Childhood, for many of us, is a “feeling” coupled with a few scattered memories - snippets of stories that usually grow blurry over time. Often, we remember more about how events, people, and places made us feel, than what actually transpired. Land preservation holds space for that feeling, and during the crisis of Covid-19, it should be celebrated. 

The love affair began with a getaway weekend to The Mayflower Inn and Spa in the summer of 2005. I was a full time New Yorker and a young lawyer, recently married and expecting my first baby. After a long, lazy day by the pool, we were off to dinner. My husband held my hand as I teetered over the antique floor boards, making my way through the picturesque country lobby in impractical high heels. As we waited to be seated, I caught my first glimpse of the Tap Room.

Now more than ever, our small businesses need your support. These local restaurants are serving takeout and curbside delivery. While they are taking all sanitary precautions, it's still a good idea to sanitize the containers and then wash your hands once you bring the food home.

This is the first of an essay series that will be published every Monday for as long as social distancing is necessary. All pieces written by Litchfield County residents. If you are interested in submitting an essay for consideration please email Mary Beth at info@happeninginthehills.com. 

While we agree with the local NY Times best selling author Gabby Bernstein’s coronavirus pandemic advice “Do Nothing”, we've come up with a list of 30 things to do when “doing nothing” is driving you and yours bonkers.

In the worst of times, the best in people rises to the challenge of helping others. As business owners, Diana and Robert McIntosh of Morris understand all too well how important it is to “keep things going” during these tough COVID-19 times.

In addition to local produce, The Smithy also offers a range of artisan foods from local providers. The second story of the building features the Loft Gallery where curated local artists works are displayed on monthly rotation.

Amid sandpaper and saws on a high hill in South Kent, Elizabeth Place is carving out a second career. A few years ago she endeavored into woodworking, while keeping her day job as a proposal writer for large federal contracts.

On a perch upriver, and uphill, from the center of Kent, High Watch Recovery Center is aptly named. The substance abuse addiction treatment facility has legendary roots as the country’s oldest program founded on the 12-step principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, and it continues to branch out. A 42,000 sq foot expansion is underway, and slated to be done in the spring of 2021.

Patti Garland is certified as a health coach and fitness trainer, and looks the part with her neat, short blonde hair, ready smile, and energetic nature. Garland says menopause can affect energy levels, diminish mental clarity, and trigger anxiety, in addition to the better-known grievances like hot flashes and weight gain.

Walking through her tidy, sunlight-filled, pastel studio spaces on the second floor of 25 North Main Street, the tall Brazilian no longer exudes an iota of doubt. What Wanessa (“spells with a ‘W’, but you can say Vanessa”) had envisioned was a place of wellness and healing for the body, mind and soul.

Part of the Old Pin Shop complex flanking Route 73 as it descends from Oakville into Waterbury, OP6 is hidden behind the nondescript industrial buildings with the red pedestrian walkways floating above the road. It’s a magnificent place with an atmospheric refinished wood factory floor, 18 large windows, and a 14-foot-high ceiling, furnished with antiques, large tables, wonderful design flourishes, and artwork.