I spent a couple lovely days visiting my friends Rich and Karen at their family property about an hour northwest of Richmond. It had been two years since my last visit and my, how things have grown!

Their daughter, Kim, the ringleader of this venture, has officially moved up there from Florida and is eagerly awaiting the completion of her silo home. Of course, she hasn’t just been sitting around, she’s been busy making her artist retreat dream a reality.

Flower beds buzzed with happy pollinators, the garden and orchard overflowed with delicious produce, and the clay studio was packed with gorgeous creations (Kim is multi-talented).

I thoroughly enjoyed wandering the trails around the 100 acres. The little creek and large pond are definitely highlights, though there is some ongoing beaver drama. There’s a busy duo actively damming up the overflow, which Kurt (Kim’s brother, head groundskeeper, and all around handyman) dutifully removes.

An annoying task to be sure but no one really minds sharing the land with wildlife. So far the beavers, bears, deer, and other creatures have all been good tenants. Peace in the valley is maintained by Odie, Kim’s rescue Great Pyrenees mix. He’s a sweet boy but don’t let his pleasant demeanor fool you, he’s always working and nothing escapes his attention.

It was such a relaxing stay and I can’t wait to see how the future unfolds at this magical place!