There are things that make you happy
There are things that make you sad
There are things that make you contemplate
There are things that make you mad
There are things that make you ponder
There are things that make you wait
There are things that make you wonder
There are things that make you late
But there is just one thing that makes you happy
It lies inside of you
It’s the thing you know the best because
It’s the thing that you call YOU
In memory of Robin Lee
Boutique owner and purveyor of all things beautiful, Robin Lee was a magnificently bright light in this world. Her raven hair, welcoming smile, and disarming demeanor drew others in, almost immediately.
Robin’s two gift shops were nestled in a charming lakes region in New Hampshire. Her showrooms became quite an attraction for residents and vacationers alike. She took great care in displaying her much sought after goods and instinctively knew exactly where to place them to capture the attention of the patrons. People came from far and wide to make their purchases and to catch a glimpse of this captivating woman doing exactly what she loved...finding, creating and sharing her “things.”
This highly regarded lady was an entrepreneur through and through and she encouraged it in others, particularly women. She enjoyed providing a space for other artisans and crafters to sell their treasures on a consignment basis, keeping her inventory up and buying costs down. Robin was not afraid of hard work, in fact, she relished in her efforts. She enjoyed delivery days, moving furniture and displays and working into the wee hours of the night. She drove to nearby swap-meets and flea markets, “picked” all day and meticulously packed the back of her van. Along for the ride was “Pearly-Pearl,” a Jack Russell terrier with its’ head out the driver’s seat window..tongue hanging and tail wagging the whole way! “Mummy” would reward her sweet companion with tasty treats and gentle pats on the head.
For nearly 14 years, I had the opportunity to spend time with Robin Lee. Together we took long-distance road trips, vacationed, shopped and “picked”, loaded and unloaded, talked, dreamed, laughed and cried, too. Through it all, she inspired, motivated and encouraged me to do one of my favorite things…she would say, “write that book, Bert and I will see you on Oprah.” I giggled and she smiled, but I knew she meant it.
Although Robin is no longer with us, I can confidently say that she, like no other, understood the value of “things.” Her joy came in the things she did for others, the things she provided for others, the things she gave to others and the things she saw in others. I am and will remain grateful for her and the “thing” she saw in me.
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