It’s hard to believe that ten years have passed since we embarked on the journey of transforming our 1839 farmhouse along the Hudson River into the cozy, memory-filled home it is today. This milestone gives us a chance to reflect on the countless hours, challenges, and joys that come with breathing life back into a fixer-upper—and what a journey it has been!
Our Humble Beginnings
In October 2014, after months of searching, we stumbled upon a diamond in the rough—an 1839 farmhouse that had been converted into a three-family apartment. With a price tag of $28,000, it was clear this house needed a lot of love, but we were ready for the challenge. By January 2015, the keys were in our hands, and the renovation adventure began.
Working on a tight six-month timeline, we tackled structural repairs, restored its historic charm, and reimagined the spaces to suit our family’s needs. By mid-2015, we had completed the major renovations and started filling the home with color, antiques, and love.
Our mission was clear: honor the home’s history while making it our own. Each room was designed to complement the breathtaking Hudson River views, and every piece of furniture and décor was chosen with intention. From vintage collectibles to heirloom treasures, our design philosophy has always been, “If it brings you joy, display it.”
Minimalism has never been our style, and that’s part of what makes our home uniquely ours. Every knickknack and antique tells a story—some are sentimental, others are simply pieces that caught our eye during countless treasure hunts.
A Tight-Knit Community
While the walls of our house have been the backdrop for countless memories, it’s the people of our hamlet who have truly given this house meaning. Not many can say they live in a place where their neighbors aren’t just people they wave at—where they’re true friends, ready to support you through life’s ups and downs.
From the moment we first arrived in 2015, it was clear that this community was something special. Our hamlet isn’t just where we live—it’s where we’ve truly belonged. This is a place where friendships aren’t just formed over time—they are forged in the shared experiences of living life together. Whether it was celebrating the holidays with a warm meal at a neighbor’s table or joining in on a community party that stretched well into the night, we have been embraced by a community that celebrates the joys of life and supports you through the struggles.
We’ve spent late nights walking the quiet streets, reflecting on our day under the stars, knowing that our community is just a few steps away—always there to offer a hand, a word of comfort, or an invitation to join in on whatever fun might be happening. We’ve been there for each other, through personal triumphs and challenges, knowing that no matter what, we are never truly alone in this place.
Late-night wine nights, where laughter filled the air and conversations flowed freely, or the fabulous feasts where food and love were shared, these moments of connection became the heart of our home. They reminded us that life is richer when shared with those who make you feel seen and heard.
Through every season, every high and low, our hamlet has been there to remind us that home is made not just by walls and windows, but by the hearts of those you share it with.
A Decade of Memories, and Many More to Come
Our house has been the backdrop for countless milestones: family dinners overlooking the Hudson River, late-night laughs on our patio, and quiet moments of reflection watching the seasons change. Each memory adds another layer to the story of our home. The journey hasn’t just been about restoring a house—it’s been about building a life we love in Upstate New York.
Over the years, we’ve continued to add finishing touches, update rooms, and evolve our decorating style. What started as a fixer-upper has truly become our sanctuary—a testament to the hard work and heart we’ve poured into it.
As we celebrate 10 years in our home, we’re excited to share more about our experiences, from the highs and lows of renovations to the beauty of life in the Hudson Valley.
To our community, our family, and our home: thank you. We are beyond grateful for the deep friendships we’ve made, the celebrations we’ve shared, and the strength we’ve found in each other over the past 10 years. The love and support we’ve received in this place have made this more than just a house—it’s a home filled with warmth, connection, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Warmly,
The Dubois/ Wheeler Family
Upstate Vintage Living 