Marking Time

"Let’s go measure your height on the wall!"

"Mama won’t let us write on the wall," cried Isla.

"Oh, she will for this," I said.

A Family Tradition

We marched into the kitchen, where Rachel had heard the conversation and had already picked out the wall to use. The three-year-old little guy backed up to the wall. I made a pencil mark and wrote his name and the date: 09/17/2024. Next in line was the six-year-old school teacher. She corrected me a couple of times before I got it right. Now for the one-year-old baby. Then, Dada.

A Delicious Meal

We ate a delicious pork tenderloin and grilled peppers from the garden. Rachel is the queen of sauces, and the lemon caper sauce for the pork did not disappoint! A colorful salad of heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, and fennel finished us off.

A Smart Baby

The baby finished eating early and was put on the floor to wander and play. Within a few minutes, she found the mechanical pencil, headed to the marking wall, and started drawing. Wow! She's smart. I'm grandma, and I'm biased, but this girl is smart!

Daniel quickly grabbed the pencil from her tiny hands and told her, “We’ll save that for next time!”

We all had a good laugh, but it got me thinking about how much we measure our lives by the marks we make—not just on walls but in our daily actions. Every small step we take matters, whether it's building a fence, protecting our environment, or making lasting memories with family.

Leaving the Right Kind of Mark

At Louis Page, we believe in leaving the right kind of mark. Whether it’s our American-made wire mesh, fencing products, or service, we stand by the quality and reliability that our customers can trust. Just like the marks on that wall, we’re committed to helping you build something that lasts for generations to come.

If you’re ready to start your next project or need help finding the perfect solution, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d love to be a part of the mark you leave on your world.

All my best regards in gratitude,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (That’s right! A little more than 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis Everett Page founded the company in Boston)

A Cat Named Pig

I mentioned Pig yesterday. Yes, a big cat named Pig. Phoebe and I went to see him again late afternoon. Pig hangs out at the old, dilapidated barn that is getting a facelift.

Visiting Pig

Phoebe wasn’t as calm today as Pig perched on the hewn hemlock timbers that Rex is preparing for the post-and-beam barn restoration. Rex is kind enough to stop chiseling and “sit a spell.” That good ole Southern phrase means to sit and visit a bit, especially over tea or coffee. Maybe I will bring him a cup of coffee the next time we visit.

The Story of Pig

"How did Pig get his name?" I asked. Judging by his size, I assumed it was because he ate a lot. Rex told me he was named by his first owner, a one-year-old redheaded girl. She had a two-word vocabulary, “Mama and pig.” She naturally called her cat Pig, especially since he’s big!

On the other hand, Phoebe wasn’t as impressed by Pig’s history—she was too busy trying to dart around, trying to get Pig’s attention. But Pig, in true cat fashion, ignored her, lounging on the rough beam as if he owned the place. Rex chuckled at their antics, and we all took a moment to enjoy the peaceful scene.

The Character of Old Barns

There’s something special about these old barns. They have character, much like the people—and animals—that frequent them.

Fencing Materials with Character

Speaking of character, it reminds me of the fencing materials we offer here at Louis Page. Whether it's the rustic charm of a post-and-beam barn or the sleek lines of modern architecture, the right fence adds personality to a space. And just like Rex takes pride in restoring that barn, we take pride in sourcing top-quality materials for our customers—whether made here in America or sourced from trusted manufacturers in Italy and China.

Finding the Right Tools

If you ever find yourself with a "Pig" in your life—whether it’s a quirky pet or a project needing restoration—remember that the right tools and materials can make all the difference.

Do you have a project in mind? I’d love to hear about it! Feel free to email me at debbie@louispage.com. Send us pictures. I love seeing your pictures and hearing your stories.

Call Terry and get your order processed at 978-486-3116.Call Terry and get your order processed at 978-486-3116.

Here’s to good company, Southern hospitality, and finding the perfect fence for every home and barn!

Kind Regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (131 years of continuous service through 2 world wars and 2 pandemics)

In Which Phoebe Passes the Test!

I've always believed that life is full of surprises, especially when you have a puppy like Phoebe around. This little bundle of energy has kept me on my toes ever since she came bouncing into my life. Rambunctious, spunky, and impulsive are just a few words to describe her sparkling personality!

A Proud Moment

Well, I'm thrilled to share that Phoebe has just passed her American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen test! After weeks of obedience classes, a bucket load of treats, and a whole lot of patience (from both of us), she's now officially qualified to bring comfort and joy to nursing home residents.

The Journey

I remember the first day of class. Phoebe was more interested in chasing every dropped treat and greeting every dog in the room than paying attention to me. I thought to myself, "Oh my word, we've got our work cut out for us!" But with time, she learned to sit politely, walk on a loose leash, and even ignore distractions (well, most of the time).

Yesterday, I took Phoebe to the hardware store and the grocery store. Watching her interact with the shoppers and employees during our first visit was heartwarming. Her tiny wagging tail and joyful spirit brought smiles to so many faces. It's amazing how a little training and a lot of love can harness all that energy into something truly meaningful.

The Tale of Phoebe's Tail

Let me take a moment to tell the story of her tiny tail. Phoebe was bred in Utah in a family with toddlers, which was important to me. The vet in that small town was not familiar with docking poodle tails. He cut it about as short as he possibly could.

Well, what can I say?

If you are familiar with the story of the Horse and His Boy, you’ll well remember the horse, Bree. In one of their situations, they cut Bree’s tail very short and ragged so he would not be mistaken for a horse stolen from a wealthy house. He was so embarrassed by his short tail, he didn’t want to see anybody! I often converse with Phoebe over her way too short tail for a poodle! And she just wags it all the more.

Finding the Right Guidance

This experience got me thinking about how sometimes we all need a bit of guidance to bring out the best in us—or in our projects. Just like Phoebe needed obedience classes to channel her exuberance, sometimes our fencing projects need the right materials and expertise to truly shine.

At Louis Page, we're here to help you find the perfect fencing solutions to suit your needs, whether it's a safe enclosure for your adventurous puppy or a decorative garden fence to showcase your backyard oasis. We offer top-quality wire mesh and fencing materials sourced not only from America but also from trusted manufacturers in Italy and China. Quality knows no borders, and we're proud to provide the best options available worldwide.

Share Your Stories

Do you have a pet story or a project that brings joy to others? I'd love to hear all about it! Feel free to share your tales (or tails!) with me at debbie@louispage.com.

Fences for dogs are really limitless. Check out our dog fence suggestions for some terrific solutions. Call Terry at 978-486-3116 to talk to a real person! (Such a novel thing these days.) for some terrific solutions. Call Terry at 978-486-3116 to talk to a real person! (Such a novel thing these days.)

Here's to new adventures, happy dogs, and the fences that keep them safe!

Have a salubrious day!

All my best regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (So 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis E. founded the company)

How Do You Give a Highway a Big Heart?

I want to give an immense shoutout to readers Laurel and Johnny for taking the time to share their comments on Friday’s email. The email resonated with both of them. Thank you for letting me know!

A Fence with a Purpose

The other day, I was driving down a highway in Maine, and something caught my eye—a fence running alongside the road. I notice these things as someone who’s been around fences for a long time. But this wasn’t just any fence. This one had a story.

Imagine this: You’re a wild deer, or maybe a moose, wandering in your natural habitat, minding your own business, when suddenly you come upon a highway. Cars zooming by, nowhere to cross safely. It’s a heartbreaking reality for so many wild animals who lose their way and, sadly, their lives in these situations. But that’s where these special fences come in.

A Close Call

Duncan and I once had a super close call when driving in Vermont around nine o’clock at night. Suddenly, we were looking at the tall dark legs of a moose. The animal was so tall that our low-sitting station wagon was beneath the body of the animal. To this day, I don’t know how we avoided a collision. It was one of those times our guardian angels were protecting us!

Protecting Wildlife

Along highways all across the country, they’re building fences with a purpose—to guide wildlife away from danger and protect them (and us drivers!) from accidents. I love the thought that something as simple as a fence can do so much good. There’s a stretch of highway near I-95 in Maine that’s a shining example. Since they put up the fencing our customer provided, accidents and wildlife deaths have dropped.

Some states provide safe crossing points for wildlife, but I didn’t see one on this highway. Crossing points are expensive to build, and not all states are doing it. It’s a worthy cause to support.

Creating Harmony

It’s just one of those moments that reminds me why I love what I do. Fences aren’t just about marking territory or keeping things in place—they can also create harmony between humans and nature.

At Louis E. Page, we’re proud to supply the kind of fencing that serves a purpose beyond the everyday. Whether you’re securing a project or contributing to a cause that’s bigger than all of us, we’ve got the materials you need.

If you ever want to chat about these amazing projects or need help with your next order, I’m just a call or email away. And Terry is always ready with a smile to take your call.

All my best regards in gratitude,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (That’s right! A little more than 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis Everett Page founded the company in Boston)

A-Mazing Company Beats Us Out at 173 Years

This week, I had the privilege of talking to Al at Maze Nails. We were sourcing a new product for a government contract. My jaw dropped when he told me his company is 173 years old! And I thought Louis Page was old at 131 years. We’re a mere child! They were in their 42nd year when Louis Page started his company.

Commitment to American Companies

My commitment to American companies is unwavering, and I am dedicated to supporting them whenever possible. However, the reality is that the availability of made-in-USA products in our industry is dwindling. The recent acquisition of a major player in the wire mesh industry, leading to the cessation of in-country wire mesh production, was a sobering reminder of this fact.

Certain products are no longer manufactured in America. Hexagonal wire (aka chicken wire), apron fence, and hardware cloth are the three that come to mind. As we submit bids for government contracts in our industry, they always specify “American-made.” I am super proud of this!

Proud to Be an American

“I am proud to be an American” rolls off my tongue when I say this, and I automatically break into song!

I thank my lucky stars

To be living here today

'Cause the flag still stands for freedom

And they can't take that away

And I'm proud to be an American

Where at least I know I'm free

And I won't forget the men who died

Who gave that right to me

And I'd gladly stand up next to you

And defend Her still today

'Cause there ain't no doubt

I love this land

God Bless the U.S.A.

Buy American

Buy American! Buy Louis Page! Buy Family-owned!

Call Terry. She’s waiting for your phone call.

Kind Regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc – Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (It adds up to over 131 years owned and run by our family. Think about it: Nobody stays around in business that long without really supporting customers so they want to come back!)