As many of you know, we have a farm south of Collingwood, that we enjoy going up to most weekends. Not as many of you know the story of how we came about owning the farm.

Growing up, Tom would often visit his grandparents at their home in Ayr, Ontario. It was a large house, on a large property, with a large vegetable garden. It also had access to a nearby river and parks. Tom is convinced that the time his family spent at his grandparent’s house inspired his father to want to own a similar country property.

 

In 1994, Bill, Tom’s dad, happened upon an old century farmhouse, on fifty acres, south of Collingwood and felt compelled to buy it. Over the next twenty-five plus years, the Trimble clan would gather at the “Farm” on weekends and holidays to enjoy the many outdoor activities it offered along with great food, wine and cheer.

 

In 2018, we bought the farm from Tom’s parents. Given that it was over 150 years old, the Farm required a lot of work, and we vacillated between tearing it down and building a new place, or restoring the farmhouse. In the end, we did not have the heart to tear it down as there were too many memories attached to this home. In January of this year, we engaged in an extensive renovation to bring the Farm back to its “glory days.” While not exactly a labour of love (we both do not enjoy the process), we are thrilled with the result.

When we think of “Home is where the Heart is,” we think of the Farm. It is where we hope our boys and their families continue with the family traditions that have been created over the years. Lisa and Tom

 

2023 was a blast and certainly rejuvenated me. “We’ve all grown and we’ve all changed, but the moment we start talking, the years melt away”. In an ever-changing world, it’s important for me to stay connected with my childhood friends because they keep me grounded. In that nurturing spirit, 10 of us got together for a cottage weekend in Quebec, and four of us went on a two-week cruise in Japan. We reflected on our life lessons, we laughed at our mishaps and growing pains but mostly, we encouraged each other to keep going. Aside from my family, they are my biggest refuge in life. Jenn

 

When I think of ‘Home’, I think of family, comfort, relaxation, and sanctuary. I’m very appreciative that I have these things to come home to after a long day. Not everybody is so lucky. I feel especially lucky coming home to the sweetest pup. Our dog, Ella has become a pillar in our definition of ‘Home,’ since becoming part of our family in 2021. She always greets us with a toy, and lots of excitement - we’ve never had anybody so happy to see us! It makes coming home, and spending time at home, that much more special. Mara

 

To me, “Home is Where the Heart is,” is all about finding comfort and joy through quality time with my family and friends. Every summer I look forward to spending time up at my family cottage, where weekends are filled with boating, paddleboarding, s’mores, and an Italian favourite…speducci! This year, I also discovered the art of crafting charcuterie boards. My friends and family are always delighted when I make them for birthdays, TV-show Survivor nights, or just cozy nights-in. I am looking forward to creating some Holiday edition boards to kick off this festive season at home! Maddie

 

My home is one of my biggest joys. It’s my ongoing source of love – love of family, love of entertaining and love of design. There isn’t a wall, a room, a table or a shelf that I haven’t designed more than once. Making things look beautiful and feel ‘homey’ is my way of expressing love and (hopefully!) keeping the children from ever wanting to leave! There may also be a secret bolognese sauce that keeps them around too! Susy

 

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and forget about the sanctuary that is our home. My home is where I spend time with my family and friends, sharing memories, emotions and daily stories. This is my family celebrating Mackenzie’s 4th birthday in November! Matt 

 

This year, The Applegath Group is supporting Global Medic. A Canadian organization, dedicated to providing people affected by poverty, disaster or conflict with humanitarian aid. (www.globalmedic.ca)