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Winter Is Wintering Around The Valley
Winter is happening, as always though, we are here sharing some Farmington Valley goodness and working to build community!
The Farmington Valley
February 14, 2025
Howdy neighbors!
Am I wrong in saying that this winter has been wintering? Past years we’ve had sunny days in the 40’s with some cold snaps thrown in. This winter has been one big dry cold snap now being followed up with all of the things falling from the sky. Snow, sleet, freezing cold rain. I wish we could tell you that it’s almost over but this weekend is looking like another mess is coming our way…
Nothing we can really do about it, plus, we live in New England. Isn’t this part of the reason why? Seasons? And without winter, we wouldn’t have spring. Without spring, we wouldn’t have our great summers, and then, well… Fall. And we all love our falls. So let’s enjoy this winter as much as we enjoy all the other seasons. (even if we are enjoying it from inside, with a book, next to a fire…)
In today’s newsletter, we will share some new things coming to the valley, we will introduce you to another incredible artist who calls the valley home. We welcome another “business” of sorts (this one is a local realtor). We share a great recipe you could and should try this weekend. And beyond that, maybe we chat about a few other things. What do you say we jump right in?
As always, keep shining!
~The Farmington Valley Team
Table of Contents
Artist Introduction: The Apiary Artist, Lyndsey Warren Pool
Celebrating Nature Through Art: An Interview with Local Artist Lyndsey Warren Pool, The Apiary Artist
Calling Canton, CT home, Lyndsey Warren Pool, also known as “The Apiary Artist,” creates art deeply intertwined with the beauty of the natural world. Her work spans various mediums, capturing the delicate details of flora and fauna while celebrating the connection between people and nature. Lyndsey’s art is inspired not only by the environment around her but also by her passion for beekeeping and pollinators. To explore her work and learn more about her journey, visit her website at https://www.apiaryartist.com/. We had the pleasure of connecting with Lyndsey to hear more about her artistic path and life in Canton.
When did you realize you wanted to become an artist?
From an early age, I found myself captivated by the world of art. My mother, an avid painter of landscapes and seascapes, would often set up her studio space with my playpen nearby. As I watched her create, I became profoundly inspired by her artistry and dedication.
How has your artistic style changed over time?
My artistic style is constantly evolving as I find joy in experimenting with various mediums, including watercolor, colored pencil, oil paint, and diverse digital art processes. With years of experience as a freelancer in the gaming design and animation industry, I have honed my proficiency in digital illustration. In recent years, I have chosen to step back from freelance work to devote more time to my personal artistic endeavors, including pottery. Deeply inspired by the beauty of nature, I seek daily inspiration from the natural world, and this love is profoundly reflected in my artwork.
What other artist movements have inspired you the most / where do you find inspiration?
From a young age, I found inspiration in the works of numerous artists. I have always admired the Hudson Valley School of painters and those whose aesthetic vision is influenced by Romanticism. However, if I were to single out one artist who profoundly influenced my early art, it would be Clarence William Anderson. During my childhood, I was captivated by horses and would draw them incessantly. I meticulously studied C.W. Anderson’s depictions of horses, striving to emulate his techniques. Today, I find Nature to be my greatest source of inspiration. It offers an inexhaustible wellspring of creativity that captivates the senses and stirs the soul. I can lose myself in the study of the intricate dance of light and shadow, the delicate symphony of colors in a sunrise, and the exquisite patterns etched into leaves and petals. The natural world invites me to observe, interpret, and celebrate its splendor through my unique lens. Nature ignites the spark of imagination and guides me to create works that resonate with the beauty and harmony inherent in the world around us. I do still draw horses from time to time as well!
What is your medium of choice, do you have reasons for that?
I consider myself an experimental artist, constantly exploring new mediums and processes. I frequently work with colored pencils, watercolor, gouache, and acrylics. At times, I also venture into mixed media, sometimes even blending traditional mediums with digital techniques, including some generative AI methods. My primary aim is to enjoy the creative process and intuitively explore the natural world around me. I often bring a sketchbook on hikes, as well as my camera or phone, to gather ample reference material. My creations take shape in my home studio, typically with my dog, WiFi resting at my feet.
What is something that is exciting in your life and or art right now?
I am currently finding great excitement in reacquainting myself with the Farmington Valley Area. Having grown up in Avon, I left the region after graduating from the Hartford Art School in 2002. After obtaining my Master's degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art, I met my husband, and started a family in the DC metro area. We spent the last 18 years residing in Loudoun County, Virginia. Throughout this time, I missed New England and always hoped to return one day. Now, I am delighted to be back, reconnecting with family and old friends, as well as forming new friendships. In late August 2022 we settled into a tranquil property nestled in the forests of Canton, where I have a beautiful studio space with large windows showcasing the natural world just outside. In this inspiring environment, I have been creating new pieces and expanding my offerings to include digital assets, primarily in print and greeting card formats. I sell my work through my Etsy page, as well as my website and social media platforms.
If you could create a dream piece with unlimited resources, what would it be?
If I could create a dream piece with unlimited resources, it would be a grand celebration of the natural world and the profound connection between humans and nature. This artwork would emphasize the critical importance of nurturing this bond, showcasing how deeply intertwined our well-being is with the health of our environment. The piece would be of significant scale, perhaps even a mural, to illustrate the vast beauty and intricacy of nature and to remind us of our responsibility to protect and preserve it. Through this creation, I aim to inspire a collective awareness and commitment to safeguarding our natural world, ensuring that its splendor endures for generations to come.
What brings you joy in life?
In addition to my artistic pursuits, I have a profound passion for beekeeping, which has earned me the nickname "The Apiary Artist." I worked with the Planet Bee Foundation painting hives for their clients and designing educational materials for their many programs. I hold a special affinity for pollinators, particularly native species, and enjoy cultivating native plant gardens. My husband and I also tap our maple trees and produce our own maple syrup. We are a dedicated hockey family, with a son who is deeply passionate about the sport. When I am not immersed in my studio or exploring the beauty of nature, I can often be found rink side, supporting my son's hockey endeavors.
What piece of advice would you give to a stranger you just met?
Go with the flow! Embrace the currents of creativity and let your passion be the guiding star.
Do you listen to anything when you create? Care to share?
I love to listen to Ludovico Einaudi. I adore his piano music and it sends me to another realm while I create.
What would your life theme song be?
Experience by Ludovico Einaudi
Do you have a favorite movie?
I don’t have just one but I am a sucker for a good SciFi or Fantasy flick.
Last but not least, how can people view / find your work?
Mostly on my social media, Etsy or website and the occasional art show.
Apiary Artist Links:
(Lyndsey’s life theme song)
Can you not feel some spring and nature in your soul after reading about Lyndsey and her work. The bees, those wonderful little pollinators… The plants in her studio. The brushstrokes on each wonderful piece. With those feelings, how can we not carry just a little more nature into today’s newsletter with some local resident photos.
So let’s bring on a few of our wonderful bears and a touch of spring with a berry stealing Robin! (And if you have nature photos of any sort, submit them to [email protected] and you may see your photos in the next edition!)
Photo Credit: Jane Stefanik Donahue
Photo Credit: Charlie Siegel
Photo Credit: Tim Brown
New Restaurants and More!!!
mexican
fresh
candy and toys
Everyone Say Hi
As we introduce you to one of Farmington Valley’s premier realtors, Maya Brown.
The Farmington Valley is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and tight-knit community. When it comes to navigating the local real estate market, finding a knowledgeable, dedicated professional can make all the difference. Enter Maya Brown, one of the valley's premier realtors, helping homeowners buy, sell, and even secure rentals with exceptional care and expertise.
While Maya may be younger than some of the more seasoned agents in the area, her age is by no means a reflection of her capabilities. Maya has devoted herself to understanding the complexities of the real estate market. She spends her time studying market trends, learning the nuances of the valley's neighborhoods, and ensuring she is well-equipped to protect her clients' best interests every step of the way.
Getting to Know Maya
What inspired you to become a realtor in CT, and when did the thoughts of becoming a realtor begin to creep into your head?
“I’ve always been interested in real estate, but I really decided it was what I wanted to do around 2017. My dad and I were at a BMX race in New Jersey, and between races, we started watching Selling Sunset. While the show is nothing like being a Realtor actually is, that was my turning point of deciding this is what I want to do!”
What do you love most about working in the Farmington Valley real estate market?
“I’ve lived in the Farmington Valley for the majority of my life, so I’m definitely a little biased, but I truly love how amazing this area is! It’s such a great place to live, and there’s so much for families to do. Whether it’s the beautiful parks, the schools, or the local community vibe, there’s something for everyone. It just feels like home, and I love being able to share that with people looking for their own perfect spot here.”
What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy or sell a home here?
“My advice would be to really take your time and get to know the different towns in the Farmington Valley. They are all pretty similar but each one has its own unique charm, so it’s important to find the one that best fits you! And for those moving to the Farmington Valley that aren’t too familiar with it, don’t be afraid to reach out for help—having a local guide can make all the difference!”
Can you share a memorable success story or a unique experience you've had in real estate?
“I’d say a unique experience most agents have not had was my first year of real estate also happened to be my senior year of college! It was definitely a challenge juggling both. I got licensed in September, put in lots of work showing houses after school, and the timing worked out perfectly that about a week after I graduated, was my first closing and it kept snowballing after that leading me to sell 8 other homes that year. It taught me a lot about time management, and was a lot of hard work, but the work paid off!”
What’s one hidden gem or underrated neighborhood in the Farmington Valley that buyers should know about?
“Again - probably biased since I grew up there, but Collinsville is such an underrated gem in the Farmington Valley. It’s got so much charm with the river running through, old buildings, and everyone is super friendly. Plus, there’s tons to do, especially in the summer, kayaking, biking, hiking, grabbing coffee, going out for dinner, you name it. Definitely a spot more people should check out!”
What trends are you currently seeing in the Farmington Valley housing market?
“I’ve definitely seen the market slow down compared to the past few years, but there are still multiple offers on almost every house I come across, just because there’s so little inventory. I think the spring market will bring more homes listed, so hopefully that helps balance things out a bit!”
When you're not helping clients, how do you like to spend your time in the Farmington Valley?
“When I’m not helping clients, I love staying active whether it’s going to the gym, snowboarding in the winter, and I am also a BMX racer. I spend a lot of my free time with family and friends, getting outside to explore nature, paddle boarding, fishing, and, of course, a little bit of shopping here and there never hurt!”
Maya Brown is more than just a realtor—she is a dedicated local expert who combines her love for the Farmington Valley with a passion for helping people achieve their real estate goals. Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, Maya is ready to guide you with knowledge, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to finding the perfect place to call home.
Introducing Weekly Recipes!
With the rising cost of groceries, we know how challenging it can feel to balance putting good food on the table while keeping your budget in check. We’re all feeling it—and it’s not easy. That’s why now, more than ever, we believe in the power of cooking at home.
Homemade meals offer more than just savings. They allow you to skip the long list of processed ingredients and bring real, wholesome food into your kitchen. Beyond that, making food from scratch is a chance to slow down. It can be a moment of calm in a fast-paced world—whether you’re kneading bread dough, stirring a simmering sauce, or baking a batch of cookies with loved ones. It can be a simple yet special way to gather together, to create something with your own hands, and to share it with those around you.
That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new addition to our newsletter: recipes. Moving forward, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite go-to recipes—from comforting bread doughs to sweet treats and more. We hope they inspire you to roll up your sleeves, spend a little more time in the kitchen, and enjoy the many rewards that come with it.
Let’s get started with this week’s recipe—one we think you’ll love: White Pepper Cherry Cookies
We chose these for a couple reasons, one, they are simply that delicious! Two, tell me they don’t sound great as a Valentine’s Day or weekend treat!
These unique cookies combine the subtle heat of white pepper with the sweet-tart flavor of dried cherries, creating a delightful balance that's both surprising and satisfying. The addition of white pepper adds a gentle warmth that complements the cherries beautifully, making these cookies a standout treat.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper, plus more for dusting
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
3/4 cup dried cherries
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, pepper and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Beat the butter and sugar in a bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and beat to combine. Add the flour mixture and beat on medium-low speed until just incorporated. Stir in the cherries.
Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap and scoop the dough on top. Using the plastic as an aide, form the dough into an even log, about 2 inches in diameter and 10 inches long. Refrigerate until very firm, at least 2 hours and up to overnight.
Position oven racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Unwrap the dough, place it on a cutting board and use a serrated knife to cut it into 1/4-inch-thick rounds. Lay the rounds on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart. Dust very lightly with white pepper.
Bake the cookies until just golden on the bottom and edges, about 12 minutes. Cool on the baking sheets 5 minutes, then carefully transfer to a rack and cool completely. Repeat with any remaining cookies, cooling the baking sheets between batches. (overcooking these gems can dry them out and take away some of their magic.)
Sweet Green Is Coming To A Valley Near You
Exciting news for the Farmington Valley community: Sweetgreen, the renowned fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in fresh, healthy salads and grain bowls, is set to open its doors at The Shops at Farmington Valley in Canton on February 18. This marks Sweetgreen's fourth location in Connecticut and its first in Hartford County, reflecting the brand's commitment to expanding access to nutritious, made-from-scratch meals.
Located at 110 Albany Turnpike, next to Warby Parker, the new 2,300-square-foot restaurant will offer both indoor and outdoor dining spaces, providing a welcoming environment for patrons to enjoy their meals. Sweetgreen's menu features a variety of popular items, including the Harvest Bowl, Crispy Rice Bowl, Caramelized Garlic Steak, Miso Glazed Salmon, and Hot Honey Chicken protein plates.
To celebrate the opening, Sweetgreen has partnered with local businesses and organizations. On opening day, for every meal purchased, the restaurant will donate a meal to Food Rescue US to support individuals experiencing food insecurity in Hartford County.
The arrival of Sweetgreen in the Farmington Valley is a significant addition to the local dining scene, offering residents a convenient and healthy fast-food option. With a mission to build healthier communities by providing access to real, scratch-made food, Sweetgreen is poised to become a favorite spot for those seeking nutritious and delicious meals.
The Canton location will operate daily from 10:30 a ... ., ensuring ample opportunity for guests to experience Sweetgreen's offerings.
For more information about Sweetgreen and to explore their menu, visit their official website. https://www.sweetgreen.com
Something Rotten Auditions
Sign up here: https://www.valleystudenttheatre.org/show-information
Coming Next Weekend - Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits
Something for Everyone at Farmington Valley Stage
(Collinsville) The Farmington Valley Stage Company in Collinsville, CT is excited to present three interesting and varied productions in February, March and April.
Opening Feb 23-March 2, with the hit Off-Broadway musical revue, “Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits”, a hilarious, loving, and endlessly entertaining tribute to many of Broadway's greatest shows and musical legends. Laugh out loud as the cast of seven parodies tunes, characters, and plots of classic and current Broadway musicals from Annie, Wicked, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Rent, and many more. Imagine Li’l Orphan Annie, now a 30 year old, hoping that “Tomorrow” there will be a Broadway role for her, or Ethel Merman teaching Michael Crawford (The Phantom of the Opera) how to belt a song, or Chita Rivera arguing with Rita Moreno over who was the best “Anita” in West Side Story.
If you are a Broadway musical aficionado or just looking for an evening of great entertainment, this production is for YOU.
The Farmington Valley Stage Company is a non-profit theater company located in the Canton Town Hall in the center of picturesque Collinsville. Since 2012 the company has produced over sixty productions from comedies and dramas to musicals. Our goals are to provide local audiences with quality, affordable live theater experiences, as well as to provide opportunities for anyone with interest in the theater to participate both on stage and/or behind the scenes. The theater is A.D.A. accessible.
For more information on the production, the theater company and to purchase tickets, please see our website www.fvstage.org
