A New Friend and New Merchandise

You know when you meet someone and it just clicks? Last week a person fitting that description walked into HiHo. Joanne Michaels, talented author, editorial consultant, Woodstock NY resident and just plain interesting person stopped in to tell me about her books. Yes, of course we now sell them at HiHo. This first book we are now selling is described as....Nearly 100 photographs lavishly display the seasonal changes and varied terrain of the Hudson River Valley, from covered bridges to lighthouses, from ice climbers to bucolic vistas; there are images here for every set of eyes. The spectacular photographs are gracefully complemented by rich text. The second book, Adirondack High is a celebration of America's first wilderness, the Adirondack Park, created in 1892 out of a patchwork of public and private lands. Roughly the size of the state of Vermont, the park has neither an entrance gate nor an admission fee, and contains six million acres seamed with more than 2000 miles of trails—the nation's largest trail system. There are thousands of lakes, 1800 miles of rivers, the High Peaks (46 mountains more than 4000 feet high), countless trees, and rare vegetation that thrive under adverse conditions. The third book, is a book we all need tucked in our glove compartments....Rich with historical and cultural attractions, the Hudson Valley and Catskills region is also a burgeoning mecca for travelers seeking outdoor adventure and family fun; five-star dining and the best American cuisine using the freshest locally grown produce; luxurious resorts, cozy bed & breakfasts and inns; as well as galleries, antiques shops, wineries, farm stands, hiking and bike trails, and places to kayak and canoe. With detailed maps and hundreds of honest reviews of accommodations, eateries and activities to appeal to independent travelers and those seeking value for money, this guide casts a wide net to cull the best this dynamic region has to offer.

Last but not least the fourth book, which includes a farm right here in Gardiner. Not available yet, however Joanne had a copy of the cover sleeve for me to photograph.

This fascinating portrait of 44 farms from Westchester to Albany unfolds tales of triumph over the elements and the economy. A colorful collection of maverick entrepreneurs reveals their life stories, accompanied by striking images, taking the reader on an amazing journey through the heart of the Hudson Valley.

Joanne promises a book signing in August. I promise to make sure you all have plenty of notice to mark your calendar to meet this extraordinary woman.