04/13/2021
by Mark Stash, editor
Starting a new chapter in life can be very exciting. The uncertainty of what’s next can also provoke feelings of anxiety and a little trepidation. But the only constant in life is change, and to embrace that concept means that you can always be growing and expanding.
I recently purchased a new-to-me home in the Finger Lakes. It’s not very large, but it’s got good bones and, quite frankly, I think it looks great! After doing some cosmetic work inside I was ready to move in. I’m very excited to have a home in one of the best spots in the region.
Once upon a time it was my dream to live in the Adirondacks. The first time I visited that region I was amazed at the wilderness that was not very far away. Don’t get me wrong, I still love visiting there and spending time hiking, camping and exploring that region. But after moving to the Finger Lakes in 1993, I have completely fallen in love with the region. It has everything here – metropolitan areas, villages and hamlets; farms and forests; lakes, rivers and streams. And its history, culture and arts in this area is second to none.
One of my goals this year is to create a backyard that’s cozy but low maintenance. It’s not a large area, and I’m excited to create some gardens that attract flying friends such as hummingbirds, butterflies and songbirds. Carol and Derek Doeffinger give us some really good tips on how to create such a garden on page 36.
I’m also excited to be in a neighborhood where walking on safe paths and sidewalks will enable me to get outside more often. Plus, I’ll have easy access to country roads for cycling. Outdoor activities really became popular in the last year with a lot of people, and I don’t anticipate that to be changing anytime soon.
The sun is out, the birds are chirping, and the temperature is much more comfortable. Here’s to a beautiful spring and early summer!
