When: Saturday, April 6 from 4-6PM

Where: 147 Main Street, Sharon, CT, 06069 

“The places in which any significant event occurred become embedded with some of that emotion and so to recover the memory of the place is to recover the emotion, and sometimes to revisit the place uncovers the emotion. Every love has its landscape. This place, which is always spoken of as though it only counts when you’re present, possesses you in its absence, takes on another life as a sense of place, a summoning in the imagination with all the atmospheric effect and association of powerful emotion. The places inside matter as much as the ones outside.” – A Field Guide to Getting Lost by Rebecca Solni

I remember seeing a photograph of Katherine’s a decade ago. It was of her hometown in Rochester, NY. During this time I was spending most of my money traveling to different places in upstate New York each weekend. I couldn’t get enough. It was as if Katherine was one of the first to capture the feeling of this land for me. Each photograph made me ache. Every landscape has a spirit. Years later I met Kyle and that very day we found ourselves in his home studio. My eyes darted to a painting of a blue deer that seemed to have its origins in longing, or what Solnit refers to as “the blue of distance.” I had never encountered an almost completely monochromatic painting that had such an effect on me. Informally, the term “blue” comes from an old English word for melancholy or sadness. Katherine and Kyle are lovers. Their love feels rooted. Almost familial. Uncomplicated, organic, and charged by each season. Recently, Katherine and I stood on her porch on a Sunday morning. Kyle had just left for his studio, now down the road. It was March. We gazed over the rolling hills and spoke of the concept of home. Later Katherine picked catnip from her yard for me to bring to my cat Benny. Benny passed away the next day, and that very catnip was the land within her as she left this physical plane. Every love has its landscape. “It is that the joy that comes from other people, always risks sadness, because even when love doesn’t fail, mortality enters in.” Katherine and Kyle are among the select few who make art for art’s sake. And the even fewer that are extraordinarily good at it. The exhibition invites viewers to consider these places both psychic states and geographical sites. Our landscapes somehow stabilize our grief. Katherine’s photographs and Kyle’s paintings embody this concept. Of course, to be able to carry within a spirit of a place is also lucky; “Even nostalgia and homesickness are privileges not granted to everyone” -Emily McElwreath

Kyle Nilan (b. 1986, Boston, MA) is an artist working in Livingston, NY. He received an MFA in sculpture from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and a BFA in printmaking from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. In 2019 he was an Artist in Residence at the Wassaic Project in Wassaic, NY. His work was recently included in an exhibition, Night Vision, at the Warner Gallery at Millbrook School in Millbrook, NY.

Katherine March Driscoll (b. 1986, Rochester, NY) is a photographer and archivist working in Germantown, NY. She received an MFA in Imaging Arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology, and a BFA in photography and ceramics from the NYSCC at Alfred University. In 2014 she was an Artist in Residence and Education Fellow at the Wassaic Project in Wassaic, NY, and in 2021, she was an Artist in Residence at Stoveworks in Chattanooga, TN, where she self-published an edition of handmade books. Her work was recently included in an exhibition, T(HERE), at CREATE Council on the Arts in Catskill, NY. She is currently a Lecturer in Creative Arts at Siena College.

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As storm season approaches each year, homeowners must take steps to prepare their homes for the potential onslaught of severe weather. Ensuring your home is storm-ready can prevent significant damage and protect your family during intense storms. This is especially true for regions prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, where preparation is not just recommended but essential.

In Tampa, the importance of storm preparation is particularly pronounced. Known for its beautiful weather, Tampa also experiences intense storm seasons due to its location. The city faces severe weather, especially during hurricane season from June to November​​. Preparing your home for storm season is crucial to ensure safety and minimize damage. This article will guide you through essential steps to protect your home and family during storm season.

1. Inspect and Repair Your Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against storms. A strong, well-maintained roof can prevent significant damage during severe weather. To ensure your roof is ready for storm season, regular inspections and timely repairs are essential.

Start by inspecting your roof for any visible damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, signs of leaks, and weak spots. Pay attention to the flashing around chimneys and vents, as these areas are particularly vulnerable. Rather than inspecting the roof yourself, consider hiring a professional.

A trusted Tampa Roofing Company can offer expert services to ensure your roof can withstand storm conditions. With extensive experience dealing with Tampa’s storm-related roofing needs, they can provide detailed assessments and high-quality repairs or replacements. Regular maintenance from professionals can significantly extend the life of your roof and enhance its ability to protect your home.

Moreover, after each storm, check your roof for new damage and address it promptly to avoid further issues.

2. Secure Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are vulnerable points in your home during a storm. High winds and flying debris can break windows, allowing rain and wind to enter your home, causing significant damage.

To secure your windows, consider installing storm shutters. These can be permanently installed and closed when a storm is approaching. For a more temporary solution, you can use plywood coverings. Measure and cut the plywood in advance so you can quickly put it in place when needed. Make sure the plywood is at least 5/8 inch thick and secured with heavy-duty screws.

Reinforcing your doors is also important. Ensure all exterior doors have at least three hinges and a deadbolt lock with a bolt at least one inch long. For sliding glass doors, consider installing a sliding bolt or a security bar to prevent the door from being lifted off its track. 

Weather stripping around windows and doors can also help seal gaps and prevent wind and water from entering your home. Regularly check and replace worn weather stripping to maintain a good seal.

3. Maintain Your Landscape

Your landscape can become a significant hazard during a storm if not properly maintained. Trees can fall, and loose items can become projectiles, causing damage to your home and property.

Start by inspecting the trees around your home. Look for dead or weak branches that could break off during a storm. Trim these branches and consider removing any trees that are too close to your home or show signs of disease or instability.

Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could be blown away by strong winds. Store loose items in a garage or shed or anchor them securely. This includes garden tools, toys, and decorations.

Proper drainage is also crucial to prevent flooding. Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so water can flow freely away from your home. Check the grading around your home to make sure water flows away from the foundation. If necessary, re-grade the area or install a drainage system to direct water away from your home.

4. Check and Seal Vulnerable Areas

Water can enter your home through gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and utility lines. Sealing these vulnerable areas can prevent water damage and improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Start by checking for gaps around windows and doors. Use caulk to seal small cracks and gaps and weather stripping to improve the seal around doors and windows. For larger gaps, consider using expandable foam insulation.

Inspect areas where utility lines enter your home, such as gas, water, and electrical lines. Seal any gaps with caulk or expandable foam to prevent water from entering. Pay special attention to areas where cables and pipes penetrate walls, as these are common entry points for water.

Basements and crawl spaces are also susceptible to water intrusion. Check for cracks in the foundation and seal them with appropriate materials. Consider installing a sump pump in your basement to remove any water that accumulates during heavy rain.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for ensuring your family’s safety during a storm. Your kit should include enough supplies to last at least 72 hours, as it may take time for emergency services to reach you.

In addition to the basics like water and food, also include items like flashlights, extra batteries, and a weather radio to stay informed about storm conditions. Keep important documents, such as identification, insurance papers, and medical records, in a waterproof container. Don’t forget supplies for pets, such as food, water, and any medications they may need.

Store your emergency kit in a designated, easily accessible location. Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and what it contains. Regularly check and update your kit to ensure all items are in good condition and have not expired.

Conclusion

Preparing your home for storm season is essential to protect your property and ensure your family’s safety. By inspecting and repairing your roof, securing windows and doors, maintaining your landscape, sealing vulnerable areas, and preparing an emergency kit, you can minimize the risks and impacts of severe weather.

Taking proactive steps now can save lives and reduce property damage when a storm hits. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start preparing today to ensure your home and family are ready for storm season. With these preparations, you can face storm season with confidence, knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your home and loved ones.

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In Rockville, MD, residents often turn to savvy interior design strategies to overcome the challenge of limited living space. By maximizing the potential of their existing spaces, they not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of their homes but also boost functionality and comfort. Employing techniques such as smart storage solutions, strategic furniture placement, and the use of light and color, homeowners can create the illusion of more space without the need for extensive renovations. These methods prove that with a little creativity and thoughtful planning, it’s possible to transform cramped rooms into open areas. This article discusses eight tips to help you achieve a more spacious and inviting home, demonstrating how interior design can effectively expand your living space.

1. Embrace Natural Light

Harnessing natural light can dramatically transform the perception of space within a home. It has the power to make rooms feel larger, brighter, and more open. To harness this natural resource, focus on maximizing light entry through windows. Opt for light-colored or sheer curtains that allow sunlight to infuse the space. Mirrors strategically placed opposite windows can double the amount of perceived space by reflecting light, adding depth and dimension to any room. The brighter a room, the more open it feels, making this an essential first step in transforming your space.

2. Declutter and Organize

Rooms cluttered with items that are rarely used can significantly diminish both the physical space and the overall ambiance of your home. Begin by sorting through your belongings and setting aside those items that no longer have a place in your daily life. For those items that hold sentimental value or are of considerable worth but are not in everyday use, consider moving them to a self-storage unit or a friend’s garage temporarily. In Rockville, there’s no shortage of local movers capable of facilitating this transition smoothly. Hiring reputable Rockville movers can ensure that your belongings are transported safely to a storage facility, making your journey towards a more organized and spacious living environment as seamless as possible.

3. Choose the Right Colors

The color palette of your home plays a crucial role in shaping its overall feel. Light and neutral colors like whites, beiges, and pale grays have the unique ability to make walls seem to recede, creating an optical illusion of more space. By painting walls and ceilings in these shades, you can instantly brighten and open up a room. This color strategy is particularly effective in smaller spaces, where dark or bold colors might overwhelm and make the area feel enclosed.

4. Smart Lighting Solutions

Lighting plays a pivotal role in defining the atmosphere of any room. A well-lit space feels larger and more inviting, eliminating shadows that can enclose and diminish a room’s perceived size. Incorporating a mix of overhead lighting, floor lamps, and task lighting ensures that every corner is adequately illuminated. This layered lighting approach not only enhances functionality but also adds depth and dimension, making spaces feel open and welcoming at any time of day.

5. Embrace Vertical Space

Utilizing the often-overlooked vertical space within a room can dramatically alter its perception, making ceilings appear higher and rooms larger. By employing tall shelving units, you not only gain storage space but also draw the eye upwards, creating a sense of height. Hanging plants can add a touch of nature and vibrancy, while artwork positioned slightly above eye level extends the wall’s visual field. This approach is particularly effective in smaller rooms, where floor space is at a premium, offering a creative way to enhance the room’s dimensions without adding clutter.

6. Implement Glass and Lucite Elements

Incorporating furniture and decor made from glass or Lucite introduces a sense of openness and fluidity within a space. These materials have a unique ability to combine with their surroundings, offering functionality without visual weight. A glass coffee table or Lucite chairs can serve their purpose without dominating the room, allowing for a more open and less obstructed view of the space. This clever trick is especially useful in smaller areas, where every square inch counts, and maintaining a clear line of sight is crucial for creating a sense of spaciousness.

7. Opt for Light Fabrics and Textures

The choice of materials and textures in a room can significantly impact its feel and ambiance. Heavy, dark fabrics tend to absorb light and can make a space feel smaller and more enclosed. Conversely, lighter fabrics, such as linen or cotton, in soft, neutral colors can brighten a room and lend an airy, open feel. When selecting curtains, rugs, and throws, consider these lighter options to enhance the overall sense of space. This not only applies to color but also the fabric’s weight and texture, with sheer or lightweight materials offering a subtle elegance that contributes to a room’s openness.

8. Use Multi-Functional Furniture

Furnishing a space with versatility in mind is key to maximizing its utility and openness. Multi-functional furniture pieces, such as sofa beds, ottomans with hidden storage, or nesting tables, offer flexibility and save valuable square footage. These items work hard to serve multiple purposes, reducing the clutter of having separate pieces for each function. By selecting furniture that adapts to your needs while conserving space, you create a more organized and spacious environment, ready to accommodate various activities and needs without feeling crowded.

Conclusion

Creating a home that feels spacious and welcoming is achievable through thoughtful interior design and strategic decorating choices. By employing techniques that enhance vertical space, incorporating clear materials, selecting light fabrics, and implementing smart lighting solutions, homeowners can transform their living environments into open, airy spaces. These strategies complement the foundational steps of decluttering and color selection, culminating in a cohesive approach to maximizing space. Ultimately, the goal is to create a home that not only looks more open and spacious but also feels more comfortable and inviting—a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of uncluttered, expansive living spaces.

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Michigan, with its picturesque landscapes ranging from serene lakes to lush forests, is not just a haven for nature lovers but also a place many people are proud to call home. In this beautiful state, maintaining a home is not just about aesthetics or functionality; it’s about creating a sanctuary that withstands the test of time and the diversity of Michigan’s seasons. Whether you’re nestled in a cozy town or thriving in one of Michigan’s bustling cities, home maintenance is key to ensuring your dwelling remains a safe and comfortable haven. Here are essential tips for keeping your Michigan home in tip-top shape.

1. Regular Roof Inspections

Expanding on the importance of roof inspections, consider the specific challenges Michigan’s weather brings, from heavy snowfall to spring rains. It’s crucial not just to look from the ground but to get a closer examination, either personally or with a professional, to identify potential issues like lifting shingles or ice dam formations. Early detection of these problems can prevent costly water damage to both the exterior and interior of your home. For homes in wooded areas, it’s also wise to check for debris and branches that could harm the roof’s integrity.

For those living in areas particularly prone to severe weather like in Michigan Metal Roof Replacement, such as those done by American Metal Roofs, can be a wise investment. Metal roofing offers durability, longevity, and energy efficiency, standing up to Michigan’s diverse climate while also enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal. This upgrade can significantly reduce the need for frequent repairs, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term home maintenance.

1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Beyond basic cleaning, pay attention to how water flows away from your home. Improper drainage can lead to foundation issues, which are much more problematic and expensive to fix. Consider adding gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that collects and ensure that downspouts extend several feet away from the house foundation. For homes in particularly leafy areas, more frequent checks may be necessary to prevent blockages during the critical fall and spring seasons.

1. Maintain Your HVAC System

HVAC maintenance also includes ensuring that the system’s external components, like the condenser unit for air conditioning, are kept clear of debris and have adequate airflow. For those in regions with harsh winters, protecting these elements from heavy snow and ice is crucial. Scheduling an annual service check can identify issues like leaks or inefficient components before they escalate, ensuring your system is not only efficient but also prolongs its lifespan, providing better air quality and comfort in your home.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

In addition to sealing, consider the age and efficiency of your windows and doors. Older models may not provide the insulation needed to combat Michigan’s cold winters effectively, leading to higher heating costs. Upgrading to double or triple-paned windows can offer better thermal insulation. For those concerned about the cost, energy-efficient window treatments or thermal curtains can be an interim solution, offering additional insulation during the winter months.

1. Regularly Paint and Seal Exterior

Beyond aesthetic appeal, the regular painting and sealing of your home’s exterior serve as a crucial barrier against weather and pests. Moisture is the enemy of wooden structures, leading to rot and decay over time. By applying a fresh coat of paint or sealant every few years, you create a waterproof barrier that protects the integrity of the wood. 

Moreover, UV rays can fade and damage paint over time, reducing its protective qualities. Choosing high-quality, weather-resistant paint can enhance your home’s appearance and its resilience against the elements. Additionally, inspect seals around windows and doors as part of this process, as they can wear down and contribute to energy loss.

1. Monitor Foundation and Basement

The foundation and basement are the bedrock of your home’s stability. Regular checks for cracks, especially after seasonal changes, are vital. Small cracks can quickly become big problems if water seeps in and freezes, expanding the damage. Implementing drainage solutions like proper grading or installing a sump pump can mitigate risks. In areas with high water tables, waterproofing the exterior walls of the basement can be a proactive measure against moisture intrusion. Early detection and repair are key to preventing costly structural repairs and safeguarding your home against mold and mildew growth, which can have health implications for residents.

1. Landscaping and Tree Care

Effective landscaping goes beyond aesthetics, playing a strategic role in home maintenance. For instance, the placement of trees and shrubs should consider their mature size to avoid interference with power lines or the home’s structure. Proper pruning reduces the risk of storm damage from falling branches, protecting both your property and power lines. Additionally, consider the slope of your yard and plant placements to encourage water to flow away from your foundation, minimizing the risk of water damage. A well-thought-out landscape design not only boosts curb appeal but also plays a crucial role in the overall health and safety of your property.

1. Update Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are your first line of defense in an emergency, providing critical early warning that can save lives. It is crucial to ensure these devices are properly installed in key areas of your home, such as near bedrooms and on every level. The technology in detectors continues to evolve, with newer models offering features like voice alerts and connectivity to smart home systems for remote monitoring. Taking the time to perform regular checks and maintenance on these devices is a small investment in your family’s safety.

1. Inspect and Clean Chimneys Annually

A well-maintained chimney is essential for the safe operation of fireplaces and wood stoves. Creosote buildup, a byproduct of burning wood, can ignite and cause chimney fires if not regularly removed. Professional chimney sweeps have the tools and knowledge to thoroughly clean and inspect for any signs of wear or obstruction, ensuring that your chimney is safe and efficient. They can also identify issues like crumbling mortar or damaged flue liners that could compromise the chimney’s integrity or your home’s air quality.

1. Manage Humidity and Ventilation

Maintaining balanced humidity levels is vital for comfort and health, as well as for protecting the structure of your home and your possessions. Too much humidity can encourage the growth of mold and mildew, while too little can cause respiratory issues and damage to wood. Ventilation plays a key role in controlling humidity, particularly in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Vent fans that exhaust directly outside can significantly reduce humidity levels. In basements, where dampness is more prevalent, a dehumidifier can help maintain a healthy environment, protecting your home from potential moisture-related damage.

Conclusion

By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your home remains a comfortable, safe, and efficient haven for years to come. Home maintenance might require time and effort, but the payoff in terms of peace of mind and longevity is immeasurable. Whether it’s the durability of a metal roof or the efficiency of sealed windows, each step you take toward maintaining your home is an investment in your future comfort and happiness.