susi stone
a little bit about
It wasn’t a glass slipper that sealed my fate to live in a castle. My story begins years ago, when my amazing husband, Russ, a builder/developer with a hankering for the impossible, was captivated by an abandoned castle. Finally in the spring of 2019, The Castle at Cornwall, nestled in a valley of the Litchfield Hills, the storybook turrets of The Castle at Cornwall called our names- and we answered.
My life is an eclectic meandering of places and passions, and this castle seems a worthy place to pause for now. I was born in the United States and as an infant, traveled by ship, the SS United States, to Germany where I spent my early years. We lived in a small village, Konigstein, (Kings Stone) with an abandoned castle through the woods from our house. My older brother taunted me with stories of trolls and gnomes, and little girls lost in the woods.
We grew up immersed in European folk and fairy tales of the likes of Hansel and Gretel, The Musicians of Bremen, and The Brothers Grimm. Fast forward nearly fifty-five years and my castle, reminiscent of my childhood, brings back memories which I yearn to keep alive.
As an avid traveller, I developed a love of food and culture. I am a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and started my early food career as a chef at the Barefoot Contessa in The Hamptons. Later, I interrupted college at Boston University, to participate in a UNICEF Global Torch Relay, organized by the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Games Torch relay team. We ran a torch of “Global Cooperation” through almost 60 countries, around the world. Back on US soil, I finished college, became a private pilot, small business owner, trend consultant, corporate vice president, equestrian, mom, and now, resident “Countess” of The Castle at Cornwall.
I've been a horse lover for as long as I can remember. I was first introduced to the sport when I was 3, and I haven't looked back. I've owned many horses over the years, and competed at the state and national level. It's the lethal combination of power, athleticism, structure, and community that has me coming back, ride after ride.
MY HORSES
04.
Over the years, I've learned a lot from being a dog mom. Between their loyalty, curiosity, and daily desire to play, our four legged friends really are the ultimate companion (especially at horse shows). Our Jack Russell, Scarlett, is 12 pounds of crazy. She's cute as a button, but can be reckless when she wants to be. Whether she's snuggling with my husband and me or chasing her tennis ball, she always keeps me on my toes.
MY PUPS
03.
My son and daughter are my greatest joys. We bond over athletic activities, good food and wine, and lots of laughter. Like any family, we have had our challenges but we are stronger as a team and unit because of them. I’m so proud of both of them and the partners they have chosen. I couldn't be happier for the lives they are creating and manifesting.
MY CHILDREN
02.
My husband is the embodiment of compassion, love, and strength. We have built a fabulous life together that is beyond our wildest dreams. I have a best friend, partner, and cheerleader (who happens to be handsome as heck!)
MY HUSBAND
01.
treasures
WHAT ARE HER GREATEST
Many castles are constructed to keep invaders out.
I on the contrary welcome you into ours. I invite you to share the experience of My Stone Castle as I chronicle the weekly happenings of castle life, interior design, recipes and entertaining, community, and love for nature. My blog merges sophistication and simplicity with imagination and resourcefulness. Castle life is a journey, not a destination and I’m excited to share it.
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