On March 9th, I again welcomed guests into the Lodge; a very necessary but difficult thing to do. I can say with certainty that it was tough going; another one of those ‘firsts’ that happens after the loss of someone important in your life. Not just my life, but the many lives that Bill affected during his years keeping this place running. The guests were indeed very gracious and true friends that we met as guests here at the lodge; regulars who have been coming many years. They helped make the weekend a happy reunion, of sorts and I am very grateful for their kindness and truly thankful of all the great times they represent. Fear not about talking to me about Bill; I consider it an honor to him. What started out bittersweet ended happily.
In order to continue operating this place, a few changes were needed. Mostly, the wood-burning stove needed to retire. It threw too many particulates into the air, and having just recovered from a collapsed lung, my pulmonologist was not happy. A grandson suggested replacing it with a pellet stove; almost as esthetic and much healthier for all our lungs! I think you will love it as much as I do.
Also, I opted for a new floor in the kitchen. I had been eyeing the new vinyl plank flooring as the wear layer on my tiles had made cleaning them quite difficult. Thanks to the children and grandchildren involved in getting that done.
These two things, in addition to the new carpeting that Bill and I had done prior to our trip last year, have given the Lodge a bit of a facelift. Looking forward to seeing all your friendly faces.
Now … with the help of many family members and neighbors … onward to many new memories!
Juanita
