In the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, poet Kate Baer has created a home that reflects warmth and hospitality. Living with her husband, four children, and an assortment of pets—including three cats and a dog named Maybe—she emphasizes the significance of community and connection. Baer invites others into her world, where family life intertwines with her poetic pursuits, resulting in a vibrant atmosphere.
Baer describes her home as a cherished gathering place. “We’re a hosting house,” she states, highlighting her family’s ethos of inviting friends and loved ones to share in their joys. This welcoming spirit resonates throughout their home, which they have gradually transformed since purchasing it from a friend’s family.
Designing their dream space
The Baer family has made considerable changes to their residence, infusing their personalities into every corner. The library, for example, is painted in a soothing shade from Benjamin Moore, showcasing a harmonious blend of hand-me-down furniture and carefully curated decor. A well-loved rug from West Elm, acquired over a decade ago, adds character, while an entry table sourced from Facebook Marketplace serves as a functional centerpiece.
Finding inspiration in literature
As a writer, Baer draws inspiration from various literary works. Recently, she was captivated by The Correspondent, a novel by Virginia Evans, which left a profound impact on her. Additionally, she praised Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino for its stunning prose and described her immersion into Heart the Lover as a whirlwind of emotions. These books not only enrich her personal life but also contribute to her creative endeavors.
The heart of the home: the kitchen and living area
The kitchen, a hub for family gatherings, features a charming table crafted by Baer’s husband, Austin. This piece stands as a testament to their shared commitment to family life. The chairs, a bargain find from the roadside, exemplify their resourcefulness and dedication to sustainability.
Baer’s love for hosting shines through in their lively get-togethers, from festive fall celebrations to cozy movie nights in the basement. She emphasizes that the essence of hosting lies not in perfection but in the warmth of connection. “You don’t need a perfect home to invite people over,” she asserts, recalling the times they welcomed guests into their previous smaller residence.
Creating memorable experiences
Beyond the physical space, Baer believes in the significance of shared experiences. Whether it’s taking evening walks through the neighboring fields with Austin or gathering in the front yard to enjoy the serene landscape, these moments foster a sense of togetherness. Their annual family trips to Florida for shark tooth hunting contribute to their collection of cherished memories, complete with a shadow box that intrigues visiting children.
Balancing work and family life
As a busy mother and dedicated writer, Baer juggles her responsibilities with grace. She recognizes the importance of making time for her passion, stating, “No one else cares if you write a book or not. You have to care.” This self-motivation guides her creative process, especially in the absence of a designated workspace in her earlier home.
Her current office setup, a cozy nook in the bedroom closet, reflects her resourcefulness. In her earlier days, she often found solace in local cafes, crafting her first book amidst the hustle and bustle. Now, she embraces the quiet of her home while maintaining a disciplined writing routine.
Embracing the chaos of family life
With four children, Baer has learned to strike a balance between organization and flexibility. She admits that while the house may not always be immaculate, the priority remains on shared meals and family time. The toys that seemingly multiply overnight serve as reminders of the vibrant life they lead.
Baer describes her home as a cherished gathering place. “We’re a hosting house,” she states, highlighting her family’s ethos of inviting friends and loved ones to share in their joys. This welcoming spirit resonates throughout their home, which they have gradually transformed since purchasing it from a friend’s family.0
Baer describes her home as a cherished gathering place. “We’re a hosting house,” she states, highlighting her family’s ethos of inviting friends and loved ones to share in their joys. This welcoming spirit resonates throughout their home, which they have gradually transformed since purchasing it from a friend’s family.1
