My oh my time sure has a way with itself. It's been several days since I've blogged but it feels just like yesterday. Lots has been going on and I'm not even sure that I can recap it all here but I'll certainly hit the highlights.
My best and favorite experience since I last blogged is the visit that my brother, Robert, and nephew, Michael, treated us to for several days. Michael even celebrated his 18th birthday here in Seattle. They were travelling from east coast NH. The rest of my family lives in nearby ME. Alice, Leo, Kayla, and I had an absolute ball the whole time they were here. We even took some time to play some east coast card games that I have not played in several years. It was a blast. We did lots of non-traditional sightseeing which was refreshing. For Michael's 18th birthday, we took him to Skyland Ranch in Gold Bar (recommended by Rita Noble) where he and Kayla had a leisurely horseback ride with a guide. They both had loads of fun and the rest of us (whose butts we did not think would fit on a horse) settled in for some great views and a little BS'ing in a roundtable format in the open outdoors. It was fabulous and we followed up on it with a terrific picnic lunch. That is something I have not done in who knows how long. A GREAT time was had by all. I really hated to see them leave but duties called (work and school) on the east coast. When I got to the shop this morning, it too was a eye opener for me in that I had to get back to work as well.
Speaking of the shop, we made (with the help of my brother and nephew) some slight modifications and moved a few of the racks around which allows us to use several new panels that were not being utilized. We've got a little bit of room for new product which I am very excited about. It was nice to realize that these changes were possible and would allow us some new areas to hang some of the new products. We recently received a ton of new stickers and embellishments that are super cool. Now that they are up, stop in to take a look and let me know if you like the new setup.
While Kayla and Michael were off to the acquarium on Saturday, my brother and Alice, indulged me in the Puyallup Rubber Stamp Show for one hour (it almost took longer to get there!). I had a fabulous time and I was able to get exactly what I wanted out of the expetrience. I felt like a speed demon as I raced from booth to booth touching, feeling, talking, and you name it. It was total fun and I was so totally happy to be able to attend - even for just an hour. I can't honestly say that I was able to spot anything new but I was able to connect with several great vendors who will likely adorn our shelves in the future and also meet up with lots of great folks that are not only customers but also friends. I got my share of hugs so I was happy!!
The shop is stocked full with everthing imaginable. We have a little bit of everything so I think we would have whatever your heart desires. I hope those of you who attended the Puyallup show picked up a coupon from Friends which could mean that we'll see you soon. I also hope that you were able to find some treasures which hopefully you will share with us. We love to see what others are up to so make it a point to bring it by the shop.
This is probably enough rambling for one evening. I hope you are getting prepared for summer and have lots of things planned which will include feeding your creative spirits. Have a great week!!
Until the next time..... hugs to all! - Doris
TIP of the week: Peppers with three bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating (like in a salad). Peppers with four bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.