An Eden for Artists in Wisconsin! (Becky)

As the Wisconsinite in the group, I looked forward to visiting my pretty home state with its rolling hills, beautiful trees, and friendly folks, but I had no idea that we would be in for the opulent treat that was Edenfred. 

A gorgeous mansion-turned-artist retreat run by executive director David Wells awaited us, thanks to a chance meeting our dear friend Felicia Moye had with David Wells in a restaurant the week before!  Felicia made fast friends with David, and we found ourselves greeted after our long drive with a scrumptious feast cooked by both of them, making for an evening of memorable conviviality.  David prides himself on offering a tour of “Madison’s Best” so we sampled local cheeses, meat, truffles, and coffee, all of which were delicious.  

The hospitality from both David and Felicia was extraordinary in its easy generosity and fun.  Thank you, David and Felicia!  This was amazing!

We all had gorgeous rooms to retire to, and I think we were all wondering if we’d entered a dream....There’s a calm, safe, nurturing feel to this beautiful place that invites relaxation and reflection.  Sadly, Edenfred is slated to close its doors once the beautiful finds a new owner.  It will be a loss for everyone.....

 Edenfred’s environment invited us all to recharge, and I think we brought that energy with us to Sheyboygan, where more surprise was in store.  850 people showed up for the concert at the Weill Center for the Performing Arts, a beautifully restored theatre that is a source of pride for its community.  Concert #4 of the tour was fun, the workings of which were made smooth by its most officious staff (thank you!)

So....we depart from Wisconsin all filled up with great food, the pleasure of having seen both Felicia Moye and her wonderful husband, Jose, having made a new friend in the amazing David Wells, and having connected with music lovers in Sheyboygan at the Weill Center.

Memorable and wonderful, and, I have to say, Wisconsin did me proud ;-).