FROM: CAROLYN E. BARTEL

Time flies. This year the Brooklyn Bridge is celebrating its 125th birthday and although I wouldn’t exactly consider myself a historic landmark, the fleeting five decades that have passed since the SHS 1958 graduation are quite difficult to comprehend. Technology and politics have made this world a very different place. And I, too, am a very different person.

Here is the inside scoop on me. When it came to choosing a career, the lure of the home furnishings industry was the obvious choice. A magazine career seemed quite natural since my family subscribed to every home furnishings publication. Zealously, I awaited each new issues arrival. Yes, I was a confirmed magazine junkie. Unbeknownst to me, my monthly exposure to furniture, décor, color, style and decorative arts fueled my passion. And career followed passion. I consider myself fortunate to have spent the better part of my life surrounded with home furnishings products that influence the way we live. Being on the cutting edge of new trends, refining design statements with a fresh point of view and juxtaposing old with new offered me limitless opportunities to create and develop a special editorial style for a specific audience. Travel, both international and stateside, was just one of the many perks. Working hard yielded many personal rewards.

Presently, I am happily residing in both NYC and West Virginia with my darling, Henri. Urban me could never give up the culture and excitement of city life. However, the lure of country calm and nature combined with city living is surely the best of two worlds. And yes, wanderlust is still with me - we take every opportunity for discovery both here and abroad.

10 THINGS THAT MAKE
1. My Significant Other
2. Friends/Family
3. Time
4. Photography
5. A Good Nights Sleep
6. A Great Bike Ride
7. City Lights
8. Heirloom Tomatoes
9. Exercise
10. Shoes

MY LIFE SPECIAL GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT
Completing a 92 mile bike ride