Marta Tice
The Ebb & Flow of 2025
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A New Beginning
December 2024 — The journey to 60 Apple Blossom Court
After moving to 60 Apple Blossom Court, it seemed as if it took an entire year to get settled with downsizing and design. The one floor living with an open floor plan has become my sanctuary — the convenience and simplicity perfectly suited for this new chapter of life.
From this experience, a new passion emerged: "Downsizing by Design" — helping seniors transition into smaller homes with grace and intention, preserving what matters most while creating space for new memories.
Visit Downsizing by Design
The heart of the home
The convenience and simplicity perfectly suited for this new chapter of life
Where mornings begin with mountain views
My new best friend and companion, Alice
Christmas magic
Holiday warmth
Life in the Blue Ridge
"I never tire of the sunsets in my backyard overlooking the mountains at Three Ridges"
The inspiration for a children's book
The automated water trough sits just outside my sunroom, where I watch the cows come many times a day to replenish their thirst. I've named many of them, forming bonds with these gentle creatures who share my mountain home.
This connection inspired me to write and publish a children's book — "Charlotte & Charletta" — dedicated to my beloved grandson, Preston James Michalka.
Sunset views from my backyard
From the heart of grandmother to grandson
Smith Mountain Lake
Adventures on the water with Captain William Preston Tice
Sun-soaked days... Richard, Preston, and Billy enjoying the open water. Little captain in training. Three generations at the helm.
Three generations at the helm
Memories on the water
Captain in training
Summer days at the lake
Peaceful lake moments
Golden hour at Smith Mountain Lake
Roots & Heritage
A journey through French Huguenot ancestry in Manakin Sabot
In August, I journeyed to Manakin Sabot to research my father's French Huguenot ancestor, Adrian Phillip Anglin. This discovery will weave into my upcoming sequel, Alsace to America.
The Theiss family will come to America from Alsace in 1810, as James Madison becomes President. Count Karl Theiss will continue to use his espionage skills against the British during the War of 1812 — a tale of courage, identity, and finding home in a new world.
A tale of courage, identity, and finding home in a new world
Exploring family history
Manakin Sabot discovery
Gatherings & Grace
The bonds that make life beautiful
Generations united in love
Cherished friendships
Cherished friendships
Beautiful moments with friends
Preston James
Lots of time is spent with my grandchild
Preston James
Sweet moments with Preston
Preston, Grandma and Daddy
Precious moments
Preston & Brisket
Preston James
Lots of time is spent with my grandchild, Preston James Michalka, now 14 months old and running about. Like his uncle before him, he is a joy to his grandparents, and we treasure every moment watching him discover the world.
From boating adventures to quiet afternoons, Preston brings light and laughter to every gathering. He is the living bridge between generations, carrying forward our family's love of nature, storytelling, and togetherness.
He is the living bridge between generations
Best Wishes for 2026
As another year draws to a close, I'm filled with gratitude for the mountains that hold my home, the family that fills my heart, and the stories yet to be written.
May the coming year bring you peace, purpose, and precious moments with those you love.
With love, Marta
A Year of Memories
The Move
Settling into 60 Apple Blossom Court
New Beginnings
Downsizing by Design is born
Lake Adventures
Smith Mountain Lake memories
Heritage Journey
Exploring Manakin Sabot
Family Time
Watching Preston grow
Reflections
Gratitude and new stories