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.