Wrapping Up the Season & Winter Projects Ahead

Henry the cat enjoying a winter stroll to his favorite place, the bar.

There's something special about the quiet that settles in after a busy season at Highland Lodge. The laughter, clinking glasses, and late-night campfire chatter slowly give way to the sound of wind through the trees, and the sounds of hammers, power tools, and some swearing when I lose my cool on lodge projects. As much as I love the buzz of summer weddings, family reunions, and Road America weekends, there's a certain peace in this time of year—a chance to breathe, reset, and roll up my sleeves for the winter projects that keep the lodge in top shape.

Winter marks the end of our "go-go-go" season, and this year, I'm feeling both grateful and inspired. Every guest who checked in left their own little mark here, some physical :( But some positive! While it's bittersweet to see the parking lot empty out, it also means I finally have time to tackle the things that have been on my list since spring.

At the top of that list? A remodel of Room 4's bathroom. It's long overdue for a fresh look, and I can't wait to give it the same level of charm and comfort as the rest of our rooms. I've been collecting ideas all summer—modern fixtures, updated tile, maybe even a Hobby Lobby trip to buy out their Highland Cow art section. Sometimes I think I'm the only one who's buying up all the cows, but something tells me they are okay with that lol.

One thing I was able to get done earlier this November, when we had a warm snap, was re-stacking the brick wall that's been leaning on the east side of the building. It's one of those "small but mighty" projects—something that's easy to overlook when we're hosting back-to-back events, but so satisfying to finally fix. It's not perfectly straight, but progress is progress! I was really avoiding fixing it because, lord knows, I hate working with bricks, but it's the kind of work that makes you appreciate the delicacy of your fingers. A few bandages. Two new pairs of gloves.

the brick wall in question

Among other things, I'd like to build a new bar top for our pub. It's been on my mind for a while—something handcrafted and timeless that really fits the space. Our bar has become the heart of so many celebrations, from welcome drinks at weddings to toasts with old friends, and it deserves a little glow-up. Let me know if you would like to see progress pics!

Then, once the snow melts, I'm setting my sights on landscaping around the pond area. That space has so much potential for weddings, ceremonies, and outdoor gatherings. We'd love to make it more inviting with new plants, some stonework or lighting, and a better flow for event setups. By spring, the goal is to have it looking as magical as it feels when the sun sets over the water.

Every winter brings a chance to improve—to take everything we learned from the year and make the lodge even better for the next wave of guests. It's a slower rhythm, but one I've come to love. The sawdust, paint brushes, and project lists are all part of the process that makes Highland Lodge what it is: a place that keeps evolving while staying true to its roots.

So here's to a well-earned breather, a few good cups of coffee by the fire, and a season full of progress. Come spring, we'll be ready to welcome everyone back—refreshed, renewed, and just a little bit better than before.

Planning a wedding, family gathering, or group getaway for next year?

 Book your 2026 weekend at Highland Lodge now and enjoy exclusive use of our 10-room property, cozy pub, and event spaces—perfect for celebrations big and small.

As always,

Stay funky, be kind - you never know who will walk through the doors of your life!

Love Elle