For Dan and Heather Varner, Anderson isn't simply where they live. It's a community that has been woven throughout their story for decades.

Heather's family moved to Anderson when she was a freshman in high school, and it was at Turpin High School that she originally met Dan. Their paths eventually crossed again years later at a baby shower for mutual friends—and this time, their connection stuck.  

Today, Dan and Heather have called Coldstream home since December 2004, raising their two children, Hanna and Campbell, in a neighborhood Heather describes as “beautiful and peaceful with an overall focus on family.”   

And after more than two decades here, there is still plenty they love about calling Coldstream home.

For Heather, it's the quiet of the neighborhood paired with the convenience of being close to schools, downtown Cincinnati, Anderson Hills Swim Club and everything Anderson has to offer. At home, you'll often find her enjoying their screened-in porch or spending time in her home workout space. 

FAMILY, MUSIC & ADVENTURE

These days, Dan and Heather are the parents of two adult children who have developed passions of their own.

Their daughter, Hanna, is a talented singer who continues to perform locally, while their son, Campbell, enjoys the outdoors and gaming. One thing both children inherited from their parents is a love for travel. 

In fact, travel is one of the Varner family's favorite ways to spend time together.

Whether they're exploring somewhere new, relaxing at their lake house, attending a sporting event or simply gathering around a game, the Varners value the time they get to spend together. 

The photos Heather shared tell that story beautifully—from family travels and an Ohio State outing to milestone graduations and time spent together. And, of course, no Varner family introduction would be complete without Findlay, their Australian Labradoodle who is almost 15 years old and clearly has earned a special place in the family. 

ROOTED IN THE COMMUNITY

The Varner family's connection to Anderson extends well beyond their own home.

Heather is a graduate of The Ohio State University and works as a Managing Director in Cybersecurity at Accenture. 

Many Anderson residents may also recognize Dan through his music and his involvement in the community. He is the co-founder and president of the Varner Foundation, continuing a family commitment to giving back that also includes years of support for Inter Parish Ministry and Ronald McDonald House. 

That spirit of giving back is one of the reasons we were excited to introduce our readers to the Varner Foundation and its upcoming event in last month's issue of Stroll Coldstream.

But behind the events, music, careers and community involvement is simply a family that has built a life together here in Anderson.

They've watched their children grow up. They've traveled together, celebrated graduations, spent time at the lake, cheered at sporting events and returned home to the quiet streets of Coldstream.

And after more than 20 years in the neighborhood, it's easy to understand why they continue to call it home.

A FAMILY WORTH KNOWING

One of the best parts of Stroll Coldstream is discovering the stories behind the people we may already recognize around Anderson.

You may know Dan from hearing him play music.

You may recognize the Varner Foundation.

You may have heard Hanna sing locally.

Or perhaps you've simply passed the Varners while walking through the neighborhood.

Now you know a little more about the family behind those familiar faces.