Hidden Gems

This week the boys and I went to Rosebud. In the summer, I enjoy taking the boys on drives or adventures. We came across Rosebud five years ago when we moved here. One morning, I Googled shopping or things to do around us and Rosebud came up on the search engine. I clicked on some of the sites and said, “Boys let’s go for a drive.” Rosebud is only about 30 minutes from here. When we got to Rosebud we went to a store called Rachel’s Rustic Room. At that time, Rachel was just starting her business. I remember walking in the door and she was so nice to talk with. She was just starting to do furniture painting and home decor. From that day on, I have always tried to visit Rachel’s business, along with the others in Rosebud.

While in Rosebud this week, we went to Relic’s, Two Old Hens, Vintage 58, A Cuppa of Joel, One Painted Girl and Kline’s Restaurant. Grandma (my mom) went with us. It is so nice to walk into the stores and see the owners which have become acquaintances over the years. Rosebud is a hidden gem, as it is only a couple of miles long with antique and boutique shops.

When I think of hidden gems, I think of treasures I find along on my shopping trips. I enjoy finding items I can incorporate into our home along with finding pieces I can paint or re-finish. One of the hidden gems I found is a rain gauge with a butterfly on the side. It looks great in our side area. Another hidden gem is when people come into our lives at the right time. While we were in Rosebud, one of the teachers I taught with years ago was shopping. It’s been many years since I had seen her and it was great to re-connect.

Hidden gems are special. Around Mother’s Day, I had a package in the mail. When I opened it, I got teary-eyed. After losing Hope, I started to go to the Heartprints support group. They have been wonderful to walk alongside this journey. I have also gained friends with other moms who have gone through loss and have been a source of encouragement. In the package, was this ring. Even though it is made out beads, it is my hidden gem ring. However, I wear it proudly each day as a reminder that Hope was my gem. A few weeks back before school was out I noticed at school I lost my ring. I started to get upset, but realized it was a ring and a new one could be made. The next day I came to work and on my table there was my ring. With gems, they are rare and precious…just like moments with my boys, adventures, little gifts, friends and memories.