A 44-Year Love Affair with the Upper Delaware: Journalist Jan Goodwin's Journey

For journalist Jan Goodwin, the Upper Delaware region has been a beloved retreat for over four decades. Her connection to the area began in 1982, when a friend's house-hunting expedition led her to a quaint 1800s Milanville cottage. The $24,000 price tag was a steal, and Goodwin couldn't resist the charm of the old house. Little did she know, this purchase would mark the beginning of a 44-year-long love affair with the Upper Delaware.

Goodwin's Milanville cottage, featured in the Winter 2008 edition of Our Country Home, was a true gem. The two-level yard boasted an herb garden, mountain laurel, a catalpa, and peach trees, as well as a rubbish dump transformed into a treasure trove of antique glass bottles. The house itself had its own unique character, with dark exposed beams, wide plank floors, and a farmhouse sink. However, it required some renovation to make it suitable as a weekend home. Goodwin recallingly removed the orange shag carpet and plastic laminate paneling, re-entering a clawfoot bathtub and transforming two tiny bedrooms into one decent-sized room.

As the years passed, Goodwin found herself spending more time in the Upper Delaware, and in 2013, she decided to leave New York City behind and live in the area full-time. A friend suggested she look at a Beach Lake home, formerly owned by sculptor Raymond Rocklin, which had just gone up for sale. Goodwin was initially hesitant, but her friend's insistence paid off. The modern house, with its 23-foot-by-23-foot studio space and 10-foot-high ceilings, became the perfect canvas for Goodwin to create her own masterpiece. She transformed the space into a family room, complete with radiant heating in the flooring, and turned the grounds into a lush garden, featuring fruit and fig trees.

Now, as Goodwin prepares to leave the Upper Delaware behind and return to her home country of England, she reflects on the memories she's made in the region. With a tinge of sadness, she mentions that she'll miss her walk-in closet, a feature in her Beach Lake home that has become a staple of her daily routine. Goodwin's departure marks the end of a chapter in her life, one that has spanned over four decades and has been filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to the Upper Delaware community.

As Goodwin embarks on this new journey, she takes with her the lessons learned and the memories made in the Upper Delaware. Her story serves as a testament to the power of serendipity and the importance of following one's heart. The Upper Delaware, with its quaint houses, scenic landscapes, and rich history, has left an indelible mark on Goodwin's life, and she will undoubtedly carry it with her as she returns to England.

The Upper Delaware region, with its unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, has been a source of inspiration for many artists, writers, and musicians. The area's rich history, which dates back to the 18th century, is evident in its many historic homes, landmarks, and cultural attractions. As Goodwin's story demonstrates, the Upper Delaware has a way of capturing one's heart, and it's a place that will continue to inspire and nurture those who call it home.

In conclusion, Jan Goodwin's 44-year love affair with the Upper Delaware serves as a reminder of the importance of following one's heart and embracing the unknown. As she returns to England, she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a deep connection to the Upper Delaware community. Her story will undoubtedly inspire others to explore the region and discover its many wonders.