The Fence Post

I tried to count them . . .

Today, I drove about three hours, giving me plenty of time to look for fences. I was not disappointed. Tall fences, skinny fences, white ones, brown, metal, rusty, privacy, deer, chicken, electric, temporary, chain link, and my beloved stone walls. Some are beautiful, and others are downright ugly, especially the broken and fallen fences.

According to Louis Page, the world is made up of fences, and we have supplied many of them, especially in New England. And we will continue this tradition for many years. We love helping people secure their borders (now that’s a hot topic!)

I passed a vineyard and looked for fencing. It wasn’t the traditional fence in terms of fencing out or in, but coil wire running from stake to stake to provide trellises for the vines. It was a beautiful site, all sloping down the grassy hillside. Spring is trying its best to arrive, though there have been many setbacks: it was 35 degrees this morning and didn’t get out of the 40s today! Seemingly overnight, the grass turned green. And the grape vines are swelling with buds. How lovely is that?

One that particularly struck me as interesting and attractive was a privacy screen around a restaurant patio. It was made of wooden slats nicely stacked horizontally and “planted” in aluminum feeding troughs, which are often used for gardens nowadays. I want to return in the summer to see if flowers, herbs, or vegetables are growing in the troughs. I can imagine it being most pleasant to dine alongside these.

Spring is all about rebirth. I saw two eagles soaring high overhead. The eagle always reminds me of Duncan. Eagles mean freedom, strength, and rebirth. Once, when Duncan and I were out in our wooden sailboat, putzing around the lake using our electric motor, an eagle swooped down close by, caught a fish, and flew to a nearby tall pine tree to enjoy its dinner. How majestic and awesome!

Spring teaches us to look up again. We should look for the earth's beauty surrounding us, whether it be dessert or lush mountains such as those we have in New England. And while we’re looking, let’s look for fences to learn how others have created special and sometimes sacred spaces for themselves and their families.

So, what fencing needs or wishes do you have today? Perhaps, like my friend Liz, you have llamas or a wish to have them. Our sheep and goat fence is ideal. Check out this excellent llama article about using llamas as guard animals.

Warm regards

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (It adds up to 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!)

Finding Beauty Amidst the Storm—And Protecting What Matters

Yesterday, I took a moment to step outside and breathe in the crisp Autumn air. As I approached the bridge over the river, I heard the sounds of giggles and joy from a young couple, lost in each other’s company. It reminded me that, even with the chaos of the world, life continues to offer moments of truth, goodness, and beauty.

But it’s impossible not to think of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene in the South. Families have been displaced, loved ones lost, and communities are facing a long road to recovery. Despite the destruction, we’re seeing incredible acts of kindness and resilience. Samaritan’s Purse is on the ground, providing much-needed goods and services, and Elon Musk’s Starlink is helping to restore vital internet connections to the area.

In times like these, I’m reminded of J.R.R. Tolkien’s powerful words:

"The world is indeed full of peril, and in it there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater."

Even amidst hardship, love and beauty continue to shine through. And just as communities are banding together to rebuild, we at Louis E. Page are committed to providing the fencing solutions that help protect what matters most. Our American and Italian-made fencing products are built to endure, offering strength and peace of mind, whether you’re securing a farm, repairing storm damage, or starting fresh.

From durable wire mesh, to sand erosion and field fencing, we’ve got what you need to safeguard your property and restore security. Terry, our fence expert, is here to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Let us know how we can support you as you rebuild.

All my best regards,

Debbie Page

P.S. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by Hurricane Helene. If you need assistance in securing your property, we’re here to help.

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)

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.

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.

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

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.

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. 978-486-3116. T2C

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)

We always make adjustments

We always make adjustments in life. It’s a fact. Our hearts adjust to our level of exertion. We choose the temperature on our stoves required for cooking a particular item. When we are tired, we may slow down or go to bed. We always make adjustments.

Are there any sailors out there? If so, you know the constant adjustments one makes when sailing. Sail, rudder, navigation. That’s the reason I love sailing. To me, there’s never a dull moment. It’s also quite exhilarating when the wind starts causing white caps. The breeze is constantly adjusting my hair.

In life, we must make adjustments every day, whether we are driving, walking the dog, or preparing dinner. Imagine life without the need to make adjustments. It would be boring and monotonous!

This applies to fencing installation as well. A seasoned and expert fencing contractor understands how to make the necessary adjustments to ensure the fence is installed correctly and will withstand weather, animals, and time. The lay of the land requires adjustments all along your perimeter.

When it comes to choosing a fence installer, don't settle for less. Look for Google reviews with four stars or more. Check their website or call them for testimonies. Your fence is a long-term investment, so choose wisely.

When you're in the market for a fence installer, efficiency is key. You want someone who takes the time to make the necessary adjustments, not someone who rushes through the job. Quality over speed is the mantra here.

We work with fence contractors across the country. A good fence installer can be your best friend for current and future projects.

Call us to get your project started. You can install a fence yourself or hire a top-notch* fence contractor and know your wire mesh is in good hands.

*Top-notch: folk etymology says this phrase comes from courting days. If the father approves of the suitor, he sets the candle high, allowing a long burn. If he disapproved, he’d put it low to burn out quickly.

So here’s your jingle for hiring a fence contractor:

The candle is high;

He’s my guy.

The candle is low;

Time to go!

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!)

The Moon is Crossing Between the Sun and the Earth. What are the animals doing?

Let's seize the moment and dive into the cosmic spectacle - a celestial event that won't grace our skies again until August 2026! Let’s go out and experience it. Living in New Hampshire puts me in a fortunate position. Nevertheless, I'm poised in a prime spot to witness the breathtaking allure of the eclipse. Meanwhile, my friends from Atlanta have embarked on a journey to Waco, Texas. One among them, an avid astronomer, is intent on immersing himself in the complete totality of this astronomical marvel.

Scientists ask, “What do the wildlife do during a solar eclipse?” This question came from scientists in 1932 when they called for people to share their observations. If you are interested in observing wildlife during the eclipse, you may notice the nocturnal birds become active: owls hooting, wild turkeys roosting (they are often in my trees from dusk until early dawn), pigeons returning to their cotes (I’m getting frillback pigeons once I build a cote for them.) Maybe your bird feeders become vacant of their frequent visitors, flowers close up, or your outdoor kitties come for dinner.

I’m certainly planning to be on the lookout for the wildlife around me. I’m hoping to see THE eagle. I say THE because I wonder if I see the same one each time. As I was driving across the bridge that crosses the stream, the eagle appeared in front of the car, with it’s huge wingspan (up to seven and a half feet) it seemingly guided me along the road until it diverted to fly over the lake. What a majestic sight. I always think of Duncan when I see an eagle.

For those inclined to share their observations with a wider audience, there's an opportunity to contribute to iNaturalist - an esteemed platform that unites biologists, naturalists, and enthusiasts alike in documenting the rich tapestry of biodiversity. I myself have recently joined its ranks, spurred by my passion for butterflies. With a few clicks, I can explore a treasure trove of sightings, not only of New Hampshire's vibrant butterfly population but also a myriad of other natural wonders.

I’m heading to my son’s mountain top farm where a group of kindred spirits await to experience the solar eclipse. About 15 people made up of young families are coming for a viewing and a potluck, including Daniels’ famous brisket. Everything is still covered with several inches of snow, but the viewing will be awe-inspiring.Already the azure hues of blue birds hover around their houses, so I’ll keep an eye out for their behavior.

As for fencing, I won’t be too focused on that, even though I won’t be able to dismiss the ice damage done to Daniel’s fence a couple of weeks ago.

What do you need from me to make your decision to install a fence easier? We have an extensive catalog of deer, sheep and goat, and wildlife fencing. Check out our website for details or call Terry at 978-486-3116 to learn more.

Warm regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (True! That’s 131 years owned and run by our family)