Painting is proving to be a most rewarding experience. As each window and door frame is given the final coat the whole house takes a step toward completeness. My progress is slowed somewhat by the frequent breaks that I take to simply step back and admire how fresh and nice a house can look with a coat of paint!

Visiting a potter’s studio and shop in Uddevalla, Sweden in 1976 I noticed this welcome sign to the Gustavsson’s. It had been custom made and then never picked up by the intended family so I bought it and have posted it in or around our homes over the years. While attempting to hang it on the front door at our Copenhagen home, I managed to break it in three pieces. I was so mad at myself and discouraged I just threw it aside and was ready to let it go. Cynthia pulled it out and carefully glued it together and then packed it with our belongings. I found it again and now it is proudly posted at the front gate of our little Swedish looking house here in Helena. It is your official welcome to the Gustafsons’ of Helena.

Gardening is a good break from painting. We have had beautiful rain this July and it is so good for the yard and garden.

Nancy and Joe are on their way to Helena today after a week visit out west to see Joe’s sister. The guest room was tested out by Judy and Harold and now is all set for the next company to come and enjoy a stay.

Cynthia is planning a special dinner featuring pork and rice to welcome Joe and Nancy and to fill our dining room with good conversation.

Hopefully there won’t be a need to start a fire in the fireplace but the living room is all ready just in case the weather turns cold as it often does in the middle of July here in Helena.