Twenty-three years ago today my life changed forever…. I gave birth to my older son, Alex.
I have to be honest and say that nothing prepared me for the overwhelming feelings my son’s arrival generated. I was instantly aware that my life had a much bigger purpose. I also knew that I wasn’t entirely prepared for parenthood, but then, who is?
Alex became my buddy…he was a very mild-mannered baby (and still is today as an adult) and he was happy to go everywhere with me. Everything was new…..for him and for me.
One morning when I went into his room to take him out of his crib I realized that I was feeling a strong emotion that was just beyond my reach to explain. It was a familiar feeling but I just couldn’t put my finger on it. The next morning, I experienced the same feelings upon entering his bedroom. I stood there in the middle of the room, looked at him and realized that I could finally identify what I was feeling….the anticipation of Christmas morning!
From that day on, every day was Christmas for me! I never knew what would happen that day…would Alex smile for the first time? Laugh out loud? Sit up? Play with his feet? The possibilities were endless. Every day was Christmas and the many gifts he gave to me just by being my baby boy.
I tell this story often to friends and new people I meet. It comes up in conversation in any number of ways, but the most common way is when discussing my business called The Barn Antiques and Specialty Shops in Castle Rock, Colorado. I love to brag about the merchants in The Barn because they are all such exceptional people as well as being exceptional business owners. Shopping in The Barn is such an amazing experience not just because of the sheer volume of quality merchandise that is offered, but because a visit to The Barn, no matter how often, is unique. This is part of the magic….everyday there is something new to see. Every time I enter The Barn, I feel it….that sense of anticipation of Christmas morning.
December is a big month for magic and your loyal Barnie merchants are ready to WOW you with unique gift ideas for the people in your life that are important to you. Every day things at The Barn may look a little different (or a lot different) as lovely new merchandise makes its way into The Barn to replace the beautiful items that have already been sold. One visit to The Barn may not be enough this Holiday season….plan on several visits so you don’t miss out on anything!
My son Alex came to visit me for Thanksgiving and we were able to spend a lot of time together. Every day he was with me I felt that familiar feeling….he is still by baby-boy and every day is still Christmas! 
Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!
