Contributed by Jean Anne Carroll
Colourful Gifts at the Galloping Goat
The advantages of life in a rural community for young parents with children has attracted more and more families to move to Prince Edward County and invest in building a new family friendly life here. Last week I got to visit with two families who have made creative rural spaces in South Marysburgh. Both have core businesses up and running and are expanding their offerings.
First visit was to see Lesley and Tim Snyder at their Galloping Goat Gallery and Gift Shop in Black Creek, just opposite the Cheese Factory. Arriving at the Gallery you are struck by the sheer beauty of the setting and the freshness of the air. It merits a few minutes to just breathe it all in…
The Gallery is housed in a century old barn and the stock is as eclectic, colourful, energetic and fun as Lesley and Tim are themselves! Before I left, Tim whisked me upstairs to share the view of Black Creek from the barn’s upstairs window. The Creek is an ever changing living canvas year round… he and Lesley are considering setting up a web cam at the window so that others can share the view…
More from Tim and Lesley soon as they launch their Kids Summer Arts Camp – a camp inspired by their own creative kids!
Then I was off up the road to the McKibbon House B&B in the heart of “down town” Milford. Erin Johnston and her family have breathed new life into the historic home. Erin has an artist’s eye and the elegant fresh décor of the B&B’s guest rooms inspire calm. On another family note Erin’s dad is Scott Johnston from the Picton Gazette. With Erin’s kids that makes 3 generations of Johnstons in the County now!
Erin is also working away on plans for opening up her other historic property – The Emporium. She thinks a Gallery could work well in the bright open space and compliment her neighbouring businesses – The Milford Bistro and Hicks General Store. We look forward to seeing it evolve.
