Checking out the barn

 

Ever since we've move to the Poconos, I have regularly driven by Red Barn Village.  The sign outside always said coming soon. It intrigued me because it wasn't just one thing; it was a "village" There was a main building that honestly at one point was a barn. Then there were several smaller buildings one of which seemed to house a veteran’s outreach center. How would this all tie together? I couldn't figure it out. But I wanted to know more. 

Today the Red Barn Village opened. I was off work so I had to check it out. 

But first I had to stop to pick up a tomato at the farm stand that was set up outside by the parking lot. The stand is not part of the business, but owners and staff are obviously supporting other local small businesses. Isn't that the way it should be?  Shouldn't we all champion one another? Seeing local businesses supporting one another is always uplifting in my book

The woman in charge of the farm stand said she had not yet been inside but encouraged me to check it out. So I did.

Renovating 100-year-old barn into a cafe cannot have been an easy job.  (It also must have taken a lot of time and money!) This building is beautiful on the outside and in as well.  It is warm and inviting. 

I had intended on only checking out the building but was drawn in by the scent of coffee. I certainly didn't need mocha latte but... 

Although the place was not very busy, I could the staff was a little on edge. It was after all their first day. Service was a little slow. (That is not a criticism! As it was only several hours in to their first day, it's understandable that there were still some kinks that might need to be worked out. You can't just jump in and have everything run like clockwork on the first day!) Since I was in no hurry. It didn't matter that it might have taken a little bit longer than I would have liked.  Could I have been annoyed that my order wasn't ready in seconds?  Yes, but what would have been the purpose there?  How would that have helped?  It would have only hurt and NO ONE should be hurt on their first day.   We all need to show more grace to each other.  

While I waited I could check out the various rooms where you could sit and enjoy a meal (they serve breakfast and lunch) as well as the outdoor seating areas that offer a view of the mountains. 

When my mocha latte was ready, I took it outside and enjoyed the coffee and the view. One of the baristas behind the coffee bar popped her head out to make sure everything was all right. This is the kind of care and service that you rarely see.  It is certainly something you don't get in a "chain" coffee house or restaurant.  

I also had the pleasure to meet the woman behind the whole project.  I could tell she could put her heart in soul into this place, as well as I'm sure a lot of money. She is doing something important in the community. She is supporting veterans, well offering the area a cheerful place to stop, rest and have food and drink. For that alone she deserves kudos.

I know she was nervous.  I know she was stressed (as were her employees).  I'm pretty sure that everything wasn't going exactly as planned for her first day.  (What ever does?)  But I assured her and the staff, that they were doing a great job.  That they are doing something good for the community.  And I wish them much success.

In today's economy, I don't know if they will be a success.  I don't know if they will survive.  I certainly hope they will because ignoring the food and beverage, they are enhancing the landscape.  They are doing good work.

I know I will be back.  I want to check out their "playhouse" when it opens.  Although it is aimed at kids with an arcade, that appeals to this "old lady" too.   Besides you're never too old for cotton candy, popcorn and a slushie!