Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

It was like a swarm of bees surrounding a hive on Saturday afternoon at the Hill's home in Suffield, CT. Our innocent offer of a front door lantern turned into an incredible two days of doing the nearly impossible for our company of handcrafted lighting. Once arriving on the scene to deliver the entire package of exterior lighting for the new house, we realized we were one of thousands pulling out all stops for the pleasure of seeing something wonderful unfold before our eyes. The community's generosity was impressive and inspiring.

Jon and I were so shocked that in this swarm of bees it was nearly impossible to detect the queen bee. Of the hundreds on the scene Saturday afternoon, there was a sense of total excitement, yet calm, while fire alarms were being tested, sod was laid, sprinklers were going, a patio was arranged, clapboards were still being cut and placed, trim painting and wallpaper being hung, cabinets being made from intricate plans under nearby tents. Everybody knew how they were meant to participate and we were part of the coordinated chaos. Ultimately, we were able to work with our own team and two electricians to hang the exterior lighting without being dragged down by the enormity of the project.

The feeling of community was indescribable - everyone was part of a puzzle with each part integral to the overall completion.