LIFESTYLE LETTER
Embracing Gratitude and Wellness
Dear Darien and New Canaan Community,
As we enter November, the season of thankfulness, we are reminded of the importance of taking time to reflect on all the things that fill our lives with gratitude. This month’s issue is full of stories that inspire us to be mindful of what we appreciate most, from health and wellness to the people who enrich our community.
In her insightful article, Anna Barnes @blissandbelinis encourages us to practice gratitude daily, offering a fresh perspective on how this small act can make a big difference. Dr. Gilda Boroumand shares a critical update on breast cancer screening, reminding us of the vital importance of staying proactive about our health.
We’re proud to feature Hudson Kenny, a remarkable teen making waves with his creativity and drive. And don’t miss our chat with Roe from Alchemy Celebrations, who shares her journey and tips for making your gatherings special this season. November is the perfect time to pause, appreciate, and connect. As you read through this month’s issue, we hope it inspires you to celebrate the people and moments that make life meaningful.
LAURA
SABIA, PUBLISHER
@DARIENNEWCANAANLIFESTYLEMAG
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Barnes, Sarah Bamford, Sara Gaynes Levy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Videler, Andrea Ceraso, Sydney Sheehan
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Proverbs 3:5-6
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city scene
1: Alyssa van der Merwe and Amy Foxman 2: Amanda Gershman (Shelby Grey Events) Merry Thornton (Element Medical Aesthetics) 3: Annette Terry and Sarah Lacarrubba 4: Amy Foxman, Penny Goffman, Merry Thornton, Amanda Gershman, Megan Schinella, Amanda Mintz, Nicole Zusi 5: Merry Thornton, Sarah Lacarrubba, Amanda Gershman, Amanda Mintz 6: Rebecca O’Callaghan and Tyler Boe Drexler 7: Heidi Kristoffer and Corinne Capano Photography by Andrea Ceraso
Gather
Board of TrusteesDavid Westmoreland
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is pleased to announce that David Westmoreland has joined the Board of Trustees. David currently serves the community in Norwalk in a number of roles, including Chairman of the Second Taxing District Commission (SNEW), Redevelopment Agency Commissioner, Connecticut Municipal Electric Energy Cooperative Board of Directors, Norwalk Historical Society Board of Directors (and past-president), and is on the CT Humanities’ Board of Directors.
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is pleased to announce that Margaret W. Walker has joined the Board of Trustees. Margaret W. Walker is Executive Vice President, Legal Affairs and Corporate Communications at HMTX Industries, a global LVT flooring manufacturer headquartered in Norwalk, CT, where she applies her comprehensive experience across general corporate matters, intellectual property, and license and supply arrangements.
Photography Courtesy of Margaret Walker, 2024
New Canaan Fire Department Hires Two Volunteers, Including First Woman
The New Canaan Fire Department recently recruited two volunteers to address vacancies, including the department’s first female career firefighter. Lauren Freeland and Peter Black, chosen from the volunteer fire company, are currently undergoing a four-month training program at the Connecticut Fire Academy. New Canaan Fire operates as a combination department with both volunteers and career staff.
Embrace
Simple Practices to Cultivate a Grateful Mindset
ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES @BLISS_AND_BELLINIS
Daily Gratitude
The holiday season is here, starting with Thanksgiving—a time when we're encouraged to reflect on all we’re grateful for. This practice is more than just tradition; it’s actually beneficial for our well-being. Studies show that practicing gratitude is linked to better health, sounder sleep, greater happiness and kinder actions toward others. Holiday gatherings offer the perfect opportunity to nurture gratitude, as we spend time with family and friends who have played meaningful roles in our lives. Take a moment to express your appreciation for how they’ve influenced, inspired, or supported you. Even our most difficult relatives usually have some redeeming qualities and by focusing on those rather than their faults, you can boost your own peace of mind.
WRITE IN A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
For most of us, cultivating gratitude takes practice, and this holiday season might just be the perfect time to start. One simple way to do this is by keeping a gratitude journal. Setting aside a moment each day to note a few things you're grateful for has been scientifically shown to boost mood and enhance well-being. I personally love using The Five Minute Journal which reminds to you write down three things you’re grateful for and three things that would “make today great” as well as an affirmation every morning. In the evenings, the questions focus around the good things that happen in your day.
MAKE A GRATITUDE VISIT
Another powerful gratitude practice is what’s known as a “gratitude visit,” recommended by Dr. Martin Seligman, the founder of positive psychology. The idea is to write a 300word letter to someone who has significantly impacted your life, explaining in detail what they did and how it shaped you. Then, deliver it to them in person and read the letter aloud, allowing time to fully embrace the shared experience. Studies suggest this practice can leave both the giver and receiver feeling happier and more connected for weeks.
CONTINUED >
1. WRITE IN A GRATITUDE JOURNAL2 . MAKE A GRATITUDE "SAVORING WALK" 4. VOLUNTEER5 . SAY “THANK YOU” MO
TAKE A "SAVORING WALK"
It seems that many families already engage in an after-dinner walk on Thanksgiving and this is actually its own form of practicing gratitude called a “savoring walk.” While it’s great take this time together on Thanksgiving, I’d encourage you to add it into your weekly schedule. As you walk, make an effort to observe as many positive details around you as possible—whether it’s what you see, hear, smell, or feel. You might find yourself admiring the towering presence of a tree you’ve overlooked before, the intricate design of a building in your neighborhood, the sunlight, or the scent of freshly cut grass
or blooming flowers. When you spot these positive moments, take a second to fully acknowledge them. Don’t just let them pass by—pause and consciously register each one. Reflect on why it stands out to you and what makes it enjoyable.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteering is another impactful way to practice gratitude. By offering your time and energy to help others, you're not only giving back but also gaining a deeper appreciation for what you have in your own life. Engaging with people who may be facing challenges can put your own blessings into perspective, helping you recognize things you might otherwise take for granted. Volunteering also fosters a sense of connection and purpose, both of which are closely tied to feelings of gratitude.
SAY “THANK YOU” MORE OFTEN
This may sound trite, but try saying “Thank You” more often and in the moment. Perhaps even examine the language you’re using to ensure the person you’re thanking fully understands your gratitude. Instead of just saying “thanks” try saying “I’m so appreciate of the time you took to help me today” or “Thank you so much for thinking of me, I know you also have a lot on your plate.” Expressing thanks—even for the little things—can go a long way in creating a positive environment. It fosters mutual respect and appreciation, making interactions more pleasant and meaningful.
E VISIT 3. TAKE A
Early Detection Saves Lives
DR. GILDA BOROUMAND BRINGS US UP TO DATE ON BREAST CANCER SCREENING
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER
October is breast cancer awareness month, and it’s a perfect time to schedule your annual breast imaging if you haven’t already done so. Darien New Canaan Lifestyle sat down with Gilda Boroumand, M.D., a breast imaging radiologist at Connecticut Breast Imaging, which has five locations in the area for mammography and ultrasound. Dr. Boroumand advised us on the latest recommendations to help folks in Fairfield County get the best preventative breast health care.
DARIEN NEW CANAAN LIFESTYLE : FIRST OFF, WHAT ARE THE CURRENT BREAST CANCER SCREENING GUIDELINES?
Dr. Boroumand: Annual screening mammography, starting when you're 40, saves the most lives, and I would urge all women to make sure they're getting a 3D mammogram. Rather than taking one static picture, a 3D machine takes multiple, very low-dose X-rays and puts together an image where we see many slices through the breast tissue. I compare it to rather than looking at the cover of a book and guessing what's inside, you get to flip through the book and read parts of it. You get a lot more information.
DNCL: RECENTLY, ACTRESS OLIVIA MUNN MADE HEADLINES WHEN SHE REVEALED SHE HAD BREAST CANCER, AND THAT HER MAMMOGRAM MISSED THE CANCER BUT IT WAS FOUND ON AN MRI. SHOULD WOMEN BE CONCERNED ABOUT MAMMOGRAMS MISSING CANCER?
Dr. Boroumand: I'm glad that celebrities are bringing this into the conversation so that we're talking about breast cancer. But people don’t know how great mammograms are— I would say, for all women, mammograms are vital. As cases like Olivia Munn’s show, they’re not perfect— they can have some difficulties on women with dense breast tissue. So what can you do? You can get a breast ultrasound, and we are fortunate
that Connecticut is a state with a mandate for private insurance to cover breast ultrasounds. Or, if your cancer risk assessment indicates you are high risk, like Olivia Munn, breast MRI is also an excellent tool.
DNCL: WHAT IS DENSE BREAST TISSUE? HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE IT?
Dr. Boroumand: Dense breast tissue refers to what breast tissue looks like on a mammogram—it looks white, and the problem is that cancers typically also look white. [As to how you’ll know you have dense breasts,] every mammogram report has to have a breast density statement, so the report should state specifically what your breast density is. At our facility, there is specific phrasing that says if you have dense breast tissue, you should speak about it with your physician and consider having a breast ultrasound. With ultrasound, we're able to see things we may not have been able to see on a mammogram.
DNCL: IF YOU HAVE DENSE BREASTS, SHOULD YOU BE GETTING BOTH A MAMMOGRAM AND AN ULTRASOUND?
Dr. Boroumand: Yes. There are findings that we see only on a mammogram— things like calcifications, which can be an early sign of breast cancer.
DNCL: ARE THERE ANY MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT MAMMOGRAPHY AND BREAST CANCER SCREENING PEOPLE HAVE?
Dr. Boroumand: There’s one set of guidelines that says to stop getting mammograms at age 74. In this day and age, 74 seems so young! I think the age to stop is a personal decision. But the message I would give patients is that as long as you're healthy and motivated, there's no reason to stop.
To schedule breast imaging at Connecticut Breast Imaging, visit ctbreastimaging.org
“I would say, for all women, mammograms are vital. Annual screening mammography, starting when you're 40, saves the most lives.”
“Connecticut is a state with a mandate for private insurance to cover breast ultrasounds.
Or, if your cancer risk assessment indicates you are high risk, like Olivia Munn, breast MRI is also an excellent tool.”
ARTICLE BY SARAH I. BAMFORD
18HUDSON KENNY,
NEW CANAAN HIGH SCHOOL
During freshman year Hudson traveled to the Wind River Range in Wyoming, a Native American reservation, where he helped to rebuild basketball courts and built a community with the locals. Sophomore year he traveled to Cuba to do the same. Both experiences taught Hudson that it is important to help people in need and also build connections.
“Attitude is more important than talent. I believe that someone who has a good attitude and is less talented is more valuable to everyone.”
Junior year he was the liaison to the School House Apartment for the elderly and made sure the residents received birthday presents, uplifting notes, and gifts. And, in his Senior year, he is the liaison to Sports Buddies, an organization bringing disabled people of all ages together for physical activities with a group of volunteers.
What inspires you to get involved with your community?
It feels good to help make someone’s day better. I’m involved with several organizations that allow me to give back. These include the Peer Mentorship program at New Canaan High School, Service League of Boys (SLOBS), Mandarin Club, Sports Medicine Club, Fishing Club, Disc Golf Club, Varsity Football, and Varsity Lacrosse.
What is your favorite part about living in the Darien area?
The Darien/ New Canaan area is a close community, everyone knows each other and it is a safe friendly place to grow. It’s a place a young person enjoys and wants to return back to as an adult. There is a great deal of support and accountability here. Everyone either pitches in to help or lets you know if you step out of place. I like that I can be there for friends and that someone will also have my back in times of need.
Any words of inspiration or advice?
Attitude is more important than talent. I believe that someone who has a good attitude and is less talented is more valuable to everyone.
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ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SYDNEY SHEEHAN
local experiences
THE BEST PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR AREA
Being thankful for what we have, and giving back to those in need is important all-year round, and particularly during the holidays. We love our community and want to support our people and organizations in as many ways as we can, so join us in paying it forward with these local opportunities.
1. Volunteer for Filling In The Blanks' Holiday Backpack program, which ensures every child receives a holiday gift. Fight childhood hunger by providing children in need with meals on the weekend. Norwalk, CT.
2. Purchase tickets for Laurie Berkner LIVE! at SHU Community Theatre to benefit Operation Hope in Fairfield, which focuses on eliminating hunger and homelessness. Fairfield, CT.
3. Donate items or host a drive at Neighbor to Neighbor, who operate a food pantry that offers groceries to low-income families in Greenwich. Greenwich, CT.
4. Get involved and volunteer at Open Doors in Norwalk, which offers meals and shelter for the homeless. Norwalk, CT.
5. Volunteer or donate to Person-to-Person on Wheels program, a mobile food pantry, delivering groceries and essential support to neighborhoods in need. Darien, CT.
Alchemy Celebrations
CRAFTING MEMORABLE EVENTS WHILE GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
For more than 40 years, Alchemy Celebrations has been known for transforming ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences. Beyond their culinary expertise and event design magic, this boutique catering company is deeply committed to community and sustainability, making a lasting impact through responsible practices. Through their charitable initiative, the Alchemy Foundation, and the "Pass on the Love" project, they’ve found a way to turn celebrations into a force for good. By encouraging clients to donate items post-event, they not only give back but also promote sustainability, reducing waste and supporting families in need. We sat down with the team to learn more about how they’re changing the catering game—one guest experience at a time.
ALCHEMY CELEBRATIONS HAS BEEN MAKING MEMORABLE MOMENTS THROUGH CULINARY AND EVENT DESIGN SERVICES SINCE 1984. WHEN DID THE ALCHEMY FOUNDATION FIRST BEGIN? WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND CREATING THIS CHARITABLE ARM OF THE COMPANY?
Love of our craft, love of hospitality, and love of community are the cornerstones of our business. We are in the celebration business, and we believe strongly that the foundation of celebrations is safe and healthy homes. In the summer of 2011, the idea for our "Pass on the Love" initiative came to life. The inspiration was simple: we wanted to give back by selling gently used items from events and celebrations, with the proceeds benefiting women and families in need. It took time, but we finally found the perfect permanent home for our store on our campus at 2 Wilton Ave. in Norwalk. Alchemy Celebrations is all about creating an unforgettable experience, and that starts with the food.
While we’re known for crafting seamless, guest-focused events, catering is truly at the heart of everything we do. From large holiday celebrations to intimate family gatherings, we love curating menus that reflect both the season and the unique personalities of our clients. With over four decades of experience, every event is an opportunity to showcase our love of craft, hospitality, and community.
EXPLAIN WHAT “PASS ON THE LOVE” MEANS? WHEN DID THIS PROJECT BEGIN?
The motto for our store is “Buy it in love… Pass it on in love.” Every item purchased for a celebration—whether it’s a holiday gathering or a milestone event—is rooted in love. When people donate these items after their special occasions, they not only spread joy but also promote sustainability by reducing waste. This initiative allows others in the community to benefit from these donations, which provide vital support to families in crisis. With 100% of the proceeds going to The Center for Family Justice and the Domestic Violence Program at the Greenwich YWCA, “Pass on the Love” embodies a dual commitment: giving back to the community while fostering a more sustainable future.
CAN PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF YOUR STAFF HELP YOU IN YOUR MISSION? HOW CAN OTHERS GET INVOLVED?
Absolutely! We rely on the generosity of the community to fuel our mission. There are three main ways people can help: Celebrate, Donate, and Support. Our inventory primarily comes from donations by local floral designers, and we’re expanding to include contributions from the interior design community, home organizers, and event design retailers. Private individuals can also donate. Anyone who’s celebrating an event can pass on the love by donating gently used décor, floral arrangements, and other celebration items, knowing their contributions will directly benefit those in need.
CONTINUED >
“Love of our craft, love of hospitality, and love of community are the cornerstones of our business.”
“Our passion for giving back has deepened our understanding of the power of community. Every celebration we cater now feels like a chance to connect with others in a meaningful way.”
HOW HAS GIVING BACK IMPACTED YOU AND YOUR TEAM?
It’s been transformative. Being part of something bigger than ourselves has changed the way our team approaches not just business but life in general. There's a renewed sense of purpose, and we’re all incredibly excited to make "Pass on the Love" a core part of our company’s mission.
HOW HAS YOUR COMPANY’S DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY INFLUENCED YOUR APPROACH TO EVENT PLANNING AND CATERING?
Our passion for giving back has deepened our understanding of the power of community. Every celebration we cater now feels like a chance to connect with others in a meaningful way. Whether it’s crafting a menu that speaks to a family’s heritage or helping a couple tell their story through food, we’ve become even more invested in making each event a celebration of love, not just for the guests but for the community at large. This commitment to people-first experiences is what sets us apart—we don’t just cater; we create moments that matter.
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giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
garlic herb
feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in a n oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS NOVEMBER 2024
events
NOVEMBER 2ND
New Canaan Farmers Market
244 Elm Street New Canaan, CT | 10:00 AM
Enjoy live music from Henry Jones while you shop the New Canaan Farmers Market, the freshest family event of the season! Featuring the finest CT grown and produced fruit, vegetables, meats, eggs, clams, oysters, and so much more!
NOVEMBER 9TH - 10TH
Artisans Market Fine Art & Craft Fair
Silvermine Arts Center
Ceramics, clothing, fiber, jewelry, sculptures, art for your walls and more will be offered in this fine art and craft sale. Meet and speak with all of the artists and enjoy Silvermine's expanded holiday gallery gift shop! Every purchase you make not only supports an artist, but supports Silvermine.
NOVEMBER 10TH
Cars and Coffee Darien November
Goodwives Shopping Center | 7:00 AM
Mark your calendars for this month's Cars and Coffee, featuring cars from France, Spain, Sweden an the Pacific Rim. As usual, all make and models are welcome, but only vehicles fitting our theme will be eligible for a Theme Trophy. Any entry can win Peoples Choice Trophy!
NOVEMBER 11TH
Darien Old Timer's Sports Awards Dinner
Waters Edge at Giovanni's | 6:00 PM
Join the Darien Old Timers Athletic Association for a fun night to honor local sports heroes and legends and raise money for Darien High School students and Darien Social Services. This year's honorees are Former Darien Police Chief Donald Anderson, Scott Bulkley, Thomas Craig, Peter Davidson, Roxanne Miner-Mitchell, Gillian Riordan, and Tom Zawacki.
NOVEMBER 23RD
New Canaan Nature Center Holiday Market
New Canaan Nature Center | 10:00 AM
The New Canaan Nature Center will kick off the holiday season by hosting their Holiday Market! There will be unique gifts items including jewelry, clothing, candles, and much more. School of Rock will also be playing some holiday cheer!
NOVEMBER 27TH
Darien Farmers' Market
Goodwives Shopping Center | 10:00 AM
It's the last Wednesday to shop the Darien Farmers' Market! Join your favorite farmers and food producers and enjoy Fairfield County's mid-week stop for local vegetables, fruit, flowers, meat, bread, and baked goods.
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