off to Melrose!

It's that time of year again! This morning we depart for our tree farm in South Carolina. The first several days will be a "working" holiday, while Ken installs new cabinets in the kitchen (I will help, as well). If any of you in the southeast experience a cosmic "nudge" in the next few days it will most likely be emanating from the cottage, which hasn't seen this kind of update in my lifetime. All because of a broken dishwasher... Before and after pictures will appear here before your very eyes.

Mom arrives on Wednesday. She is delaying her trip south because she was invited by my brother and sister-in-law to go with them this weekend to parents' weekend at Middlebury College, where my nephew Jesse is a new freshman (I know, that's an oxymoron). The plan is to have all the remodeling done before Mom arrives. Not only will this make Mom happy, but it also means we will be able to relax and enjoy the remainder of our visit as a vacation. Ken really needs a vacation!

The laptop is traveling with us so I'll be able to stay in touch. We're also taking a small television in order to watch th VP debate tonight. We considered attending a debate party somewhere in Augusta, but opted for this plan instead. I know Mom will understand. Televisions don't belong at Melrose, But since she set the precedent by having one there to watch the final episode of The West Wing a few years ago, we're confident this will be allowed.

Pray for our safe travels, for no injuries on the job, and for no surprises during the installation. See you tomorrow!