Mina Starsiak Hawk Remembers Getting the Call That Beloved Sister-in-Law Died in Emotional Good Bones Premiere

In a poignant and emotionally charged premiere of the new spinoff of HGTV’s ‘Good Bones,’ Mina Starsiak Hawk opens up about a significant and heartbreaking moment in her life. The episode, which aired on Wednesday, August 14 at 9 p.m., is a powerful exploration of grief, memory, and the indelible marks left by loved ones. Mina, along with her husband Steve Hawk and their two children, bid farewell to their beloved Indianapolis store, Two Chicks District Co., which closed its doors in 2023. The store was not just a business venture but a repository of memories, dreams, and profound losses.

As Mina walks through the store, she reflects on the day she received the devastating news of her sister-in-law Stefanie’s passing. Stefanie, who died in 2020 from ethanol poisoning, was an integral part of Mina’s life and family. The store’s walls, adorned with photos, serve as a visual chronicle of their shared history. Mina shows her children pictures of Stefanie, sharing stories and keeping her memory alive. This act of remembrance is both a tribute and a coping mechanism, helping Mina process her grief while honoring Stefanie’s legacy.

The emotional weight of the episode is palpable as the scene shifts to Mina tearfully hugging Steve at the store. This location, once bustling with activity and hope, now stands as a silent witness to their family’s journey through joy and sorrow. Mina explains that the store was more than a commercial enterprise; it was a space imbued with personal significance, where milestones were celebrated, and losses were mourned. The decision to close the store was not taken lightly, influenced by its financial struggles and the emotional toll it had taken on the family.

In October 2023, Mina announced the closure of Two Chicks District Co., coinciding with the original end of ‘Good Bones.’ This period marked a turning point for Mina and her family, as they sought new beginnings and opportunities for healing. One such opportunity is the opening of a new store in Noblesville, Indiana, about 30 miles from Indianapolis. This new venture symbolizes hope and renewal, offering a fresh start while carrying forward the lessons and memories from the past.

The premiere episode of the special limited season of ‘Good Bones’ also focuses on another significant project: the renovation of a lake house in Indiana. This endeavor is deeply personal for Mina and Steve, serving as a means to heal and create new memories. The lake house, located in a picturesque community about 35 minutes from their Indianapolis home, is envisioned as a sanctuary for their immediate and extended family. It is a place where they can reconnect, find solace, and build lasting memories together.

For Steve, the lake house holds particular significance. He has experienced considerable loss in recent years, including the deaths of his mother and father. The renovation project is a way for him to channel his grief into something constructive and meaningful. Opening the lake house to their children is crucial for both Mina and Steve, as they want to provide a nurturing environment filled with positive experiences and cherished moments.

While Mina takes on the lake house renovation, her mother and ‘Good Bones’ co-star, Karen E. Laine, embarks on a project of her own in Wilmington, North Carolina. Karen is taking a significant financial risk by investing her retirement nest egg into transforming a 120-year-old bungalow into a vibrant beach house. This project represents Karen’s adventurous spirit and willingness to embrace new challenges, even in retirement. It also highlights the evolving dynamics between Mina and Karen as they pursue separate yet interconnected paths.

The new series captures this period of transition and growth for the mother-daughter duo. As their lives evolve beyond renovating homes in Indianapolis, they explore new opportunities and face different challenges. Mina previously discussed on her podcast, ‘Mina AF,’ the tensions that arose with some family members during the filming of the final season of ‘Good Bones.’ These tensions underscore the complexities of balancing professional commitments with personal relationships, a theme that resonates throughout the new series.

Mina’s revelation about the lake house spinoff adds another layer to the narrative. Although she had mentioned the project before, the extent of Karen’s involvement was not fully disclosed until now. This collaboration between Mina and Karen at different locations signifies their enduring partnership and mutual support. It also emphasizes the importance of family and the bonds that hold them together, even as they navigate new ventures and personal milestones.

The limited series of ‘Good Bones’ consists of three hour-long episodes, airing on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on HGTV. Each episode delves into the personal and professional lives of Mina and Karen, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into their world. Fans of the show can stay updated on the latest developments by signing up for People’s free daily newsletter, ensuring they don’t miss any news or updates about their favorite stars.

As Mina and Karen continue to explore new beginnings, their journey serves as an inspiration to many. Their resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to family are qualities that resonate with viewers. The emotional depth of the premiere episode, coupled with the promise of new adventures, sets the stage for a compelling and heartfelt season. Through their experiences, Mina and Karen demonstrate that even in the face of loss and change, there is always room for hope, healing, and new memories.

In conclusion, the premiere of the new spinoff of ‘Good Bones’ is a testament to the enduring power of family and the strength found in shared memories. Mina Starsiak Hawk’s emotional reflection on the loss of her sister-in-law Stefanie, coupled with the closure of Two Chicks District Co., marks a significant chapter in her life. As she and Steve embark on the renovation of their lake house, they look forward to creating a haven for their family. Meanwhile, Karen’s ambitious project in Wilmington showcases her determination and zest for life. Together, Mina and Karen continue to inspire and captivate audiences, proving that even in the face of adversity, love and resilience prevail.