#Susie Matheson

[hallmark-movie-fanatics]

FOLLOW YOUR HEART TO HALLMARK CHANNEL’S ORIGINAL SERIES SUNDAY NIGHTS (Spoilers)

ELIZABETH’S FAMILY VISITS HOPE VALLEY IN EPISODE TWO OF ‘WHEN CALLS THE HEART,’ PREMIERING AUGUST 6, ON HALLMARK CHANNEL

STUDIO CITY – July 7, 2023 – On “When Calls the Heart,” Elizabeth’s Aunt and sister arrive in Hope Valley in, “Hope Springs Eternal,” premiering Sunday, August 6 (9 p.m. ET/PT), on Hallmark Channel.

The series stars Erin Krakow (“The Wedding Cottage”), Pascale Hutton (“We Wish You a Married Christmas”), Jack Wagner (“A Big Fat Family Christmas”), Kavan Smith (“Big Sky River”), Chris McNally (“Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies”), Kevin McGarry (“The Wedding Veil Expectations”), Andrea Brooks (“Romance to the Rescue”), Martin Cummins (“Riverdale”), Kayla Wallace (“My Grown-Up Christmas List”), Loretta Walsh (“Love on Fire”), Viv Leacock (“Cruel Instruction”), Amanda Wong (“Raise a Glass to Love”), Johannah Newmarch (“Gabby Duran & The Unsittables”), Natasha Burnett (“The Journey Ahead”), Ben Rosenbaum (“It Was Always You”), Hrothgar Mathews (“Motherland: Fort Salem”) and Hyland Goodrich (“When Calls the Heart”).

The town is buzzing with talk of the Hot Springs and how it will help the town. Meanwhile, Elizabeth (Krakow) and Lucas host Aunt Agatha (Karin Konoval, “Schmigadoon”) and Julie (Charlotte Hegele, “Air Crash Investigation”), who make an interesting visit to Hope Valley.

“When Calls the Heart” is from WCTH 10 Productions Inc. Erin Krakow, Susie Belzberg, Michael Shepard, Eric Jarboe, Jimmy Townsend, Brad Krevoy, Brian Bird, Michael Landon Jr., Vicki Sotheran and Greg Malcolm are executive producers. Peter DeLuise, Neill Fearnley, Paul Redford, Derek Thompson, Elizabeth Stewart and Amanda Phillips serve as co-executive producers. Heather Nevin, Shelley Matheson, Doran S. Chandler and Vince Balzano are associate producers. Vicki Sotheran and Greg Malcom serve as producers. Neill Fearnley directed from a script by Derek Thompson. Based on the novel When Calls the Heart, by Janette Oke.

[now-reading]

Violent Ends by Shaun David Hutchinson ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Started September 9, 2024

Finished September 23, 2024

WOW! This book was absolutely amazing. As shown on the cover, this novel is told from 17 different points of view. Everything ties in together which is pretty cool since it’s coming from 17 different authors. Now, obviously they work together to write this but it all flows SO WELL!

This novel is about a school shooting. It’s dark; but not necessarily disturbing. Throughout the chapters, different characters tells their experience with the shooter (and main character?) Kirby Matheson and how it had affected them. Some chapters give some background and have some paragraphs talking about years that have passed. Some focus more on Kirby. And some are focused on how the shooting impacted them and even their families.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys true crime. Although this story is fictional, stuff like this has happened too many times to count. (Plus, true crime shouldn’t be consumed or written for entertainment purposes anyway, so this is a good compromise.) This novel reminded me a bit of Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. Probably because of the different points of view and how each character had some sort of connection to Kirby.

Chapter POVs

Miss Susie: Susanna Byrd

Violent Beginnings: Teddy

Survival Instinct: Zachary

The Greenest Grass: Lauren

Feet First: Jenny

The Perfect Shot: Billie

The Girl Who Said No: Morgan

Pop: Mark

Presumed Destroyed: The Gun

The Second: Reba

Astroturf: Ray

Grooming Habits: Ms. Leeland

Hypothetical Time Travel: Carah

All’s Well: Ruben

Burning Effigies: Alice

Holes: Laura

History Lessons: Nate

Notes

Had to read this for class

“Miss Susie” takes place ~5 years before the shooting

“Grooming Habits” is from the pov of a teacher (not a student!)

[countrymusicandcher]

Tag Game!

Tagged by the magnificant @musicrunsthroughmysoul , thanks a lot!

5 albums you can't live without:

1) Dancer with bruised knees - Kate &Anna McGarrigle

It embodies all the things I love about K&A McG so perfectly - a bit pop, a bit ballad, a sprinkle of french, some quirky and a pinch of heartwrenching. I own three LPs of this album (US, UK & German promo) as well as the CD included with the "Tell my sister" triple CD compilation. Still working on getting the Japanese CD.

2) The Ballad of Sally Rose - Emmylou Harris

It's just the absolute test of Emmylou Harris genious. She sings beautifully, the whole story about Sally and The Singer is so fascinating and Emmy's Sally inspiered an OC of mine that I've written a lot about called Vicky. I can't imagaine not having it and this not having my OCs thag came out of inspiration drawn from this.

3) A surprise performance recording! - The Clancy Brothers & Tommy Makem

Honestly this album is a work of pure pleasure. I so far do not physically own it but I think the price of it shows why its so good. The quality is amazing, the audiance is the perfect backing vocalists and they have Pete seeger of banjo. Amazing song list too!

4) Chaim Tannnenbaum - Chaim Tannenbaum

This is Chaim's only ever solo album. The thought of it not existing is too heartbreaking to consider.

5) Other Voices | Other Rooms - Nanci Griffith

I guess I'm a bit Nanci obsessed right now as I'm still proccessing her recent, all too early death. This is really one of her best albums full of brilliance way beoynd her own talent as a song writer. Her interpetations of these on their own amazing songs are just stunning. Wimoweh is the ultimate proof of it - it's completely genious in every way! Plus, Odetta lead them - representation!

Favourite song at the moment

Diamond Ring - Karen Matheson & Cara Dillon

Songs you associate with your favourite ship:

Here is where the Loving is at - The war & treaty

@almaperegrin know what I'm talking about!

Songs that could be about you:

Irene - Courtney Marie Andrews

Song that remind you of good memories:

Goliat - Laleh

@thesocialkitty for you ❤

Song you find overrated:

Midnight at the oasis - Maria Muldaur

Song you want your mutuals to listen to:

Wild Goose - Tom Kines

Song that makes you laugh:

Blackeyed Susie - Oscar Brand

Last song you listened to:

Jock Stuart - The McCalmans

I am tagging @babymyleopard & @almaperegrin (bc I feel you'll give interesting answers!)

[tsgneworleanslouisiana]

Celebrate Local: New Orleans Hosts The Scout Guide Editor Conference

May was a big month for The Scout Guide New Orleans! The Scout Guide hosted its annual editor conference in New Orleans. Sixty TSG Editors from across the country traveled to the Crescent City in search of endless inspiration...and of course, a good time. Mission accomplished thanks to the incredible small business owners who make New Orleans the most exciting place to live and visit. 

Christy Ford and Susie Matheson, Co-Founders of The Scout Guide and TSG Charlottesville Editors with Jane Scott Hodges, Founder of Leontine Linens and Taylor Morgan, Editor/Owner, The Scout Guide New Orleans

In true New Orleans fashion, we experienced a feast for all of the senses at the home of Jane Scott and Philip Hodges. Discussed the state of our brand and what makes a beautiful book at our NOLA Headquarters, Windsor Court. Engaged with business owners while shopping local on Magazine Street. And celebrated local at three of my favorite eateries, Arnaud’s, Cavan, and Brennan’s.

Tablescape designs by Jane Scott Hodges featuring Leontine Linens and a collection of tabletop goods including fabulous flower vases from Malachite Home

Leontine cocktail napkins pair beautifully with Patti Constantin, Designs in Catering, hand blown glasses.

Fried oysters and Cajun Caviar by Patti Constantin

Laura Kocher, TSG Headquarters, Stacey Leuliette, TSG Palm Beach and Nantucket, and Jen Stolp of TSG Wilmington

Black Magic Drum Line surprise editors courtesy of Jane Scott and Philip Hodges

New Orleans wasn’t just selected because its a fun place to be — I was one of the very first franchise owners to establish The Scout Guide outside of home base in Charlottesville, Virginia. For our first road show, co-founders Susie Matheson and Christy Ford wanted to share with our young Editors the experience of what The Scout Guide can be in a community. 

Building a brand doesn’t happen over night, but it sure does seem like ours did. Since 2010, TSG has grown to a network of 60 city guides dedicated to celebrating and supporting over 3,000 small business owners who keep communities unique. TSG combines print, online and a national network making it a pretty powerful platform for local businesses to shine.

Eight years ago when I first brought The Scout Guide to New Orleans, I had this one little blue book, The Scout Guide Charlottesville. There was no Instagram, barely a website or blog, definitely no searchable directory, or a network of 60 Editors to support local. I was selling my passion for New Orleans and desire to create a visual for our city to shine on a national platform (at a time when we were still convincing people we were open for business.) 

A collection of city guides - The Scout Guide book bar on display at Perch

From top to bottom: TSG Cleveland, TSG Northwest Arkansas, TSG Park City, TSG Little Rock, TSG Omaha, TSG Cincinnati, TSG Cleveland, TSG Fort Worth and TSG Wilmington

I had big dreams for my small business, but I am not sure I visualized a union of our powerful network in my own backyard. So when I looked around in a room and saw all the people gathered based off of something that I built, it was a pretty moving experience. 

Ralph Brennan shares the history of Brennan’s along with some lessons in business with our group of young entrepreneurs

Autumn Allen, TSG Washington, DC, Sarah Phillips, TSG Alexandria, Nelina Loiselle, TSG Hunt Country

Jane Scott Hodges, Patti Constantin, and Ralph Brennan were not only instrumental in the success of the Conference, but they have been crucial to the success of our brand. These uniquely New Orleans business owners, along with Ashley Longshore, Melissa Rufty and Adrienne Casbarian, Neal Alford, Roy Dunn and Stephen Sonnier, Alexis Walter, Lynn Morgan, Mia and Justin Devillier, and the Windsor Court team answered the call in my first year, trusted me to represent their brand in places near and far, and remain with me on the journey today. They have become our very own TSG celebrities so it was fun to finally introduce them to their fan club in real life. 

Adrienne Casbarian, owner of Malachite Home, Susie Matheson and Christy Ford, Co-Founders of The Scout Guide and Taylor Morgan, Editor/Owner of The Scout Guide New Orleans

Mariah Walton, owner of West London Boutique, signs her page in The Scout Guide New Orleans 

The Scout Guide is about people. We love connecting businesses to businesses, so I hosted a happy hour at Cavan to introduce New Orleans business owners to Editors in other cities. Kathy Slater who showcases her work in Dallas, Houston and Atlanta had the opportunity to meet the respective Editors. Susan Zackin who plans parties in New Orleans and Palm Beach (and everywhere in between) met her champion on the ground in any port of call. Interior Designer Shaun Smith and Restaurant Owner Robert Leblanc shared with Editors how The Scout Guide has supported the growth of his business.

TSG Naples, TSG Edmond, TSG Jackson, TSG Plano & Frisco, TSG Mobile Bay, TSG Dallas

Rebecca Vizard carved time in her schedule to share her story with TSG before darting to Baton Rouge to receive the Louisiana Legend award later in the evening

Today I have represented over 200 small business owners in New Orleans. I adore being their champion and I do experience some pretty cool things. But let me let you in on a little secret: you, too, can continue to peel back the layers in our city just by walking in the front door of these local businesses. 

Natalie Erwin Art pairs beautifully with Leontine

Flowers, antiques and gifts all under one roof at Dunn & Sonnier

Ashley Nettleton, TSG Edmond, Suzanne Dildy, TSG Park City, Susu Stall, owner of SOSUSU Boutique, and Susie Matheson, Co-Founder of TSG and Editor of The Scout Guide Charlottesville

Cole Pratt’s Erika Olinger shares with Christy Ford her art + technology exhibit 

TSG Headquarters Team with Shane Guidry of Pippen Lane

But where would we be without you, our reader? Thank you so much for supporting these small business owners. All a TSG Editor can hope for is that you find something you love here, visit the store, meet the owner, learn something new and buy local what you want (and of course, tell them scout sent you!). By doing so, you will have a profound impact on your local community.

Hopie Avery, TSG Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Leigh Ann Kalman, TSG Austin, Leigh Brown, TSG Fort Worth, Cheney Edmunds, TSG Richmond and Meredith Kallaher, TSG Miami shopping local at West London Boutique, Pilot + Powell, SOSUSU, Tasc and Villa Vici

TSG loves Ashley Longshore Art

Cozy conversations at Cavan with our newest editors TSG Phoenix and Tuscon at the head of the table

The experience of a French Quarter balcony at Arnaud’s

Champagne sabering every week day in the courtyard at Brennan’s

And just when I thought I had seen everything this city had to offer, TSG Co-Founders, Christy Ford & Susie Matheson, gifted me with a glittered field commander hat that they scouted at Peony. Certainly, there couldn’t have been a more perfect gift for the person leading the trombone parade of sixty lovers of local, and clearly, they had to stake their claim as the original scouts!

TELL THEM SCOUT SENT YOU!

—TAYLOR MORGAN, Editor/Owner, THE SCOUT GUIDE NEW ORLEANS

Most photos by Paul Morse Photo and a few by yours truly, TSG New Orleans. 

Enjoy TSG Miami’s recap of The Scout Guide Editor Conference on her You Tube Channel. 

Interested in becoming a member of The Scout Guide? Find more information here. 

[tsgcharlottesvillevirginia]

The Scout Guide Charlottesville, Volume 11 Launch Party

Recently, we launched the eleventh volume of The Scout Guide Charlottesville. To celebrate the guide’s debut, The Scout Guide Charlottesville editors—and TSG co-founders—Susie Matheson and Christy Ford held a party for members and friends at Be Just, where guests enjoyed drinks and light bites while perusing the new publication.

The details: Venue: Be Just. Catering: No Limits Smokehouse. Cookies and bread party favors: MarieBette Café and Bakery. Wine: Early Mountain Vineyard. Photography featured here: Kate Greer Martin.

Browse The Scout Guide Charlottesville online here, find a list of businesses included in the guide here, and order a copy of the guide here.

[thescoutguide]

“When Susie Matheson and Christy Ford launched the 10th edition of The Scout Guide Charlottesville this July, they did so as the leaders of a company that's grown, in about a decade, from a simple blog to a small publishing empire." Read about how TSG's Co-Founders turned a labor of love into an endeavor that spans 60 cities via the link in bio. — view on Instagram http://bit.ly/2MZISMd

[gripefroot]

Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree [11/12]

The nights that summer were hot. Unbearably hot. Even waving a fabric fan at her face, sitting on the terrace of the Barnes’ apartment with her feet propped up on Ruth’s chair and an electric fan casting lazy waves of slightly-cooler air over them all, Susanna was sweating. It was a lulling heat; she closed her eyes to listen to the news on the radio. 

This was a new habit she’d picked up; she and Jim’s family had been clinging to each other since his departure several months earlier, sharing their scrappy news with each other, all rejoicing over the two letters that had made it back from Europe. 

And that is the end of our report tonight. Willard Matheson, signing off. 

Susanna sighed, opening her eyes again and pushing up her cheaters to her forehead. The sky was a dusty blue-pink, shimmering in the heat beyond the distant skyscrapers of Manhattan. Becky leaned over to switch off the radio, and Mrs. Barnes sighed as she counted the stitches in the sweater she was knitting. Silence lay thick on the terrace, with so many unspoken worries and hopes and fears. 

A distant knock sounded at the door, making them all jump. Mr. Barnes coughed, stubbing out his cigarette, and stood to walk back inside. A few moments later he returned, Steve slumped behind him. 

“Why, Stevie!” Becky said loudly, standing to greet him with a smile. “What are you doin’ here?”

“Came to say goodbye,” Steve said. Susanna turned her head to blink at him. “I found a camp that’ll take me,” he continued, speaking fast, as if he was afraid of the reaction. “I...didn’t want to leave without saying...goodbye.” His ears were red. Susanna thought this was curious, until she saw a faint blush in Becky’s cheeks. 

Mr. Barnes immediately started asking questions, and Mrs. Barnes cut in her gentle concern. Susanna sighed, and when the interrogation was over she stood. 

“Good luck, Stevie,” she told him with a smile. Impulsively she kissed his cheek. “I hope Jim doesn’t whoop you when he gets back.”

Becky giggled awkwardly, and a few moments later, Steve left. 

Jim’s next letter came six months later; Susanna was growing quite adept at not worrying too much about the length of time between letters, but it was a welcome relief, all the same. While most of his information was vague, there was plenty that startled her, and the rest of the Barnes family, when she read it to them the following night.

What happened to Steve, eh? I thought I was finally going crazy when I saw him - he’s taller than me now, you know. Captain America, they call him. Got a goofy costume and everything. What happened to keeping an eye on him, Susie? I didn’t mean that you should let a scientist from a secret government organization experiment on him. I guess I have to be glad, though. He got me out of a sticky situation.

Jim did not elaborate the ‘sticky situation.’

This letter along with the few others, was tied up in a ribbon and placed in her nearly-full hope chest. Most of the space had been taken up by a surprise gift from Becky - Susanna had been appropriately taken aback, one Monday night, to show up for quilting club and discover a new quilt, much larger than usual, being pieced together on the floor. 

“Do you like it, Susie?” Becky has asked, looking strangely anxious. “Your mother sent over the samples; she said you’d taken a fancy to it while you were shopping for material to remake a set of curtains.”

Susanna blinked. The blue cotton, printed with navy and white flowers, had looked familiar. 

“We thought we may as well get started,” little Mary had piped in. “It’s a wedding gift from all of us.”

The quilt had taken a few months to complete, and now Susanna ran her hands over the small stitches, smiling to herself. She could only hope Jim would like it…

So she wrote about it in her next letter.

To general astonishment, Jim’s letter was just the beginning of what they heard of Steve. Susanna hadn’t been paying attention the local news (so perhaps she’d been deserving of Jim’s scolding), but now that Captain America was becoming the poster boy for the war front in Europe, she could hardly leave her house without seeing illustrated posters of beefed-up Steve in store windows, saluting her with a grin. 

“It’s strange, isn’t it?” Becky said fervently one Saturday night, as they walked home together, arm-in-arm, from the church social. “I feel as though if I ever saw Steve again, I wouldn’t recognize him.”

“Maybe,” Susanna couldn’t help teasing. “But now he can probably lift you over his head.”

Becky lapsed into silence. Then she blurted, “He probably has a lot of girls after him now, huh.”

“Maybe,” Susanna said again. “But I wouldn’t worry about it.” At Becky’s sigh of frustration, Susanna nudged her in the shoulder. “So you’re blind, Beck. You haven't seen the way Steve looks at you. But believe me, that boy is clobbered.”

Becky gave a strangled laugh. “Maybe he used to be. So much will be different...when he comes back.”

“He’ll be twice the size he used to be,” Susanna pointed out. “But think of how much fun it’ll be to go dancing with him.”

“I’ll need a spotter,” Becky giggled, finally cajoled back into a good mood.

“Jim and I’ll be there,” Susanna promised. “He’ll catch you.”

The girls laughed together in the autumn wind, eerie in the unusually empty Brooklyn neighborhood. 

Snow fell thick and heavy that winter; on Christmas Day, Susanna was fussing with a very finicky dish of banana and date salad when the phone rang. The rest of the family was loud in the living room, enjoying presents and company, so she wiped her hands clean on a towel to answer the phone.

“Hello?”

A crackly voice replied. “Susie?”

She nearly dropped the phone. “Jim?”

“Phew! I almost worried I forgot your number.”

Still connected to the phone, Susanna skipped over to the stove to turn it off; the syrup could wait. But hearing Jim’s voice for the first time in nearly two years could not. 

“I’m on leave in London for the next two days,” he was saying, his voice low and a touch raspy. “It’s not as jivin’ as Brooklyn.”

Giddy, Susanna giggled. “How are you?” she asked quickly. “Are you...are you safe?”

“Safe and sound,” Jim assured her. “A little cold, a little tired, but safe. What are you up to, Susie? Still wearing my ring?”

“Well…” Susanna bit her lip, and she heard a horrible silence on the other end. “I did take it off to make this banana and date salad,” she said at last. “I didn’t want it getting sticky.”

A burst of Jim’s familiar laughter warmed her down to her toes. She sunk into a chair at the kitchen table, fiddling with a worn seam of her apron as her heart pounded in her chest.

“Maybe next Christmas I’ll be home,” Jim said suddenly, his voice bold. “Maybe we’ll be married, have our own little place. And you can make me banana salad while I shower you with gifts.”

“Don’t be silly,” Susanna said, laughing despite herself. “You can give me one gift, because any more than that would be ridiculous, and you’ll be helping me chop the bananas. You think I’m just gonna cook for you while you laze about?”

“I was hoping…” 

But she knew he wasn’t serious. She giggled as he laughed again. Gosh, she hadn’t remembered it being so hot in the kitchen. She waved a hand in front of her face, her cheeks aching from smiling. 

There were other voices in the distance at the other end; Susanna’s smile faded, and Jim spoke again.

“Hey, I gotta go. Sorry, sweetheart. I thought I’d have more time.”

“Did you call your mother yet?” Susanna asked.

“I will,” he promised with a chuckle. “You make me a better man, you know that, Susie?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Have a happy Christmas, sweetheart.”

“You too, Jim. Be safe.”

“Love you.”

“Love you too.”

The line went dead. Susanna closed her eyes, holding the receiver to her chest as she let the happiness warm her heart. It was already a happy Christmas. Even though there was a set of silverware from her parents, scarves and handbags from her sisters and a lovely carved mirror from her brother, five minutes of Jim had been the best present of all. 

The rest of winter passed slowly, but Susanna couldn’t be unhappy. Next Christmas, he’d said. Next Christmas. The war had been dragging on long enough that most people were beginning to say it should be over any day. Any day. 

The news reports of Captain America and his team of Howling Commandos helped. A secret swell of pride buoyed Susanna, knowing her Jim was turning the tide of war for the better. 

March blew in with thunderstorms keeping everyone inside. Susanna began hemming sets of sheets, bored out of her mind if not for the busy work of preparing to marry. 

One afternoon she was just deciding between yellow roses and pink roses for pillow shams when a knock came at the door. Rushing to the window, she peeked through the lace curtains to see - Becky! Standing on the porch, and clutching what looked like a letter in her hand. It was pouring rain; Becky hadn’t even brought an umbrella. How very strange. But Susanna put it from her mind.

She rushed down the stairs, eager to read Becky’s letter. Why hadn’t she called first? She usually did - 

Susanna wrenched open the door, opening her mouth to say something, but something in Becky’s expression stalled her. Becky was drenched head to foot, her blue coat hanging limply off her shoulders and her black curls soaked. And her lip was trembling. There were drops on her face, and not, Susanna thought, from the rain. 

Her stomach sank to her feet. It was no letter in Becky’s shaking hand. It was a telegram.

“Susie…” Becky started to say, her voice choked. “Susie, I - ”

But briskly Susanna reached out a hand to pull Becky into the entryway and out of the rain. “Come inside and dry off,” she told her. “And then you can tell me.”

But if Susanna had known, she might have left Becky on the porch.

continue

[tsgjacksonholewyoming]

FOUNDERS' NOTE: 10 THINGS WE’VE LEARNED WHILE WORKING WITH SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS

Ten years ago, when we first started @thescoutguide​, we were fairly new to the publishing world. We’d held jobs in sales and photography, but still had much to learn about printing and production—let alone creating a franchise. Probably the best professional training we’d had was owning our own businesses prior to launching TSG, which had prepared us for the many hats we’d find ourselves wearing, especially during those early days. We sought out experts to help guide us with the nuts and bolts, but what we didn’t realize was that by creating a company around working with small business owners, we were surrounding ourselves with some of the best sources of inspiration and business advice we could ask for—people who had taken a risk, followed their passions, built relationships, adapted to changes, and made a strong impact on their communities all while managing and growing their own businesses. Recently, as we approached our ten-year milestone, we thought back to some of the lessons we’ve learned from working with small business owners over the past decade—including our very own franchisees, who have been key to our growth and success. Here are ten highlights that have helped guide us along the way.

It’s about collaboration, not competition.

Based on what we’ve learned over the years working with small business owners, it’s hard to overstate the importance of showing up and supporting one another, and few people seem to understand this better—or set a better example—than the small business community. Attending, promoting, and participating in each other’s events; referring clients; spreading the word about other people’s businesses; and working together isn’t just good for business, it keeps you inspired and connected.

There’s nothing more interesting than authenticity.

Small business owners have dedicated their lives to their craft. Their expertise and experiences are invaluable, their stories and perspectives are unique, and their offerings are curated and cultivated by them and often them alone. Take it from us—there is truly endless inspiration to be found in getting to know the small business owners in our communities. Plus, they are really entertaining and lovely people.

It’s worth the risk. 

Deciding to strike out on your own is scary. However, after speaking with many small business owners over the years, the vast majority seem to believe that taking the leap was absolutely the right decision. The reasons may vary, from having the ability to forge your own path, to going at your own pace, to taking a more personal approach to your business, but consensus is that you’ll find rewards in unexpected places. We’ve certainly found that to be the case.

Being open to evolving is essential. 

If the past few months have taught us anything, it’s that we all need to be able to adapt. Small business owners appear to be especially good at this. Maybe it’s because they’re especially attuned to their clients’ needs, or conditioned to be able to learn new things and make changes quickly, but whether it’s starting an e-commerce site or embracing social media or coming up with an entirely new business offering or even model, small business owners are excellent at thinking outside of the box and answering the call when it comes to meeting their customers’ needs.

Wearing a lot of hats goes with the territory. 

Whether they’re a one-man show or have a team, small business owners are usually involved in every aspect of the business. Floral designers often double as their own social media managers, boutique owners frequently are responsible for business operations…when you think about what it entails to run a business, especially in an age when everyone is expected to have a beautiful and constantly updated Instagram feed, it’s a pretty amazing juggling act.

A rising tide lifts all boats. 

When one person or business succeeds, gains recognition, or develops a following, everyone around them benefits. We’ve found the small business community to be deeply interconnected and for the most part, eager to help those coming up in the ranks. It’s this beautiful reciprocity that makes the work so rewarding.

Owning a business is a labor of love. 

The whole notion of working 9 to 5 goes out the window for small business owners. But you 100% get back what you give. And at the end of the day, doing what makes you happy, being able to provide jobs for your employees, and feeling like you make a difference to your clients and community make the toil and long hours pay off in spades. There’s no greater satisfaction than that.

You have to put yourself out there. 

We’ve learned this from both the business owners who advertise with The Scout Guide and our editors/owners. If you’re going to survive—let alone thrive—you can’t stand on the sidelines. Believing your endeavor will succeed isn’t enough. Every day you have to make connections, negotiate with vendors, and stay in touch with customers.

It’s not about vanity. 

Launching your own business is not a glamorous project. While on the outside, your name and headshot might be on your website and Instagram feed, in reality, there is a lot of blood, sweat, and tears that goes into the work. Usually at the beginning (and even years later), you’re working on your own, with the tasks involving everything from manual labor to all-nighters staring at a computer screen. But in the end, the effort is worth it.

You never arrive.

It’s incorrect to assume that a small business owner will reach a moment when their mission is complete. Often, once they reach the point when their business is a success, they have to keep adapting to stay relevant, or see a need or opportunity that they feel compelled to take on. We’ve found that it’s just not in a small business owner’s personality type to coast when there’s a customer to serve or community to engage.

Susie Matheson and Christy Ford  

[tsgbatonrougelouisiana]

What is the Scout Guide

The Scout Guide (TSG) is a publication dedicated to living beautifully, living well, and living like an insider—wherever you are. We connect you with inspiration, as well as with makers and experts who can help you enhance your life, elevate your surroundings, and enjoy your community to the fullest.

In our print guides, we feature excellent independently owned businesses and business owners that both locals and travelers should know about in more than 60 cities.

Here, we share tips from our vast network of experts on everything from creating an inviting guest room to selecting personal stationery to planning a formal garden; offer inspiration for creating beautiful interiors, having a well-edited closet, giving thoughtful gifts, and entertaining in style; feature special and one-of-a-kind Scouted finds; provide travel tips from in-the-know locals; and tell in-depth stories about talented artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

We also offer you access to our Scouted artists, artisans, and entrepreneurs through our extensive TSG Directory, putting our carefully curated network right at your fingertips.

WHO WE ARE

Launched in 2010 by Susie Matheson and Christy Ford, The Scout Guide began as a locally focused website and city guide dedicated to Charlottesville, Virginia. Since then, TSG has expanded nationwide, with Editors in each city serving as curators, connectors, tastemakers, and small business advocates.

At our headquarters in Charlottesville, our national team shepherds our print guides through design and production and produces The Scouted Life, our online editorial content as well as the newsletter that shares the same name.

As a network, we’re more than 3,000 small business owners, artists, artisans, dreamers, doers, and makers; over 80 Editors in big cities and small towns; and a team in Charlottesville, Virginia, dedicated to discovering, sharing, and supporting the talented individuals who make up our TSG community.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

We believe in creating a beautiful, simple, well-curated life.

We believe in authenticity.

We believe in storytelling.

We believe in relationships.

We believe in being proactive, engaged members of our communities.

We believe in sharing what we love, advocating for one another, and supporting each other.

We believe you should always remain curious, keep seeking inspiration, and be open to discovery.

We believe everything you need to have a beautiful life can be found within your own community.

HOW TO USE THE SCOUT GUIDE:

A collection, a community, and a lifestyle, The Scout Guide is:

A resource for living well. Our print guides and online directories showcase premier businesses in a variety of categories. Whether you’re a longtime resident, newly relocated, or just passing through town, our city guides can help you find the experts and experiences you’re seeking. From artists to architects, dermatologists to doggy day care providers, florists to financial planners, stationery to spas and so much more, we have you covered.

A source of inspiration. The Scouted Life offers daily doses of inspiring and informative content on topics such as entertaining, home décor, travel, fashion, and culture. In addition, our Editors provide updates on what’s happening in their cities and introduce you to the faces behind the places featured in their guides on various social media platforms.

A way to connect with potential customers or partners. The Scout Guide exposes TSG members to high-potential clients, customers, and partners through our beautifully produced print guides, which are published annually and strategically distributed throughout the year; placement in our online local and national directories; targeted online promotion; and creative marketing efforts designed and executed by our Editors.

[tsghuntsvillealabama]

The Scout Guide Huntsville Announces Local Map Art Contest for Inclusion in 2020 Annual City Guide

The Scout Guide Huntsville is pleased to launch a community-wide search for an artist to create a map of the Huntsville/Madison County area for inclusion in its annual publication scheduled to publish September 2020.

Creatives of all ages are invited to participate and the winner will receive a complimentary spread of their artwork in The Scout Guide Huntsville Volume 3, a city guide dedicated to promoting, supporting and advocating for small businesses, artists and artisans within our community.

“While we all are focused on staying connected with our community and keeping life vibrant and interesting in these difficult times. Art and creativity are an important part of our own wellness as well as that of Huntsville at large. We wanted to create an opportunity through this initiative to channel that creativity toward positivity and allow a way for our artists to share their work with the world,” said Dawn Pumpelly, Owner and Editor of The Scout Guide Huntsville.

To be considered, all submissions must be created between April 10, 2020 and May 20, 2020. Inspiration for this project can be found by visiting TheScoutGuide.com and searching city guides from over 60 LOCATIONS nationwide. Any medium will be accepted by artists of all levels. The winner will be notified prior to the launch of The Scout Guide Huntsville Volume 3, and all artists who submit work will be celebrated in a fall art show.

Established in 2018 by Dawn Pumpelly, The Scout Guide Huntsville is an annual city guide in print and online. The Scout Guide Huntsville tells the story of the passionate people in our community through photographs taken by local photographer Ashley Vaughn of White Rabbit Studios. The guide not only emphasizes the importance of buying local but demonstrates how investing in local businesses pumps money back into the local community. The Scout Guide Huntsville has become a nationally recognized trusted resource for locals and travelers.

Rules and Regulations: Artists must reside in Madison, Limestone, Morgan, Jackson or Marshall Counties. Bubbly LLC dba The Scout Guide Huntsville retains the rights to all art submissions to use for marketing purposes. Any medium is accepted. Artists do not have to be professionals. All ages are welcome. Art must be created between the time periods of April 10, 2020 and May 20, 2020. Please take three photos to document the process 1) the initial stage 2) mid point 3) final concept and email them to Dawn Pumpelly at huntsville@thescoutguide.com. All submissions must be received via email on or before May 20, 2020. At that time, artists will then be provided with instructions for physical delivery of art.

Art Considerations: The map will be inserted into the guide one of 3 ways: 1. photographed 2. scanned piece of art (drawing, painting, etc), or 3. a photo of a large art piece like a large painting.

Things to Note:

The guide is perfect bound, so the artist must be conscious of the gutter and make sure no crucial info is placed in the center.

If the artwork has text on top of it, we prefer that it be laid on top of the primary image in order to ensure the legibility and crispness of the text.

Page Dimensions are 14"x10,“ but art of all scales can be accepted.

Directional text may be placed on top of the artwork. Graphic additions to the page are at the discretion of the Editor.

About The Scout Guide:

Founded in 2010 by Susie Matheson and Christy Ford, THE SCOUT GUIDE began as a locally focused website and city guide dedicated to Charlottesville, Virginia. Since then, TSG has established itself as a premier franchise and expanded nationwide, with editors/owners in each city serving as curators, connectors, tastemakers, and small business advocates. As a network, TSG is more than 3,000 small business owners, artists, artisans, dreamers, doers, and makers; over 60 editors in big cities and small towns; and a team in Charlottesville, Virginia, dedicated to discovering, sharing, and supporting the talented individuals who make up our TSG community.

[tsglexingtonkentucky]

WE BELIEVE | “The people behind the small businesses in our communities are what give a place its soul." -The Scout Guide Co-Founder Susie Matheson . . Visit the link in our bio and tour 60+ @thescoutguide cities . . . #tsglexington #tsg #livelovelocal #thescoutguide #thescoutedlife #scouted #lexington #sharethelex #locallyowned #locallymade #smallbusiness #shoplocal #supportlocal #community #motivationalquotes #webelieve #podcastlife (at Lexington, Kentucky) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0LcNf_A6Ft/?igshid=p3hs92w55fj5

[hallmark-movie-fanatics]

FOLLOW YOUR HEART TO HALLMARK CHANNEL’S ORIGINAL SERIES SUNDAY NIGHTS (Slight Spoilers)

SUSPICION CONTINUES TO RISE AROUND MONTAGUE IN EPISODE EIGHT OF ‘WHEN CALLS THE HEART,’ PREMIERING SEPTEMBER 10, ON HALLMARK CHANNEL

STUDIO CITY – August 18, 2023 – On “When Calls the Heart,” Elizabeth grows suspicious of Montague because of all the construction taking place on the land that Madeline now owns in, “What Is and What Never Should Be,” premiering Sunday, September 17 (9 p.m. ET/PT), on Hallmark Channel.

The series stars Erin Krakow (“The Wedding Cottage”), Pascale Hutton (“We Wish You a Married Christmas”), Jack Wagner (“A Big Fat Family Christmas”), Kavan Smith (“Big Sky River”), Chris McNally (“Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies”), Kevin McGarry (“The Wedding Veil Expectations”), Andrea Brooks (“Romance to the Rescue”), Martin Cummins (“Riverdale”), Kayla Wallace (“My Grown-Up Christmas List”), Loretta Walsh (“Love on Fire”), Amanda Wong (“Raise a Glass to Love”), Johannah Newmarch (“Gabby Duran & The Unsittables”), Viv Leacock (“Cruel Instruction”), Natasha Burnett (“The Journey Ahead”), Ben Rosenbaum (“It Was Always You”), Hrothgar Mathews (“Motherland: Fort Salem”), Jaeda Lily Miller (“Starbeam”) and Hyland Goodrich (“When Calls the Heart”).

Elizabeth (Krakow) encourages Gowen (Cummins) to seek forgiveness from Rosaleen (Mamie Laverock, “Spotlight on Christmas”) to heal old wounds. Meanwhile Montague (Benjamin Wilkinson, “Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies”) continues to raise suspicion.

“When Calls the Heart” is from WCTH 10 Productions Inc. Erin Krakow, Susie Belzberg, Michael Shepard, Eric Jarboe, Jimmy Townsend, Lindsay Sturman, Brad Krevoy, Brian Bird, Michael Landon Jr., Vicki Sotheran and Greg Malcolm are executive producers. Lindsay Sturman serves as showrunner. Peter DeLuise, Neill Fearnley, Paul Redford, Derek Thompson, Elizabeth Stewart and Amanda Phillips serve as co-executive producers. Heather Nevin, Shelley Matheson, Doran S. Chandler and Vince Balzano are associate producers. Vicki Sotheran and Greg Malcom serve as producers. Alysse Leite-Rogers directed from a script by Derek Thompson. Based on the novel When Calls the Heart, by Janette Oke.

[tsgfortworth]

Scouting for Volume 4 in Fort Worth!

It has certainly been a FUN and exciting few months since I have resumed as Editor of The Scout Guide, Fort Worth! It is a dream job, for sure!  

PHOTO CRED:  RACHEL WERNER

At the beginning of February I visited TSG Headquarters in Charlottesville, Virginia to meet TSG Founders, Christy Ford and Susie Matheson. Account Manager, Caroline Giamo, filled my schedule with lots of “insider” activities and I learned so much about the process of putting together the book.  I cannot say enough wonderful things about all the talented people in our Headquarters office.  

FOUNDER, CHRISTY FORD’S, ANTIQUE SHOP:  AND GEORGE

Left to right:  Founder, Susie Matheson; Development Manager, Meg Dougherty; Senior Account Manager, Caroline Giamo; and Founder, Christy Ford

I've met most all of our talented and inspiring current TSG Fort Worth members!

Browse Volume 3 Members HERE!

And I have been busy scouting new and renewing businesses for Volume 4!  

We'd love to hear your ideas about who we should #scout next!  Send nominations to lbrown@thescoutguide.com.

Fort Worth is such a wonderful and dynamic community.  I am thrilled to continue telling stories about all that makes our city so unique!  xo-Leigh

[mystlnewsonline]

Global Wellness Institute Publishes New Edition of Its Popular Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards Book

Global Wellness Institute Publishes New Edition of Its Popular Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards Book

  MIAMI/ OCTOBER 24, 2018 (STL.News)

The Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, today announced the release of the third edition of the Guide to Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards. The popular book, which has been expanded by 50 pages, is a primer for designing and building thermal experiences and wet areas at commercial properties or in residential…

[tsgcharlottesvillevirginia]

This week we’re celebrating a new wine release, all things natural, and a guy’s essential for spring that’s back in stock. If the groundhog saw his shadow, we think that gives us license to start stocking up for warmer weather. 

“Early Mountain just released their 2018 Petit Manseng and I’m excited to try it. Though a white wine, it is especially suited for the winter months because it had more richness and density than your average white wine. I’m looking forward to sipping it fireside on a cold night.” – Sarah Dawson  

“I got my mom Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum from Scarpa for her birthday. Her skin can’t tolerate Retin A, so this has been a great, more  gentle alternative. It’s derived from the Bachi plant that helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles naturally.”  – C.F. 

“We’re ramping up our photo shoots for The Scout Guide Volume 12 and during cold and flu season I feel like I need extra support. I checked in with Martha Stockhausen, of The Frequency of Fragrance, for recommendations on how to naturally boost my immune system. She uses Young Living Thieves essential oil on her feet daily and diffuses it throughout her house October through March. Additionally, she turns to Thieves Household Cleaner in an effort to reduce her toxic exposure to chemicals, freeing up her family's bodies to focus on fighting more important battles. Martha reports that detoxifying the home of chemicals may be the one most important thing you can do for your body’s health during cold and flu season!” – Susie Matheson

“I’m loving the Thule Boarding Bag that I got at Peace Frogs Travel / Outfitters. It’s perfect for overnight trips and would be especially great for men. It’s truly designed as an ideal, underseat carry on with a padded compartment for your laptop and a lot of pockets to organize and stow all your stuff. Plus, it has a pass through strap to slide it onto your rolling luggage.” – C.F.

“The Rhoback People’s Polo is back in stock and I love this green Spring. I know it’s the end of January, but I am already dreaming of warmer days.” – Susie Matheson

“For those that feed their animals the way they feed themselves, Animal Connection has such great goats milk, raw food, and fresh marrow bones. My dogs love them and always have great vet checks.” C.F. 

[thescoutguide]

Co- Founders, Susie Matheson and Christy Ford with keynote speaker, Lynn Easton. Editors from across the country joined us for a third Editors conference here in Charlottesville. View scenes from #TSGConnect2018 here: http://bit.ly/2Ix1Jfn