Opening of the Sylvanian Country Market

The Maces family have settled in nicely in Sugarbush Valley. Today is the grand opening of their Sylvanian Market.

Spencer awoke with a startle, and immediately remembered why, today is the grand opening of his shop.

Nervously he climbed out of bed and started to get ready.

He could hear Arvey fussing above in the kitchen and the children were still asleep.

After he was dressed he went upstairs, "Morning Honey, ooh look at the amazing breakfast, thank you!" "It is a pleasure Spencer, you will need all the energy you can get for this important day."

Spencer ate his breakfast quickly, and while standing up, downed his coffee.

Meanwhile Arvey went downstairs, to wake the kids. This is as much their day, and they will share in the joy. She was surprised to see Nichole up and dressed and helping little JC to get ready to. "Thanks honey for fixing JC, and what about Mark." "Oh mom, he just didnt want to get up" "Well, leave him for me, you go and eat your breakfast"

Arvey pulled the blanket off Mark "Come on Markie, get up. You promised your dad that you will help him, and the shop is opening soon."

"Mom, I'm so tired, just 5 minutes more". "Sorry, son you have to get up."

Meanwhile the customers were gathering outside the shop. Betty and Christabel was already waiting when Pippa and Katrina arrived.

The rest of the family joined Spencer soon, everyone had something to do.

Arvey will serve tea in her small tearoom

Nichole had to look after JC for the day

And Mark will help to restock the shelves

When everyone was in place, the shop doors opened at 9am sharp.

Immediately the shop was filled with customers, almost getting too cramped.

First customer was Pippa, she find the ideal book about baby care for herself. The twins are a handful.

Betty Blackberry almost kissed Spencer when she saw that he did indeed, as promised stock lactose free formula. Poor Eaton is lactose intolerant and it was really hard for her to get the right formula every month.

Being the fussy perfectionist that she is, Katrina was ecstatic to finally find the perfect gift for her friend's toddler's birthday.

Faced with so many choices, Christabel went a bit overboard and bought a whole basket of things.

After an hour or so Pippa was back with her friend Savannah, who will be forever indebted to Pippa for this gesture. She needed a tea break and was relieved that Nichole was there to look after the babies.

At 17:00 it was closing time and Spencer could finally relax. He was exhausted but thrilled with the first day of business. "Mark please close the door and draw the shutters. It is closing time, and thank you so much for all her help, you were a little star today."

Mark and Spencer climbed the stairs to the kitchen and a nice surprise was waiting for them. "What is this?" Spencer wanted to know. "It is a celebration, to congratulate you on a job well done and to thank the children for doing their part." Arvey replied. "You are a good mother and wonderful wife. Thanks for your support Arvey, we love you." Spencer hugged his wife. "Lets eat, lets eat." The children shouted.