Jackson, Wyoming

This year for Labor Day Weekend, I was lucky enough to be invited to the home of Eric Harslem, Rani Clasquin and Kate Harslem in Jackson Wyoming. Valerie Hanft came along too, and we had a super time. What great hosts! Here are some of the highlights of that trip.

The weather in Jackson was absolutely perfect. That meant I had a great view of the Teton mountains from my room when I woke up every morning.


Saturday, we had a golf game for which I did not report my score. Valerie, Kate and Eric were great sports, and it was a perfect day to be outside. After golf, we ventured into downtown Jackson for lunch and sightseeing.



Sunday, Eric and Rani took us on a hike to Jackson Peak. I almost made it but the altitude got the better of me about 15 minutes from the top. Despite a little bit of sprinkling rain as we got near the summit, it was a perfect day.

In the evenings, we got to enjoy the beautiful view from the patio, along with some great food and wine. The last day, Labor Day, Valerie and I were going for a walk when we got some unexpected but very cute visitors.


There was a definite chill in the air and we were told that ski season is coming soon. Last but not least, we decided that getting there is half the fun.


Next up for me: a road trip through Vermont and New Hampshire. More on that next week.

Bella Vista, Arkansas

In the spirit of getting back to regular posting on Gretchen 2.0, I wanted to share one of the highlights of my last month, which was Carolyn's and my trip to Bella Vista, Arkansas.

Why does one go to Bella Vista, you might ask? Well, maybe because you work at Wal Mart or are visiting Wal Mart. But it turns out the Greater Bentonville area has a lot to offer, including a GREAT golf scool, let by former LPGA player, Beverly Williams. Beverly's classes are a great value and she is an outstanding teacher too! We think women will especially enjoy Beverly's style and gentle reminders, such as "The gas is in the a*s!" To see more about her golf programs and sign up you can visit http://www.iabv.com/iabvgolf.html.

If business is taking you to the greater Wal Mart area, why stay at Holiday Inn when you can stay at the Inn at Bella Vista (http://www.iabv.com) for about the same price! Plus, the breakfasts are MUCH better. The cinnamon roll French toast and blueberry pecan pancakes with peaches won our stomachs over, though I am not sure they helped with our golf game.

We found several fun things to do in Bella Vista and Bentonville, mostly which were related to food. We liked Blackboards Cafe in Bella Vista and Bella Napoli in Bentonville. For great gift ideas, visit Par Hillard and T at Dogwood Hills pottery (www.dogwoodhillspottery.com).

To read more about Bentonville, you can visit http://www.bentonvillear.com/.

Now the burning question: Is my golf game any better? Eric Harslem will attest, absolutely not. But I haven't quit yet and I'm sticking with it.