Whether your landscape is dry, moist, sunny, or shady you can garden with native plants. If you choose to help the environment by doing this make sure you are choosing native plants and not some of the invasive plants that have been brought over (accidentally or sometimes purposely) to the United States. This goes [...]
Home & Design 
In the Garden with Danielle – “Oh no…I’ve got tomato cracks!”
There are a few reasons our tomatoes crack this time of the year. The fluctuation of temperatures and rain fall are two of the most common. However, we can’t blame mother nature and her micro-climates entirely because there are ways we can prevent it. One way is to get your tomatoes off to a good [...]
Doodletown Farm-The Final Episode: Where There Was Mud
This is, sadly, the last episode in an eight part series chronicling Bob & Jack as they brought an 18th Century farmhouse into the 21st Century. As far as I'm concerned--they are the reigning Kings of DIY! -- Joan
Master v. Disaster Part III: The Wall.
Did I say the wall was coming down?
Well, a few months later, I was starting to have my doubts. This was, after all, a pretty big deal for me. It meant taking the kind of risks I simply am not used to taking. You know, the bigger kind.
Hammertown Garden–Drought & Deer Tolerant? Not so much.
The front garden at Hammertown has been in place for quite a few years and is well-established. But, this particular summer has taken its toll. Upon losing our beloved Abby (beautiful golden retriever and official grounds keeper & guard), the deer have moved in and have eaten all the garden phlox and started on the [...]
“Good Dog” evaluations at Hammertown Gt. Barrington
Does your dog have what it takes to be a “therapy dog”? The answer might surprise you! Find out at Hammertown Great Barrington this Sunday, August 22nd from 12-2pm. Bring your dog into the store and let Good Dog Executive trainer, Susan Fireman, evaluate and see if your canine qualifies for the program. (Our dear [...]
Design Master v. Disaster, Part II: Who’s Camilla?
So, let me backup for a second.
My tenure as Mr. Hammertown began in 2004. For the last 6 years, I, along with a rotating band of my best friends, have been the primary residents of the stoic Greek Revival at Hammertown.
Joan’s Pick this Week: Red Shearling Booties
Aren't these just the cutest things? Tiny feet snuggle right into these cozy red cocoons. These booties provide maximum flexibility that support little growing feet and help promote healthy development of babies' feet.
A recommendation from Joan: “What do I do with all those books?”
A few weeks ago I told you all about one of my favorite websites - Design Sponge. There are so many blogs and sites out there it's hard to find your way through the maze. But when I find one that really inspires me, I just have to share it with you.
Events at Stonecrop Gardens throughout August (bring a picnic every Friday!)
I especially like that Stonecrop Gardens is open every Friday night until until dusk and you can bring a picnic. It is absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit and becoming a member. Joan
