Practicing Gratitude
Dear Upper Westchester Community,
As we dive into November, a month synonymous with gratitude, we invite you to reflect on what you’re thankful for while embracing the beauty of our vibrant community. This issue is packed with inspiring content that celebrates the spirit of appreciation.
In her heartfelt article, Anna Barnes @bliss_and_ bellinis explores the power of practicing gratitude in our daily lives, offering practical tips to enhance your well-being. We also shine a light on a compelling exhibition at Heather Gaudio Fine Art, featuring seven talented artists and over fifteen captivating works curated by Larry OsseiMensah. This exhibition promises to provoke thought and inspire creativity.
Additionally, we take you on a journey with oHHo to The Old Firehouse, highlighting their innovative approach to bringing flavors to our tables. Lastly, don't miss our chat with Siobhan Hammer Dolce, who shares her insights and experiences that resonate with many of us.
As we embrace this season of thankfulness, we encourage you to appreciate the moments, the connections, and the shared experiences that make our communities so special.
Wishing you all a warm and wonderful November!
@UPPERWESTCHESTER.CITYLIFESTYLE
Our publication serves the communities of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappequa, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge and Valhalla. Tag us at @upperwestchester.citylifestyle for a chance to be featured!
November 2024
PUBLISHER
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Barnes, Christina Weiss
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jenna Jones, Katie Tuzman, Brook Road Photography
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Embrace Daily Gratitude Simple
Reshaping Space
A
Hott Blowdry and Beauty Lounge New Armonk Location
Hott Blowdry and Beauty Lounge recently celebrated the grand opening of its new location at 450 Main St. in Armonk. With a dedicated following for their expert beauty services, the lounge has been a Westchester favorite since 2013, starting with its first location in Rye Brook. This new spot guarantees that you’ll leave looking as fabulous as you feel with services such as makeup, lash extensions, blowouts and hair styling.
Embrace
Simple Practices to Cultivate a Grateful Mindset
ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES
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
RESHAPING SPACE
ARTICLE BY GREENWICH LIFESTYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE TUZMAN, BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY
A COMPELLING EXHIBITION AT HEATHER GAUDIO FINE ART FEATURING 7 ARTISTS AND OVER FIFTEEN WORKS CURATED BY LARRY OSSEI-MENSAH
Get ready Greenwich, this month's exhibition at Heather Gaudio Fine Art will reshape your thinking and give you pause to reconsider what you know, or think you know, about space. We are not talking about the cosmos or the final frontier, but space in the broader sense: internal, external, physical, metaphysical, spiritual, and intellectual. The Space We Exist In , opening in November at the Greenwich Avenue based gallery, features seven artists carefully selected by the celebrated curator Larry OsseiMensah. The exhibition will offer audiences ways to consider and question what it means to “hold space” or “exist within a space.” Working with different materials and media, this diverse group of artists will present visually poetic and engaging paintings, sculpture and other mixed media works which are sure to challenge and stimulate viewers into redefining their own perception and perspectives on the world and their place in it.
Since arriving in Greenwich over a year ago, Heather Gaudio Fine Art has enriched the visual panorama in the community, showcasing various solo and group exhibitions from their roster artists as well as works by great masters, such as Richard Serra. The gallery has also hosted artist talks and held other captivating events to the delight of art afficionadoes. To this marquee add The Space We Exist In , the first time the gallery has invited a guest curator in its 15 years of being in business. Collaboration is deep in the gallery’s DNA, and Heather along with her team has translated this approach to working with outside sources. This ethos has given HGFA the chance to enhance its programing by working with dealers and artists that fall outside of its roster, hosting exhibitions and site-specific installations that diversify the art landscape and conversation. In addition to supporting roster artists, the gallery feels it is important to present collectors, art enthusiasts, and the community at large alternative engaging viewing experiences and acquisition opportunities.
Deborah Dancy, Gates of Paradise, 2013
The exhibition will feature three Connecticut-based artists: Patrick Alston, Debra Dancy and Clara Nartey. Alston is known for bold, abstract paintings using striking colors and gestures that elicit powerful emotional responses. Coupled with their titles, the paintings prompt viewers to cast away pre-conceived notions and reconsider paradigms in the world around them. Dancy’s emotive paintings reference the complexities of memory, consciousness, identity and duality in the personal and collective. Nartey’s figurative subjects in her embroidered tapestries are filled with detail and symbolism surrounding identity, questioning the narrative and conformity of cultural norms. Of Jamaican descent, New York City-based artist Kim Dacres’s sculptures are created from recycled rubber tires and other found materials. These intricate three-dimensional objects also confront racial identity, strength, and resilience. Another New York based artist, Austin Uzor, explores themes of migration, displacement, with figures set in atmospheric paintings attempting to define and settle themselves within the picture plane. The West Coast is represented by Shinique Smith, a Los Angeles-based artist who uses fabric, collage and her signature calligraphy to explore themes of cultural history and identity, making connections across time, space, gender and place as ways to suggest new possibilities of existence. The seventh artist who earns ‘travelled the farthest award’ is Ghana-based Patrick Quarm, (although he also spends time in Connecticut.) Quarm explores themes of identity and cultural hybridity in his multi-layered mixed media paintings that feature friends, family and colleagues, offering reflections of the complex visual topographies we all share in this ever-shifting world.
Ossei-Mensah’s proposal presents not only a visual journey for audiences, but also endeavors to create an intellectual and emotional experience. “These works act as mirrors and portals, reflecting personal and collective experiences while offering glimpses into diverse perspectives,” states the independent curator. Ossei-Mensah’s aim is for viewers to pause, reflect and engage in meaningful conversations about the narratives articulated by the artists and viewers, to ultimately convoke empathy, a sense of community and shared humanity. He continues, “by bringing together a rich tapestry of voices and visions, The Space We Exist In underscores the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect us with our innermost selves.” This exhibition will surely do that and more - particularly now, during these trying times, what better way than to spend an afternoon coming together to look at art and be further enriched by a diverse set of voices.
The Space We Exist In curated by Larry Ossei-Mensah, is on view at Heather Gaudio Fine Art, Greenwich, November 16, 2024-January 18, 2025. The public is invited to an opening reception and curator talk on November 16, 4-6pm. Visit your favorite book store or local library and pick up one of the books selected by the artists and curated by Ossei-Mensah exclusivly for this exhibition.
Patrick Quarm, Gleem of the Still Yellow Past, 2023
Clara Nartey, Ruby, 2024
Shinique Smith, Tree, 2023
“THESE WORKS ACT AS MIRRORS AND PORTALS, REFLECTING PERSONAL AND COLLECTIVE EXPERIENCES WHILE OFFERING GLIMPSES INTO DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES”
Larry Ossei-Mensah and Heather Gaudio
FROM LITTLE SHOP TO LANDMARK
The launch of The Old Firehouse marks an exciting new chapter for oHHo, the wellness and lifestyle brand that has become a staple in the Bedford community. During the pandemic, oHHo’s founders moved to Bedford and, like many others, needed a space to work. They began by renting a small store on Court Road as their office, but this temporary solution quickly evolved into what became affectionately known as "The Little Shop of oHHo."
OHHO’S JOURNEY TO THE OLD FIREHOUSE
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA WEISS PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA JONES
The response from the local community was overwhelmingly positive, which not only anchored the brand in the area but also inspired oHHo to launch its own coffee brand, Flying Coffee. The shop became a space where people could gather, chat, and enjoy a sense of normalcy amidst the chaos of the pandemic. "People needed a place to hang out and get together," reflects Nicola Stephenson, co-founder of oHHo, "and it grew from there." The shop became a hub for events and collaborations, particularly with their neighbors at La Maison Fete, as they hosted experiences that brought the community together.
The move to The Old Firehouse, a historic building in Bedford, came naturally as oHHo sought to create a larger, more impactful space. "We initially enquired about hosting a pop-up there, but one thing led to another, and we started working on what a permanent concept store for oHHo could look like," Stephenson explains. The goal was to take the warmth and community connection of the Court Road shop and expand it into a vibrant space that Bedford hadn’t seen before.
The Old Firehouse is a true reflection of oHHo’s mission—to create a place where people can relax, meet, and explore
"THE
UPPER WESTCHESTER
COMMUNITY HAS ALWAYS ROOTED FOR US."
unique products. "The space is a love letter to oHHo, and we hope, to Bedford as well," Stephenson shares. With its welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful design, it has quickly become a place for all ages to enjoy.
Since opening, The Old Firehouse has hosted numerous memorable events, but one that stands out is their Cars & Coffee event in September, which brought local car enthusiasts together for a fun morning. Another highlight was hosting designer Anya Hindmarch, but the real
joy for the oHHo team comes from seeing the reactions of the local community. "Watching people of all ages enjoy the space, from morning coffee to evening meetups, has been incredibly rewarding,"
Stephenson says.
For oHHo, this new location signifies a coming of age for the brand. It offers them the opportunity to introduce more people to their vision and expand the types of experiences they can offer. "We’ve been so lucky to be part of such a wonderful community that has supported us from the
beginning, and now we’re thrilled to give back in a way that brings people together,"
Stephenson explains.
A key element of The Old Firehouse’s design is the beautiful garden in front, created by local landscape designers Page Dickey and Leslie Needham, which adds a seamless indoor-outdoor feel. Whether you’re stopping in for a coffee, shopping for wellness products, or enjoying a slice of pizza from their collaboration with local business The Pizza Girls, The Old Firehouse is all about meeting the needs of the community.
Looking ahead, oHHo has exciting plans. They’ve recently partnered with Matchaful, bringing world-class matcha drinks to their menu, and their collaboration with The General Bakeshop promises new seasonal treats. They’re also launching a special collaboration with Project (RED), which will debut on Giving Tuesday, reinforcing their commitment to meaningful partnerships.
As Stephenson reflects on their journey, she is most grateful for the community that has championed them. "The Upper Westchester community has always rooted for us," she shares. "Without them, there wouldn’t be an oHHo."
SIOBHAN HAMMER DOLCE
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET?
After getting married and welcoming my first child, I transitioned from working as a Prosecutor for Nassau County to residential real estate law in Manhattan. The move to selling real estate felt like a natural progression when I relocated to Westchester County, and I’ve been helping clients find their homes for the past 16 years.
WHAT LISTINGS ARE YOU WORKING ON RIGHT NOW?
Currently, I’m preparing to list a luxury property early next year. At Sotheby’s, we invest considerable time in behind-thescenes preparations for all our listings, regardless of their price point. Last year, I had the privilege of selling the highest-priced home in the Rye P.O. market for $7.5 million. The “Rye P.O.” market is a unique enclave in Harrison with a Rye address, predominantly located near the Westchester Country Club.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS IN WESTCHESTER?
I cherish the running trails in Rockefeller State Park, walking across the Mario Cuomo Bridge, exploring the Bamboo Forest at the Edith Read Sanctuary in Rye, enjoying live music at The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, and indulging in the best cheeseburger around at Kelly’s Sea Level in Rye.
WHAT ORGANIZATIONS IN THE COMMUNITY ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH?
Together with my office, I support My Sisters' Place, a White Plains-based organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and human trafficking while promoting community education and prevention. This cause is particularly meaningful to me as it aligns with my mission to help people find safe and happy homes. I’m also actively involved with Part of the Solution, (POTS), and will run this year’s New York City Marathon in their honor.
ARTICLE BY SARAH BAMFORD
Associate Real Estate Broker, Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty
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 an 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!
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
NOVEMBER 2ND - 3RD
Evnin Rising Stars I & II
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts | 3:00 PM
Young artists from Caramoor’s Evnin Rising Stars mentoring program will showcase their talents in two afternoon concerts. Led by Artistic Director Marcy Rosen, cellist, and joined by distinguished artists Soovin Kim, violin, and Daniel Phillips, viola, these performances conclude a weeklong residency at Caramoor. The residency features workshops, reading sessions, and ensemble rehearsals, culminating in live performances with their mentors.
NOVEMBER 6TH
Two Feet In: Lessons from an All-In Life
Bedford Playhouse | 7:00 PM
Discover how Jeanne Collins harnessed an abundance mindset to build the life she always wanted. From the trials of childhood to the rush of romance; from the crush of heartbreak to the nervous excitement of two major pivots in her career—readers will relate to Jeanne’s honest and heartfelt insights on growing up, motherhood, love, and, yes, interior design.
NOVEMBER 10TH
Muscoot
Farmers Market
Muscoot Farm | 9:30 AM
Don'y miss the last day of the Muscoot Farmers Market! Muscoot's weekly Farmers Market supports farmers and sustainable efforts in the area, featuring over 25 local vendors each week.
NOVEMBER 16TH
Owl Walk - Mianus River Gorge
167 Mianus River Rd, Bedford NY | 6:00 PM
Join Mianus River Gorge, Inc. for their Owl Walk! During this walk, Chris Nagy will call to the Eastern Screech Owl, Great-Horned Owl and Barred Owl and listen for who’s who. As the owls will soon begin the nesting season, you’ll learn some owl biology, including typical owl behavior. Remember to bring a flashlight!
Brook Road Photography
C o n n e c t i c u t i n t e r i o r , l i f e s t y l e , & b r a n d i n g p h o t o g r a p h e r
K a t i e T u z m e n i s a G r e e n w i c h - b a s e d p h o t o g r a p h e r s p e c i a l i z i n g i n
i n t e r i o r s , b r a n d i n g , p r o d u c t , a n d l i f e s t y l e . S h e u s e s a c o l l a b o r a t i v e
a p p r o a c h t o c r e a t e p o w e r f u l i m a g e s t h a t b r i n g y o u r v i s i o n t o l i f e .
