August – a time for reflection
August brings to us at Ten Acres Lodge several memories…some good, some not so good. But it does mark a time for reflection as we bid farewell to summer and look forward to nature’s colorful display called fall foliage.
This month marks the third anniversary of our ownership of Ten Acres. Time has flown by so much it truly is hard to believe its been three years. In that short time, we have accomplished much. For those of you wondering what an innkeeper does over three years, here’s an example. The past three years we have: Put new roofs on all three buildings, foundation repair on two buildings, a new water distribution system for all 4 buildings, new boiler for one building, three new water heaters, new fireplace doors for 8 rooms, new sinks for 8 rooms and on and on. Its amazing when I think about it. We’ve done so much, yet still have more work to do.
But this place is worth it! We’re on a beautiful spot of land with great views, with people who come to visit who are, for the most part, friendly and appreciative of what we have done. As I reflect back over the last 3 years, I am proud of what we’ve accomplished and determined to continue to improve this venerable place.
This August also marks the 1 year anniversary of my Father’s passing. A B Wilson was a career Naval Officer who loved to fly planes. I don’t know if I truly ever knew just how strong his love affair with flying was…that is until he was gone. Friends of his share stories of a naval aviator who proudly served his country and had a great time doing it. I knew him well, but don’t think I really understood his passions. So as part of my reflections, I wish I had taken the chance to understand him better. That’s not to say our relationship wasn’t good…it was better than good..it was a connection I doubt I will have with anyone else.
He lives on in many ways, not the least of which is the abundance of bird carvings we have around the lodge. I am grateful to have those and even more grateful to be able to share them with our guests. The last time I saw him, I told him when I look at the stars at night, I would know it was him shining down on me. Wouldn’t you know on the 1st anniversasy of his death, it was cloudy to start but as night began to fall, the clouds parted, and the stars were everywhere! That night, in August, I had a nice chat about how much life had happened in three years.
August…a time for reflection….
