FROM THE EDITOR - Fall 2021

As I channel all of the best parts of my Appalachian upbringing, let me just say: happy fall, y’all!

This editor’s letter comes to you from the oxymoron of a gloomy sunroom on a crisp early autumn day, but my mood these days is anything but dark. Coming off a season of incredible work projects, personal growth, launching the kids into another school year, and a newfound ability for actual rest and relaxation, my heart and mind are set once again on gratitude. It’s a place I have easily landed most of my life, and for that alone I am grateful!

I do love my work. From career highlights like auctioning Picture Cave (an actual cave - ping me if you’d like to hear more!) to representing the darling dollhouse collection of Joyce Schoedinger to completing an appraisal of the landmark silver collection of the late Dr. Albert de la Chapelle and finalizing my first online wine auction (selling in December at ameliajeffers.com), my art and antiques life has been challenging and gratifying. My life as a Realtor and investor have kept me busy with buyers, sellers, and tenants, and the magazine has seen more new advertisers in 2021 than any year since we launched in 2014!

But working hard comes pretty easily for me...sometimes too easily, to be honest. I have had to make a conscious effort to slow down and pick up some hobbies beyond reading and the handful of vacations each year. This summer it was sailing, and this fall it looks like guitar lessons are on deck. Ski lessons over the winter are high on my list of priorities, too, wedged between trips scheduled to Mexico and Spain (see last issue’s comments on my delayed jubilee!). My interest in re-engaging my heart by passionately pursuing these interests was the impetus for our newest regular feature: Passionate Pursuits, underwritten by my friends at Byers Imports.

I am also learning how to do nothing. I have never been much of a tv person, but Covid changed that forever, it seems. My latest obsession is the Netflix show Ted Lasso...and if you have not seen it, 10 out of 10 recommend it for wholesome entertainment with a lot of authenticity - something I hold dear in life. (And The Morning Show runs a close second!)

If you are holding this magazine in your hands, then maybe you are dabbling in (or perfecting) the art of stepping back and letting go. Friends, I’ll send up a prayer for you and me to trust in the seasons of life that bring so many reasons to be grateful - from sowing and tending to reaping and resting.

Warm wishes,

Amelia