Author Archives: mandolingrove

Despite trying to live in the now, I’ve been suffering from a serious case of fomo over the last month. Rentals on Airbnb have been climbing, so my ability to visit the cottage on a whim has disappeared. It’s a great problem to have, but I’ve resorted to blocking a weekend each month or two,Continue reading “#fomo”

I like to think that as I approach middle-age that I am wiser, more confident, and more in touch with my sense of self. (As an aside, what is middle-age these days? Have I already passed it? Is it 40? 50?…. I digress.) But as a part of this process with the cottage, I’ve begunContinue reading “I’m good enough. I’m smart enough. And doggonit, People like me.”

The cottage is finished. Well… maybe it will never be finished. But it’s finished enough that we had our first few guests. I still can’t believe it, but our second reservation included a proposal! (She said, ‘yes.’) Dates in 2019 are now available on Airbnb, and we have reservations already scheduled through May. While thisContinue reading “Christmas Lights”

  The heavy lifting of this experience has been rewarding, seeing the results of our efforts take shape. But the final stretch is all about the finishing touches and ensuring we are making our guests feel at home. This is the phase where we are making sure that you experience the magic of the Shawnee andContinue reading “Finishing Touches”

As of last Wednesday, this beauty is officially mine. I walked around after I closed, with so much excitement. Then, we spent the weekend painting and not making nearly as much progress as we had hoped. That one-coat guarantee is a bunch of bunk. Despite all the hard work and sweat labor, I literally can’tContinue reading “A Beachwood State of Mind…”