Sweetcake &The Old Lady Who Lives in the Barn

Sweetcake & The Old Lady Who Lives in the Barn is the perfect book for ages two to ten. These critical formative years are proven to be the foundation for successful living. Whether reading or being read to, this true story documentary about the real-world interactions of a mini horse, dog, cat and grandmother will jump start the imagination of every child. The life lessons learned on every page will form the basis for a lifetime of happy successful living. A wonderful life is easily attainable, Simple tell the truth, care for one another and follow the golden rule. If a cat, dog and mini horse can form a caring loving relationship surely the entire world of humankind could do the same. These powerful life lessons form the basis of the story from beginning to end.

The world we live in today seems to over complicate everything we do. How we raise and nurture small children does not need reinvention. They are not meant to be bombarded with turmoil. They need simple easily understood lessons that form the foundation for the really challenging life altering decisions meant to come much later in their journey. Sweetcake and her friends have simple wishes with simple solutions. Happiness comes from something as simple as a handful of honey oats. Sadness comes from disobeying grandma or betraying her friends.

Claudie, the old woman, gives a short bio on her life's journey and how her values were instilled. She has added many decades of successful living using those guidelines for success and happiness. Claudie's special gift is an affinity for children. They are drawn to her like a magnet. The children with life altering positive lessons learned from Claudie are numerous. For years her friends have encouraged her to share this special gift with the world. That is the driving motivation behind this story. Read and carefully identify the lessons and most of all have fun.

Claudie Rhodes grew up in rural Kansas shortly after the depression. After getting married she and her late husband moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma. Tulsa has been her home ever since. Farm life in rural America during her era gave rise to the value system that built America. Work hard, tell the truth, follow the golden rule. The hurdles in life can all be conquered using these simple life tools. Her strength of character and caring spirit touch all that meet her. For many decades Claudie was the manager of the food service department for the Tulsa Fairgrounds. Since retirement much of her time has been spent serving as a nanny.
When a child spends an hour with Claudie life lessons are learned moment by moment. Claudie's passion for living life by the golden rule is ingrained in every child she spends time with. Claudie has a knack for imparting critical life lessons while discussing the most mundane issues. Those lucky enough to have a moment with Claudie receive untold value from the experience.

The decision to become the manager of a mini horse farm, living in the barn apartment shared with her four-legged friends proved magical for all: Claudie, children and animals. Her genuine sincerity and love for the children and animals encountered was obvious to all. These experiences gave rise to her first book "Sweetcake & the Old Lady Who Lives in the Barn". Children and animals alike want to make Claudie proud of their accomplishments. All strive to make the best better resulting in a fantastic experience for all.

Claudie's legacy is in the memories and actions of the children she has influenced over these many decades. She wanted to put a story to the memories. This book is a result of that effort. Claudie hopes your children and grandchildren enjoy Sweetcake and her companions as much as she enjoyed telling you about them.