Wisconsin trip

Taking time to see Gwen has been something I've tried to do at least every other year since they moved to Wisconsin. I enjoy a brief get away and know she and Kris also like having family come to visit. This year, I was blessed to spend time with Josh and Carolann also.

Carolann moved into her new home about a month prior to my visit. Hardwood floors were uncovered in the livingroom and work was already planned for outdoors and in. It's a small ranch, but for the two of them it is a nice home with some great outdoor yard space in a quiet neighborhood.

Josh was keeping busy with jobs and also helping Gwen finish her basement. He is staying with Gwen and will transfer across town Carolann's when he works over there. Josh still gives a good hug and was enjoying the good old home cooking found in Gwen's kitchen. He may not be quite so thin the next time I hug him!

As she finishes the basement, Gwen is adding a 3/4 bath and separating the open area into a family room, laundry, storage and additional spare bedroom. (the bedroom was already separated) Somehow, Gwen finds the "bargins of the day" every time she shops for the basement project. She's just amazing how little $ she will have in the reno. When I left, Josh had the 2x4's up which easily defined the different rooms. Gwen was getting so excited and anxious to get this project over, in preparation for putting the house on the market. Her kitchen looks really nice with the new cabinets that Pete finished for her. I can't believe how nice it looks since the last time I was there....after the fire.

During the weekdays, I went to Gwen's shop and enjoyed watching her work with clients. Sidewalk sales were scheduled for the Saturday of my trip and we had fun selling Hydrangea's from Gwen's backyard bush. People (men and women) were amazed how large the heads on the flowers were. It was some crazy last minute idea I had early that morning. That will be a "do you remember" discussion one day, as we look back and think of this visit.

She won't like it, but I also need to share that Gwen is continuing to battle with her ulcer. Without health care insurance, it's a challenge for her to stay on top of this. We need to pray that she is able to continue to use the clinic for care - and that she does take the time to go when she needs medical attention. Gwen is a wonderful, big hearted person, who cares for herself last. As we all know, this is not always the best approach.

This past week, in my update phone calls to Gwen, she shared constuction progress. The basement is drywalled and they are getting ready to put up the ceiling and paint the walls. They plan to paint about a foot down from where the ceiling will begin, prior to putting up the tiles, so they dont' get paint on the new tiles. Gwen has ordered new kitchen & basement bathroom countertops and the finishing work continues. Flooring selection is next. She is taking pictures along the way and I can't wait to see her updates. I also heard that Josh and his friend Steve have been working on Carolann's exterior stairs, stone wall and interior. I'm so proud of him and am so glad for Carolann.

It's amazing how much has changed since my last visit to Wisconsin. You should visit! I know Carolann enjoyed her company this spring. She and Gwen would both welcome you with open arms, like they did me.

Summer

Now that it's August 7th it finally feels like summer! That is crazy. I am emailing from the back deck while the girls nap, they should be getting up shortly. Aaron and a friend came home last night and are statying for a few days. Tonight is steaks on the grill with corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, a spinach salad and yummy strawberries and watermelon. Maybe I'll make brownies....they'll go good with the french vanilla ice cream I got at the store last night. Bill, the boys and John are going to the golf tournament at Firestone tomorrow. Ahhhhh......the stuff that summer is made of! I wish it lasted all year long.

I'M FEELING GOOOOOOD!!!!!

Just wanted to share a really happy thing for me right now!!! I have been going to Weight Watchers since June 15th (my first weigh in) - since then - I am down 17.6 pounds!!! I am loving life and loving being thinner and the extra energy I have that I was missing! Thank you to Melissa for all your encouragement and Beth for your inspiration! I've been so impressed with your loss and I know that I can keep going, too!

Love you girls!
Jen