Inside the creative home of poet Kate Baer
In the town of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, poet Kate Baer has established a vibrant home that serves as a center for gatherings and creativity. Residing with her husband, four children, and several pets, Baer embraces a philosophy of hospitality, welcoming friends and family into their lives. This article explores the essence of their home, highlighting their experiences with hosting, parenting, and the creative process.
Transforming a family home
When Kate and her family purchased their home, they inherited a space filled with love from another family. “My friend’s mother raised her children here, and I never imagined it would become our own,” Kate said. As they gradually made the house their own, they infused it with personal touches, blending cherished heirlooms with modern aesthetics. The walls are adorned with a soothing Benjamin Moore paint, while the furniture often features hand-me-downs, creating a sense of nostalgia and warmth.
A passion for literature
Books are central to Kate’s life, influencing her both personally and professionally. Among her recent literary favorites are the compelling The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and the enchanting Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino. Kate channels her love for literature into her work as a poet, drawing inspiration from the written word. She humorously notes, “I read so voraciously that some titles seem to vanish before I’ve even finished them,” reflecting her profound connection to literature.
Fostering community through hosting
Kate’s home serves as a hub for community engagement. The Baer family regularly organizes gatherings, ranging from festive fall celebrations to movie nights in their inviting basement. “I believe in bringing people together,” Kate states. She reflects on their past experiences, noting that even during their time in a smaller space, they welcomed friends with open arms. “It’s not about having a perfect home; it’s about creating a warm environment where everyone feels welcome.”
The charm of everyday moments
In the kitchen, a handmade table crafted by her husband, Austin, serves as the centerpiece for family meals and conversations. It is surrounded by chairs that have a history of their own; they were salvaged from the roadside, illustrating that beauty can emerge from the most unexpected places. Kate underscores the significance of music in their home life, playing a carefully selected dinner playlist each evening to signal the transition to family time. “Music sets the tone for our gathering, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere,” she states.
A sanctuary for creativity
Kate has transformed her primary bedroom into a tranquil retreat, designed to foster a sense of peace and calm. The room features minimal décor and a predominantly white palette, creating a serene environment. “I always envisioned a bedroom that felt like resting on a cloud,” she says. This intimate space stands in stark contrast to the lively energy of the rest of the house, offering Kate a necessary respite to recharge and inspire her creativity.
Balancing work and family life
Kate, a mother of four, exemplifies the challenges of parenting while pursuing a writing career. She emphasizes that managing a large family requires organization and adaptability. Despite the inherent chaos of raising children, Kate finds peace in her ability to dedicate time to her creative endeavors. “It’s all about prioritizing what matters most,” she states, highlighting the need to remain focused on her writing objectives while nurturing a supportive family environment.
Embracing the joys of family life
The Baer household thrives on laughter and the delightful chaos that accompanies raising children. Aerial silks spark friendly competition among the kids, while toys seem to multiply overnight. Kate Baer humorously notes, “I don’t even buy toys anymore; they just appear,” capturing the unpredictability of family life. Underneath this joyful pandemonium is a family that strengthens bonds through shared activities, such as working on puzzles and engaging in spirited board games.
Kate Baer’s home illustrates the importance of community, creativity, and love. By welcoming friends and family, nurturing her children, and pursuing her passion for poetry, she demonstrates that a home can serve as both a personal sanctuary and a vibrant gathering place.
