We Went to Ben Franklin

We Do Therapy Thursdays. It is always a surprise! Even to us.

Sometimes Scott and I go places that are most likely about me but he enjoys himself anyway. Recently our daughter was sharing about her new best-loved store in Bonney Lake and I decided I wanted to explore. So, off we went—to Ben Franklin Craft and Frame Shop.

I have memories of going to a Ben Franklin 5 and 10 store as a child. My grandmother would send all her grandchildren a dollar bill and off we would go. There are few things beyond my church and school that I remember any more vividly than going to the Five & Dime with a dollar in my hand.

Benjamin Franklin’s aphorism, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” inspired the name of the Ben Franklin Five and Dime stores that eventually popped up in thousands of locations all around the United States. (Source)

The history of the store is quite fascinating and though the company went bankrupt, the brand was bought and continues to be used by franchises. You can read more about the history here. Did you know that Walmart had its roots in a Ben Franklin store?

It is odd going to places with me now because I am always taking pictures to share on Substack. Scott is patient and even will help me out with a shot when necessary. I think I will keep him. Especially when it became clear he was enjoying the store as much as I was. He denies that but it is true.

When I walked in the door I was greeted by my first taste of the Christmas season—with a few Thanksgiving leftovers.

Every imaginable craft supply could be found. We were lost for some time. We also stopped to chat with the employees, Gina and Julie, who were involved in ordering new fabrics—their choices are a constant delight for my fabric-loving daughter.

If you are ever in Bonney Lake, WA, and need an adventure, this Ben Franklin is on our list of places to go. I did manage to leave with minimal purchases!