Wilton Magazine | May/June, 2021 by Colabella Media

WILTON HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR PB&J: IT’S NOT JUST FOR KIDS

SENSATIONAL SPORTS CARS ON-THE-WATER SUMMER FUN

M AY / J U N E 2 0 2 1 W I LT O N C T M A G . C O M

MAY / JUN

W I LT O N M A G A Z I N E

MAGAZINE

wiltonctmag.com

NURTURING THE GOOD STUDENT AND THE GOOD PERSON IN EACH CHILD

Before and Care

WHAT SETS LRS APART • • • • • • THE ONLY INDEPENDENT SCHOOL IN THE AREA DEVOTED SOLELY TO PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

Grade 5

town

behind the scenes M AY / J U N 2 0 2 1

MAGAZINE Vol 19, Issue 4 May/June 2021

MEGAN SMITH-HARRIS is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, and playwright. Her career encompasses documentary, television, film, theatre, radio, publishing, public speaking, and teaching. She has helmed multiple long-form, critically acclaimed documentaries that have aired around the globe and is president and owner of Pyewackitt Productions. In this issue, Megan takes us into Wilton resident Suzanne Knutson’s enchanting home and gardens.

AMANDA DUFF

Editor-in-Chief and Publisher DEBORAH HAYN

Creative Director COURTNEY PRESSLER

Copy Editor ALLISON GANEY

Editorial Assistant

RANA FAURE has contributed to Ridgefield Magazine and Wilton Magazine for the past decade. Throughout her career she’s held a multitude of roles including director of photography for Getty Images, NY; photo editor for Seventeen Magazine; contract photographer for Madison Square Garden; and co-founder of Mother Image, a boutique photo agency. Rana photographed Suzanne Knutson’s dazzling home and dahlias in “A Century in the Making.”

ALANA TAYLOR

Digital Assistant SHARON PECK

Production Manager

Contributing Writers Megan Smith-Harris, Julia Bruce, Jennifer Bradshaw, Roger Garbow, Bridget Shirvell, Sarah Stabile-Motta,

JENNIFER BRADSHAW is the Early Education Coordinator at Woodcock Nature Center. She is very involved in several advocacy and association committees, locally and statewide, including the Connecticut chapter of the Eastern Region Association of Forest & Nature Schools. She has received numerous awards, testaments to her hard-work and dedication to environmental education. Jennifer lives in Ridgefield with her husband Doug and their children, Jase and Nicky.

JULIA BRUCE is a longtime resident of Ridgefield. She has contributed regularly to Ridgefield and Wilton Magazines since 2015, and received a Connecticut Press Club award for her writing in 2020. Her work has also appeared in the New York Times and various online literary journals. In this issue, she tells the romantic-movie-worthy story of how Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell and Claude Mitchell met.

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Tom Schlichter

Contributing Photographers Rana Faure, Tom Schlichter

EDITORIAL INQUIRIES Amanda Duff editor@ridgefieldmagazine.com

ADVERTISING SALES Lisa Stiehl

Contents 36

M AY / J U N E 2 0 2 1

features

Just Add Water

Endless,

action-packed, on-the-water activities exist right here in our own backyard. By AmAndA duff & Tom SchlichTer

A Century in the Making

Gorgeous gardens take center stage in this barn-turned-home, transformed by Wilton couple Suzanne and Craig Knutson. By megAn SmiTh-hArriS

Outdoor Living

Turn your

outdoor space into an absolute oasis with the help of these top-notch local businesses. By AmAndA duff

departments

08 10 12

Scribbled Note ShoutOut Faces + Places

Camping 101, 14-year journey to love

Eat + Drink

PB&J, “kinetic” cocktail recipe, healing through food

21 Life + Style Spring fever, sports cars, A-List

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May / June 2021

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scribbled note

Connecting Through Community YARNBALMER HAS GONE WILD at Woodcock Nature Center! Months ago, I commissioned an art installation of “Yarnbalmer’s” bright, JOYinducing knitted works, to be installed under the cloak of darkness at Woodcock Nature Center. After speaking with Yarnbalmer via phone (her full identity is still unknown to me!) I fell in love with her mission of bringing colorful messages of inspiration and hope to communities.

Friends. Family. Community. We’re all in this together. Georgann Hoffman Agent

State Farm® has a long tradition of being there. That’s one reason why I’m proud to support Wilton and all of )DLUƓ HOG &RXQW\

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Thankfully, Woodcock’s executive director, Lenore Herbst, was immediately on board with my idea of hosting the installation there. The large-scale exhibit, which encompasses 14 trees, was installed just a few days after the spring equinox, in time for Woodcock’s beloved hiking and beer-tasting event, Frothy Forage. If you haven’t yet seen it, I encourage you to visit. The Woodcock trails are open daily from dawn to dusk. Their unique nature playground and outdoor aviaries are just a few other gems at the 150-acre public preserve. Look for more about Yarnbalmer in our next issue, and keep your eyes peeled for her designs in various, unexpected locations throughout Fairfield County. She also accepts private commissions, think birthday surprises, get well wishes, and more. Yarnbalmer can be reached at yarnbalmer@gmail.com. The change of seasons offers plenty of reasons to get outside, and our natural surroundings afford endless backdrops for outdoor adventures. Here’s hoping you spring ahead joyously and with an abundance of gratitude for all the magical things Wilton has to offer.

—Amanda Duff

ShoutOut

e g a n

M i t h

a r r i S

This, that, and the other things

Golden Miles This past spring, Wiltonians were delighted by the dazzling display of daffodils blooming pretty much everywhere. This is only the beginning of the Wilton Garden Club’s ambitious Golden Mile project, with a plan to plant 15,000 daffodils over a five-year period. You can help to support the Golden Mile effort, by purchasing plants and flowers at the WGC’s annual Mother’s Day Sale or by making a donation.

A SPIRITED ENDEAVOR Barrelsmith

Foggy Morning

The Weir Farm Art Alliance (WFAA) has done it again! -

WILTON TAKES CENTER STAGE

Youth Leader Kat Corrigan, who attends WHS as well as the Regional Center for the Arts in Trumbull, has been appointed to the Westport Country Playhouse Youth Council, along with a select group of other high school students from around role will be to learn more

mission and programming, while also connecting with young artists in the Wilton

doing something

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May / June 2021

she will have the invaluable opportunity to observe sional, regional theater and help create a community

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Faces + Places

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[ JUN !

Where Should We Camp Next? Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi share their favorite Northeast destinations EditEd

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AmAndA duff //

Photos

stEPhAniE & JErEmy Puglisi

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AS AMERICANS pursue travel experiences that are both fun and safe, the number of families experimenting with camping is skyrocketing. Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi, creators of RV Family Travel Atlas and authors of Idiot’s Guides: RV Vacations and See You At The Campground, are New Jersey-based parents of three children who spend more than eighty nights a year in their RV. In their latest book, Where Should We Camp Next? the Puglisis help people answer that very question. They highlight over 300 of the best camping destinations from all 50 states, and they shared with us three of their favorite camping destinations right here in the Northeast. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For us, camping in Massachusetts begins and ends along the windswept beaches of Cape Cod. For a rustic campsite surrounded by fragrant pine trees try Nickerson State Park in Brewster. Here, you can swim in the same crystal-clear kettle ponds that Thoreau swam in many moons ago. RV

owners seeking full hookups should try Atlantic Oaks in Eastham. The Cape Cod Rail Trail runs directly behind the campground and connects to the stunning Nauset Bike Trail, which leads directly onto the beach in the National Seashore. Is glamping more your style? Rent an Airstream appointed with luxury linens and robes at Auto Camp Cape Cod in Falmouth. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia is one of the ten most visited NPS sites in America. The park boasts dozens of moderate hikes and more challenging hikes like the Beehive Trail, which we did sans kids. Our favorite place to camp near the park is the Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA. It has spectacular, waterfront RV sites where our kids explore tide pools while we relax and watch the sunset. Shady tent sites and cabins are also available. Those looking for glamping should check out Terramor Outdoor Resort, just up the road from the KOA. Their glamping tents can accommodate couples and families, and their lodge serves delicious food and locally sourced craft beer.

1, 2, 3, GO! //

Adirondack Park, New York

American camping was born during the Gilded Age when wealthy New Yorkers fled the city for the pine-scented woods and sparkling lakes of the Adirondacks. Today, camping here is far more egalitarian. Our family has spent countless hours cliff jumping near the Lake Placid/Whiteface Mountain KOA, which offers RV sites, tent sites, cabins, and spacious glamping tents. Opportunities for hiking and

kayaking are omnipresent near this campground, and the Olympic history is rich in nearby Lake Placid. Further south, Lake George offers epic options for swimming and fishing. Moose Hillock has gigantic RV sites that are shaded and private and among the best in the entire northeast. Cabins and tent camping are also available. Their pool and water slides provide off-the-hook fun for kids of all ages and live bands play on weekends during the summer season.

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Faces + Places

Slow & Steady A Ridgefield couple’s 14-year journey from friendship to love //

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THEY SAY good things come to those who wait. If that’s true, then Ridgefield couple Lisa Cambridge-Mitchell and Claude Mitchell deserve a showering of blessings. Their 14-year journey from solid friendship to love is a story worthy of a rom-com screenplay. Lisa first spotted Claude while at a music industry conference in Atlantic City in 1991. He was sitting in the middle of a chaotic lobby

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filled with blaring music, aspiring musicians, and networking producers, calmly reading The New York Times and sipping a cup of tea. “I thought, Who does that?” says Lisa. “I have to meet this guy.” Over the course of the weekend, they formed a connection. Their relationship initially stayed platonic mainly because Claude thought Lisa was dating someone and didn’t want to intrude.

by JuliA brucE

Their friendship bloomed over long walks in New York City. They worked near each other and Claude would often walk Lisa home—from midtown to way uptown, even though he lived in Brooklyn. “I am not one of the fast New York City walkers,” Lisa confesses, “I stroll. So those walks took a long time.” One night Lisa thought they were finally going to move out of the friend zone.

It also happened to be Game 7 of the 1993 World Series. Just when Lisa thought Claude was going to move in for their first kiss, Joe Carter hit a walk-off home run. Claude, a self-proclaimed maniacal sports fan, was elated, so much so that the romantic moment was lost. Lisa was convinced she and Claude were destined to be “just friends” forever. Over the next few years, they stayed in touch even though they both moved around a lot. They even got together in Atlanta while Lisa was living there. She

drove him around in her new Porsche and they listened to the yet-to-be-released OutKast album. Their friendship seemed solid. Their relationship finally took a romantic turn in 2003. Lisa was scanning the magazine selection at JFK while waiting for her flight, when she sensed someone standing too close to her. Way too close. She silently moved over. He moved too. She turned to confront the space-aggressive stranger—it was Claude! As they caught up over drinks before boarding, a small flicker of

attraction ignited between them. “After that I talked to all my friends about Lisa, trying to figure out if this was something,” Claude recalls. Soon after, Claude was at a Knicks game with a friend and was excited to find out Lisa was there too. Except Lisa was there on a date. She called Claude later, assuring him that the date wasn’t a serious thing. A few weeks later, they got together at Lisa’s apartment. They cooked dinner together, listened to music, and watched three movies. At one point Lisa fell asleep and

when she woke up, Claude rewound the movie to the exact point where she had dozed off. “It was the sweetest gesture,” she says. They sat side by side for hours that night and have really never been apart since. Overall, it took them more than a decade to get to their first kiss, then four more years to exchange wedding vows. “I feel like he’s known so many versions of me through the years and he definitely married the right version,” Lisa says. This September they will celebrate their 14th anniversary.

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Eat + Drink

PB&J, Upgraded Time to reconsider the childhood staple //

by bridgEt shirvEll

May / June 2021 //

Eat + Drink

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DONE RIGHT, peanut butter and jelly is as much a feeling as it is a sandwich (or crepe, or milkshake, but more on that in a bit). Simple, unfussy, and quick to make, when that Goldilocks ratio of peanut butter to jelly is achieved, taking a bite is akin to getting a hug from a parent. Early on in the pandemic, I found myself texting friends and family members about all the PB&Js I was making and eating. I think I ate more in that first month than I previously had in a decade. “Same,” they said. Nearly a year into our new routine, I

still find myself reaching for slices of sourdough bread and slathering them with peanut butter and raspberry jam. But I’ve also become curious about upgrading the childhood staple, thanks to creative chefs throughout Connecticut. There’s the PBB&J Burger at Old Riverton Inn in Riverton, Peanut Butter and Jelly–Stuffed French Toast at the Hidden Kitchen in North Branford, LJ’s PB&J Wings at the Spicy Green Bean in Glastonbury, and many more. “No one would think to mix chicken with peanut butter, but it just works,” says

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Jenna Rosella, manager at the Spicy Green Bean. Chef John Wright’s love of peanut butter led him to create LJ’s PB&J Wings (hey, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it) roughly five years ago, and they’ve become one of the restaurant’s most beloved dishes. The wings, served up either lightly fried with or without the skin, tossed in warm peanut butter and drizzled with house-made jelly, are worth the drive. While PB&J wings might not sound like your mom’s PB&J, the original wasn’t exactly a casual affair. The first PB&J recipe appeared in the

Boston Cooking-School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics back in 1901. Created by Julia Davis Chandler, it called for the use of currant or crab apple jelly and was often served at fancy parties and high teas. It wasn’t until it was added to the U.S. military’s ration menus during WWII that it caught on across the States. As tempted as I am to attempt Wright’s PB&J wings at home, I doubt I’d manage them as well. I’m sticking to raspberry jam and peanut butter (or sunflower butter) on sourdough bread, maybe grilled with cheese.

Eat + Drink

The Wellness Experiment

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Healing Mind, Body, and Soul Through Food //

2020 WAS BEYOND challenging. (Am I right?) As we ushered in a new year, many people resolved to focus on health and wellness, myself included. With one quarter of 2021 already behind us, I’m proud, and thankful, to say I’m still focused. Ridgefield and Wilton offer endless opportunities for education and support about all things health and wellness.

Doctor’s Orders Wondering where to start on your wellness journey? Most health practitioners recommend consulting a physician first. I spoke with Dr. Carolyn Couture, a leading Internist at Stamford Health. Dr. Couture is a strong believer in treating the gut microbiome through diet, exercise, stress reduction and sleep. She listened to my goals, agreed with my path, and congratulated me for

b y s A r A h s tA b i l E m o t tA

embarking on my wellness journey. Nature’s Temptations First, I turned to Nature’s Temptations in Ridgefield, an unbelievable resource for health and wellness, where owner Jeff Konchalski and executive chef Liz Gagnon have been educating the community for decades. Chef Liz recommended three days of juicing followed by three days of their “Raw

Retreat” program. Juicing consisted of six, 16-ounce organic and freshly made juices daily, whereas “Raw Retreat” paired three daily juices with two raw food “minimeals.” Each handcrafted package was incredible and included thoughtful notes outlining the health benefits of ingredients as well as cleansing instructions and tips. I enjoyed every sip and bite of my cleanse – and felt comfortable knowing that

May / June 2021 //

Eat + Drink Jeff, Liz, and team were only a short drive away should I have any questions or concerns.

Cocktail Corner The Butterfly Pea Flower Margarita contributEd

litchfiEld distillEry

Inspired by The Aldrich’s Tim Prentice: After the Mobile exhibit, a two-part solo exhibition by kinetic sculptor Tim Prentice, Litchfield Distillery set out to create a kinetic cocktail. The Butterfly Pea Flower Margarita stars butterfly pea flower, which has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia and is now available locally at natural food retailers including Ridgefield’s Nature’s Temptations. When infused with butterfly pea flower, Litchfield Distillery’s Agave Spirits changed from clear to an intense indigo hue. But when lime juice was added, the acidity transformed the color from deep blue to a beautiful shade of purple, and

on a traditional margarita! 2 oz. Litchfield Distillery Agave Spirits infused with Butterfly Pea Flower** 1 oz. Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice .75 oz. Triple Sec .5 oz. Agave Syrup Garnish: Lime Wheel,Kosher Salt (optional) **To make Butterfly Pea Flower infused agave spirits, add 8-10 flowers to 1 cup of agave spirits. Let soak for at least 3 hours. Strain out flowers and store in a sealed container.

Run lime slice around rim of glass, dip in salt (optional). Fill glass with ice and add Butterfly Pea Infused Agave Spirits. Add lime juice, triple sec and agave syrup to cocktail shakthe color change from deep blue to light purple. Garnish with a lime wheel.

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May / June 2021

Organika Kitchen Another wonderful local resource is Organika Kitchen, which opened on Main Street in Ridgefield in 2019. As someone who enjoys balancing indulgences with plantbased meals, I jumped for joy. Although Organika doesn’t promote their juice cleanses on their website or in-store, owner Kathy Riccio is happy to make recommendations. She suggested I try a five-day juice cleanse; three juices daily, coupled with a salad for lunch and a soup for dinner. All items were delicious. Their Jackfruit Buffalo Tacos and Plant Burger are other favorites. Sakara Life While I always “shop local” first, I was eager to try the nationally-known program, Sakara Life. Founded on the power of food as medicine by two childhood best friends who grew up in the spiritual mecca of Sedona, Arizona, Sakara has exploded since they first started delivering their clean, organic meals via bicycle in 2011. Five days of delicious, plant-based meals detoxified my body. I felt lighter and less bloated, my mood was upbeat, and I had more energy. I now understand why supermodels and celebrities are drawn to Sakara – and why founders Danielle Duboise and Whitney Tingle have received such acclaim, including being featured on the Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ list.

Chef Jamie Sydney Wish someone could handle meal prep for you but don’t think you can afford it? Gone are the days when having homecooked meals means having a personal chef on staff. Now, many talented chefs offer local meal services, including Chef Jamie Sydney, who for four years worked as Dee and Tommy Hilfiger’s private chef. Chef Jamie’s Stock Your Fridge service is a great solution for people who are too busy to cook – or just need a break from the grind. (We can all relate, can’t we?) Chef Jamie works with families to determine a menu of eight to ten meals, the client chooses a cooking day, and Chef Jamie gets busy grocery shopping and cooking the food, which is packaged into recyclable containers that can be stored in the fridge or freezer. We tried her Indian Shrimp Curry and Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Parmesan Meatballs and Kale. Both dishes were wholesome, delectable, and generous in portion. Hands-On Healing Experimenting with multiple cleanses and meal delivery programs made me realize how easy it is to incorporate health and wellness-focused elements into my everyday life. When combined with hands-on healing including massage therapy by Susi Laura Massage and inhome chiropractic therapy by Daly Method by Renee Daly, I’m better poised to balance mind, body, and soul. To read more about my “health and wellness experiment,” visit my blog, nutsandbeet.com.

Life + Style Ask Ms. Jen Spring fever in the animal kingdom //

by JEnnifEr brAdshAw

May / June 2021 //

Life + Style READ ON... Ms. Jen says “do a baby bird on the ground this spring.

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What animals are born in Connecticut in late spring?—Pam, Ridgefield, CT SO MANY BABIES! Bobcats, gray fox, deer, racoons, skunks, minks, and groundhogs have their babies in the late spring. Many species of bird eggs hatch too, including tufted titmice, nuthatches, and downy woodpeckers. Amazing things happen in the wild this time of year and so much can be seen in your own backyard. Get out there and enjoy nature! My daughter loves butterflies. When is the best time to see them? —Kristen, Redding, CT Butterflies are incredible

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insects! Many people believe butterflies represent change, hope, life, and to some, a message from a loved one who has passed on. In March and April, the eggs of monarch butterflies are laid on milkweed plants. After four days they hatch into caterpillars and by May, you can see these vibrant orange and black butterflies in gardens, meadows, and fields. To increase your chances of seeing them, plant native milkweed plants in your backyard, it’s the only food caterpillars of monarchs will eat. The nationwide Pollinator Pathway offers an amazing corridor for pollinators, and Woodcock Nature Center is

just one of the many habitats in the Fairfield County corridor. I encourage you to visit to see for yourself! If you find a baby bird on the ground, what should you do? —Peter, Ridgefield, CT I cannot tell you how many times I get asked this in the spring! There are actually several answers to this question, however, many times the answer is simple: Do nothing. Almost all birds reach a stage where they are considered a “fledgling.” This is where they begin to acquire their initial flight feathers, are preparing to leave the nest, and are often still being fed by their parents. You may see

a bird that looks like a baby that is simply learning how to fly and still uneasy on its feet. This is normal and they are probably fine. As with any wild animal, if there are visible injuries or blood, please call a licensed wildlife rehabber immediately. You should never give injured wildlife food or water unless the licensed rehabber says to do so.

Life + Style THE TOYOTA SUPRA, developed in conjunction with BMW, shares a platform with the Z4 - though you’d never know it from the outside.

2021 Sports Cars

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OVER THE last year, as various forms of transportation shut down, personal vehicles took on a much bigger role. For those of us who love to drive, our cars also offered one of the few remaining sporting activities we could still engage in. To see who is at the top of their game, we recently sampled four cars, offspring of legends, that deliver gobs of sport for enthusiasts. Since its debut in 1953, and through six additional generations, the Chevrolet Corvette defined the front engine, two-seat sports car. That all changed in 2020 as Chevrolet completely

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The kids are alright // redesigned the car to better compete with the best from Europe. The new C8 Corvette features an engine moved to mid-chassis. The short nose look is a radical departure, but the performance is so good, even critics like me have been won over. The interior is a wonderful place with supportive seats, excellent ergonomics and outstanding forward visibility. The acceleration and handling will leave you breathless, yet the C8’s ride is so comfortable, you’ll want to take it on a road trip, which is not something I’ve ever considered in a Corvette.

by rogEr gArbow

Another new kid on the block is the Toyota Supra. Reborn after a two-decade hiatus, the fifth generation Supra was developed in conjunction with BMW. While it shares a platform with the excellent Z4, you would never know it from the outside. The Supra has a sensuous fastback exterior which really stands out from the competition. The coupe is available with either a 255 hp 2.0L or the fantastic 382 hp twin-turbo 3.0L six, launching the car to 60 in under 4 seconds, yet delivering 30 mpg on the highway. The chassis is well matched to the power as handling and steering response

make the car an absolute joy to drive. The interior will be familiar to anyone who’s driven a late model BMW, but that’s not a bad thing. With a starting price of under $43,000, the new Supra is a sporty bargain. Ford’s Mustang debuted a decade after the ‘Vette, yet I’d argue it has had a bigger impact on American auto enthusiasts thanks to its lower price point. Ford has stuck with same formula and basic layout for the car, retaining the classic long nose, fastback rear and 2+2 seating, while improving the car with each generation. The ‘Stang is available in a wide range

PHOTO // ROGER GARBOW

of prices and performance, but my favorite is the Shelby GT350. Since it is being replaced with the new Mach 1, Ford let me have a final week with the GT350. Between the backroad cruising, laps at Monticello Motor Club, and the delicious exhaust note, I was smitten. Fortunately, the Mustang has a quiet mode so I didn’t disturb my wife as I fired up that 526 hp V8 in the garage at 5:30 am. Dodge has been stuffing big engines into their regular cars since the 60s - and they’re still at it. The company’s 700+ hp Hellcat V8 can be had in every-

thing from the Challenger coupe to the Durango SUV. In the middle is the Charger. Can a four-door be a real sports car? Dodge lent me a Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody to find out. Once you get over the insanity of a 717 hp family car, it’s actually quite fun. The big sedan is stupidly fast, yet roomy and comfortable, with surprisingly good handling. As you would expect, a heavy right foot is tough on fuel economy, but with that much power on tap, long smoky burnouts are hard to resist. Not that I would ever do something so juvenile...

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Life & Style

The A-List Editor and publisher Amanda Duff shares a few of her favorite things.

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mina Harrison drew inspiration for her brand, Tzol’Skin, from her Mayan roots. Tzol’Skin’s Lluvia 72 Hr. Moisturizer, with squalane, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid, is fresh, lightweight, and perfect for mornings. $42. tzolskin.com

Macarons, S’il Vous Plaît Twee’s line of handmade, smallbatch sidewalk chalk adds a touch of whimsy to the classic childhood activity. J’adore les bonbons, but other adorable sets include sushi rolls, french fries, and metallic unicorn horns. $22.

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SPORT The all-new Bronco is back to into the wilderness. Bronco was torture-tested in the Johnson Valley desert. It also took on the grueling Baja 1000, one of the world’s toughest off-road endurance races. So get ready for rugged adventure because Bronco is coming to help you experience all the excitement the wild has to offer.

AVAILABLE NOW!

2021 EXPLORER

2021 RANGER

Taking orders now - Available this summer

2021 EDGE

2021 ESCAPE

There is something for everyone at FORD

T R U S T E D

L O C A L

F A M I L Y

O W N E D

THE LARGEST SELECTION OF NEW AND PRE-OWNED FORDS IN THE AREA

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LIKE STAYCATIONS, MICROEXCURSIONS HAVE BEEN RENEWING PANDEMICFATIGUED RESIDENTS FOR THE LAST YEAR

just add water

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THUMBSUP YOGA

ON-THE-WATER FUN Left: A ThumbSUP Yoga participant enjoys a sunset paddle. Below: Bassmaster Paul Mueller

Rise With The Tide

OUTDOORTOM.COM

ThumbSUP Yoga, a land and water-based yoga studio founded by Danielle Brown, offers much more than just SUP yoga classes and equipment rentals; it facilitates transformative experiences amongst the pristine inlets and marshes just off the shore of Darien’s Weed Beach. Friends seeking a fun and memorable evening may enjoy “SUP and Suppertime” which pairs a group yoga or paddling experience with a seaside picnic dinner. “I’ve partnered with food service providers from Greenwich to Rowayton to offer ‘dinner-in-a-box’ so that clients can follow their paddle with a sunset picnic on the beach,” says Brown. Those who wish to create their own picnic may do so, and clients can BYOB since Weed Beach does allow open containers. Back by popular demand is ThumbSUP Yoga’s “Mini & Me” small group SUP classes, which get kids ages four to nine familiar with board anatomy – but in a fun way. “During these classes, kids and a parent or caregiver learn the importance of safe water play in a private setting,” says Brown. New for the 2021 season, ThumbSUP Yoga will offer a twice weekly, 2-hour drop-

off program for kids ages nine through 13. “I’ve hired teachers by profession who are also trained yoga instructors,” says Brown. “In addition to learning SUP fundamentals, they’ll do relay races, learn how to construct a train out of the board, and more.” An added bonus, a ThumbSUP Yoga equipment rental or class purchase includes car access to Weed Beach for the day, affording clients the ability to enjoy a beach day before or after their class. Don’t miss a chance to rise with the tide.

smallmouth bass.

Candlewood Bass Bite Begins Professional bass fishing angler and multi-species fishing guide Paul Mueller reared back hard and set the hook. “That’s a good one,” Mueller chuckled. “I knew there’d be some bass off this point.” Mueller is no stranger to the species; having finished as high as second place in the Bassmaster Classic, the most famous of all fishing contests. Before the afternoon was over, we had hooked several bass in the 2- to 4-pound

class. While Mueller considered these “typical” fish, many anglers travel cross-country for the action we enjoyed on Candlewood Lake. “I fish across the U.S.A.,” says the Naugatuck resident, “and this is one of the best smallmouth bass fisheries I’ve experienced.” Bassmaster Magazine ranks Candlewood Lake among the top 30 bass lakes in the country, but Mueller would put it in the top four Northeast bass fisheries, along with the Great Lakes, Lake Champlain, and Massachusetts’ Quabbin Reservoir. But what if the bass aren’t biting? “There are tons of perch and crappies to keep rods bending, plus trout and

huge carp that can top 30 pounds,” says Mueller. “The spring fishing for smallmouths is simply outstanding, and it only takes a few warm days to trigger the bite,” he adds. Candlewood Lake public launch ramps are available at Lattins Cove in Danbury or Squantz Cove Ramp in New Fairfield. For bait and tackle, check out Bounty Hunter Bait and Tackle in Newtown, or Candlewood Bait and Tackle in Danbury. “Get out now,” advises Mueller. “This spring bite is something you don’t want to miss.”

“THE SEA, ONCE IT CASTS ITS SPELL, HOLDS ONE IN ITS NET OF WONDER FOREVER.”

Flying High in Fairfield Ever dream of flying above water? You can off the coast of Fairfield – at speeds of up to 25 mph – thanks to the electric hydrofoil surfboard commonly referred to as eFoil. Unlike any other “powered” water craft, eFoil motors are silent and riders have full throttle control in the palm of their hand, literally, by way of a Bluetooth hand controller. Fairfield is home to two eFoil businesses. Leading Edge Water Sports is a Lift partner, and Fliteschool Fairfield, which also has an outpost in Westport, is a Flite partner. Both offer eFoil demos and lessons, allowing riders of all skill levels to experience the exhilarating freedom of flight above water. Following a busy 2020 season, Leading Edge Water Sports’ owner Dale Sandilands will be adding additional Lift boards and batteries to accommodate more clients. “Since distance between riders is required in order to prevent crashes, the sport is a natural fit

in today’s climate,” says Sandilands, who thinks flying will be even more popular this summer. Fliteschool Fairfield owners Josh and Peggy Cohen launched their business last August with just two Flite boards. They, too, have expanded their business for this season; when flying resumes this spring they’ll have fifteen Flite boards in two locations. If you think flying may be for you, an introductory lesson is the first step. At Leading Edge Water Sports, first lessons typically consist of thirty minutes of on-the-ground safety training and ninety minutes of on-the-water training. “Most customers are able to get up on the board in less than an hour, so the remaining time is spent working on the proper technique,” says Sandilands. If you’re like Fliteschool Fairfield’s Josh Cohen, who knew he had to try an eFoil the first time he saw a video of it, you’re in luck thanks for multiple offerings here in Fairfield County.

DID YOU KNOW an eFoil’s battery power is charged using renewable energy? It’s an incredibly environmentally-friendly “powered” water craft (not reliant upon wind or waves) when speed and range is considered.

May / June 2021 //

SUZANNE KNUTSON stands amongst her spectacular perrenial gardens, which boast dahlias, zinnias, peonies, berries, and more.

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A WILTON COUPLE CUSTOMIZES THEIR HOME AND LANDSCAPE

A Century in the Making W

o r d s

& s

t y l i n g

e g a n

M i t h

-h

a r r i s

h o t o g r a P h y

a n a

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hen observing the tall, gracious colonial Suzanne and Craig Knutson call home, it’s hard to believe the original structure started as a barn on a working tree farm over 100 years ago. Repurposed as a home, the dwelling was updated and modernized for the times in 1953. Decades later, the house was once again expanded and renovated. In 1991, the Knutsons were living in the city, both working long hours in the high-pressure financial sector. They were also yearning for more space—particularly the green kind. “My husband was really into cycling and I was really into gardening, and trying to pursue those activities in New York was obviously quite challenging,” says Suzanne. Their house hunt soon led them to Wilton and to their current Westport Road property. Initially, it seemed like a perfect fit, offering miles of back country roads for Craig to explore on his bike and three acres of land for Suzanne to reimagine and cultivate. She laughs at the memory. “Ironically, we thought the house was in move-in condition, which we quickly learned was not the case.” When son Marshall and daughter Lindsay were added to the familial mix, the Knutsons realized the property was no longer meeting their needs—indoors or out. Collaborating with Wilton-based architect Rob Sanders, the entire house was gutted down to the studs and redesigned from attic to basement. During the extensive renovations, the family continued to live in what had become a nonstop construction zone that had them moving from room to room, floor to floor, over a protracted eight-year period. Upstairs, a wood-paneled study with a masculine aesthetic was added for Craig, while Suzanne created a light-filled main floor office for herself overlooking the exquisite terraced gardens. Her goal was to make the space “feminine and visually beautiful,” and she more than succeeded. With its elegant pale blue and silver floral

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A 20 BY 40-FOOT pool and spa are accentuated by showstopping gardens. In the background, an outdoor living entertaining.

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May / June 2021

wallpaper, white custom built-ins, and a chenille chaise (a favorite lounging spot for family dogs Ziggy and Zac), the room perfectly reflects Suzanne’s style and personality. In the Knutson household, the kitchen reigns supreme. The couple—both foodies who love to cook and entertain—were very particular about space planning. At their architect’s suggestion, the kitchen was relocated from the front of the house overlooking Route 33 to the back, with serene views of the pool, gardens, and outdoor terrace. A collection of burnished copper pots hang within easy reach, vertical racks align cookie sheets, and a slim cupboard adjacent to the gas range stores specialty oils. There are even two custom closets designed specifically for flower vases. The outdoor areas took just as much time and effort as the indoor ones. A streamlined 20-by-40-foot pool and spa were added, surrounded by inviting lounging and eating areas. But the spectacular gardens—designed, nurtured, and maintained by Suzanne—are really the showstopper. The perennial gardens encircling the house have evolved in beauty and complexity over time. When Marshall was young, Suzanne decided to leave her investment banking job to spend more time at home. “I realized my son needed a mother during the day, rather than a nanny.” Being on the home front full-time also meant more opportunity to pursue her passion for gardening. Soon Suzanne’s avocation turned into a beloved profession, and she launched her own landscaping business.

EXPERT PLANNING Architect Rob Sanders designed maximum storage and convenience. Says Knutson, “The kitchen is built like a ship, not a single inch is wasted.”

May / June 2021 //

Suzanne’s horticultural talent is on glorious display everywhere on the property, from the explosion of fragrant June peonies to the vibrantly hued late-summer dahlias. Coming from a long line of gardeners, Suzanne confides that she finds the process calming and relaxing. “I enjoy the whole plant life cycle from seed to bloom to tearing it all out.” Flower beds are planted to provide continuous visual impact throughout the year. Spring brings an opening act of hellebores, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinth. Next comes a stunning display of lilacs ranging from pale yellow to deep purple, followed by bearded irises, herbaceous peonies, and hardy roses. July brings Asiatic and Oriental lilies, hydrangea, and phlox. A late-summer denouement showcases black-eyed Susans, sedum, ornamental grasses, and an extraordinary pageant of dahlias, for which Suzanne has become famous. (She gifts them to local nonprofit organizations and is known locally as “the dahlia lady.”) Annuals such as Cleome Señorita Rosalita are fulsome by summer’s end and strategically planted to fill in empty areas. A storybook berry garden, bordered by multicolored zinnias, boasts a mouthwatering harvest of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. “I never saw a single berry until the year my husband and son built me a berry cage as a Mother’s Day present,” recalls Suzanne, who makes preserves and uses them year-round in homemade pies, crepes, and jelly doughnuts. It may have taken three decades, but by embracing an ambitious vision for their property, one that served to enhance their family lifestyle and personal passions, the Knutsons have fashioned a well-loved home that is a far cry from the humble barn that started this journey more than a century ago.

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May / June 2021

BERRY BLISS Knutson cherishes the berries she grows, incorporating them year-round into baked delicacies and preserves.

COLONIAL MAZDA

HAS ONCE AGAIN BEEN NAMED THE

2021 DEALER OF THE YEAR IN CONNECTICUT FOR THE 7TH YEAR IN A ROW!

All 2021 MAZDAs are available with All-Wheel Drive

Come see and test drive the new Mazdas at our brand new state-of-the-art showroom and service center - right next to our former location.

M A Z DA C X- 9

M A Z D A 3 Sedan

M A Z D A 3 Hatchback

M A Z DA C X- 3 0

M A Z DA C X- 5

• • • •

Spacious State-of-the-Art Showroom and Service Facility 19 Bay Service Center Large, Comfortable Lounge with Wide-Screen TVs, Charging Stations and Leather Seating Area Coming in Early 2021 - Completely Enclosed Service Drive-Up Colonial Mazda is a Gold Cup Award-Winning Dealer ...Again! Recognized for achieving the highest standards of excellence and service. 9

Proud to be a winner 6 years in a row.

”THANK YOU

to all our customers and employees for making these awards possible.” David Beylouni and Darren Beylouni, owners and operators

OUTDOOR LIVING

ACE THE “BACKYARDING” TREND, WITH HELP FROM LOCAL PROS B

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Since the start of the pandemic, yards and other managed landscapes have become a safe haven for working, playing, exercising, hosting social gatherings, and more. After years of design professionals working to “bring the outdoors in” via lush, nature-inspired color palettes, patterns, and textures, homeowners are taking creative steps to “bring the indoors out.” From al fresco offices or classrooms to more elaborate outdoor dining environments, the trend of expanding living spaces into a property’s outdoors has even created a new buzzword: backyarding. With a little bit of creativity – and advice from the pros – one’s own backyard is nearly limitless with possibilities. From manicured landscapes and stately outdoor kitchens to dynamic fruit and vegetable gardens, local businesses are here to help make your property’s outdoor space the oasis of your dreams.

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HOMEFRONT FARMERS

CAM GOULD

OUR PLACE OR YOURS? HOMEFRONT FARMERS, the area’s leading provider of garden construction and maintenance services, just opened a brand-new farm for themselves and their neighbors. Starting with 11.5 acres of vacant land in Redding, they built a greenhouse, farmhouse, model gardens and fields for produce and native flowers. This spring, they will be taking the expertise developed building and maintaining hundreds of gardens in Fairfield County and using it to grow delicious fresh produce for neighbors in Redding and surrounding towns. The company, founded in 2011, is focused on helping clients produce their own food, organically. “Ten years ago you could Google ‘organic gardening’ and find hundreds of sites telling you why you should do it, but none offering to help” says John Carlson, the company’s founder. “We bridge that gap, providing the knowledge, expertise and labor to make growing your own food accessible to everyone.” In addition to gardens, the company has recently branched out into other fun food activities, including beekeeping, growing gourmet mushrooms and maple sugaring both in their farm’s sugarbush and at clients’ homes. “This farm is a dream come true for us, and we’d like nothing more than to share that joy with our neighbors, so come visit us!” adds Carlson. Homefront Farmers is located at 130 Picketts Ridge Road in Redding.

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HOLLANDIA NURSERIES YOUR BACKYARD OASIS AWAITS IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE HOLLANDIA NURSERIES, Fairfield County’s premier farm, nursery & garden center with over 20 acres dedicated to growing and selling Connecticut’s finest plants, started nearly sixty years ago in a small, two-car garage in Bethel. Gaining a stellar reputation along the way, Hollandia grows over two-million plants each year, showcasing breathtaking gardens and hosting much-loved annual community events including their Spring Garden Show and Fall Festival. Hollandia’s expertise transcends gardening; their “hardscapes,” as in patios, firepits, walkways and pool designs, have been widely popular throughout the pandemic, allowing families to enjoy outdoor activities at home. Hollandia’s team of experts are always available to help. As longtime ‘veterans of the soil,’ Hollandia assists clients with gardening, landscaping, and design needs. They recommend taking a joyful stroll through their spectacular gardens in order to gain inspiration. On the grounds at Hollandia, you will find an enormous selection of over 200 varieties of perennials and a unique selection of annuals, perfect for your outdoor planters, gardens and hanging baskets. Those who have started growing their own vegetable and herb gardens will find thousands of varieties of plants and seeds at Hollandia. Bringing the family out to the garden to harvest the daily vegetables for dinner is a memorable family event. Don’t forget the birds in your backyard! Adding a birdhouse, feed, or birdbath to your landscape enhances the enjoyment of backyard family time. At Hollandia Gift & Garden Center, also located in Bethel but at 95 Stony Hill Road, you’ll find gardening supplies and outdoor décor including statuary, stone décor, bird houses, and more. Hollandia Nurseries is located at 103 Old Hawlyeville Road in Bethel.

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Your Shot

Cracking Ice ARTFUL VISUAL ARTS INITIATIVE,

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May / June 2021

A STEP ABOVE

in-store • by appointment • curbside • online

LUX BOND & GREEN JEWELERS SINCE 1898

136 MAIN STREET WESTPORT 203.227.1300 GLASTONBURY MOHEGAN SUN WEST HARTFORD WELLESLEY

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800.524.7336