11/29/2025
It is time for a public message - in the spirit of true Thanksgiving and perfect timing - from all of us at the Foothills.
Some of you have asked us why we have made the decision to move forward. Some may assume it's because we have to sell, but I assure you that's not the reason.
16 years is a long time, filled with growth, learning, and evolution. Some of you know our back stories, and you know it's been a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Our reasons for moving forward have to do with recognizing when our love for ourselves and our well-being outweighs the demands of a business and our relationships with all of you.
Our patrons, new and returning, have made this journey so unbelievably rewarding, and we are forever grateful.
During this last two years, I took over all aspects the business and set aside time to revitalize and invigorate the Foothills. With the help of some amazing talent we upgraded the cafe and motel rooms - from the kitchen, baths, flooring, hot water, A/C, electrical, signs, wood facing, etc., etc., etc. The Foothills not only got a facelift but also had many of its inner workings and mechanics replaced and refined. It was a labor of love, and as many of you know, it was long overdue. And out of respect and grace for what has provided us shelter through many winters, and has loved us back with warmth and sustainability, it only seemed right to invest in this historical mainstay in Leelanau County.
With all of the changes this last year, our family dealt with some very important, imminent, but difficult losses. One being my mom's death, but also the deaths of many friends who are family to us as well. 2025 has been a year of great loss.
With grief often comes the realization that time continues to arrive, regardless of any attempts to slow or stop it. It just keeps coming; and after 16 years, we - Paul and I (and Shirley)- now look in the mirror, and realize that it's time for us to breathe, let go, and pass the baton to the next keepers, whomever they shall be. We hope that they will fuel this beautiful property and all of its living creatures, with the love, energy, and spirit that the Footes, Zboyans, Sielaffs, (and all of those in between) set out to manifest and maintain here.
We are all ready for our next chapters, filled with new opportunities, growth, and experiences, where we can slow the pace and be present. And THAT is why we are selling.
We love you, those here, and those who've helped us along the way; those who've passed, and those from the past, whose memories will always be blessings. And we truly thank you for these years of crazy love, patronage, and loyalty.
❤️
Shari
