Outskirts Press, INC.

How One Woman’s Journey of a Cottage Renovation Built a Strong Foundation for Living Life to the Fullest

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When Ellen True bought her parents’ rustic lakeside cottage in the spring of 2008, she also purchased a treasure trove of family memories and lake lore. In this extraordinary, heartfelt narrative, Ellen launches readers on a journey through mesmerizing lake stories as the backdrop to her main adventure of renovating the 85-year-old cottage.

But there was one thing she didn’t count on: a home-improvement project that would give Bob Vila a run for his money. Along the way, True encounters riveting and humorous mini-disasters—from offensive contractors and shattered showers to building-code violations and plumbing headaches. Amid it all, Ellen takes encouragement from memories of the cottage’s many gifts during her youth: sun-drenched summer flashbacks of swimming across the lake and snipe hunts, water skiing and scuba diving, all surrounded by a loving cast of family and friends.

Sold As Is shows that the human spirit is stronger than insurmountable challenges—in this case, insufficient finances and knowledge. In her honest look at fear and failures, Ellen is ultimately transformed. What she discovers will provide inspiration for those yearning to following their passions, when only uncertainty is holding them back.

Adventures on the lake were not exclusive to the summer months, the winter held its own dangers.

“Help! Help!” The cries grew more frantic. My fear intensified as my throat narrowed.