Showcasing th, th th th, th th

Columbus DayBuilders, Weekend 6 Construction 7 & 8 Co. Inter- Lakes LLC • OctOber Cargill “Caldera” Cummings OpenCove for tours 10am - 4pm daily Moultonborough Meredith 10 Columbus Day Weekend

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Home Comfort Retreat “View Point” Moultonborough

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OcTObER 6-8 / 10am-4pm Th Th

Saturday / Sunday / Monday

3-Day NorthtowN Builders Builders retreat CustoM CustoM Builders Builders outside iN iN CoNstruCtioN CoNstruCtioN Cargill CoNstruCtioN CoNstruCtioN NorthtowN retreat outside Cargill wolfeboro Moultonborough Moultonborough Moultonborough Moultonborough Moultonborough Moultonborough Home wolfeboro Tour! ExpEriEncE innovation • MEEt thE BuildErs RH Stephens Building Contractor “The Red Hill Project” Moultonborough

Key-Day Building Enterprises, Inc. “Waterfront Custom Built Adirondack” Tuftonboro

JC Hayes Construction, LLC “Notre Rêve” - (“Our Dream” in French Canadian) Moultonborough

Experience Innovation | Meet the Builders | Latest Building Trends | Get Inspired Ka ClasoN ClasoN FiNe FiNe woodworKiNg woodworKiNg Ka

Meredith Meredith

sippiCaN partNers partNers CoNs. CoNs. sippiCaN ashland ashland

iNter-laKes Builders Builders iNter-laKes Meredith Meredith

hayward & & CoMpaNy CoMpaNy hayward Meredith Meredith

Presenting Sponsors

latEst Building trEnds • gEt inspirEd RH Stephens Building Contractors Moultonborough

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JC hayes hayes CoNstruCtioN CoNstruCtioN JC Meredith Meredith

Meredith Bay Bay Meredith Meredith Meredith

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PARADE INFORMATION & RAFFLE STATION @ Pella Showroom K.A. Clason Fine

Custom Woodworking Bridgewater

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Inter-Lakes Builders Meredith

✪ Meredith 6

Fleming & Sons Alexandria

Bay 5 4 lighthouse Meredith CoNstruCtioN Laconia/Weirs lighthouse CoNstruCtioN laconia laconia AG Structures Sanbornton

J.C. Hayes Construction Moultonborough

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Cargill AshlandConstruction 6•• Ashland 6 Moultonborough

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Moultonborough Moultonborough

Moultonborough Moultonborough

Meredith Meredith

•9 55•• Meredith • 7• 9 Laconia/Weirs 7 • 10 Laconia/Weirs 8 10 Home Comfort Retreat 8 Meredith Meredith Moultonborough

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Moultonborough Moultonborough

Meredith Meredith

Lighthouse Contracting Group Gilford

Wolfeboro Wolfeboro

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11 Key-Day Building Gilford 11••Gilford Tuftonboro 11

tiCKets aVailaBle at eaCh parade hoMe or dowNload3 Free app

One Ticket • Good All Weekend | $20 Adults Good / 18 & Under Free Tickets All Weekend $20 Adult | 18 & Under Free LakesRegionParadeofHomes.com bENEfITS: bENEfITS:

Tickets Available at each Parade PRESENTING SPONSORS: SPONSORS: PRESENTING Home or Download Free App

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Get the the app! app! Available Available from from Get App Store App Store

Free “APP” “APP” For For Tickets Tickets Free directions •• home home descriptions descriptions directions

MEdIa SPONSOR: SPONSOR: MEdIa

Benefits Lakes Region

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Home Builders

development & scholarships

LakES REGION akES REGION

L Home Builders Home Builders

workforce workforce development & scholarships

LakesRegionParadeofHomes.com

development & scholarships

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Big or Small, We Sell Them All! SOLD

SOLD

Gilford - $3,900,000

SOLD

Meredith - $3,800,000

SOLD

Wolfeboro - $1,275,000

SOLD

Alton - $649,000 - 6 Days, Full Ask

SOLD

Gilford - $633,000 - 10 Days on Market

Belmont - $282,000 - 7 Days on Market

Susan Bradley & Stacey Atherton: Highest Average Sale Price in the Lakes Region in 2019.

Susan Bradley & Stacey Atherton Susan Bradley ®

Realtor , CRS, ABR, GRI, ePro Direct: 603-524-2255 ext. 2810 Cell: 603-493-2873 susanbradley@metrocast.net

348 Court Street, Laconia, NH

Stacey Atherton

Realtor ® Direct: 603-581-2898 Cell: 603-520-1578 www.SueBradley.com stacey.atherton@nemoves.com home | fall 2019 | 3

Energy Efficient…a T

he first thing you experience is the view. It will take your breath away when you realize you have never seen the Lakes Region like this before.

Then you notice the large array of solar panels snug against a hill slightly above the home, clueing you to the fact this is an energy efficient structure.

Finally, you gaze at the beautiful, yet simple style of the Cape farmhouse and you know this is a special place.

Everything about the home, from its modern, yet elegantly rustic farmhouse design to the views from the mountainside location to the thoughtful planning for energy efficiency, are the definition of a forever home for the couple who worked with builder, Jake Mason of AG Structures in Salisbury, New Hampshire.

Careful planning comes to mind as well.

“The project has taken about 12 months to complete,” says Jake. “The property was once used for farming, so the house is in keeping with the history of the area.”

Energy efficiency was stressed in designing the home, building it and making sure the 38 solar panels would create the necessary power to heat and cool the home.

Maxfield Real Estate The Parker Realty Group Randy Parker Cell 603.455.6913 RandyParker@MaxfieldRealEstate.com

Temperatures are cooling down but there is still plenty of time to buy one of these HOT properties.

Call today to schedule a private showing!

WORLD CLASS RETREAT

Jon Parker Cell 603.498.3360 Jon@MaxfieldRealEstate.com

LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE WATERFRONT

LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE WATERFRONT

MOULTONBOROUGH One-of-a-kind Lake Winnipesaukee waterfront with 710’ of protected shoreline and over 280’ of white sandy beach. Stunning, impeccably maintained and unrivaled beauty. This property will take your breath away! $5,500,000 (4718960)

WOLFEBORO Superb and wonderfully maintained Winnipesaukee waterfront home with 118’ shoreline and spectacular lake and mountain views. Protected cove, over-water dry boathouse, multi-level decks. Showings by private appointment. $2,695,000 (4715425)

WOLFEBORO Class, comfort and tradition are the hallmarks of this Lake Winnipesaukee home, featuring 285’ SW facing water frontage, covered boatslip and raised sandy beach. A gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 bath home rounds out the perfection! $1,975,000 (4760666)

WOLFEBORO A tranquil Lake Wentworth gated cottage compound, featuring 4 rental cottages, a 3 bedroom Adirondack-style lodge, a 3-bay carriage house and 515’ of water frontage with two sandy beaches. Terrific rental history. $1,499,000 (4765913)

ALTON A grand location boasting 107 private acres brimming with wild blueberries. Vast and endless views of surrounding mountains; sunrises and sunsets from most every room of this custom-built contemporary 4 bedroom home. $1,395,000 (4755728)

TUFTONBORO Year-round 3 bedroom cottage on Melvin Bay featuring 200’ of SW frontage. Waterfront features your own boat ramp and long views of the lake and mountains. Oversized garage can store a seaplane! $1,325,000 (4773203)

LAKE WENTWORTH WATERFRONT

MAJESTIC VIEWS AND PRIVACY

LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE WATERFRONT

Visit us at NHWaterfrontLuxury.com to view all properties for sale in the Lakes Region!

15 Railroad Avenue • Wolfeboro, NH 03894 • Tel. 800-726-0480

4 | home | fall 2019

and Gorgeous “They are producing a lot of power right now,” he continues, going on to explain that the power company will sometimes buy the power generated by solar or put it towards credits for a homeowner’s future use. Jake adds that the goal of a home such as this is to be net zero and 98 percent efficient year-round.

“Since living in the house (the owners moved in during the month of June 2019), they have run credits thus far every month,” Jake comments.

That, however, will probably change somewhat when the really cold winter months arrive, which is what the owners expect and plan for.

The owners say, when asked the reason they chose the mountainside location, that the views are beautiful. “And we wanted a house that was low maintenance and sustainable.”

They wanted a modern farmhouse style that would be highly efficient with more square footage at a low cost. Clearly, the couple, which now reside in their forever home, have thoughtfully planned for today…and the future by creating a home where they can age in place. Although they are years away from retirement, they were mindful of the need to design a home with a first-floor master bedroom/bathroom.

Other touches were such things as LED light bulbs that would not require changing often, something that can pose a problem for elderly homeowners.

The first-floor showers are all roll-in, meaning they are designed for use with a wheelchair if necessary.

“Although we plan to reside here permanently, it was important to plan

Story & photos by Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

ahead because we know life can mean changes. If we wanted to sell the home someday, we wanted to design it so that it would be attractive to potential buyers that might be elderly,” one of the homeowners explains.

Entering the home, one cannot miss the wonderful views from almost all the large windows. No matter the time of year, this house will provide a never-ending show from Mother Nature: green mountains in summertime; brilliant foliage in the autumn months; a white blanket of snow in winter, and hints of green coming alive again in the springtime. Not to mention the views of Winnisquam and in the distance, the Broads of Lake Winnipesaukee.

Electronic shades in the spacious living room can reduce or increase passive solar. “This house has great passive solar,” Jake says. “And the insulation is spray foam with fiberglass batten behind it.”

A galley kitchen offers views into the living room, and a spacious breakfast bar allows for guests and family to socialize with the owners as they prepare a meal. The counters are mellow soapstone and the farm sink is large; all

NEW ADIRONDACK LAKEHOUSE ON WINNIPESAUKEE! Located on a quiet paved road off Meredith Neck with long range views across the lake towards the Ossipee Mountains. Level WF lot with 165’ of frontage, a 30’ perched beach, 40’ U-shaped dock, jet ski lift & permit for a covered boat lift. There is a back lot for septic & the potential for a Carriage House with living space above, as an upgrade. Existing home has 4-5 bedrooms, 6 baths, over 6500 SF of living space on 3 levels with a walkout LL to waterfront. Exterior has cedar shakes, genuine stone siding, exposed beams on gables, deck off great room & screen porch. Still time for custom colors & finishes to make this your dream home!

LONG RANGE VIEWS ACROSS LAKE WINNIPESAUKEE to several mountain ranges including Mount Washington. Stunning contemporary with a dramatic open floor plan, lavish granite & stainless chef's kitchen, huge island, walk in pantry & formal dining room. Walk-out lower level is enormous w/wet bar, bath, plenty of game space, storage & office space. 3 finished levels of luxury & desirable WF features: 2 stone patios, hot tub, a nice lawn area for the kids, storage shed, large docking system for multiple boats & a perched beach w/stone steps into water. A bonus 40x60 detached heated barn or garage for toys!

REMARKABLE GOVERNOR'S ISLAND NEWLY RECONSTRUCTED HOME in a premier neighborhood with an amazing shared beach on Winnipesaukee, hiking trails, tennis courts, & clubhouse. Beautifully appointed open floor plan has a large kitchen with island seating, granite and stainless, open to living and dining room which opens up to a huge deck and screened porch with filtered view.

Main floor has a master suite, 4 guest rooms, lower level has a family & game room. The house has been rented and has a great rental history, if you want instant income. The home has many extras, automatic generator, lawn irrigation and alarm system. Low maintenance home close to skiing, restaurants, marinas, attractions, golf and easy for commuting to the south.

MEREDITH $2,750,000

GILFORD $ 2,450,000

GILFORD $1,100,000.

Ellen Mulligan, Broker Associate

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 32 Whittier Highway, Center Harbor, NH 03226 Office: 603-253-4345 ext. 124 | Cell: 603-387-0369

www.ellenmulligan.com email: ellen@ellenmulligan.com home | fall 2019 | 5

colors are soft tones of black and gray to create a restful style in keeping with the Cape farmhouse design.

One cannot help but admire the mellow white oak floors throughout the house. Jake says the wood floors are easy to clean, and they too are in keeping with a farmhouse style.

Due to the energy efficiency, this will be a great living space during the upcoming winter, as well as in summer. The forced hot air system with traditional duct work paired with a modern heat pump system provides efficiency with heating and cooling, eliminating the unattractive minisplit style units; traditional thermostats allow the owners to control the heat and they can access it via their cell phones as well.

Creating a home on the side of a hill is nothing new for AG Structures.

“We build a lot of structures on the side of hills. We build barns, as well as homes. My dad started the business 40 years ago,” says Jake.

Brendan McNamara Design from Eliot, Maine served as the architect for this unusual project, and the finished design is perfect for the location. The white exterior and black trimmed windows evoke images of a farmhouse of long ago, but with a modern flair. The standing seam roof is made of galvanized painted metal and snow will easily slide off its surface in the winter, saving the owners the headache of roof shoveling.

Such added features as a central vac system, motion sensors in bathroom fans, steam showers and the largest walk-in closet imaginable make this a definite forever residence.

A three-car garage completes the home, with room for gardening tools, a

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Providing superior service and product knowledge is ColorShed’s dedication to our customers.

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mower and other equipment, as well as the owner’s vehicles. Because this home is such a showstopper, it will be a featured stop on the October 12 to 14 Parade of Homes, coordinated and presented by the NH Homebuilders Association/Lakes Region.

The description of the property from the list of Parade homes states: “Enjoy breathtaking views of Winnisquam Lake and the surrounding mountains. This modern Cape design, custom built home, features an attached three-car garage, walk out basement and beautiful covered porches.

Architectural plans for this modern farmhouse were designed around sun positioning and energy efficiency. The second-floor master suite has a stateof-the-art rain and marble steam shower. A second master suite provides future first floor living options to ensure aging in place. The position of a south facing living room optimizes daylight and scenery. Cathedral ceiling, site finished hardwood flooring and a soapstone fireplace topped with a mantle from a 100+ year-old barn adds character and charm. The efficient galley style kitchen with butler’s pantry showcases custom cabinets; soap stone countertops and sink, marble backsplash and high-end appliances.

A modern color palette is clean looking, sophisticated and calming. Spray foam insulation, and solar powered energy efficient heat pump A/C system, central vacuum, powered shades, speakers and smart home system give this farm house its modern flair.”

Those who purchase tickets can tour a number of homes over the weekend, and this home is certainly a must-see. The owners are excited to welcome Parade goers into their home, and Jake will be on hand to answer the many questions sure to arise about this one-of-a-kind, energy efficient home.

For Parade of Homes information, visit www.lakesregionbuilders.com or call 603-387-1817.

Bedford 603.935.8070

Laconia 603.524.9373 Concord 603.856.7925

Sunapee, NH 603.843.8998

Wolfeboro 603.515.1003

Rubbin’ Butts BBQ

Southern & Texas Style BBQ

Center Harbor Across from Town Docks 603.253.4953

603.707.6929

Your House, Our House or the Office.

We Plan, We Cook, We Deliver or We Serve

Banquets | Weddings | Family Gatherings | Rehearsal Dinners Bridal Showers | Holiday Parties

The Inn on Main BISTRO • BAR • EVENTS

Published by The Smiley Publishing Group, LLC, P.O. Box 119 Wolfeboro Falls, NH 03896 | 603-569-5257 | thelaker.com

PUBLISHER Dan Smiley

Publishers of home, The Laker and Dining Out in the Lakes Region.

ADVERTISING Jim Cande Maureen Padula

Smiley Publishing Group, LLC. assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors. Advertisers will please notify the management immediately of any errors which may occur.

EDITOR Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

© 2019 All Rights Reserved.

No reproduction in part or whole without express written consent.

PRODUCTION MANAGER Gina Lessard PRODUCTION Aaron Marinel CIRCULATION Kathy Larson

Wolfeboro 603.569.1335 Post and Beam Barn events up to 175 people 14 Boutique Guest Rooms brought to you by Magic Foods Restaurant Group

magicfoodsrestaurantgroup.com home | fall 2019 | 7

Easy Ways to Clean Up Leaves Autumn is marked by colorful foliage and plummeting temperatures. Once leaves reach peak color, they fall from the branches and collect on lawns, necessitating cleanup projects.

For homeowners with big yards, such a project can be tiring and time-consuming. However, there are ways to make leaf cleanup easier.

One of the easiest ways to clean up leaves is to reach for a lawn mower rather than a rake. The mower will cut leaves down to smaller sizes, creating an effective mulch that can add nutrients back into the lawn.

Davey, a lawn and landscape solutions service, says that mowed leaves also can be collected in a mower bag and added to garden beds or compost piles.

For those who prefer manual raking, select a rake with tines that will not skewer the leaves in the process. Big rakes also can make faster work of gathering leaves into piles.

The home improvement resource, The Family Handman, advocates for • • • •

the use of a lawn sweeper.

This is a manual device that has a rotating sweeping brush that gathers up lawn debris and leaves into an attached hopper bag. Like mowed leaves, the bag can be emptied into a compost pile or distributed where needed.

Raking leaves onto a large tarp is another option. Once it’s full, the tarp can be taken to the curb where many towns will collect the leaves seasonally.

Otherwise, the tarp can be used as a funnel to put leaves into a gardening bag or another

appropriate receptacle.

Leaf blowers remain a fast option for cleaning up yards, but they require electricity or gas and can be noisy. Still, they are a popular choice for large landscapes or when quick work needs to be made of leaf clean-up.

Leaves will fall in autumn, but luckily homeowners have various methods at their disposal to tame the mess.

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Services Winter Materials

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Sand Salt

Salt Brine

50lb Bags

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603-524-8090 343 Court St, Laconia, NH

8 | home | fall 2019

470 Daniel Webster Hwy. | Meredith 279-9008 | www.RealGreenNH.com

You Deserve Moore...

Fae Moore

Wow! Forty years representing homeowners here in the Lakes Region. Thank You! I have acquired first-hand knowledge of state and local market conditions, zoning regulations, financing, infrastructure issues, schools, taxes, etc. This has proven invaluable time and again to my many happy clients. I look forward to being of service to you. Below is a sampling of properties I recently sold for people just like yourself.

6 DAYS! K!

22 Blueberry, Wolfeboro $795,000

158 No. Main, Wolfeboro $275,000

FULL AS

1 Holly Lane, Brookfield $331,900

21 Pumpkin Pt., Alton $799,000

!

11 DAYS K!

FULL AS

8 Cricket Hill, Wolfeboro $300,000

16 Acorn Drive, Alton $900,000

457 Cotton Valley, Wolfeboro $239,000

33 Winnipesaukee, Wolfeboro $434,000

65 Fernald Xing, Wolfeboro $470,000

53 Clay Point, Alton $515,000

CIAL

COMMER

108 Pine Hill, Wolfeboro $635,000

ACT

ONTR UNDER C

2 DAYS!

2 Cricket Hill, Wolfeboro $330,000

!

22 DAYS 111 Center St., Wolfeboro $145,000

!

22 DAYS

7 DAYS! 146 North Line, Wolfeboro $235,000

7 DAYS!

340 Wentworth, Brookfield $355,000

9 Eagle Trace, Wolfeboro $475,000

I’d be proud to sell your home too! www.FaeMoore.com There is great demand for homes. Call Fae Moore and get more with your FREE Market Analysis.

VERANI REALTY

22 South Main St., Wolfeboro, New Hampshire 603-833-0644 - 603-569-6060 home | fall 2019 | 9

ESSENTIAL COLLECTION

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D E S I G N A N D P E R F O R M A N C E, M A D E E A S I E R. The Essential Collection brings together design, quality, and performance in one streamlined offering. A window or door replacement project can be an opportunity to reimagine a space. Updating the style of the original windows can bring fresh character to the design of your home.

BUILDING MATERIALS & FLOOR COVERINGS

298 North Main Street, Rochester, NH 603.332.4065 Discover the Marvin Essential Collection at Brocks.DiscoverMarvin.com

10 | home | fall 2019

Country Craftsman on Top of His Game

By Leigh Sharps

The ‘Country Craftsman’ is indeed the proper name for Christian ‘Chris’ Ayer’s business, as it sits on a long country forested road that has a mixture of old farmhouses and new domiciles.

The shop sits in a picturesque and rather remote part of West Ossipee bordering on the town of Effingham. It is nestled in the woods and that is where Chris has honed and perfected his woodworking into the respected business it is today.

Moving from Porter, Maine to Ossipee, NH a few years ago with his wife, Kim, Chris is actually an Effingham native who attended Kingswood High School in Wolfeboro. Having a long-time and generational interest in fine woodcraft, Ayer decided his new spot on Effingham Rd. was the apt location for his new business.

Chris began woodworking as a hobby some 20 years ago, working with an experienced carpenter who lived in Exeter, NH. His grandfather, a cabinetmaker, was an influence in Chris’ career choice. Also, his late mother was artistic and crafty, dipping her hand into such hobbies as painting, stenciling and woodworking as well.

In 2017 he decided to take a leap and start his own business full-time. His products have now reached such popularity that recently he was awarded the Manchester Union Leader’s Reader’s Choice award for business excellence. A customer entered him into the contest and it was chosen by ballot (written and online). He was awarded first place in the N.H. Made Craftsman category.

“We received thousands of responses during this promotional campaign,” the paper said in a letter to Chris. “The award is intended to identify the top businesses in a wide range of categories and your business was recognized in your particular business category. We know our readers are serious when it comes to supporting their community businesses and service providers. We hope you’re proud of the honor bestowed on you by your customers, clients, neighbors and friends. It’s well deserved recognition.”

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Winnipesaukee Winery at the 1810 House Bed & Breakfast

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Join us for wine tastings in the big barn noon to 5pm, Thursday through Sunday. We specialize in French oak barrel aged robust red wines and wine from local fruit.

458 Center Street, Wolfeboro | 603-455-0182 home | fall 2019 | 11

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We provide everything from general landscaping and hardscapes to seasonal care and clean-up, as well as irrigation maintenance and pest/insect protection management.

For The Water Prestige Property Partners can assist in the upkeep of your boat, deck, and dock. From launch to removal to marina transportation, we even install and remove water floats and rafts.

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We can help with generator problems, alarm calls, no heat calls, burst pipes, storm damage and much more.

Serving the Lakes Region |Call Prestige Today 288-0585 | prestigepropertypartners.com 12 | home | fall 2019

Among the cabinetmaker’s fawhen a board has its natuvorite and most popular products ral edge and bark is left on are handled cutting boards, which it rather than planed down take several days to make due to clean and straight). the gluing and drying process.

This will always be his His most intricate projects are life’s work and Chris is ‘bandsaw’ boxes, cut out of one hoping it will be carried piece of wood with intricate feet, on to other generations. also made out of the one piece.

His 14-year-old nephew is Pallets and wine bottle holders interested in woodworking are among his staples. He started now and Chris says, “He with Adirondack chairs and basic enjoys working with me butcher blocks before he discovin the workshop and has a ered cutting boards to be his most long list of projects for us to popular items. build. He joins us in workChris also does some impressive ing craft fairs as well.” custom work as well. “I love doing With a workshop that custom pieces. I have customers began in his garage who know exactly what they want once he moved to West but can’t find it in typical retail Ossipee, it meant some stores.” Specialty items he has Burl walnut and curly maple chessboard, cheeseboard and coaster set. (Custom order) sacrifices.“My wife (Kim) made include a king-sized headwas kind enough to park board made from three different species of hardwood (maple, cherry and her car outside for a long time,” Chris says. He acknowledges that he turned black walnut), various kitchen cabinets and built-ins and a very intricate the garage back over to his wife when he began constructing projects in his chess board made from burl walnut and curly maple.

20x16 foot building on his property near the house. “I constructed it on my Chris uses a lot of native and exotic woods as well. “I occasionally use own over the course of a year between jobs and on weekends.” pine. Some of my favorite woods are cherry, sapele (from Africa), and white Building these projects can take between half an hour for cutting boards oak but black walnut is my very favorite. It is a beautiful wood.” to several weeks. But even the half hour projects still take time between the Sapele is a moisture-resistant wood, which is used mainly for guitar various stages of gluing to finish (oiling, etc.). “I start with rough sawn making. Chris also says that live edge woods are now very popular (this is hardwoods (dense and non-porous) to make a cutting board,” Chris ex-

Amish handcrafted furniture

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plains. “They are then jointed and planed to get flat boards suitable for cutting into strips. Those strips are cut to various lengths and glued together in different patterns to achieve the desired look.”

Once dry, the blank is then branded with his ‘Country Craftsman’ logo and sanded to a 150 grit (a type of sandpaper), then it is rinsed with water to raise the grain. When dry, it’s sanded to a final grit of 220 (very fine sandpaper) and finally wiped down and finished with three coats of ‘food grade’ mineral oil to seal it (food grade meaning to be used by any type of foods.)

Chris thinks he may, in the near future, broaden his art and bring into it welding and upholstery, but right now he prefers to concentrate on his wide range of cutting boards and other items. He intends to get them into many more outlets and he wants to enter many more craft fairs. “I will be broadening my skill set as I progress in my business,” Beautiful Cutting Boards. concludes Chris.

You may find his art in the following venues: The Alton Country Store and

the Squam Lake Artisans Gallery in Center Harbor.

You can also find Chris and wife Kim (who is also his business partner) at various fairs around the state.

Upcoming craft fairs include the Fantastic Forage Mushroom Festival in Laconia (behind Tavern on the Green/Route 106) on Sept. 28-29, October Craft Fair at Demerritt Farm (in Lee, N.H.) on Oct. 5-6; the Annual Lakes Region General Hospital Auxiliary Fall Craft Fair (Laconia) on Oct. 26; the Dover Parents’ Music Club at their high school, Nov. 2, and the Bow Craft Fair (Bow, N.H.) on Nov. 16-17.

Visitors can stop by the Country Craftsman at 100 Effingham Rd. There is, of course, a custom sign out front. Chris is open Mondays through Saturdays 9 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm, or by appointment. Call 603-986-8444, or visit him on Facebook.com/thecountrycrafstmanNH.

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OSSIPEE // Well-maintained, nicely landscaped 3 bedroom water access Saltbox home in The Bluffs. Beautiful sandy beaches on all of Ossipee Lake. Moorings and dock spaces available on waiting list.

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home | fall 2019 | 15

Things to consider before warming up next to your first fire this winter A warm fire can make even the coldest winter day more enjoyable. Fireplaces may not get much use in spring or summer, but come late fall and throughout the winter, the fireplace can be a great spot for families to gather.

Before fireplace season hits full swing, homeowners might want to brush up on a few fireplace facts so they can safely enjoy nights spent sitting by the crackling flames.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) advises homeowners with fireplaces to hire a CSIA-certified chimney sweep to clean their fireplaces. After a lengthy period of non-use, various issues could be affecting the chimney, many of which might not be noticeable to an untrained eye.

Professional, certified chimney sweeps have extensive knowledge of fireplaces, making them valuable resources who can let homeowners know if any safety issues developed since fireplaces were last used. The National Protection Agency recommends that chimneys be swept at least once per year.

A full inspection of the chimney might be in order as well. Chimney service technicians will conduct thorough examinations of readily accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior and accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection.

The CSIA recommends that homeowners who plan to use their chimneys as they have in the past request a Level 1 inspection, which will examine the soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the basic appliance installation and connections. Technicians also will verify if the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.

Homeowners also should inspect their chimney dampers before lighting their first fires of the season. Dampers should open and close smoothly. If not, a service technician can help fix or replace the damper.

Firewood is another thing homeowners must consider before lighting their first fires of the season. The CSIA says that well-seasoned firewood works best, noting that wood that is not well-seasoned will produce more smoke than heat. In addition, the home improvement resource This Old House recommends using dense wood that’s been split and stored in a high and dry place for at least six months. Oak is an example of dense wood that, when stored properly, can make for an enjoyable fireplace experience. Avoid softwoods like pine. Pine can produce a lot of creosote, which is a byproduct of wood combustion. Creosote is highly flammable, and as it builds up in a chimney, the risk for a chimney fire increases. Choosing the right wood, making sure it’s well-seasoned and having a chimney professionally cleaned can reduce the risk of a creosote-related chimney fire. A Level 1 inspection should determine if there are potentially dangerous levels of creosote deposits in the chimney.

Before nestling up to a fireplace this winter, homeowners should consider a host of factors and safety measures to ensure their fireplaces are safe and ready for the season ahead.

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Get those obvious and not-so-obvious chores done now!

r u o Y r o f g n i n a e l C Fall r a C d n a , d r a Y , e m Ho

By Sarah Wright Autumn is here and soon it will be colder weather, and dare we say it, snowy months ahead?

This is also when lots of people feel the urge to clean everything around them. I like to declutter—getting leaf litter out of the yard, donating clothing and household items, and vacuuming out my car. However, sometimes the idea of tackling a big cleaning task can be daunting, and it’s easy to procrastinate. If you break the task down into a couple of jobs each day, it’ll

be much more manageable. After all, you have a few of months of autumn to work with. Here are some areas to focus on for sprucing up your home, yard, and car and preparing everything for winter.

Let’s start with household cleaning, because it can seem endless. (If you search online for cleaning checklists, you’ll find multiple websites on the topic. In addition to the usual cleaning tasks that you’re already doing, there are other areas to focus on for a more thorough cleaning.) Top to

Squam Lake Waterfront MLS#4759343 Offered for $4,750,000 A truly magnificent property on Squam Lake! There is a spacious, open patio facing the lake, along with a very inviting screened porch. A pathway leads down to a natural sandy beach and beyond is the one-bay boathouse large enough for a good sized motor boat and storage for kayaks, plus a dock. In addition, there is an all-weather tennis court. The interior of the house has beautiful cherry woodwork cabinets, plus Douglas Fir beams and floors, and the detail work is exquisite. There are three bedrooms in the main part of the house, the master being on the first floor. Over the garage is a wonderful separate apartment with an additional 3 bedrooms and a family room. In all, one can easily sleep 13! This is a special property in every way! In addition to the privacy of the location, it is a 10 minute drive to Meredith or Center Harbor for shopping.

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bottom, you will want to make sure your home is ready for those months when we move indoors.

First, take some time to look up. Dust ceiling fan blades and clean glass lighting fixtures. Then, wash your windows, but wash them on a cloudy, warm day. If it’s sunny, the sun can dry the cleaner too quickly and leave streaks. While you’re at it, dust the blinds and toss curtains into the washing machine. On another day, wax wood furniture and floors, vacuum upholstered furniture, shampoo the rugs (throw small rugs into the washing machine), dust bookshelves, clean TV and computer screens, wash all bedding, including the pillows, and vacuum the mattress. If you use lighter bed coverings in the summer, now is the time to make sure winter comforters and bedding is laundered and ready for use.

Plan to spend a day on the bathroom, cleaning the sink, mirror, shower, tub, and toilet. Then you’ll be ready to move on to the kitchen. The inside of the oven, refrigerator, and microwave should be cleaned, as well as the oven exhaust hood and cabinets, where kitchen grease can collect. Run the dishwasher empty with a dishwasher cleaning solution to get rid of any residue. If you can manage it, vacuum the coils behind the fridge to keep it running efficiently. Don’t forget to throw away any expired food items that you find; maybe even a few things that are hiding in the back of the fridge from the last of the season cookout!

Here are some other cleaning chores that can not be overlooked. Wipe the trim along the top and bottom of the walls, including the tops of doors, artwork, and switch plates. Dust floor registers, vent covers, and radiators.

Remove window screens and hose them off outside, also hosing off any outdoor mats. When cleaning the bathroom, reseal any grout if necessary.

This is also a good time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.

Remember to keep a bag or box handy while you’re cleaning, for items to donate or recycle. When you’re finally all done with your tasks, place a vase of autumn flowers on the table to welcome the upcoming holidays/winter.

Now that you’re done with the interior of the house, let’s focus on the yard. Homeowners should assess any damage that you never got to from last winter on ornamental bushes or trees and outbuildings. Check for mole and vole damage, removing extra sand from the edges of the grass, and looking for any circular bare patches on your lawn.

Now might be the time to take a soil sample and either have a landscape company test it, or send it in to the UNH Cooperative Extension for testing.

It’s important to know the mineral content of your soil, as well as the soil’s ph level, which affects its ability to hold water.

Start organizing your yard by removing leaf matter (if you are doing your assessing in late autumn before the snow flies). Next, you’ll need to dethatch dead layers on the grass by using a rake or calling a landscaper who can use a commercial mower with a dethatching attachment.

Finally, let’s talk about your car. If you have kids, like I do, you know how messy cars can get. I try to give the interior of my car a good cleaning when the seasons change. It’s important to get rid of the dry leaves, beach sand, pine needles, pollen, and road salt that can accumulate in your car. Most people think a regular car wash and wax is enough to protect the exterior of their cars, but this isn’t so. Better to get is a clay bar treatment for your car.

This is an automotive putty that’s rubbed on the car to remove junk embedded in the clear coat, followed by the application of wax.

If you’re washing your car at home, don’t forget to clean the wheels.

Brake dust can build up on the wheels, and bake on in warm weather from last summer. Also, vacuum the interior, and wash the inside of the windshield and windows. If the interior has a lot of ground-in dirt, it will need a good steam cleaning. Other general maintenance to add to your list includes replacing the cabin air filter (if your car has one), checking tire pressure, lubricating door hinges and locks, and replacing windshield wipers.

Clear any materials from around the wipers as well.

As colder weather approaches, it is time to prepare your home – inside

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Ripple Pottery Beauty and Creativity at Ripple Pottery

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By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper Located on Rt. 25 in Rumney, NH, Ripple Pottery is well known to those who love handmade pottery in a range of sizes and colors.

With years of experience, owner Brian O’Hare received a BFA in ceramics from Plymouth State University (in Plymouth, NH), and worked for Simon Pearce and also some small potters. “I have been in business for myself for a number of years,” he explained from the small yet beautiful shop next door to his pottery studio.

In the busy summer months, and now in the autumn leaf-peeper season, customers from near and far visit the shop. Along with selling pottery in his shop and “talking pottery” with customers, Brian spends a lot of time in the studio. He said, “As an artist, I never stop evolving. I strive to make pottery with a visual appeal that is functional as well.”

He spoke of the satisfaction of knowing one of his coffee mugs, perhaps with its signature, custom red glaze, is the first thing a busy person will use as they sip their morning coffee. “That is where form meets function,” Brian asserted. “I use my own recipes for the glazes; the blue is also very popular and people like the red, too. I sell a lot with the red glaze.”

Lest one think Ripple Pottery is about just coffee cups, they will be pleased to know the shop offers a wide range of pottery. “The firing techniques I’ve chosen are not the easiest or most predictable. Reduction firing requires a partnership with your kiln and an in-depth understanding of glazes and atmosphere,” Brian explained.

For those who want to see a potter working at the potter’s wheel, but are not sure what to expect, they will be pleasantly surprised to enter the studio of a true artisan. It is a light-filled place, with all the tools for creating pottery. That pottery, waiting to be fired, can often fill the storage shelves. Each piece will be covered in the gorgeous and signature glazes.

Custom orders are always welcome, and Brian mentioned lamps…and even sinks he has fashioned for select customers wanting something beautiful and very different for their homes. “I pride myself on making things that fill an unexpected need in everyday lives. Some whimsical and some so simple they just make perfect sense.”

When springtime rolls around again, or even before then, gardeners will be at the shop for the whimsical pottery mushrooms Brian crafts. These make unique gifts for the gardener or for those who want something fun and eye-catching for an outdoor space.

For information, and hours visit www.ripplepottery.com.

(Ripple Pottery is located at 839 Rt. 25 in Rumney, NH; call 603-7869085.)

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home | fall 2019 | 21 8/21/19 8:37 AM

Lakes Region Real Estate Forecast

What’s Ahead for 2020

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

There is a saying in New England that if you do not like the weather, wait a few minutes. In other words, the weather changes a lot. The same could be said for the Lakes Region/NH real estate market.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home, you may be curious what the current market is like in the area. Is it a good time to sell? Should you wait or move forward to sell or buy? What are prices like?

Those in the know are the realtors who work in this fluid buying and selling field every day. They see markets go up and down; their insight and input is very valuable.

First, we all wonder what the condition of the Lakes Region real estate market is like at this time. If you watch real estate listings, or are thinking of selling your home, or perhaps looking for a second-home/vacation retreat, you probably heard the rumors that it is a seller’s market. Prices have risen and inventory is low. But is that really true?

Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty with offices in Meredith and Laconia explains, “Today’s consumer is benefiting from the lower interest rate environment and healthy gains in the stock market during the past 10 years. It is definitely still a seller’s market out there. However, we are starting to see a gradual increase in new listings coming on the market.”

Randy Parker of Maxfield Real Estate of Wolfeboro, Alton and Center Harbor concurs, “All levels of properties are on the market; the $250,000 to $500,000 sold out in a week the first six months of this year.”

In an area where vacationing is of prime importance and many travel from far and wide to spend precious holidays by the lake in summer and on the ski slopes in winter, real estate is especially vital. When those with the means vacation in the Lakes Region, they may wish to purchase a secondhome in the area. So, what types of vacation homes are selling?

Explains Randy Parker, “Waterfronts in the $400,000 and up range. Most of the homes are in the $800,000 to $2 million range.”

Offers Susan Bradley, realtor with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

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of Laconia, “Second home are selling well. Last year, there were 61 closings in the $1 million range, and this year there were 62 closings. This year, homes in the $2 million price range also sold well. There were 13 such closings in 2018, but this year there were 24, which is about twice the amount as in 2018. There is definitely still demand in the high end, and I would say there is still pent-up demand. Second-home buyers are coming from southern NH, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and even Connecticut. They are buying mostly waterfront second homes.”

Winnie Chicoine, a realtor at Russell Realty Group, says the the market is strong. “If homes are priced well, they sell quickly. Sellers do need to think about pricing when putting their homes on the market and be realistic.

Properties for year round homes are selling in the $300,000 to $400,000 range if they are move-in ready.”

Of course, those purchasing a first or second-home dream of being on or near the water. Is that attainable?

Says Frank Roche, “Water access communities such as South Down Shores and Long Bay on Winnipesaukee have seen incredible demand this past season. Properties have been snapped up at a rapid pace and days on the market have dropped considerably. There are many water access and condominium communities located on the various lakes that have been in significant demand. Listings are less plentiful this year, which has caused multiple offers in a number of sales. We have seen an increase in escalation clauses where buyers have been willing to pay a certain amount over the asking price.”

This would indicate that it is indeed a fairly competitive seller’s market.

However, that does not mean a buyer should be discouraged, but rather realistic. “Rates are low, which is positive! If you want to buy now, you need to be aggressive in your offer. Home prices have gone up 60 percent in six to eight year stretches, then they fall 25 percent over five year periods, then they start all over again. Turn it sideways and it looks a lot like a set of

stairs,” says Randy Parker.

Realtors are working with customers to buy and sell second homes.

Where are most of the vacation homes located in the Lakes Region?

“Among the eight municipalities bordering Lake Winnipesaukee, seasonal homes represent more than 30 percent of all housing units in seven of the towns. Moultonborough, Tuftonboro, and Alton top this, with 60 percent, 53 percent, and 45 percent respectively. Laconia was the lone exception with seasonal homes accounting for approximately 25 percent of the housing stock. The high percentages of seasonal homes reflect why second home demand is so strong in the Lakes Region,” explains Frank ROche “For the first eight months of 2019, waterfront properties in the eight towns surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee showed a closed sales volume of $122,373,700 which represented a 5.8 percent increase over the same period in the previous year,” explains Frank Roche. “It is interesting, however, that the Ymedian O Uselling A RpriceE of I$997,000 N V dropped I T E3.3Dpercent T Ocompared to the average selling price of $1,390,610, which increased by 14.3 percent.

A this Color & Design Presenta tionsold (88) dropped Two factors caused disparity: the number of listings 7.4 percent whereas on the high end of the market involving sales over $2 million, 17 properties sold in 2019 versus only nine in 2018 (88.8 percent OF sales volume over the $2 increase) for the first eight months. Additionally, THE million price point amounted to $56,980,750, which represents a 126 percent increase in sales volume for sales on Lake Winnipesaukee priced over $2 million. It’s hard to say what caused this spike in high-end sales during the first eight months. My guess would be the stock market; investors were pulling some money out of the market and putting it into a second home in order to diversify their portfolio.”

Randy Parker goes on to say, when asked about the duration an average home is for sale in this hot seller’s market, that it is about 30 to 45 days.

This is certainly a vast improvement over the recessionary years when a home could be on the market for months with little movement. (We have

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all driven by or lived near a home that seemed to have a realtor’s For Sale sign on its front lawn for months and months, finally selling and often at well below the asking price. That was during the height of the recession and luckily for realtors and homeowners, those days are now behind us.)

But not every buyer is looking for a second home. For first-time and other buyers, what are Lakes Region realtors seeing in recent months?

A beautiful lakefront property with 594 Says Susan Bradley, “The feet of beach, listed by Susan Bradley of first-time buyer market is Coldwell Banker in Laconia. strong in the $200,000 to $300,000 price range. Things sell quickly if the price is right.

Buyers are educated and they realize good value.”

Frank Roche sees buyers and sellers in a range of ages and housing needs and he says, “All types of properties were sold this past season. There was a very strong demand for starter homes for first-time homebuyers. However, finding homes priced under $200,000 has been increasingly difficult. At the present time (late summer of 2019) there are only 40 available for sale in the eight towns surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee. There is definitely a need for more affordable housing in our region. Unfortunately, the cost of new construction is high, so it makes resale product the best choice for some buyers. The City of Laconia and some of the outlying towns have

been solid choices for first time homebuyers. We have seen an increase in the upper price point residential market where homes in the $400,000$700,000 price range have seen some increases.”

With the Baby Boomer population entering retirement age, housing across the board is in demand.

Longtime Lakes Region residents that are retiring and seeking manageable housing are selling larger homes and looking for smaller, low maintenance properties.

Perhaps they need all rooms on one floor to make living easier or they may wish to be in a retirement community of apartments or small homes where assisted living is an option.

It may seem surprising to some, but not all senior citizens choose to leave the Lakes Region for such typical retirement states as Florida and the Carolinas. That means the growing elderly population requires housing to fit their needs.

“The aging population and demographics of the Baby Boomers continue the demand for semi-retirement properties scattered throughout the Lakes

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Region. This segment of the market is looking to downsize with master suites on the first floor and a more favorable low maintenance environment. The recreational resources and natural beauty of our region is drawing very strong interest,” explains Frank Roche.

Looking ahead to the winter of 2020 and into next summer, we all know the real estate/housing market can change in accordance with the economy. What do Lakes Region realtors predict for the near future when it comes to real estate?

Randy Parker’s predication is positive. “I believe we will continue to have a strong economy and I believe those in the stock market will take their profits and buy real estate.”

Frank Roche explains his thoughts in detail by saying, “Looking ahead, we have to be cautious and factor in similar markets we have seen in the past. As a 43-year veteran of selling Lakes Region real estate, I have seen the peaks and valleys. There are a number of global and national concerns out there, which we have to be aware of. Any one of these could light a fuse to disrupt the market. It’s important to keep plugged into major events that are occurring to see how they will affect real estate trends. The one thing I will say is we’re in a very desirable region with more people being drawn in every year. Facebook, Instagram, the internet and Boston’s strong market all have contributed to the increase we have seen in visitors to the Lakes Region.”

Winnie Chicoine feels the fall season will be strong for real estate. She sees no sign that the market is slowing. “Usually, if the vacation/secondhome market slows, it indicates a downturn but I see no indication of that.”

Predictions for the fall and coming year by Susan Bradley are that the market will stay solid. “I don’t see a slowdown in the real estate market, and I am predicting a strong fall. It is still a seller’s market, and the market is solid. This is a good time to be a seller.”

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Small Kitchen Improvements that Maximize Functionality Many homeowners wish for expansive kitchens. Modernized kitchens that include sought-after features and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home.

As desirable as such kitchens may be, some homes simply don’t have enough space for a centerfold-worthy kitchen featuring an island, wine refrigerator and walk-in pantry. However, homeowners with small kitchens can still improve the form and function of their existing spaces.

Reconfigure and revamp cabinetry Homeowners whose kitchens are small often lament their lack of storage.

Redesigning the layout of cabinets, and possibly adding some more cabinetry, may take care of certain storage issues. The experts suggest utilizing corner space with units that fit the corner, lazy susans and other gadgets to make access to these areas easier. Going vertical with wall cabinets that extend to the ceiling also can add more storage, as can roll-in work carts.

Work with the walls Small kitchens require clever usage of vertical space. Vertical storage units, hooks, shelving, and more can move items out of drawers and off of counters. Consider an under-the-cabinet toaster oven and microwave to create more counter space.

Use scaled-down appliances Shop with size in mind when looking at new appliances if you have a small kitchen.

Compact versions won’t take up as much space as larger alternatives. Homeowners should consider the ultimate function of the kitchen and think about which appliances will serve them well. Homeowners with small kitchens may not need a large stand mixer or an oversized commercial stove.

Add some glass Incorporate glass to improve the perception of space in small kitchens. Glass lets you see through the objects, thereby enhancing the feeling of spaciousness or what designers call “negative space.” Glass also can be reflective, visually expanding the space.

Embrace high-end materials It costs less to renovate small spaces than bigger areas, so homeowners may be able to afford high-end materials that really add personality to a kitchen. Flooring, counter materials and quality fixtures can really set small kitchens apart.

Small kitchens can be culinary havens with the right improvements to maximize the space.

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Slow Cooker Recipes to Warm Up Autumn

By Chef Kelly Ross

Happy autumn everyone! Fall is by far my favorite time of the year. The scenery is awesome, the weather is great, as I prefer things a little cooler, and although we still have a lot of “Leaf Peepers” in the area, traffic has mellowed.

Although a high percentage of my columns are geared toward cooking on the grill, today we are going to focus on a huge craze over the last decade, and that is utilizing a slow cooker for the family to eat some pretty darn delicious food that requires very little work and leaves you with no pots and pans to clean up as well. A “Win/ Win”; as long as everyone are eating and smiling while devouring delicious food, nobody has any reason to complain. I know many people consider their slow cooker to be their best friend. It really is amazing how many things can be cooked in a slow cooker. Soups are a big winner in my book, but there are so many great main courses that can be done this way. Because I grill often year round, I don’t utilize my slow cooker as much as

many, but when I do, I ask myself, “Why don’t I do this more often?”

So today is dedicated to some great ways to prepare dinner with minimal work without jeopardizing quality. Sounds like a nobrainer, doesn’t it? Let’s start with incredible soups, most which work as a dinner as well when paired with a salad or even a sandwich, especially a grilled cheese.

When it comes to pasta, I am a huge sucker for tortellini, regardless of what is stuffed inside.

Combine that with an Italian red sauce and some veggies, and you have yourself a rich and creamy hearty soup guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly day, or just taste great on any day, whether fall and winter. Now keep in mind I am giving you this recipe with the mentality that it will be sitting while everyone is gone for the day. If you want, you can easily tweak this recipe if you are home all day by doing this on a high heat.

Tortellini Soup 34 oz of your favorite tomato

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sauce, preferably homemade 1 qt vegetable or chicken stock. ¾ cup heavy cream ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 1 tsp each sea salt and fresh grind black pepper 1 large onion, medium diced 1 yellow and 1 orange bell pepper, medium diced 24 oz of your favorite tortellini; more if you wish Turn the slow cooker onto a low heat and line the bottom of it with the diced peppers and onions. Top with the tomato sauce and the stock of choice and combine well. Drop in the rosemary as well as the chopped basil.

Cover the cooker and let it go while you are gone to work. Eight hours is a good rule of thumb, but longer will be fine as long as the cooker is on low.

Once you get home, turn the slow cooker to medium or high depending on how hot the soup presently is. In a medium pot, fill with hot water and put on the stove to a high heat. While the water is heating, stir the heavy cream into the soup and combine. Once the water is hot, add the tortellini and cook to its specifications, depending on if it is precooked or uncooked.

Once cooked, strain very well. Pull the rosemary sprigs out of the pot, add the cooked tortellini, and season with salt and pepper and taste. Depending on the tomato sauce used, I would suggest adding a little dried oregano and granulated garlic, but season to your liking. Ladle this pot of deliciousness into the individual bowls and serve with whatever sounds great to you, and enjoy!

Let’s go with one more soup. My wife is a diehard fan of this one: Beef ’n Barley soup. I love most soups, but I let her have the lion’s share when I make it. This is definitely one that you could eat like a meal. As I often say, make every recipe to fit your liking, so you can always bulk up the beef, maybe the barley (although if adding more barley, you will need more liquid). Whether you cook as the recipe says or you bulk things up, this soup is a winner. All slow cooker recipes are generally simple, but this one may be the most basic of all time.

Beef ’n Barley Soup 2 lbs cubed chuck roast, or any cut of choice 6 cups water 3-4 tsp beef base paste (the best) or 6-7 bouillon cubes, but go with paste 1 large sweet onion, diced 12 oz of your favorite tomato sauce 1 cup uncooked pearl barley Salt & pepper to flavor This one generally takes about 6 hours, but in all honesty, 8 hours likely won’t hurt it. The barley may be a little overcooked and the soup a little thick, but all in all, no worries as far as I am concerned. In a slow cooker on low heat, combine all ingredients, stir well, cover, and yes, that’s it boys and girls. All I suggest is at eating time, adjust seasonings to your liking, maybe add a little more beef paste if needed, and water if thicker than you prefer, maybe a little granulated garlic. Dig in!

Let’s talk some main course items. For some reason, most of my favorite slow cooker recipes have an Italian flare to them, and here we go again.

One of the greatest Italian dishes, which you don’t find in most restaurants, is Braciole. Braciole is a great recipe of thin slices of beef rolled around a savory filling, usually in a wine infused Italian sauce that is so darn outstanding. I don’t have it often, but boy of boy, when I do, I am as quiet as a kid in a library reading a book. I am focused when I get it because it isn’t often. As a general rule, Braciole is served in individual rolls of beef per person, quite often 2 per person. This is not practical in a slow cooker, but do not fret, this one works great. This is done with one large piece of beef, and once done, you slice it for each person. You don’t lose out on flavor, and

that is the bottom line. This will feed 6 people. Admittedly, it does require about 20 minutes of prep prior, but after that, you can set it and forget it for 8 plus hours.

Braciole Approx. 52 oz of the best marinara sauce you can find (homemade is best) 1 cup of your favorite red wine 2 eggs, beaten ½ cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko 1 flank steak, about 1 ½ -2 lbs, pounded to ¼ inch in thickness 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp fresh grind black pepper 6 slices bacon 1 ¼ cup shredded mozzarella 2 tbsp vegetable oil Combine the eggs and breadcrumbs in a small bowl until well blended.

Bust out the pounded hunk of beef and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Spread the egg/crumb mixture over one side of the beef, leaving a one-inch border on the sides of the beef. Lay the bacon over the egg mixture and sprinkle with the cheese. Starting at one end, roll the beef as tightly as possible. I prefer to use strings to tie in order to keep as tight as possible once rolled, put if you prefer, you can use toothpicks. Heat oil in a skillet and brown the beef roll on all sides, about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, put half the marinara and half the wine into the cooker on a high heat and stir well to combine. Once the beef is done, gently roll it into the sauce. I actually add all sauce and wine to a pot on the stove and get it to a medium heat and then pour half into the slow cooker, add the browned roll up, then top with the rest of the sauce/wine. Turn the cooker to a low heat, cover, and

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cook for 8 hours or more, which will not hurt it any. Once done, gently pull the meat out of the sauce, snip off the string or take out the picks, and slice, plate them, and top with the sauce. I cook pasta at the last minute to go with this dish, as there will be plenty of sauce. Break out some yummy fresh Parmesan to grate over the top and serve with crusty bread.

The next dinner recipe is another classic upscale dish found on many great Italian restaurant menus, and that is Osso Buco. Although Osso Buco is not Italian in its origin, it has been adopted by a few ethnicities in how it is prepared, and I have yet to find one I didn’t like. In essence, it is a specialty of Lombard cuisine and is crosscut veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine and broth. The veal will fall right off the bone, but it is all in the broth and veggies that accompany the veal. Together, this dish is nothing short of the perfect puzzle with all the right puzzle pieces. It is often served over rice or couscous but even as is, serve this with a great bread to sop up the juice and you have yourself something scrumptious. The veal shanks needed for this dish is something generally not found in the average supermarket butcher case, but, if you talk to the butcher, they can easily get and/ or do this for you. I have done so many times and have yet had a problem getting my hands on them. This recipe will feed 4-6 people depending on their appetites. It takes about 20 minutes to prep in the morning and when you come home in 8-9 hours, you will be rewarded handsomely.

Osso Buco ¼ cup flour Sea salt & fresh ground pepper 8 (1 inch) thick slices veal shank, sliced just for Osso Buco (tell your butcher) 3 tbsp butter 3 tbsp olive oil 3 onions, cut like making kabobs, 1-inch squares

3 large carrots, cut into 2 inch pieces, whole 3 stalks celery, cut like the carrots 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; I use a razor blade 1 ½ cups chicken stock 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 14 oz each 3 tsp chopped fresh oregano 2 bay leaves Season the flour with the salt and pepper and toss with the veal shanks so they are well coated. Melt the butter and add the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the shanks for 8-10 minutes on each side so both sides of the veal are golden brown. Combine the onions, carrots, celery and garlic and lay on the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the veal on top of the veggies, top with the chicken stock, diced tomatoes, and oregano and bay leaves. With a fork or spoon, gently mix the seasonings into the broth. Cover and cook on low for 8 ½ hours. In my humble opinion, I will take this over a basic pot roast any time! To me, this is an Italian Pot Roast, which is so much more delicious than the traditional version.

Let’s try a little something different. Another of my many, many food weaknesses is a spicy Thai peanut sauce, which you would generally find on a chicken satay. Let’s turn this mentality into a slow cooker dish. This cooks quicker than 8 hours, more like 4 ½-5 hours seems to be the norm, although it will require another 30-45 minutes to finish. My niece calls this dish Chicken Yum Yum, which cracks me up, but I call it Thai Peanut Chicken. This will feed 6-8 people. This is also great over rice or maybe even pasta, or with anything for that matter. It’s a no lose situation.

Thai Peanut Chicken 2 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into ½ inch strips 2 large onions cut into 1-inch squares

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2 large red bell peppers cut into strips 1 cup chicken stock ½ cup soy sauce 2 tbsp ground cumin 4 cloves garlic, minced ¾ tsp crushed red pepper flakes Sea salt & fresh grind black pepper 3 tbsp cornstarch 1 cup smooth peanut butter 2 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp sirarcha sauce, or favorite hot sauce 1/3-cup fresh squeezed limejuice 4 scallions, chopped 1/3 cup fresh chopped cilantro ¾ cup chopped roasted peanuts Place the chicken broth, ½ cup soy sauce, cumin, garlic, red pepper flakes and salt and pepper in the slow cooker and stir. Add the chicken, mix, cover, and cook for 5 hours on low heat. Remove 1 ½ cups of the liquid from the cooker and put into a small pot and stir in the cornstarch. Once smooth, add the peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and the limejuice. This should blend into a fairly thick sauce. Add to the slow cooker, turn onto high and cook for another 45-60 minutes. Once ready, serve and top with scallions, chopped cilantro and chopped peanuts and dig in and say Yum Yum! I want to end with two very short and easy recipes in the slow cooker.

The first one is a great pork loin recipe, and the second, a meatball recipe.

Both will work great in the slow cooker, just like the last recipes. Here is a Cranberry Pork Loin done in the slow cooker, to serve 6-8 for sure. It is sweet and tangy, and will work well with chicken as well. This is generally a 4+ hour recipe.

Cranberry Pork Loin 16 oz can of cranberry sauce 1/3 cup French salad dressing 1 onion, sliced 3 lb pork loin roast Sea salt & fresh grind black pepper Season the loin with the salt and pepper and put on the bottom of the slow cooker. Combine the cranberry, French dressing and onion and pour over the pork. Cover and cook for 4-5 hours or until the internal temp hits the 145-degree range. Let sit for 5-10 minutes and start slicing and serve with the sauce and your favorite sides.

Since I love meatballs, I thought it appropriate to end with this fun and easy recipe. After so many years of dealing with meatballs in the old-fash-

ioned way, I just learned about the slow cooker method, and I am a big fan.

Maybe my favorite sandwich of all time is a great Meatball Sub, but whether in a sandwich or on a big ’ole bed of pasta, meatballs are the bomb. Well, in a slow cooker, I make them really big, as in much bigger than what you usually see on pasta, and definitely bigger than what you see in a sub. My mentality here is depending on how long you need the slow cooker to cook will dictate the size of the meatballs. If you need 8 hours, make them big.

If banging around the house all day while they are cooking, you can make them like a traditional golf ball sized ball. This recipe makes 16 big meatballs that cook for 8 hours.

Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs 1 ½ lbs ground beef 1 ¼ cups Italian breadcrumbs ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 medium sweet onion, chopped fine 1 egg, beaten 32 oz of your favorite marinara sauce, preferably home made 16 oz canned crushed tomatoes 1 (14.5) oz can tomato puree Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, garlic and onion extremely well and form into 16 equal sized balls. Mix all the tomato products in the slow cooker, plop the meatballs in gently. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours.

I hope you utilize these recipes in the near future, because this is the best time of year for slow cooker recipes. Enjoy your autumn and the gorgeous weather. Until next time, ciao my friends!

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Russ Lanoie: Guardian of the Rural Environment

By Mark Okrant

For more than half a century, Conway, New Hampshire’s Russ Lanoie has been engaged in innovative problem solving in rural and remote areas of the White Mountains. When a landowner needs advice on a tricky road maintenance issue, Russ Lanoie is the go-to guy. If that wet basement is driving a family to distraction, Russ knows what to do. In what is a remarkable knowledge base, Lanoie also has applied his common-sense wizardry to septic systems, passive solar energy, and water wells.

What sets Lanoie apart from other very competent private contractors serving the area? Most of those people have the ability to diagnose and fix a problem. However, Lanoie has the rare ability to clearly explain—to fledgling contractors and homeowners alike—how to mitigate or prevent a crisis. Remarkably, in what is truly selfless behavior, Lanoie sees no good purpose in keeping this information to himself. He shares details of his methods willingly and openly.

So, how did Lanoie arrive at this point in his life? Russ has been a specialty site work contractor in the White Mountains of New Hampshire for over 45 years. Growing up in Rhode Island, he obtained training as an aircraft electrician in the U.S. Air Force National Guard, before receiving his Associate’s Degree in Civil Technology from the University of New Hampshire. These two experiences provided Lanoie with his basic skill set;

however, somewhere along the way, he also developed strong communication skills (i.e., writing and public speaking) that serve him well, both as a contractor and as an advocate for the planet’s natural environment.

After spending years operating heavy equipment, the 75-year-old Lanoie learned that it does not require large or expensive machinery to be successful at grading roads and driveways. Once one develops a basic understanding of existing soil, slope, and other conditions, it is essential to employ the correct procedures for removing water and taking it safely away from unpaved roads and driveways.

Ultimately, the greatest long-term problem from washouts is the impact they have on water quality.

Lanoie recalls how, in the old days before pavement, landowners played an active role in the care of country roads. Those people understood that a few minutes of work with a hoe at the beginning of a rainstorm could avoid deep gullies that lead to runoff and pollution of waterways. While look-

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ing for methods to convey his ideas to others, Lanoie realized that many textbooks were being written by people lacking the necessary amount of practical experience to explain the issues and solutions to their audiences.

Therefore, with retirement looming, Lanoie began doing extensive writing, and has produced videos on soil and water related issues. The result is a well-deserved reputation for offering his wealth of knowledge to help people solve their own problems.

The best known of these endeavors is a short course and self-published 50-page manual that has the clever title, “A Ditch in Time (2014).” This well-written, beautifully illustrated volume lays out a set of basic maintenance steps to prevent major damage from occurring to dirt roads. Having failed to navigate the labyrinth that is the publishing world, Lanoie ultimately hit on a way to convey these techniques to other contractors as well as the public at large. He posted “A Ditch in Time” on his website, www. ruralhometech.com.

When asked why he decided to give away a half-century’s experience to others, Lanoie’s response was, “To help someone to NOT have to learn this the hard way.”

Lanoie has made it clear that there is a present sense of urgency to introducing his methods to both contractors and laypersons. As a close observer of global events for decades, Lanoie’s response to my question was chilling: “We are in the midst of global warming. Evidence of this can be seen in the number of intense rain events we’ve been experiencing. People need to have awareness and the necessary skills to take basic steps to protect our lakes, rivers, and streams.”

Besides his writing about unpaved road maintenance, Lanoie has written and presented programs about a wide range of topics during the past decade. These include: designing and installing energy conservation/solar home systems, evaluating and maintaining septic systems, and doing wet

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basement mitigation.

He recently produced a manual titled, “Keeping Your Home’s Feet Dry.” This clearly written and beautifully illustrated document informs readers about circumstances that can turn the joy of home ownership into an instant nightmare. Topics include: plumbing leaks, water entering from outside the house, foundations and windows, the importance of soil type, getting rid of water, and how to select a solution and execute it.

Other online tutorials include “Septic System Troubleshooting Guide,” prepared with his co-workers after many years of determining what may go wrong with clients’ septic systems. This document contains a flow chart with glossary that even the most chart-phobic of us can navigate.

Following the oil embargo during the 1970’s, Lanoie developed considerable interest in solar heating. Having participated in the design of passive solar homes and greenhouses, while living in a passive solar home for two decades, Lanoie has offered several programs, tours, and seminars on the topic. He regards solar energy as a contributing long-term solution to global warming.

Yet another topic that is near and dear to Lanoie is proper water well construction. A short brochure and a nine-minute video explain the advantages of constructing a “six-packed” well. For a number of reasons, this technique is considerably safer, requires less maintenance, and is more sanitary than other well construction techniques.

Readers would do well to carefully view the assortment of manuals and videos Russ Lanoie has created. As a spokesman for environmentally supportive construction methods, he is available to provide workshops to groups within northern New England. His informative website is www.

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To reach him directly, email russ@ruralhometech.com.

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Preparing Your Deck for Winter Homeowners often take steps to winterize the interior of their homes in the weeks before winter’s arrival, but such efforts should extend to the outside of a home as well.

Decks make for great gathering places when the weather permits. Decks are where many people spend their free time and eat their meals come spring and summer, when the temperatures climb and the sun sets well into the evening. But as summer turns to fall, homeowners must take measures to protect their decks from potentially harsh winter weather.

• Inspect the deck for problems. Decks tend to be used more often in summer than any other time of year. That makes fall and early winter an ideal time to inspect for wear and tear and any additional issues that may have cropped up throughout the summer. Damaged boards and loose handrails should be fixed before winter arrives, especially for homeowners who plan to use their decks in winter.

Fixing such issues in winter and even into spring may be difficult thanks to harsh conditions, so make good use of the relatively calm autumn weather to fix any issues on the deck.

• Clear the deck of potted plants. Even homeowners who intend to use

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their decks in winter should remove potted plants from the deck in the fall. The home improvement experts note that moisture can get trapped between deck boards and plastic, wood or ceramic containers in cold weather, and that can contribute to mildew, discoloration or decay.

• Store unnecessary furniture. Homeowners who like to sit on their decks in winter will no doubt want to leave some furniture out over the winter. But those with lots of furniture for entertaining guests can likely move the majority of that furniture into a garage or shed for the winter. Doing so will prevent the potential formation of blemishes on the deck that can result from inconsistent weathering.

• Remove snow, but do so carefully.

Prolonged contact with snow and ice can damage a deck. As a result, homeowners should clear snow from their decks when accumulation is significant. Use a snow blower on the deck to avoid scarring. If a shovel must be used, push snow with the planks to reduce the risk of damaging the deck.

Homeowners who take steps to protect their decks throughout the winter months can ensure these popular areas are ready once entertaining season returns in the spring.

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Living Green: key to a healthy future for our region and the Earth

By Mark Okrant

T

hroughout the last hundred years, the world’s population has been increasing at an alarming rate, accompanied by drastic growth in production, consumption, and wealth. During the 1960s and early 1970s, books such as Carson’s The Silent Spring, Ehrlich’s The Population Bomb, and Meadows’ publication The Limits to Growth warned that the very survival of this planet and the human race were being threatened. It wasn’t long before scientists and politicians were tossing around the term, “sustainable development,” an effort to marry objectives expressed by prodevelopment and pro-conservation factions.

No matter which side of the Global Warming debate you find yourself, each of us recognizes that the future of our planet, nation, region, and community depends upon taking measures to protect the best elements of our surroundings. “Sustainability,” a term that had its origins in the ecol-

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ogy literature more than one-half century ago, is defined as a condition of cultural, environmental, and economic stability that satisfies the basic needs of a current population, while maintaining that condition for future generations.

Some people downplay the threat. They argue that the U.S. is a large country (2.26 billion acres), wherein there is an abundance of natural resources. While naysayers point to the fact that a mere 4.7 percent of U.S. space is presently developed, scientists warn that taking steps to protect the future of our environmental health is an urgent need.

One of the criticisms leveled at the sustainability movement during early days was that it was too top-down in approach. Indeed, initial efforts to legislate environmental quality at the federal level fell on deaf ears. The campaign needed a grassroots approach, wherein audiences could appreciate the relevance of applying sustainable actions in their own backyards.

One of New Hampshire’s strongest proponents of action at the grassroots level is Dr. Steve Whitman, professional planner and educator, and the founder and principal at Resilience Planning and Design LLC in Plymouth, NH. Whitman uses ecologically-minded design principles to advise his audiences how to create systems that are durable and renewable. He contends that, in the face of global environmental problems, we can take actions in the community to reduce our carbon footprint. Whitman advocates apply-

ing two methods at property-scale: green building and permaculture.

Green building—also known as green construction and sustainable building—is the application of processes that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building’s lifecycle.

In other words, green building holds to ecological and sustainability principles, from the initial plan through the design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and demolition stages. Such an ambitious endeavor necessitates cooperation among a number of key players: local administrators, contractors, architects, engineers, and the clients themselves.

In an effort to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment, the U.S. Green Building Council has developed its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system for design, construction, operation, and maintenance.

Promoted as the gold standard of sustainability measures, the system provides managers and clients with a measurement and certification process pertaining to: 1) efficient location, energy, water, transportation, and other resource uses, 2) presence of procedures to protect occupants’ health and improve employee productivity, and 3) reduction of waste, pollution, and environmental degradation.

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tion. Satisfactory candidates receive LEED certification and are designated as green: reduced construction waste during the building process increased usage of recycled material reduced energy and water usage reduced maintenance and operation costs increased indoor air quality increased employee performance, satisfaction, and retention (where applicable) reduced liability attraction of occupants who value sustainability Green building practices are applicable whether the project is a newbuild or an existing structure that has been retrofit.

Permaculture is gardening and landscaping that works in concert with the surrounding environment. It necessitates using design principles that consider an entire ecosystem, “rather than finding ways to circumvent its limitations, by application of protracted and thoughtless labor” (Holmgren; Mollison). Whether setting down a lawn, designing an ornamental garden, or planting a vegetable garden, the layout eliminates gasoline powered yard tools, harmful fertilizers, and abuse of water resources.

Several of David Holmgren’s 12 principles of permaculture (Permaculture: Principles and Pathways Beyond Sustainability, 2002) may be applied to local spaces. There is a strict emphasis upon observation and interaction, energy capture and storage, studying and utilizing feedback from a project, using renewable resources and services, avoiding waste production, and responding to changes.

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Secrets to Making Your Home Look Like You Hired a Design Pro Photo spreads in home design magazines can be awe-inspiring. Quite often homeowners wish they could lift the looks right off the pages of magazines and transform their own homes into picture-perfect retreats.

It takes an eye for design to pull a room together — even with inspiration — and make it both functional and attractive. While hiring an interior designer is one way to go, homeowners can use some of the tricks and techniques the designers employ to do a remarkably good job of improving the interiors of their homes.

Embrace texture The colors used in a home can add impact, but designers often utilize various textures to create aesthetic appeal. A single-color scheme can be enhanced by various fabrics. Consider a leather sofa made more cozy with chenille pillows next to a rustic side table. Figure out ways to incorporate a few different textures to add depth to the room.

Be careful with color Many high-end homes showcase neutral shades that are enhanced by pops of color. If you like a rich, royal purple, leave room for other colors as well. Add touches of purple in vases, throw pillows and other accessories.

Also, many designers work in shades of three for room colors. There may

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be one main color for walls, another color for larger accents, such as couches and chairs, and then a third color that pops in accessories such as flowers, pillows and collectibles. These can be any colors, but the most muted tends to be the more abundant shade.

Add a bit of bling Glittery items and metallics can add a touch of luxury to any space. A shiny table lamp, mirrors, a sparkling chandelier, and the like are easy ways to produce a high-end feel. Reflective surfaces also will cast light around the room, giving the illusion of a larger space.

Choose a big statement piece Many homeowners make the mistake of filling a room with several small pieces of furniture that only contribute to clutter. Instead, look for a statement piece, which can be a cabinet, armoire or chaise. Mix and match large and small elements for a sense of balance.

Accessorize Finish the room with accessories and flowers.

When placing and hanging knickknacks and wall art, odd-numbered groupings often look the most cohesive and interesting. Experiment with different scales and heights for even more dimension.

When inspiration hits, take some cues from interior design pros to make spaces look like they belong on the pages of your favorite magazines.

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The Choice for Staying Put or Moving On Many home improvement television series showcase people deciding whether to improve upon their current homes to make them into the houses of their dreams or to put “for sale” signs on their lawns and move on to something new.

The question of whether to move or stay put depends on various factors.

Such factors may include emotional attachment to a home, the current economic climate and the cost of real estate.

Current data points to a greater propensity for people to invest and improve upon their current properties rather than trading up for something new.

According to information collected by John Burns Real Estate Consulting, the percentage of homeowners moving up to their next home is the lowest in 25 years.

Many are opting to make starter homes permanent by expanding them and repairing homes for the long haul.

The National Association of Realtors said that, between 1987 and 2008, home buyers stayed in their homes an average of Many people now opt to stay in their homes and improve their propsix years before selling. Since 2010, howev- erties rather than move out.

er, NAR says the average expected length of time people will stay in their homes before selling is now 15 years.

Part of what’s fueling this permanency is that many home buyers were able to acquire rock-bottom mortgage interest rates shortly after the 2008 recession.

As a result, they’re not inclined to walk away from those rates, even if doing so means getting more house. Also, a low inventory of available houses has stymied repeat buying for many people.

Those factors and others have led many homeowners to invest in renovations instead. The experts say realistic budgeting and comparing renovation project costs against mortgages and interests rates can further help individuals decide whether to remain in their current homes or move out.

Very often a smarter layout and more efficient floor plan can make meaningful differences in spaces. Renovations and redesigns can make sense and often are less expensive and disruptive than moving.

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How to Store Firewood The Right Way A fireplace is a cozy and warm spot around which a family can gather.

Sixty percent of new homes have a fireplace, which is up from 36 percent in the 1970s.

Naturally, fueling a fireplace for the season may require homeowners with wood-burning units to keep an ample supply of wood at the ready. How that wood is stored is important, as properly stored firewood can prevent waste and other issues around the house.

Wood that is freshly cut has a water content of 60 percent or more. Yet, for best burning ability, wood should be near 20 percent in water content.

Green wood is hard to ignite and will not burn nearly as well or efficiently as seasoned wood. Another concern associated with green wood is that it can contribute more to creosote accumulation in the flue of a fireplace.

Creosote is a combustible material that may lead to fires if left unchecked.

Seasoning wood typically takes six months to a year. Homeowners may opt to purchase seasoned wood that already has sat and dried.

Homeowners who have an abundance of firewood have to store it somewhere. It is best to choose a dry, breezy area of the property that is about 20

feet from the nearest door to the house. This helps avoid hitchhiker pests from coming inside with the wood, such as termites, ants, spiders, and mice. Do not stack the wood flush against a structure. It should be at least a few inches away to allow airflow behind the stack.

Stick to organized rows of wood no more than four feet high. Log racks and pallets and posts will keep the wood up and off of the ground where moisture and rotting can develop. Placing the logs in an unorganized pile will impede air flow and cause the wood to rot rather than continue to dry and season even more.

Homeowners also should use a cover to protect seasoned firewood from the elements. Position a tarp or plastic sheeting so it blankets the top of the stack and extends a few inches down the sides. Keep the sides mostly exposed to air. Others prefer to stack it in a barn or shed or under an overhang.

Green wood is less expensive than seasoned wood. Those who prefer this method should do so in the early spring and let it season over the next several months.

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Transforming a Home… with Painted Surfaces

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper Photos courtesy Cat Magnant

44 | home | fall 2019

A

rtist Cat Magnant knows how to enhance any surface in the home, transforming it into something beautiful. This can be done with a variety of paints and finishes, but always, skill is a key element.

Luckily for the many clients who want something in their home transformed, Cat, who owns Distinctive Artistic Finishes in the Lakes Region, has the knowledge – and the creativity – to bring a homeowner’s dream to reality.

Cat does her work quietly and without fanfare (although she is a muralist, decorative and faux painting master) in homes all over the Lakes Region and beyond. “I have been painting for 25 years in the Lakes Region,” she says.

One of the techniques Cat uses to transform a variety of tired, beat up or outdated surfaces into new and fresh works of art is widely called faux painting, but Cat stresses that she is a decorative artist who can work in a variety of techniques to suit the client’s needs.

“I went to a progressive high school where we had a good art department. Later, when I wanted to learn about the kind of painting I do now, I studied with an artist in Kentucky in 2001 to learn decorative wall treatments.”

Formerly working in the health club industry, Cat eventually saw the work decline and decided it was time to focus more on creative pursuits, where she could use her artistic skills to earn a living.

The Kentucky artist Cat studied with taught her basic faux painting and introduced her to the products she uses today. Those products allow her to do such breathtaking techniques as hand painted wall paper effects. “I am good at matching up what is already there,” she explains.

The colors that are now trending, according to Cat, are neutral grays and silvers, for the clean, contemporary lines many customers want. “However,

Transforming a fireplace surround with faux stone work. Cat creates the stones in outline, then paints them with a stone look.

The finished product is beautiful and the true definition of faux painting. they don’t want a cold, contemporary look, but rather warmth in the paint all sorts of areas of a home into something beautiful. tones, and I have a range of materials I use to achieve that look.”

What exactly is faux painting? Cat says it is an often-misunderstood Cat uses the techniques on wood pieces, countertops, exterior foundapainting method. “Faux painting relates to things in nature, such as stone tions (where she can paint the foundation to look like stone), and metal or wood. It means to replicate something that occurs naturally. Everything doors where she matches the paint used on the metal to match the surelse is considered decorative painting.” rounding wood door frame, among other techniques she uses to transform For example, when Cat does faux granite work, she might be covering

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an exterior switch plate cover to match the stone foundation on which is sits. Or she might paint interior of house heat registers to match the granite backsplash or counters in a kitchen or bathroom.

“I love to help my clients achieve the desired feeling for their space. What I do is not just a look, but a feeling. I am a huge believer that less is more, and enhancing things is important. My goal is not to create the most standout work, but rather to create subtlety vs. shouting in my art.”

Lest one assume Cat only works for wealthy clients with large lakefront homes, she says that is not the case. She treats each client individually, yet her prices are set and firm. It does not matter, she stresses, if you live in a small house or a large home, because her prices are the same for everyone.

What was her most challenging, yet memorable job? “I had some Lakes Region clients with a beautiful home,” she recalls. “It took four months to do the job because I was hired to paint most of the rooms in an 18,000-square-foot home.”

The job was indeed extensive, but the joy for Cat was working with the clients to achieve something unique and beautiful in each room. The added bonus was getting to utilize the variety of painting techniques and finishes in which she specializes.

“I used glazing, faux and decorative painting on that job,” she remembers. “I did stenciling, marbling, and even repaired and painted damaged cabinets. We tackled the master bath and the kid’s rooms as well.”

With a smile, Cat adds, “I just love finding solutions to problems.”

When fixing problems and adding beauty in her unique way with various painting methods, Cat stresses that she uses proprietary products that allow her to create decorative finishes that are pleasing to her clients.

“Integrity is very important to me. To maintain that integrity, I keep on top of products and trends around the world,” she adds.

It seems that Cat can tackle any painting project, from faux work to a wall-sized mural to matching an existing surface in a home to fit some-

thing new.

Added to this, a new venture for Cat is canvas art. She explains that she is always changing and adapting in her artwork, using tints and colors that are proprietary. This adds a vibrancy and range to her portfolio.

“The contemporary products on the market in the decorative painting field have durability with no toxicity, which is very important,” she adds.

When meeting with a potential client, Cat brings her portfolio, which opens up a range of options for homes. She can show how she uses materials to create highly unusual and beautiful paints and patterns to make hand-painted wallpaper effects, for example. “When I meet with a client, I can get a better sense of what they want, what their tastes are and what their home is like.”

Any successful artist will tell you that being open to change is vital in their work, and so it is with Cat. “I would like to do custom wall art on canvas, such as the three-canvas mural I did for a homeowner.” It is a landscape triptych that brings a beautiful and peaceful lake scene and stunning birch trees into a wall space around the owner’s bed. This sort of work allows Cat to use her skills as a mural painter, with proprietary paints at her disposal. She would like to do more of this sort of work in the future.

Coming up next, she says she will be painting some elevator doors for a client that will blend with the barn board surrounding the elevator. And she has a mural project in the works.

Whether a client wants a faux marble finish painted on top of a dresser; wood painted to match up to an existing surface, faux stone painted to match a fireplace, stairs painted to match wood, or a mural to name just a few of the painting methods Cat uses, she loves to transform any space with something gorgeous that enhances the look of a home.

For further information, email Cathy Magnant at dafinishes@gmail. com.

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Tips on How to Propagate Houseplants from Cuttings

By Emma Erler Propagating houseplants can be one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of indoor gardening. Creating new plants from a parent plant is a quick way to grow a wide variety houseplants to share with friends or add to your current collection. Successfully propagating houseplants has everything to do with choosing an appropriate propagation method and selecting healthy plants to propagate from. Don’t attempt to propagate plants that are diseased or have overly thin or thick stems.

Before starting a propagation project, you’ll want to gather a few materials. The basics things you’ll need are a sterile soilless potting media mix, small planting containers with bottom drainage, sharp scissors or a knife, a pencil, and clear plastic bags. You may also want to pick up a container of rooting hormone powder. Most houseplants will grow new roots without a rooting hormone, but using one can speed rooting and increase the number of roots produced.

Many types of plants can be easily propagated through cuttings. Cutting is the process of rooting severed pieces of a parent plant, including stems, leaves, and roots. The advantages of this type of propagation are many.

Taking cuttings is quick and efficient, is the only way to preserve some unique cultivars, and is a great way to rejuvenate old or overgrown plants.

Tip cuttings are the easiest and most common type of cutting to make. To take a tip cutting, use a sharp pair of scissors or a knife to detach the termi-

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nal portion of a stem that has some leaves and at least two nodes. A node is a slightly swollen area where leaves and buds emerge from the stem, and also where new roots will grow from the cutting. To start the process, fill a small container with moistened potting mix and use a pencil to create a planting hole that is 1-3 inches deep. Next, take a tip cutting just below a node and remove the leaves on the lower half of the stem that will come into contact with the potting mix.

Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone (optional) and insert the end of the cutting in the planting hole. Make sure at least one node is beneath the soil surface, as that is where the roots will form. Place the cutting in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Coleus, pothos, ivy, and geraniums are often propagated in this manner.

Leaf cuttings can also be used to propagate a number of houseplants. It takes longer to create a new plant from a leaf than it does a stem section, but if you don’t have much plant material to work with, leaf cuttings can be a good choice. Leaves with petioles (leaf stalks), including those of African violet, peperomia, and begonia, should be cut so that ½ to 1½ inches of the petiole remains. The lower end of the petiole should be inserted in the soil mix in the same manner as tip cuttings. Plants with leaves that do not have petioles, such as sansevieria, jade, or other succulents, should be inserted vertically into the soil media. Once the new plant has its own roots and has started growing new leaves, the original leaf can be removed.

With the exception of succulents, most cuttings need high humidity in order to grow properly. Until cuttings develop roots, they are very susceptible to drying out. If you don’t have a bright area with high humidity, you can create a humid environment around the cutting by placing a clear plastic bag over it.

How long it takes a cutting to root depends entirely upon the species of plant you’re propagating and growing conditions. Expect the majority of houseplants to begin forming roots within two to four weeks, but don’t be alarmed if it takes a little longer. You can check on the progress of your cuttings by gently tugging on them periodically. When you feel resistance, you’ll know that roots are forming.

(From Ask UNH Extension, by knowledgeable staff and Master Gardners answering homeowner questions about gardening, landscaping,jk food preservation and more. Information is reprinted with permission of UNH Extension.)

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Septic Systems: it need not be a minefield out there

By Mark Okrant

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f you always have lived in the built-up portion of a city, your experience with septic systems is probably limited. However, for those who own or occupy houses away from town sewage lines, this is a pertinent topic. According to the American Housing Survey (2007), approximately 29 percent of all U.S. households rely upon septic tanks. The overwhelming majority of systems are located in rural (50%) and suburban (47%) areas.

Septic design and maintenance appear to be a very big business in much of the Lakes Region and other rural environs of New Hampshire. By asking Google for a list of septic system designers and service contractors in this state, a list of 66 businesses appears. And, chances are, this is only the tip of the dry well.

As someone with very limited familiarity with septic systems, my initial reaction upon receiving this writing assignment was to utter an all-tooobvious expletive. However, after taking a closer look, it became apparent that their installation necessitates a keen sense about local geography, household waste disposal habits, and civil engineering.

Septic systems are underground or above-ground units designed to gather, treat, and eliminate human waste and wastewater. According to a history prepared by longtime contractor Russ Lanoie, during earlier times, someone in a household dug a hole in the ground, lined it with rock, brick, or wood, and constructed an outhouse over it. When the hole was filled with waste, the digging and lining process was repeated, after which the outhouse was moved to that new location.

Once Thomas Crapper (no joke) perfected the flush toilet in the mid19th century, the device was moved indoors. This meant that human waste and wastewater needed someplace to go. So, a pipe was extended from the toilet to a pit, such as the one that served the outhouse. That pit, or cesspool, was covered with a heavy object to limit odors and prevent children and pets from falling into it.

Soon, a watertight steel tank called a septic tank was placed between

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the house and the cesspool. The purpose of the tank was to remove solid matter from the wastewater where it then could decompose. Wastewater, otherwise known as leach water, was discharged into a dry well where it became clarified.

The functionality of modern septic systems is influenced by a number of circumstances.

The amount of time it takes a dry well to become clogged is determined by the amount of human use, the soil conditions, and the age of the system. Ultimately, what dooms a septic system to failure is clogging of the pores in the discharge pipe and the soil.

Lanoie offers a trouble shooting guide on his website www.ruralhometech.com. The guide informs people what must be done to check the functionality of a septic system: 1) conduct a routine/periodic inspection, 2) determine whether the toilet is flushing poorly, 3) search for evidence of toilet and drain backup, and 4) look for odors or standing water on the ground where the dry well is located.

One great concern about septic systems has been their placement rela-

tive to underground water sources. A New Hampshire law requires the leaching portion of any septic system to be at least four feet above the seasonal high water table. Technology soon changed with the passage of this regulation: 1) corroding steel septic tanks were becoming prone to leakage over time; these were replaced by cement tanks; 2) because of limited capacities, dry wells were replaced by more extensive leach fields; 3) in places where conditions threaten fresh water quality, mounds and septic pumps have replaced flat fields; and 4) venting has been improved.

Most people are familiar with the term septic tank. These exist where buildings are not connected to a sewerage system. In modern systems, those underground chambers have a 1,000 to 2,000 gallon capacity, and are constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic.

Raw sewage flows from the house or building into the tank. Here, a combination of gravitational settling and action by microorganisms reduces the solids. Microorganisms function in an anaerobic bacterial environment,

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also known as “septic”. This stage provides very basic, or primary, treatment. In a properly functioning system, wastewater enters the tank, allows the solids to settle, where they are digested anaerobically. Meanwhile, the liquid flows through a dividing wall into a second chamber where further settlement takes place. The excess liquid, which is now clear, drains from the outlet into a septic drain field, also known as the leach field. To function properly, the soils in the leach field must be porous, but not too porous.

Remaining impurities in the leach water, or effluent, are eliminated through percolation (a form of natural filtering) into the soil. This is secondary level treatment. The remaining water is removed through a combination of evaporation, transpiration into plants’ root systems, and by entering the groundwater or surface water. To facilitate this, septic system designers lay out a piping network inside stone-filled trenches. Thus, wastewater is distributed throughout the leach field through small holes in the network.

The size of the drainage field is proportional to the volume of wastewater to be treated, and inversely proportional to the field’s porosity.

Waste that is not decomposed must eventually be removed from the septic tank. Failure to do so runs the risk of clogging the entire system. Before this happens, a property owner should contract with a vacuum truck to remove sludge from the tank. Factors that influence the frequency with which this must be done include tank volume-to-output ratio as well as the ambient temperature, which impacts anaerobic digestion. It is essential that some micro-biotic elements remain in the tank after vacuuming, to ensure that its decomposition properties continue to function.

What are some of the mistakes that home and business owners make?

Septic system specialists advise that property owners avoid disposal of cooking oils and other forms of grease that can block entry of wastewater into the tank. Other materials such as cigarette butts, condoms, and women’s hygiene products also may cause a tank to clog and fill rapidly. Next, food wastes such as table scraps should be placed in a trashcan, not flushed

down the toilet. Chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, household bleach, paints, water softeners, and solvents will negatively impact the anaerobic functioning of the septic tank.

Other environmental factors may impact the functionality of the septic system. Roots from trees and shrubs can damage the leach field or penetrate the tank. Pavement and various forms of vehicular or pedestrian traffic can be detrimental to the system’s efficiency. Also, excessive amounts of water, whether from a plumbing system or heavy rain and snowfall, may render the drain field inoperable.

By treating the septic system with a similar level of care as one would the family automobile, it should serve the household effectively for a number of decades. Failure to do so will result in a most unpleasant, and very expensive, experience, one that may necessitate tank replacement as well as excavating and replacing soil.

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603-569-5549 | www.BlueRidgeLandscapingInc.com home | fall 2019 | 51

The Charming Winery in the Woods

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

W

ith the continuing trend toward rustic and repurposed, the idea of visiting the former cottage of Virgil D. White was too much of an enticement to pass up. Add to this the location in a rural area of Tamworth, New Hampshire and a wonderful winery on premises, and it was the perfect recipe for a fun afternoon with my daughter who was home for a visit.

Who was Virgil White, you might ask and why would it matter to me?

Virgil, a local man, patented the snowmobile in 1917. He knew from living in northern New England that a motorized vehicle on skis would be a great help to those who had to travel during snowy winter weather. White owned the cottage, a modest sized structure that was just right for summers by the lake. I have always found his entrepreneurial spirit quite interesting.

Fast forward to years later, and Virgil’s former building found new life when it was moved from Ossipee Lake to Tamworth. It was the decision of Yvonne Staples, who wanted to save the structure, realizing the charm of the little cottage. She had the building moved to her property on Turkey Street in Tamworth. Although many upgrades have been made to the former cottage, it retains its original rustic charm.

Turning the cottage into a wine tasting room and winery was the perfect solution for bringing the old building to life once again as Whippletree Winery. It is a popular place and customers stop in for a bottle of wine or to place a larger order. Groups arrive for a fun wine tasting and can sit at the wine bar or take seats around a variety of antique tables in the cozy space.

My daughter Megan, and her friends love to take wine tours all over New England; thus, she has some experience in wine tasting treks. She was very interested in visiting Whippletree Winery and we decided a sunny late August day would find the winery open … and probably not too busy given it was a Thursday afternoon.

(Turns out we were mistaken; Whippletree Winery is popular and the bar area was nearly full of those who were sampling wines and learning from

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Hebron

Luxurious home with spectacular panoramic views of Newfound Lake and the White Mountains. Well laid out chef’s kitchen opens to the natural flow of the dining and Great Room featuring a marble gas fireplace, cathedral ceilings and one of the largest window seats to sit and enjoy. The oversized sliders frame in the views and lead to the wrap around deck and 4-season sunroom. On the main level there are 2 bedrooms, a full bath and laundry room. Upstairs is the master suite with balcony, cathedral ceilings, walk-in closet, ¾ bath and a loft. Lower level offers a family room with fieldstone fireplace, entertainment room with wet bar, a game room and 5-person spa room. All 3 levels have radiant floor heating and views from almost every room in the house. On this level there is a unique underground tunnel that leads to the 3-car garage with home office/studio with 3 rooms, storage, central air and heat.

MLS # 4753423 Offered at $839,900

52 | home | fall 2019

Hebron

East facing custom designed home with 3 bedrooms and 3 baths has been thoughtfully cared for and situated on a 5+/- acre lot to feature the expansive views from all three levels and to experience the display of the sun rising over pristine Newfound Lake. Spacious living room has a wood burning fireplace and the French doors open to a large deck.

A center island in the kitchen with granite countertops, gas cooktop stove connects to one side of a formal dining room and the other to a breakfast nook. First-floor master suite has cathedral ceilings overlooking the lake, large walk-in closet and a bath with tiled walk-in shower, double vanity, and soaking tub. Upstairs you will find another bedroom, full bath and open loft den. Lower walk-out level features a family room with woodstove, a bedroom and a workshop, utility room and an office/ sewing room for hobbies and storage. Over-sized attached 2 car garage, shed and a paved driveway with plenty of parking pulls this house all together.

MLS# 4742697 Offered at $609,900

Holderness

Access to Squam Lake and ultimate privacy await you at this well cared for property. Deeded rights to Bennett Brook provide the perfect put in for your kayak, canoe and SUP! Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature on this very private 4 + acre lot. Recent renovations include gourmet kitchen, wooden flooring, bathrooms and heating system. Large walkout basement provides ample storage or more finished space. Detached barn for boat storage and gardening tools. Moments to some of the area’s best hiking trails at Rattlesnake and Five Finger Point.

MLS# 4760270 Offered at $499,900

Yvonne, and an assistant, about each variety and the process involved in making each wine.)

At the property, we parked near the winery building. Signage directed us to the wine tasting area via a set of outside steps that led to a charming screened porch. Because it was still summertime when we visited, I found the porch to be a relaxing spot – guests can enjoy a wine tasting on the porch or indoors.

I very much wanted to see the wine tasting room and interior of the building because I have written about Virgil White in the past and it would be quite a treat to see his former cottage; thus we chose to sit inside.

We entered a room full of rustic charm with warm mood lighting, old posters and mismatched tables and chairs, an eclectic style that appeals given the history of the building and the rural location. Choosing seats at a charming little table for two, we settled in for a great wine tasting adventure.

Co-owner Yvonne greeted us and invited us to take seats. She also mentioned she would stop by to chat and that Whippletree’s other owner, Lauren Barrett, was off site doing a wine sampling at Moulton Farm in Meredith on that particular day. In the meantime, we were invited to read the wine tasting menu card on the table and choose five wines for the sampling. I am not a wine expert by any means, but I have somewhat of an idea what I like. Red wine? No thank you! Rose or white are more pleasing to me. But that was about to change on this fun wine adventure.

We discussed the wines, of which there were many. The menu told us the wines, all made by Yvonne and Lauren on premises, were offered by category. There were white wines, rose, red wines, fruit forward wines and specialty wines. Admittedly, they all seemed like they would be delicious, and it was difficult to choose. Yvonne was helpful and answered our questions and made suggestions.

In the white wine category, Megan chose Tropical White, a Sauvignon

Blanc that is tropically infused with fresh pineapple. In the rose category, her choice was Aloha, with notes of pineapple and pink melon. The menu card told us this was a perfect island wine and indeed, after tasting it, I could easily imagine sipping this wine while lounging on a Caribbean isle.

She opted for Peach Apricot Chardonnay in the fruit forward wine category, as well as Blueberry Pinot Noir, a seasonal wine. In the red wine list, she chose the Fall Sangria, a subtle blend of orange sweetness that can be enjoyed chilled or warm.

The server was very helpful when it came my turn to choose. As mentioned, I am not a wine connoisseur but between Megan’s suggestions and those of our server, I made my choices. On my list was a Riesling in the white wine category; Orchard Rose in the rose category; a Strawberry Blush Rose, and in the fruit forward section, I chose Pear Riesling. My final choice turned out to surprisingly be my favorite, Coco Noir, a specialty dessert wine in the red wine category.

Then we sat back and enjoyed the charm of our surroundings while we waited for our first wine samples.

The décor of the little cottage turned winery is delightful. Wide wooden blinds cover the windows and can be raised or lowered to the time of day. The blinds add to the rustic appeal of the space, and blend well with the variety of furnishings.

The walls are original wood and white washed for a distressed look. Corner shelves are decorated with old-time radios and there is even a fan that looks

(603) 279-4045 haywardandcompany.com home | fall 2019 | 53

like it could have cooled a home or office in the Bonnie and Clyde era! One never knows what antique tools, posters and vintage décor will be spotted on the walls, the tables or the shelves at Whippletree Winery but it is all part of the charm of this special place. (I should mention that each table had a vase full of fresh flowers that only added to the country atmosphere as we waited for our first samples.)

Soon, our first samples arrived, and Megan was thrilled with the Aloha, which was not too sweet but had a definite tropical taste. The Tropical White was also a winner, but her favorite turned out to be the Peach Apricot Chardonnay (a 2017 Medal Winner for Whippletree Winery). The Blueberry Pinot Noir was a nice seasonal wine, and the Fall Sangria with its slight orange sweetness was another favorite.

Out of my choices, I never would have guessed I would like a red wine.

To me, any red wine has a vinegary, heavy flavor which I cannot say I find appealing in a drink. But the CoCo Noir, while in the red wine category, was not heavy and there was definitely no vinegar flavor to it!

Yvonne took time out of serving at the bar to chat with us. Of course, I had many questions, but first and foremost I wanted to know how two women (Yvonne and Lauren) came to run a successful winery in the woods of Tamworth, New Hampshire.

Explaining that she formerly owned and operated a wine franchise business in a neighboring town, Yvonne knew how to make wine. When she moved on from that business, she was still very interested in wine making.

Having met Lauren, a former customer in the wine shop, the two women formed a friendship that lasted over the years. They decided to pursue wine making, with Lauren also designing the wine labels.

“We needed a tasting room,” Yvonne explained. “I had the cottage moved here and renovated and it was the perfect place for our winery.”

She went on to say that a lot of experimenting goes into creating a great wine, but that is part of the fun of the business. Both Lauren and Yvonne work on wine making and bottling the varieties on premises.

Lauren’s background in operations and marketing has come in very handy at Whippletree Winery. She has been able to develop branding for the wines. She said later in a phone interview, “I retired from UConn where I was Operations Manager for the Division of Public Safety.” She went on

to explain that “we have expanded into commercial sales and we now are selling Mountain Bear in the NH State Liquor stores.”

It seems Whippletree is busy yearround and customers can purchase wine by the bottle or place larger orders to suit individual needs.

After our wine tasting, Yvonne showed us the area where wines are on display for customers, and it is as unusual and rustic as the building itself.

“There was a huge chicken farm near here,” she said, “and we got chicken nesting boxes from the farm. They are perfect for displaying a variety of wines.”

Groups are welcome for wine tastings at Whippletree Winery and often, bachelorette parties or special groups or clubs make their way to the winery for a fun time of wine sampling and learning all about the many wines available.

Whippletree Winery’s tasting room is open from Memorial Day to Christmas, with occasional winter and off-season events, such as a February wine and cupcake weekend, which is very popular.

Yvonne added that should a group wish to have a wine tasting in the offseason, it can be arranged by calling to schedule a time. Special events also are offered and I could not think of a more fun and unusual activity for a bachelorette party, birthday or anniversary gathering, a holiday party or a club seeking a memorable cabin fever reliever.

As our wine tasting visit came to an end, Megan and I purchased a bottle of wine each. I chose the CoCo Noir and she decided on the Peach Apricot Chardonnay. (I am saving my wine for a cold autumn or winter’s evening when a wonderful glass of wine will warm and satisfy.)

Before we left, I asked what future plans might be in store for Whippletree Winery. Yvonne said they will be adding another room to the winery, hopefully by the Christmas season. Expansion seems to be in the air, and it is because of the great wines, and the setting of the little rustic winery in the woods.

I like to think that Virgil White, himself an entrepreneur and the former owner of the building, would be pleased.

For specific hours and information, call Whippletree Winery at 603323-7119 or visit www.whippletreewinery.com. The winery is located at 372 Turkey Street in Tamworth, New Hampshire.

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Persistent, Continuous, Clean 56 | home | fall 2019

Time to replace old wiring?

Old homes can be charming and contain architectural elements not often seen in many modern housing developments. But what older homes may have in design appeal, they sometimes lack in updated features.

While cosmetic changes are not necessarily difficult, one area of concern in historic homes — and sometimes even in houses built 40 or 50 years ago — is archaic wiring. Wiring provides power to every room of the home.

In today’s electronics-driven society, electricity that works is an essential component of daily life.

Over time, wiring can be compromised through simple aging, pest infiltration, weather, or other conditions. Deteriorated wiring can present a shock hazard and also a serious fire hazard, warn home renovation experts and electricians. Furthermore, the amperage of old wiring may not be able to meet the needs of the devices used in homes — overpowering the circuits. This can cause breaker blowouts and other problems, such as overheated wires that may spark and cause fires from within the wall.

Wiring often falls into the “out of sight, out of mind” category. Homeowners may make allowances for inadequate electrical systems, such as running extension cords or using multi-plug connec-

tors to increase wiring capacity. However, they may not be diligently keeping on top of upgrades needed to stay safe.

Confirming that a home’s electrical system is safe is a necessary part of home maintenance.

For those who haven’t already done so, schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician to go over the home’s wiring. The electrician can determine if any areas pose a safety risk and/or do not conform to local code requirements and the National Electrical Code. Failure to meet code can lead to difficulty obtaining permits to make other home renovations, or difficulty selling a home later on.

The electrician can also go over improvements that can improve safety and function. Additional outlets, including GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, may be part of the plan, as well as rewiring a fuse box or circuit panel to allow for better flow of power around the house. Frayed wiring or under-insulated wiring also may need to be replaced.

Owners of old homes should recognize possible electrical system dangers that require attention.

Plus, considering electrical codes change quite frequently, it is always in a homeowner’s best interest to work with a qualified electrician to keep wiring inspected and up to date.

home | fall 2019 | 57

The 2019 Lakes Region Parade of Homes – A Realtor’s Point of View and pretend that

By Roy Sanborn I actually own As a real estate agent in the Lakes this little slice of paradise. Of course, Region of NH, I get to see a lot of an hour or so later I head back to my really spectacular own infinitely more properties, and, being honest, I see a few modest abode and try to be thankful that are, well…not so nice. One of the fringe for what I have.

But I can dream, benefits of my job is showing a beautifully right?

In part, that’s done lakefront what the Annual property on a sunny Parade of Homes in summer’s day and the Lakes Region is having your client run all about: Dreams! a half hour late. That It is about your means I can hang out new dream home, in a fabulous kitchen, The 2018 People’s Choice Winner (as voted by the Parade visitors) was that new kitchen, or a on the deck, or down by Home Comfort Retreat. Photo by TurchonPhoto.com fantastic game room the water at a property

58 | home | fall 2019

remodel that you want to have done this year or next. It is also all about seeing really beautiful homes. This year there are 11 newly constructed or remodeled properties on the Parade of Homes tour.

The annual self-guided tour is run by the Lakes Region Builders and Remodelers Association, which is a non-profit, professional trade association and part of the National Association of Home Builders. The Parade of Homes features only the very best builders in the Lakes Region and showcases their finest work during a three-day, self-guided tour on Columbus Day Weekend, October 12, 13, and 14 from 10 am to 4 pm daily.

These properties can provide you with ideas and inspiration for your next home or project. Or, maybe just feed your dream?

Yes, you can look at books, you can watch HGTV, and you can browse through houses on the internet, but the Annual Lakes Region Parade of Homes is the best way to actually see the latest in building trends, designs, products, and materials for yourself. Seeing these properties in person is absolutely the best way to get the real picture! With homes ranging from 3,000 to almost 10,000 square feet of living space on display, there will be no disappointments on this tour.

At the Lakes Region Parade of Homes, you can talk to premiere builders of the homes about their work, as well as many of the suppliers that provided the materials that went into these houses. You will get a firsthand look at what it took to create some of the finest homes in the area.

These guys are the experts and they like to share, so don’t be afraid to ask questions! Many past attendees have ended up working with builders that were featured to build their own dream home or have purchased products they found on this tour.

To guide you as you drive to each home on the tour, you can download the Parade Craze App from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. It has pictures of all the houses, information about the builders, and directions to get you to all the homes. Of course, there are paper maps available in case you don’t have a Smart Phone. Please visit lakesregionparadeofhomes.com to get all the details.

The cost to go on the tour is just $20 per person, with children under 18 free! The proceeds from the ticket sales go directly back into workforce development, inspiring the next generation of building trade professionals. Tickets can be purchased about a week before the event. You can get tickets on the Interactive Parade Craze App or at the first house you choose to visit on the tour. You will also receive a comprehensive Parade Guidebook.

Don’t forget to vote for your favorite home to help determine the People’s Choice favorite and for a chance to win prizes. Wear some comfortable shoes and prepare to be amazed…and to dream!

(Roy Sanborn is a member of Lakes Region Builders &

Remodelers Association and a realtor for Four Seasons Sotheby’s International Realty and owner of Distinctive Homes Group.)

(The Lakes Region Builders and Remodelers Association is a trade association representing businesses involved in the residential construction and remodeling industry.

Members include home builders, remodelers, mortgage lenders, building material suppliers, subcontractors and numerous other trade professionals. To learn more, visit lakesregionbuilders.com.)

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home | fall 2019 | 59

IdeasEvents & Inspiration Calendar September

Sept. 30-Oct. 25, Hooked Rug Exhibit, original designs/hooked rugs by Kathi Hopper, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, free admission, info: 524-8813.

October

Oct. 1-3, Three-day Plein Air Watercolor Painting Workshop, taught by J.P. Goodwin, 9 am-4 pm, Art Works, Rt. 16, White Mt. Highway, Chocorua, pre-register: 323-8041.

Oct. 5, Harvest Festival, 10 am-3 pm, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 652-7840.

Oct. 5-6, Annual Quilt Show, hosted by Belknap Mill Quilter’s Guild of Laconia, 42nd annual show, vendors, boutiques, Harvest Café, raffles, with traveling exhibit: “From Lobstah to Green Monster: What’s Best About New England” on loan from NE Quilt Museum, 10/5: 10 am-5 pm; 10/6: 11 am-4 pm, Gilford Community Center, 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, 524-6057.

Oct. 5-6, 21st Autumn Craft Festival, Sat.: 10 am-6 pm; Sun.: 10 am-4 pm, Mill Falls Marketplace, Rt. 3, Meredith, free admission, held rain or shine, under tents, Castleberry Fairs, www.castleberryfairs.com.

Oct. 11-13, Natural Dyes Part I: Indigo and Shibori, 9 am-4 pm, taught by Sara Goodman, Sandwich Home Industries/Sandwich Fine Craft Gallery, 32 Main St., Center Sandwich, 284-6831.

Oct. 12, Spindle Spinning, 10 am-4 pm, turn sheep’s fleece into beautiful and useful yarn. Spindle spinning gives the fiber artist maximum control over the kind of yarn that is produced. It is a mindful and relaxing technique that creates a warm, practical, and satisfying product. A spindle and fiber is provided for each participant to keep, Prescott Farm, White Oaks Rd., Laconia, 366-5695 to pre-register, www.prescottfarm.org.

Oct. 12-14, Lakes Region Home Builders Parade of Homes, self-guided tour of superior homes/designs, 10 am-4 pm, ticket $20 p/p good all weekend, 387-1817.

Oct. 12-14, Sandwich Fair, old-time country fair, concessions, games, rides, food, farm animals, live music, garden displays, prizes and much more. Info: 284-7062, fairgrounds located on Wentworth Hill Rd., Center Sandwich, www.thesandwichfair. org.

Oct. 12-14, 23rd Annual Lincoln Fall Craft Festival, Castleberry Fairs, takes place at village shops and on the town green, Sat & Sun.: 10 am-5 pm; Mon.: 10 am-4 pm, www.castleberryfairs.com.

Oct. 15, Open Air Landscape Art, 1-3 pm, for all skill levels, beginners welcome, Castle in the Clouds, Rt. 171, Moultonboro, register/info: 476-5900.

G e n e r a l Co n t r ac t i n g R e n ovat i o n s I n n ovat i o n Co m m e r c i a l C u s to m H o m e S i d i n g R e s i d e n t i a l R o o f i n g Q ua l i t y F r a m i n g G e n e r a l Co n t r ac t i n g 60 | home | fall 2019

Oct. 18-19, NH Pumpkin Festival, hundreds of pumpkins decorate downtown Laconia, music, food, games, demos and more, www.nhpumpkinfestival.com.

Oct. 19, Butter and Cheese, Farmhouse Kitchen Series, 1-3 pm, learn to make your own butter using a variety of techniques, as well as a simple farmer’s cheese flavored with herbs from the garden, and last but not least – mozzarella, Prescott Farm, White Oaks Rd., Laconia, 366-5695 to pre-register, www.prescottfarm.org Oct. 19-20, Leaf Peepers Craft Fair, 10 am-4 pm, N. Conway Community Center, 78 Norcross Circle, Rt.16, N. Conway, over 80 exhibitors, www.joycescraftshows.com.

Oct. 26, Haunted Barn and Wagon Ride, 5-9 pm, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 652-7840.

Oct. 31, Feasting with Your Instant Pot, cooking class by Liz Barbour, instant pot craze is here, demo takes the mystery out of this cooking method, 10:30 am, Moultonboro Public Library, 4 Holland St., Moultonboro, 476-8895

November

Nov. 2, Rochester Shop ’til You Drop Craft Fair, 9 am-2 pm, Rochester Community Center, over 50 exhibit booths featuring leatherwork, jewelry, clothing, quilts, knitting, photos and much more, 150 Wakefield St., Rochester.

Nov. 2 & 9, Shaker Chair in a Box, 9 am-5 pm, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, info/register: 783-9511, www.shakers.org.

Nov. 9, Cordials and Chocolate, 10 am-noon, learn to make candy the Shaker way, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, info/register: 783-9511, www.shakers.org.

Nov. 9, Soapmaking for the Holidays, make your own homemade soap to give as holiday gifts! Choose from gingerbread, pine or peppermint scents. You’ll go home

with about 10 bars for yourself or to give as impressive holiday gifts to your family and friends, Prescott Farm, White Oaks Rd., Laconia, 366-5695 to pre-register, www. prescottfarm.org.

Nov. 12, Christmas Ornament Class, 6-8:30 pm, Mumandi Studio, Brown Hill Rd., N. Sandwich, pre-register/info: mumandiglass@aol.com, 944-0018.

Nov. 16, Heartfelt and Homemade Holiday Gifts, 10 am-noon, do you miss the true spirit of the winter holidays? Bring back the meaning of the heartfelt gift by creating simple yet elegant herbal gifts that people will love! In this workshop you will make herbal spa items to pamper, tasty herbal treats, and even a gift for your feathered friends. Come share the fun and warmth of the holidays and take home herbal gift samples for yourself! Prescott Farm, White Oaks Rd, Laconia, 366-5695 to pre-register, www.prescottfarm.org.

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603.528.2798 home | fall 2019 | 61

Nov. 16, Plymouth Holiday Craft Fair, 9 am-3 pm, artisans and craftsmen exhibiting and selling their works in pottery, jewelry, clothing, quilts, paintings, wooden furnishings, ceramics, felting, jam, jellies, baked goods, honey, fudge and more. Come shop unique NH made hand crafted gifts for the holiday gifting season. Plymouth Regional High School, 86 Old Ward Bridge Rd., Plymouth.

Nov. 19, Shaker Oval Box Making, 9 am-4:30 pm, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, info/register: 783-9511, www.shakers.org.

Nov. 23, 1863 Thanksgiving, 10 am-3 pm, NH Farm Museum, 1305 White Mt. Highway, Milton, 652-7840.

Nov. 23, Shaker Broom Making, 9:30 am-3:30 pm, Canterbury Shaker Village, Shaker Rd., Canterbury, info/register: 783-9511, www.shakers.org.

complimentary slice of Scandinavian Almond Cake, Betty Schneider’s Scandinavian Baking, Rt. 113 East, 12 Deer Hill Road, Chocorua, 323-2021.

Forgotten Arts: Fiber Arts Group, every other Tues., 9:30 am-noon. Fiber artists and/or interested onlookers welcome to join Happy Weavers & Friends group to learn the historic art of weaving, spinning, sewing, quilting, and more. Bring a project to work on, if desired. Group meets monthly every other Tues. at Remick Museum & Farm, Tamworth Village. Free. (Does not include Museum admission.) 323-7591.

Lakes Region Fiber Artists and Crafters, Wednesdays, 10am-Noon drop-in fiber arts group, work on rug hooking, needlecrafts, knitting, etc., Gilford Public Library, 31 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, 524-6042.

Lucknow Revealed, Castle in the Clouds Gallery Exhibit, through Oct. 27, 2019, Castle Carriage House, Castle in the Clouds, Rt. 171, Moultonboro, 476-5900, castleintheclouds.org.

Nov. 23-24, Lakes Region Holiday Craft Fair, Belknap Mill, 96 DW Highway, Belmont, (Sat.: 10 am-4 pm; Sunday: 10 am-3 pm), www.joycescraftshows.com.

Lunch Box to Paint Box, noon-1 pm, first Wed. of each month, bring your own lunch and watch an art painting demo by artist in residence Larry Frates, Belknap Mill, 25 Beacon St. East, Laconia, free, 524-8813.

Ongoing

Open Studio, 10 am-noon, Mondays, drop-in painting group, open to public age 18 and up, beginner to advanced welcome, free, no instruction, bring your own supplies, Lakes Region Art Assoc., Tilton Rd., Tanger Outlet Mall, Tilton, info: 9912137.

Fiber Gatherings, Wednesdays, 7-9 pm, Community Room, Samuel Wentworth Library, Sandwich. Knitting, crocheting, spinning, weaving, needle felting, embroidery, crewel, rug hooking, quilting, sewing, 284-7168.

FIKA, every Saturday from noon to 1 pm, experience the custom of FIKA, with a

Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm, Tamworth, daily tours and chores, visit the gardens, see the farm animals, tours of the buildings, special events, 323-7591, www.remickmuseum.org.

New Homes • Remodeling • Additions Lakes Region _____________

LLC.

“A home is more than blueprints and building materials- It's the backdrop for your family's most treasured moments.

These beliefs are at the heart of each one of the homes we build or renovate.”

603.539.3412 • ridgelinebuildersnh.com 62 | home | fall 2019

Family Owned and Operated Since 2005

Headwall construction is committed to providing the highest level of quality at a fair price.

603.569.6971 | www.headwallconstruction.com home | fall 2019 | 63

We Specialize in Furnishing Lakeside and Mountain Homes

W

e offer a 40,000 sq. ft. showroom with multiple oors to explore & seemingly miles of exquisite displays and design elegance. Our layout of furniture & accessories is always changing so there's something new to see every time! If something is not where you last saw it, feel free to ask anyone.

We are glad to help. Green Mountain Furniture offers not just a place to buy furniture, but a place to experience and enjoy while you shop and decide how to furnish your home.

...more than meets the eye

64 | home | fall 2019

1050 Route 16 | Ossipee, NH 603.539.2236 | 800-756-0462 greenmountainfurniture.com