By the Red Barn

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More Comings and Goings....2009
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Tuesday, August 24, 2010

 Hey folks!
Times gone for a while!
Temporarily Closed
(See you this Autumn.)
You can always see updates at:   www.bytheredbarn.com
By the Red Barn
For the Fall and Winter Inventory 
I will be attending the Seattle Gift Show this week.
Give me a call or e-mail
if you have any suggestions.
I’ll be on the lookout
for new stuff!
 
Candy   
12:16 pm edt          Comments

Thursday, August 12, 2010

 Hey folks!
KEEP HONKING!
(See “We’re Honking” on website: www.bytheredbarn.com)
By the Red Barn
 
 SALE STILL ON!
(ONLY 6 working DAYS LEFT!) 
Last day Saturday August 21st
(Until this Fall season) 
Come by for
Mark downs,
Cleaning out,
Discounts up to 40%
 
Making room,
Needing $$$$
For the Fall and Winter Inventory
Come on by...... 
By the Red Barn
We’re Open, Open, Open....
Just like
The New York Times
Weekender
NEW HOURS!Thursday, Friday
11AM to 6 PM!Saturday11AM to 4PM 
ONLY 6 DAYS LEFT!  
2:18 pm edt          Comments

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

June 2010 Sun in Site!
Well, no more excuses.  
We’ve had sun (right?) so yard work can be done!  I’ve been digging, raking, spraying and weeding to beat the band. 
However, when I walk around a corner; the cycle begins again.Kinda like housework and doing the dishes: landscaping and yard stuff is NEVER done!The petunias in the window boxes are standing upright with the warmth and sunlight. So goes the world. 

( Side noteJ)It’s pretty obvious I started this on a sunny day....However....we seem to be in June-uary AGAIN.  So, no yard work today.
I’ve been walking and s l o w l y jogging for the last several months. 
Now, it is great to be walking in the daylight.
Anyone interested in getting up at 6:30AM; joining a group of woman for a morning walk? 
Contact me if you’d like to.
I finally attained a personal goal and jogged a full mile.
(It has been literally decades) Hurrah!
Just when my confidence was beaming, I met two women in the shop on a sunny Saturday.
They were beaming, too! 
Sarah and Margaret had just finished the Green River Marathon from Auburn to Alki!
Can you beleive it?
Before my very eyes, I was seeing the euphoric affect of running. 
I have read about and heard about the endorphins produced from running.
However, I’ve now witnessed it!
WOW.
You can see them on the website under Phun Photos: www.bytheredbarn.com
These sisters were blossoming. 
For Margaret, this was her 5th marathon of this year.  Her goal is a marathon a month. 
She’s on the right track!
 

If you want some other inspiration;
I recommend the book:
HOW STARBUCKS SAVED MY LIFE
ByMichael Gates Gill
(Thank you, Trudi, for recommending it)
It is about a guy who has lived with privilege all his life.
He learns to live like everybody else to find that he’s richer than ever! 

My son, Bryce, continues to flourish in the Navy.  He is still in Pensacola, Florida. 
The last I heard, his next training will be at Tinker Naval/Air Force Base in Oklahoma!
When we were texting back and forth, I figured Bryce was pulling my leg. 
Oklahoma for gosh sakes.  Well, I looked it up on the web and there it was. 
In the Navy and going to a place that’s landlocked.  Life is funny!  

Need a gift?  Come on by. 
“It isn’t the size of the gift that matters,
But the size of the heart that gives it.”
Eileen Elias Freeman 
By the Red Barn
We’re Open, Open, Open....
Just like
The New York Times
Weekender
OnThursday, Friday and Saturday
11AM to 6 PM! 

Did you know?
Meaningful conversation beats out small talk!
You guys have been coming by for years; we’ve had great, meaningful talks.
(My favorite part of the shop)
According to Psychologists at the University of Arizona,
Tucson and
Washington University, in St. Louis
We are HAPPIER because of it!!!!!
Deep conversations, researchers suggest,
May give a sense of meaning in interactions with others!
WOO HOO...we knew it all the time  

Hope to see you soon.
Candy 
5:06 pm edt          Comments

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

May 2010
 Happy Mother’s Day
To You and Yours
 Last week, I saw a spot on TV about; “The Science of Happiness.”
In the piece they said that happiness is about 60% genetic and 40% our own choosing.
Some of the tips were simple life changes such as:.
Get enough sleep
.
Have fun
.
Be true to yourself
.
 Make your bed each morning (This one surprised me; however when I don’t make my bed,
I don’t like going to my room at night as well!)
Science says; It brings outer order for inner calm.
Have strong relationships
.
Do several acts of random kindness every week
.
Do a gratitude journal
.
Forgive (rather than holding a grudge)
.
Write thank you notes!  Here’s a chance for self promotion for BTRB! 
Buy cards!
The process helps the giver and receiving written cards helps on the other end!!!!
Three cheers for that. 
So, when you’re with your mom this weekend:
have fun, make her bed, be kind, be grateful, forgive your mom, then, write her a thank you note and everyone will be HAPPY!
(I only wish it were this simple....yet it’s worth a try!) 
By the RedBarn
We’re Open, Open, Open....
Just like
The New York Times
Weekender
On
Thursday, Friday and Saturday
11AM to 6 PM! 
Mom’s Shortbread
Am bagging up some more.....(Get some while supplies last!) 
We’ve got new stuff in the shop,,,one of a kind, custom make skinny signs!
Go to the website on SSS....Some Shop Stuff at
www.bytheredbarn.com 
Hope to see you soon
Candy       
9:29 pm edt          Comments

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Spring 2010 Opening
May the Luck of the Irish
be with you,
today and tomorrow.
 
As the old Irish blessing says: 
My the road rise to meet you,
May the wind always be at your back,
May the sun shine upon your face,
May the rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May the Lord hold you in the palm of his hands. 
By the Red Barn
OPEN! 
First day of Spring 
Saturday, March 20th
11AM to 6PM!

New Hours:
Thursday through Saturday
11AM to 6PM 

The shop looks fresh and Springy!
We’ve got plenty of new stuff for the season: 
I may be an empty nester......but the nests and baskets are full in the shop.  
 “Pretty Tools” to make our chores more fun,
some “Pretty Tools” just for the woman of the house. 
(Remember; no one uses them but mom!)
Tools designed with a woman in mind! 
Tea Time Items, Seaside and yard decor,
Wonderful “Huggable” plush (Not just bunnies.......)
Hedgehogs, Koalas, Baby Owls, Pugs and more!
Cuddly, cute, adorable baby plush animals for the kids and grandkids. 
(How about in an Easter basket?)
 
We’ve got a new shipment of the Lavender Cleaner;
Plus.......for your sleeping pleasure,
Lavender filled Pillow bags.These can also be used for drawer fresheners. 
One of my favorite new items are the “Cat Cuddlers”
For that special pet of yours;
My cats love ‘em!
(Be warned: the cats become addicted to them!) 

With all of us not driving as much, we’re spending more time at HOME. 
How about a Room Make-Over!
Let me help you re-invent your place.
We provide affordable service using YOUR OWN THINGS!
Make an appointment today. 
We’ll set something up!
  

Come by for a visit.
It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you.

Candy
   
"My friends (and family)have made the story of my life."
~Helen Keller~ and Candy!  
Candace Anderson (Candy)
3:34 pm edt          Comments

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Better late than never, Holiday Greetings!
My wish 4 U!
http://www.dancingsantacard.com/?santa=2396347
1:10 pm est          Comments

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Reminder
  I don’t want to alarm you
but please click below:
http://bellsouthpwp.net/h/o/holm5215/Untilxmas/Index.html 
For those
last minute gifts!
REMINDER  
WINTER HOURS:
By the Red Barn
Open Everyday until Christmas (except Monday)
10:30 to 4:30PM
Sundays Noon to 4PM 
Great Hostess Gifts 
Mom’s Shortbread!
Mulling Spices
(Our Own Special Blend)
&
Dreamy Garlic Spread
(All while supplies last) 
HoNk, HOnk, HONK!!!!!!
Hope to see you soon.
Candy  

9:31 pm est          Comments

Thursday, December 3, 2009

December Open House
By the Red Barn
Annual Open House
Saturday December 5th, 2009
HoNk, HOnk, HONK!!!!!!
The Cider Pot is on with our
Own Special Blend of Mulling Spices…
 
Pat Cavanaugh will be here with “Dreamy Garlic” spread!  Scrumptious!
Once you taste it and smell it, you’ll want a tub!  (The fragrance of an Italian restaurant!)Come by for a sample and a tub for your holiday giving and eating pleasure
In my book, there’s never too much garlic.
Pat will be here from 1PM to 3PM 
WINTER HOURS:
By the Red Barn
Open Everyday until Christmas (except Monday)
10:30 to 4:30PM
Sundays Noon to 4PM  
By the Red Barn is filled with winter wonder.  Lot’s of snowmen, sparklies, figures, Green trees,New Nativity figures, gifts for family, friends and work folk.
We have your favorite Pashminas.  Several people have said
“They’re prettier than ever!”
Use them for decoration or as a shawl or both.
Your favorite rusty signs:  Count your blessings, Kindness Matters, Celebrate Life; Kiss me good morning, too, Grandkids Spoiled Here; to name a few.
More “Heart Notes” plates with easels And “Life is a Circle” mini plates, boxed with easel.
New magnets to express your sincere thoughts; Mom, Grandmother, Blessings, Love, FaithSay “Thanks”, Create, Hope, Inspire” as a heartfelt gift.
You never know...there might be some SURPRISES in store
when you come to
By the Red Barn! 

How about our Wish List?

While you are here, if you see something you like....Fill out the list:
We will keep track of your name and favorites....
Then, ask your special “Santa” to come and see us...
We can help with the rest! 
Every gift which is given, even though it be small,
is in reality great,if it is given with affection.
~Pindar~ 

A little time to talk about the Bryster!  Our Seaman recruit is doing well!  He has lucked out in the Great Lakes Naval Station thus far.  It has been a very mild winter!I asked him what his favorite things were during basic training:“The super food and getting more sleep!”Bryce and his division were bused to a facility on Thanksgiving.  They got to play video games, use the cell phone (thus I got a phone call!) and use the computer.I looked at his FaceBook account that evening.  He said “Bryce loves his liberty!”If I can get a plane ticket when he gets his orders in the next while, I’ll be bringing him home for Christmas!It will be wonderful to see how he has grown and matured since he left in October. 
Many of you have said he will be “a man” and “changed”.
I look forward to seeing the new guy walk up when I get him at the airport!
Thank you one all for the well wishing and good thoughts going to Bryce.     

We have all been struck by the tragedy of the last week in the shootings of the four police officers in Lakewood.In case you are interested, the following link is to donate to the families of these public servants: http://www.lpig.us/ #police #cops #lawenforcement #WA 

May you always have Love to Share
Health to spare,  And Friends that Care .
                             
As we begin preparing for the holidays,
let us count our blessings,
and remember to be grateful…
 
Candy
7:13 pm est          Comments

Saturday, November 7, 2009

November Newsletter
THANK YOU
for your VOTES!
You did it!
By the Red Barn
BEST IN WESTERN WASHINGTON GIFT SHOP
Top 5
http://best.king5.com/by-the-red-barn/biz/498015 
I appreciate the loyalty and support.  You guys ROCK! 
October started out gently.  We opened on October 10th after my son went into Recruit Training (October 6th) with the Navy in Great Lakes, Illinois.I heard from him almost 3 weeks to the day he arrived.  So far, I am pleased with the Navy.  Everything Bryce said the Navy would do has happened. I got all his belongings in a box 1 week after he got there.  A letter from him arrived soon after.  I actually spoke with him after 3 weeks.  He got phone privileges!It was a fantastic feeling for me, the mom, to hear his strong, confident voice.  He sounded great.  I had to laugh.  He said he would like to get more mail.  I reminded him that he didn’t send out mail when he was up in Bellingham.  “Well, I am now” he replied.  Bryce says the food is decent and plenty of it!  I was surprised to hear he has gained 4 to 5 pounds in the last 3 weeks.  For those of you that know him, he is a long, lean guy with not a lot of extra baggage.  So, even with plenty of exercise (I’m told they do double duty to make up for the smart mouths in the group for punishment) he is thriving and getting stronger.  As many of you heard me whine about, I was not the wildest about him going into the service.  Well, it’s done; it’s his life and his choice.  I need to go with the flow.  I only hope he gets stationed in some exotic place that I can go visit!  More self serving talk, huh? 
It has sure been nice to see you guys again. 
I thank you for the $$$ for the raffle for the Pink Pashmina.
The winner is:Cheri EdwardsCongrats.
(Proceeds went to the Susan G Komen for the Cure) 
A friend of mine, Tracie Stone of the band “Rootbox”, just sent me one of her songs on the following link.  I keep telling her she should take up the guitar!  It’s her vocals and guitar on the music.  ENJOY!http://www.ourstage.com/charts/16889-hot-new-tracks-in-rock 

Christmas stuff is out on the shelves. A little more every day! Yes, you heard me right. I’m actually putting stuff out before Thanksgiving.  We ALL need a little extra time to get ready for the holidays.  They are coming upon us fast and furious.  

Just in:  The newest book from Carl R. Sams & Jean Stoick.
One Child One Planet.
Beautiful Conservation Book for children with breathtaking photos.
We have SIGNED copies.
These are super gifts for your children and grandchildren! 

The cider is mulling!Please come by for a cuppa. 
Upcoming events are: 
November 14th   1PM to 3PM  
Patrice Colvin
Local artist Will be here to sign her original numbered prints. 
Samplings from Mixed BlessingsDreamy Garlic
(We’re the ONLY shop in Kent Selling their product!)
Feel like you’re entering a great Italian Restaurant with the essence of garlic in the air.
The taste is even better.  Get some for the holidays.  It freezes well!
I will have it here for your buying pleasure throughout the season.  December 5thAnnual Open HouseCome by to enjoy a cuppa mulled cider along with all the holiday spirit.   
Hope to see you soon.
Cheers!
Candy
12:38 pm est          Comments

Saturday, October 10, 2009

October 2009
Happy Autumn All! It’s October!By the Red Barn is finally OPEN!  Saturday, October 10th....11AM to 5PM!The cider will be mulling.... We’ve got plenty of warm fuzzies for your pleasure.  Please come by for a taste and look at By the Red Barn.It looks like autumn with the warm colors and textures.  One of a kind art piece leather masks and wall hangings, vegetables for the table or room decor,New signs, new iron pieces, New colorful Pashminas, our own “Mulling Spices”Come by for a peak.    Thank you one and all for your votes for By the Red Barn as Best Gift Shop in Western Washington through King5, Evening magazine.You brought us up to 5th place.  That’s incredible.  We got nominated on September 23rd.  That will be only 18 days of voting.  I am honored by the support and kind comments made by you guys.YOU ROCK!  Who knows, maybe next year, By the Red Barn will climb even higher!  You still have time to vote....It ends at 11:59PM on October 11th!Here’s the link:http://best.king5.com/by-the-red-barn/biz/498015 You’re in the Pink!  As is the tradition, we will celebrate October as “Breast Cancer Awareness” month.A young local woman, Shanel, will be selling her Pink T-shirts at the shop; along with hand-made leis.Shannel designed these cute “Walk for Love” T’s. All Proceeds will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® By the Red Barn will be having a drawing for a PINK Pashmina.  Your donations will also go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®The book, “A Time to Be Held” by Susan Rehberg will be available at the shop.  We are trying to arrange a time for a book signing. I’ll keep you posted. It is about Susan’s journey with her fight against cancer.  I thoroughly enjoyed the piece.  It is inspirational; A wonderful gift for those friends whom need support.   My son, Bryce, left on October 6th for recruit training with the Navy to the Chicago area.  He will be there for 8 weeks, then on to Pensacola, Florida for technical training.I miss the little bugger already!  The nest is definitely empty.  Any tips or recommendations are welcome!  I have been wrestling with his decision to go into the military.  In light of the recession, etc, I’m finding it more reassuring that he will have a job, a roof over his head, food and years of experience to show for it.  I wish him the very best and hope he thoroughly enjoys and appreciates the choice he has made. This summer was supposed to be filled with fun, trips to Bellingham, sailing with Bryce....you get the picture.  “Best laid plans” and all that.  Shortly after I closed the shop at the end of June, I decided to revamp and paint Bryce’s basement bedroom.  It has been literally vacant for a number of years.  He would no longer need it.  The guilt had been eliminated since he would be totally moving away.  The original room was a taupe with striking, bold Chinese red accents.  (Bryce had done a great job if I do say so myself)  Because of the dark colors, I began to primer the walls.  After painting a couple of walls and the ceiling, I moved the TV stand away from the wall.  Well, the drama had just begun.   I saw mold on the carpet. GULP.  Long story short, I ripped out the sheet rock walls, custom shelving units, and carpeting (always wearing a mask.)  Of course, it was hotter than blazes during much of this work. (It felt like a wine cellar in the basement.  I rented a dehumidifier.)  The hot, hot weather seemed to encourage all the mold activity even more.  I did a lot myself at a very slow pace; recognizing I could easily rip my shoulder again.  This is the first time I’ve done that extensive of demolition.  My brother, Duke, and Bryce, jumped in.  They were able to do the wall demo so much quicker than me.  Bryce dug new drainage around the house.  It’s amazing what you learn when you’re doing something like this.  My brother, Al, put in additional electrical, plus a new light outside the door.  My summer was basically consumed with this project.  However, the results have been worth all the work.  It had to be done.   Bryce would be coming home before leaving for the service. That brings us to the Bryster leaving Bellingham after over 4 years.  He has managed to accumulate plenty! So, moving him, sprucing up the condo, finding a property manager; it all takes time!Thus; one of the reasons, (along with the slow economy) of opening the shop later than usual.(By the way, does anyone need a place to live in Bellingham near the college?  It’s a one bedroom condo only 2 years old within a couple miles of the campus.  There is a shuttle bus provided for tenants and it’s right on a bus line; Convenient and lovely.  Bryce had a couple of good years there.  It is in primo condition.  I wouldn’t mind living in the unit!  It is semi-furnished.) Warmest thoughts.....hoping to see you soon.Candy
12:58 pm edt          Comments

Saturday, May 30, 2009

June letter 2009
It’s funny how things work out.  For about two years or so, my tractor/mower has been broken.  A neighbor has kindly mowed my lawn (I’m sure he is sick and tired of that) for that time until I could get the part, etc.  Well, I purchased the $400.00 part, Brian installed it on Easter.  Now, the hydraulic system on the mower is NOT working.  I still can’t mow.  So, the grass is above my knees.  I’ve decided to go Ah-Natural!   The two times I’ve been to England, I noticed they do this on country estates.  Well, this is no estate, but it is country like.  Think of the time saved, diesel saved, and to my surprise, a woman told me this recently that the goldfinches thrive on the dandelions!  (My apologies to the neighbors for that.)  I have borrowed a weed eater from good friends.  I’ve cut around the sand box flower garden plus made paths to the barn and routes I take out there!  So, my little orchard has gone back to its roots from years and years ago.  The universe works! 
By the Red Barn
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday
11AM to 5PM
Gifts!
It’s What We Do!
HoNk, HOnK, HONK!
(Keep Honking...I love it!) 
We will be opened Through
Saturday, June 20th!
School will be out soon
and so will BTRB!
 
Need something
for a wedding, a teacher,
garden art,
“one of a kind” gifts...
Please think of us!
We need the business!  

I went up to see Bryce on Mother’s day.  We had a change in plans.  Originally, we were going out to my brother’s place in Enumclaw.  My Mom had taken a fall a couple of weeks prior.  She decided she didn’t want to go anywhere.  (I spent the previous Sunday visiting her) So, I had the opening to go see the Bryster.  He had to work until 6PM that day.  I wasn’t going up there until mid afternoon.  (I even opened the shop from noon until 3PM! ) At about 2:30 PM, Bryce called.  “When are you coming up, Mom?”  I explained I was leaving in 20 minutes or so.  He said. “Why don’t you just go to the condo and pick up a bit.”  I was surprised but said, OK, I’ll do some laundry while I’m waiting for you to come from work.  It will give me something to do.  I wasn’t a happy camper about that but not a big shock.  He said he got sidetracked on his cleaning!   Yeah, right!   So, I drive up, no worries.  I carried my bags up to his place, unlocked the door.  The cat, Cleo, comes running to greet me!  In the entry is a bag with a card with Mom on it!  I look around.  The place is spotless!  I laughed so doggone hard.  On the envelope of the card on the back, it said “Fooled ya...hahaha!”  One of the best Mother’s days I can remember. 
 I recently watched a piece on “Sunday Morning on CBS” that covered the “Children of Recession.”  Basically, 5 kids did movies on how the recession in this country has affected them.  What an eye opening piece.  Good news and bad news.  On the good side, it has become socially acceptable to admit one doesn’t have the money to spend on certain items.  This to me is a great thing.  How many young people (and adults, for that matter) hide when things are tough; trying to keep up with the Jones when it is impossible.   This may open up communication and discussion about what is really important.  One 12 year old girl said she realizes her childhood is not going to be a fairy tale.Disappointing, yet reality.  We are ALL being hit by this recession.  

On to a more positive, interesting subject:
   
An Interesting Fact . . .
At five minutes and six seconds after 4 a.m.
on a Wednesday the 8th of July this year,the time and date will be: 
04:05:06 07/08/09
This will never happen again in our lifetimes
(unless you live another one thousand years).
  
Plus here’s something to think about the rest of your life!
(Please keep scrolling!)

  
 
 
 
Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me.
It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone...

4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick.
Your friends and parents will.  
Stay in touch

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone.  It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God.  He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others.
You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye.
But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful, or joyful.

18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

19.. It's never too late to have a happy childhood.
But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life,
don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie.
Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words
'In five years, will this matter?'

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Don’t take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is,
not because of anything you did or didn’t do.

35. Don’t audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

36. Growing old beats the alternative – dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood.

38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else’s,
we’d grab ours back.

41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

42. The best is yet to come.

43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up, and show up.

44. Yield.

45. Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift.”
  
 Candy  
"My friends (and family)have made the story of my life."~Helen Keller~ and Candy!      
1:58 pm edt          Comments

Saturday, May 9, 2009

Happy Mother's Day!
Dear BTRB folks, 
Yes, according to the calendar, it is MAY.  According to my way of dress and the gas stove running....it feels like fall.  Please enjoy the attachment.  It is a breathe of spring!  It’s a Humdinger!However...spring will appear again and continue....
Many of us will be celebrating the spring holiday of Mother’s Day on Sunday. 
We will honor all those moms who have given us love and protection that we transfer to our own families.  I’ve always said being a mom was the most challenging job I ever had.....and the most satisfying!  My own mom is in her 88th year!   She is still quick minded, makes her own meals, lives on her own, bakes her own bread, makes biscotti and reads continually!  She had an accidental fall lately which has slowed her down a bit.  She is getting stronger every day.  I only hope I will take on some of the characteristics of strength and resilience found in mom.  This past year I have been consciously letting go of my son, Bryce.  (You guys with older kids know the drillHe has been up in Bellingham going to college.  He recently announced that he is joining the Navy.  At this time, he is fully independent and living on his own.  He has quit school for the time being.  I have every confidence that he will continue with college while in the Navy or when he gets out.  I have faith that he will live a full, wonderful life. So, if you need any last minute gifts for yourself (remember the wish list in the shop) or your mom, By the Red Barn has plenty to offer.
Our theme this spring is re-invent and re-use to provide unique, special gift items. 
We have done that with:Great “one-of-a- kinders”:LikeYard art and bird feeders, (folks are definitely liking these)fragrance bags to tuck in your pillow for a relaxing sleep,Along with NEW purse hooks (for you germaholics and practical folks),Lavender cleaner (smells great as you clean),Brownie cookie mixes for a quick treat, along with cookies by the bag while they last! 
Please come by. 
We’d like to help you out with your gift giving needs.
Bring your friends, neighbors and relatives.(We’re off the beaten path...but we’d sure like you to beat your path to BTRB!)
As usual, we would like to thank you again for your ongoing loyalty.We hope to continue to earn your allegiance.   
Signing off I leave you with a quote sent to me by a friend:From a country song:  When your hour glass runs out of sand, you can't turn it over and start again -- Don't Blink!  Life goes by fast! 
By the Red Barn
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday
11AM to 5PM
Gifts!
It’s What We Do!
HoNk, HOnK, HONK!
(Keep Honking...I love it!)    
8:50 pm edt          Comments

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Almost Mother's Day
Hi People! 
Only 3 more weekends until Mother’s Day! 
By the Red Barn
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11AM to 5PM
Gifts!
It’s What We Do!
HoNk, HOnK, HONK!
(Keep Honking...I love it!) 
We’ve got some great “one-of-a- kinders”: LikeYard art and bird feeders, fragrance bags
To tuck in your pillow for a relaxing sleep,
Along with NEW purse hooks
(for you germaholics and practical folks),
Lavender cleaner (smells great as you clean),
Brownie cookie mixes for a quick treat,
As well as many new bags and jewelry. 

We are in difficult times. 
Turn it around and choose your priorities.
This piece is a great reminder. 
Long yet worth the read.
(I make up my Saturdays the rest of the week)
(NO jokes, folks) 

The older I get the more I enjoy Saturday mornings.
Perhaps it's the quiet solitude that comes with being the first to rise, or maybe it's the unbounded joy of not having to be at work.  Either way, the first few hours of a Saturday morning are most enjoyable. A few weeks ago, I was shuffling toward the garage with a steaming cup of coffee in one hand and the morning paper in the other.  
What began as a typical Saturday morning turned into one of those lessons that life seems to hand you from time to time. 
Let me tell you about it. 
I turned the dial up into the phone portion of the band on my ham radio in order to listen to a Saturday morning swap net.  
Along the way, I came across an older sounding chap, with a tremendous signal and a golden voice.
You know the kind; he sounded like he should be in the broadcasting business.  
He was telling whomever he was talking with something
about "a thousand marbles."  
I was intrigued and stopped to listen to what he had to say.
 
"Well, Tom, it sure sounds like you're busy with your job.  
I'm sure they pay you well but it's a shame
you have to be away from home and your family so much.  
Hard to believe a young fellow should
have to work sixty or seventy hours a week to make ends meet.  
It's too bad you missed your daughter's dance recital" he continued.  
"Let me tell you something that has helped me keep my own priorities."  
And that's when he began to explain
his theory of a "thousand marbles."
 
"You see, I sat down one day and did a little arithmetic.  
The average person lives about seventy-five years.  
I know, some live more and some live less, but on average,
folks live about seventy-five years."
 
"Now then, I multiplied 75 times 52 and I came up with 3900,
which is the number of Saturdays
that the average person has in their entire lifetime.  
Now, stick with me, Tom, I'm getting to the important part.  
It took me until I was fifty-five years old
to think about all this in any detail", he went on,
"and by that time I had lived through
over twenty-eight hundred Saturdays.  
I got to thinking that if I lived to be seventy-five,
I only had about a thousand of them left to enjoy.  
So I went to a toy store and bought every single marble they had.  
I ended up having to visit three toy stores to round up 1000 marbles.  
I took them home and put them inside a large,
clear plastic container right here in the shack next to my gear.
"
 Every Saturday since then,
I have taken one marble out and thrown it away.  
I found that by watching the marbles diminish,
I focused more on the really important things in life."
 
"There is nothing like watching your time
here on this earth run out to help get your priorities straight."
 
"Now let me tell you one last thing before I sign-off with you
and take my lovely wife out for breakfast.  
This morning, I took the very last marble out of the container.  
I figure that if I make it until next Saturday 
hen I have been given a little extra time.  
And the one thing we can all use is a little more time."
"It was nice to meet you Tom,
I hope you spend more time with your family,
and
I hope to meet you again here on the band.  
This is a 75 Year old Man, K9NZQ, clear and going QRT, good morning!" 

You could have heard a pin drop
on the band when this fellow signed off.  
I guess he gave us all a lot to think about.  
I had planned to work on the antenna that morning,
and then I was going to meet up with a few hams
to work on the next club newsletter.
  
Instead, I went upstairs and woke my wife up with a kiss...  
"C'mon honey, I'm taking you and the kids to breakfast."  
"What brought this on" she asked with a smile."  
"Oh, nothing special, i
t's just been a long time since we spent a
Saturday together with the kids.  
And hey, can we stop at a toy store while we're out?  
I need to buy some marbles."
 
6:54 pm edt          Comments

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Re-Opening April 2009
Hi Everybody, I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support, loyalty and kindness. By the Red Barn has been around for more than a decade. For over 12 years, we have prided ourselves in providingUnique gifts and decorating items; 
ONE CUSTOMER AT A TIME! 

By the Red Barn
Opening for the Spring Season
Wednesday, April 1,
2009
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11AM to 5PM
    
The new Mantra of “By the Red Barn” is: 
Junk…. Rocks! (Jazzy Unique Notable “One of a” Kinds)
For example:G.A.R.B.A.G.E(Great Articles Re-Using, Bountiful Alternative Goods (for our) Entertainment!!)andT.R.A.S.H (another man’s)(Turning Re-usables Artfully (somewhat) Handy!) 
You get the picture:
Re-Use, Re-purpose, Reconstruct with “One of a Kind” Items!
We are rescuing good junk!Along with fostering creativity! 
Breathe new life into discarded items!
Come by and take a look.  
I’ve had a good break:Visiting with friends, having meals with friends and family, Going to see Bryce in Bellingham, traveling on an impromptu trip to New Orleans out of the generosity of Ann, walking, trying to stay warm, a quick excursion to Gig Harbor, watching movies with Diane and Timm, attending fabulous ballets due to the kindness of Maddy and Ron, playing pinochle, crafting and building stuff,doing stamping parties, seeing the Lion King at the Paramount and enjoying the sun each time it has appeared!Well, it’s time to open the shop! 
It must be Spring!
(At least that’s what the calendar says)
  
Remember:Everything that’s OLD is NEW again!

For More……Re-store!

We’ve got new stuff, too!
New artists, new jewelry, new Pashminas….new baby, kid stuff.
Come by for a peek! 
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!
We’ve got MOM”S SHORTBREAD!
(This is no joke.  Get some while supplies last!  
 See you soon!     
Gifts!  It’s What We Do! 
Happiness is an attitude. We either make ourselves miserable, or happy and strong.
The amount of work is the same.
Francesca Reigler   
11:58 am edt          Comments

Friday, January 2, 2009

Happy New Year!

Let’s clean out BTRB so we can buy more for spring!

SALE, SALE, SALE!

Saturday January 3rd,

Sunday January 4th

10:30AM to 4:30PM

10% OFF everything in the shop (except consignment)

Up to 40% OFF Holiday and Christmas items!

 

We’ll be closed until Spring time.

Check out the website: www.bytheredbarn.com  for updates.

11:11 pm est          Comments

Sunday, November 30, 2008

December 2008 OPEN HOUSE

 

By the Red Barn

Annual Open House

Saturday December 6th, 2008

HoNk, HOnk, HONK!!!!!!

The cider pot is on with our own special blend of Mulling Spices…

 

Joy Cavanaugh will be here with “Dreamy Garlic” spread!  Scrumptious!

Once you taste it and smell it, you’ll want a tub!  (The fragrance of an Italian restaurant!)

Come by for a sample and a tub for your holiday giving and eating pleasure.  In my book, there’s never too much garlic.

 

By the Red Barn is filled with winter wonder.  Lot’s of snowmen, ornaments, figures, bottle holders, Green trees,

New Nativity figures,  gifts for family, friends and work folk.

We just got MORE of your favorite Pashminas.  Several people have said “They’re prettier than ever!”

Use them for decoration or as a shawl or both.

New rusty signs:  Count your blessings, Kindness Matters, Celebrate Life; Kiss me good morning, too, to name a few.

More “Heart Notes” plates with easels And “Life is a Circle” mini plates, boxed with easel.

Say “Thanks”, Dream, Hope or Inspire” as a heartfelt gift.

 

 

(By advice and suggestion)

To make shopping more convenient during this busy time

NEW WINTER HOURS:

By the Red Barn

Open Everyday until Christmas (except Monday)

10:30 to 4:30PM

Sundays Noon to 4PM

 

Look on the website for updates!   www.bytheredbarn.com

Come by to have your picture taken! 

You can be on the web!

 

 

Goofiness…..a sign of the times!

Over the last couple of months, I have dialed my cell phone without putting on my reading glasses. (You’ve probably already guessed!)

Instead of Theresa, I would dial Thea!  The good thing about it is that I get to catch up with Thea a bit!

She tells me it makes her feel more human when I do this!

I will not use names to protect the not so innocent!

A friend told me she put a big “C” for conditioner and “S” for shampoo on the containers in the shower

because she has “washed” her hair with conditioner. (I’ve been there, done that!)

My favorite is: a friend that washed her face with toothpaste thinking it was her face wash tube!

(I mentioned it must have stung. “Yes” she replied.  I said “But you smelled great!!”)

 

 

A story sent by a friend

Mary and her husband Jim had a dog named 'Lucky.' Lucky was a real character. Whenever Mary and Jim had company come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck his fancy. Inevitably, someone would forget and something would come up missing. Mary or Jim would go to Lucky's toy box in the basement and there the treasure would be, amid all of Lucky's other favorite toys. Lucky always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that his toys stay in the box.

It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told her she was going to die of this disease ....in fact; she was just sure it was fatal.

She scheduled the double mastectomy, fear riding her shoulders. The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky. A thought struck her ...what would happen to Lucky? Although the three-year-old dog liked Jim, he was Mary's dog through and through. If I die, Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won't understand that I didn't want to leave him. The thought made her sadder than thinking of her own death.

The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took Lucky for his evening walk faithfully, but the little dog just drooped, whining and miserable.

Finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital. When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn't even make it up the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and left her to nap. Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn't come to her when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she dozed. When Mary woke for a second she couldn't understand what was wrong. She couldn't move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. But panic soon gave way to laughter when Mary realized the problem. She was covered, literally blanketed, with every treasure Lucky owned! While she had slept, the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement bringing his beloved mistress all his favorite things in life.

He had covered her with his love.

Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and Lucky began living again, walking further and further together every day. It's been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky? He still steals treasures and stashes them in his toy box

but Mary remains his greatest treasure.

Remember.... live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget.... the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards.

They are the ones that care for us.

If you see someone without a smile today give them one of yours! Live simply. Love seriously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.

Leave the rest to God.

 

Not so goofy!

I often mention to you all how much your friendship and support mean to me.  I have mentioned to folks that I wish I would have written all the stories down (without using names) to share those experiences with others. I have been reading the book “Dreams from My Father” by Barack Obama.

His experience in Chicago doing community organizing summed up my feelings about the shop and you guys.  Here’s an excerpt:

 

“Then they’d offer a story to match or confound mine, a knot to bind our experiences together—a lost father, an adolescent brush with crime, a wondering heart, a moment of simple grace.  As time pass, I found that these stories, taken together, had helped me bind my world together, that they gave me the sense of place and purpose I’d been looking for.

Marty (his boss) was right: There was always community there if you dug deep enough. There was poetry as well—a luminous world always present beneath the surface, a world that people might offer up as a gift to me, if I only remembered to ask.”

 

I thank you once again for giving me the sense of community, knowing you.  That is what I have never been able put into words:

Now which were so eloquently written by Mr. Obama to portray my own feelings.

 

Good-bye

I would like to end with a poignant note of the passing of a special young man named Alex Capperauld.  

Alex was 20, a few years younger than my son, Bryce. 

My fondest memory of Alex was at Pine Tree Elementary School.  He held a place of quiet humor in my mind.

Everyone knew who Alex was.  He was a special needs kid (although he thought he could do anything)

One of his greatest gifts was unconditional love. 

There was always room for a hug or a smile for everyone

All people were Alex’s friend!

My favorite recollection was the yearly talent show

Alex loved to be on stage singing

He literally had to be pulled off with a hook to stop his routine!            (We’d all still be there listening if he had his way!)

I was up at Top Foods in the last year.  Ahead of me in line was a young adult, jumping up and down with the excitement of a child. 

His patient mother was telling him something.  All of a sudden, I realized it was Alex.  He gave me a smile.  (Some things never change)

My heart goes out to Vicky, his mom.  She gave him a long, wonderful life with her love, compassion and humor.  Alex will be missed by many. 

His life keeps going with the donation his organs. 

The love that Alex had will continue to live in many others.

 

I look forward to seeing you soon. 

In the meantime, keep HONKING!

Candy 

 

"My friends (and family)have made the story of my life."

~Helen Keller~ and Candy!

 

 

10:50 am est          Comments

Friday, October 31, 2008

November Newsletter

Hi All,

 

We are in and heading for difficult, challenging times.  In light of this, I recently read the book, “A Complaint Free World”.

I got the idea to put a sign on my fence that says:

HONK IF

YOU’RE HAPPY

The story goes something like this. (I will paraphrase much of it)

The man had put the sign up more than a year ago.  He was the coach at the local high school. 

His wife and he had enjoyed living near the beach and loved the people and their community.

 “A while back, my wife became ill. 

The doctors said to get her affairs in order and gave her four months to live-

Six months at the outside.”

They began to accept that her life would be ending soon.  They moved a hospital bed into their room.  She lay in the dark, miserable.

One day, the man was sitting out on the deck drowning in despair.  He could hear the cars crossing the causeway to the beach. 

It was along South Carolina’s coast line, 60 miles of beach, one of the top tourist destinations in the US.

He realized many of those people were going on vacation…. A happy time.

“It hit me as I sat there on the deck that, although my wife was dying, happiness didn’t have to die with her. 

In fact, happiness was all around us.  It was in millions of cars that passed just a few hundred feet from our house every day’.

He told his wife about putting up the sign.  She found great comfort in knowing she was not isolated in a dark room, dying.

When people honked: “She was part of the happiness of the world.  It was literally all around her.”

The wife found her life was now as rich as ever before; the blasts of horns, day and night, told her there was happiness in the world.

Although, she did not know the people, she made up stories in her mind about their lives……”Happy, happy lives.”

‘With the support of her loving husband, rather than focusing on what her reality was- this wonderful woman had focused on the good around her.

And in doing so, she had beaten the odds, embraced life, and touched millions of people!”

 

My friend, Gloria, from Washington DC, liked the idea of me putting up the sign: HONK IF YOU’RE HAPPY1

She said this:

“I think your sign is a good one as folks need to take an opportunity to express that, in spite of what's going on, they still have happiness residing within themselves - not dependent upon their current financial situations. Families are learning to spend more time together - doing activities that don't cost a lot of money - so it's actually a "good" time for Americans to reunite with one another.”

 

So, when you go by please:

HONK IF YOU’RE HAPPY

 

 

I JUST DREW THE TICKET…..

The winner of the

PINK PURSE

To honor Cancer Awareness Month is

Sonja Byroick!

CONGRATULATIONS!

 

I had a wonderful birthday month in October.  I told my son, the day I turned 60, that I was wiser!  For some reason I don’t think he bought into it.

I thank all the friends and well wishers for my birthday weeks.  I spent time with friends and family all through the month.

My sis-in-law, Karen, absolutely blew me away.  You have to understand that in my family we don’t exchange gifts on a regular basis.

(Isn’t that an oxymoron for me with a gift shop?)  Anyway, Duke and Karen came by on October 15th.  Karen had mentioned she had

my favorite Tetley tea from Canada.  It’s cheap yet very flavorful.  (I do go on. ) Anyway, she also gave me a handmade quilt made by her!  I cried. 

That about said it all.  I am touched and moved by such a generous, thoughtful offering.  Karen said, “You only turn 60 once in a lifetime!”

So, now on to my 61st year!!!!

 

Remember:

By the Red Barn

Is

OPEN for the Fall/Winter Season

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11AM to 5PM

You can always go to:

www.BytheRedBarn.com

for updates, to see what it going on!!!

 

I’ve got another computer tool for you to test and get a coupon!  By the Red Barn is on the Google maps.

Go to Google maps.

Just put in:

By the Red Barn, Kent, WA

The ad will come up.  Go to more information. 

You can get a Coupon for the shop!!!!! 

I will be updating them from time to time!

 

Christmas stuff will be put out through the next weeks.  Please come by for some early shopping!!

We’ve still got wonderful fall and seasonal items in stock. 

The Pashminas with their wonderful colors and patterns are Flying out. 

You can wear them or use them for décor….or both!!!

 

Also, did you know?

WE DO LAYAWAY?

 

Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party

PLEASE VOTE!

History is being made.

 

If you’d like to have some fun, buy some shoes, drink some wine and help others, here

is an event coming up called “Sips and Shoes” See all about it by

clicking here!

 

 

Each and every one of you please know how grateful I am for your support and patronage.

I’m glad when anyone walks through the front door during these trying times!

 

Until next time, I wish you HAPPINESS!  It’s there…..just take a peak.

Candy 

"My friends (and family)have made the story of my life."

~Helen Keller~ and Candy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5:24 pm edt          Comments

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Fall Opening 2008

By the Red Barn

Opening for the Fall/Winter Season

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11AM to 5PM

 

Although I’ve had a good summer….It will be good to see you all again.

I did yard and garden time that I had hoped for (although it’s like doing dishes, turn around and you need to do them again!)

 

Besides doing some quick trips to Bellingham: (to see my son, Bryce, help him paint his pad and just hang out) going to the Lavender Festival in Sequim, doing the Mountain View Lavender gathering with Ciscoe, becoming a great aunt (Now that made me feel older than turning 60!) Having lunch and dinner with girlfriends (my place and theirs), Taking my special buddy, Karl, to dinner for his 16th birthday, Going to a Mariner’s game, playing pinochle; (I still want to put a poker party together) going to the Museum of History and Industry, watching the Olympics, going to the Puyallup Fair (It had been at least 5 years since I’d gone, the sites and smells brought back memories!) I managed to read some books, “World without End” (The sequel to my longtime favorite book of 20 years, “Pillars of the Earth), “Complaint Free World”, (inspirational), “A New Earth”, by Eckart Tolle (best thing I’ve done for myself in some time although I struggled through it with the tutorial on the web) 

So, as you can see, it’s time to get back to work!!!! (Although I don’t really consider the shop work, it’s a pleasure!)

 

By the Red Barn is looking like autumn: The warm, glowing colors of the fall.  We’ve got the Pashminas that you like so much with more on the way!  More note cards in stock.  Communicating with notes is such a personal thing to do.  I just love getting a hand written something in the snail-mail sent by a friend or family member.  As much as I’m an e-mail fan, it’s nice to hold that message in one’s hand.  Fall and Seasonal items for decorating your homes are in abundance: acorn figurines, tealite holders, more Beanpod 100% soy candles, rusty signs with inspirational,fun words and phrases to mention a few.

 

I will be turning 60 during the month of October.  (Woo Hoo!! My mom turned 87 in September, still going strong!)

I’ve decided to give a gift to my patrons and friends of “rolling back a price on 1 item a day’ during the month of October.

(You never know what I might pick!!!)

Please come by and help me celebrate a milestone in my own life by getting a bargain in your life!

 

I recently received this piece from friends:  I like it!

 

When I was little, I used to believe in the concept of one best friend. And then I started to become a woman  And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up, you will be shown the best in many friends  One friend is needed when you're going through things with your partner. Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your parents.  Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities. Another, when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be  One friend will say, "Let's cry together," another Let's fight together," another, "Let's walk away together.”  One friend will meet your spiritual need, another your shoe fetish, another your love for movies, another will be with you in your season of confusion, another will be your clarifier, another the wind beneath your wings. But what ever their assignment in your life, on whatever the occasion, on whatever the day, or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself: Those are the Best of friends. It may all be wrapped up in one woman, but for many, it's wrapped up in several.....one from 6th grade, one from high school, some from the college years, a couple from old jobs. On some days your mother. On some days your neighbor. On others, your sisters, cousins. And on some days, your daughters. So, whether they've been your friend for 20 minutes or 20 years, AND ONLY IF YOU'D LIKE TO, pass this on to the women who have been placed in your life to make a difference.

 

Please come by for a visit.  If for nothing else than to visit and catch up!!!

Hope to see you soon.

Remember:

By the Red Barn

Opening for the Fall/Winter Season

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11AM to 5PM

 

 

Candace Anderson (Candy)

BY THE RED BARN

Wednesday to Saturday   11AM to 5PM

Call or e-mail if you need anything.

27761 108th Avenue SE

Kent, WA  98030

253-854-7375

BytheRedBarn@comcast.net

Website www.bytheredbarn.com

 

 

8:20 pm edt          Comments

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Summer is here.
Hi Everyone!
We're closed for the season.
Please call if you're in deep desperation for a gift.
We'd love to accommodate you.
Thanks for the visits, laughs and joy you've brought to
By the Red Barn.
 

I love this piece sent to me by a friend. 

We are facing tough times.  This says a lot about how we can deal with the challenges facing us all:

 

THE HOT CHOCOLATE STORY

 

A group of graduates, well established in their careers, were talking at a

reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired.

During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their

work and lives. Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went into the

kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of

cups-porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some

exquisite -- telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.

 

When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said:

'Notice that all the nice looking; expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the

plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for

yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.

 

The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot

chocolate. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides

what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup;

but you consciously went for the best cups...

And then you began eyeing each others cups.

 

Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and position in

society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you

have does not define, nor change the quality of life you have. Sometimes, by

concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate we have.

 

The happiest people don't have the best of everything.

They just make the best of everything that they have.

 

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Thank creation for your

blessings in 2008. And enjoy your hot chocolate!

 

In July

Don’t miss a fun time at Mountain View Lavender Farm.

Ciscoe Morris from Channel 5 will be there: Saturday July 12, 2008

Go to the website:

http://www.mountainviewlavender.com

 

I had a wonderful time attending last year.  Ciscoe is as cute as a bug, along with great tips and stories.

It’s definitely worth the the drive out to Mountain View Lavender Farm

They carry more than lavender.  Many unusual perennials and annuals, too….

Plus a view and atmosphere that is priceless.

 

 

With all of us not driving as much, we’re spending more time at HOME. 

How about a Room Make-Over!

Let me help you re-invent your place.

We provide affordable service using YOUR OWN THINGS!

Make an appointment today.  We’ll set something up!

Phone: 253-854-7375 or e-mail   www.bytheredbarn@comcast.net

We can make your stuff feel new again.

Call for an appointment!

See you in the Fall! 

11:26 pm edt          Comments

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

2:19 pm edt          Comments

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Gifts! It's What We Do!
When the FLAGS are OUT,We're OPEN!!!!!