Tough Week

Hello bloggers!!  I've been wanting to post but it seems that I get easily diverted these days.  Last week was an especially tough week made even tougher by the announcement from Sandy Ono, owner, Monkey Love Rubber Stamps, of her closure as a retail storefront at the end of June.  Located on Queen Anne, Sandy has had her rubber stamp store for 16 years and now she has announced its closure as a retail storefront and with a move to the internet.  It was a very sad day for me in so many ways. 

Sandy and I have become retail shop friends discussing lots of the ins and outs of retail ownership on a regular basis.  How many retail stores can do that?  Her 16-years of storefront visibility is something to be commended for.  Unfortunately, like with many of us, the economy is playing its hand and seems to be winning.  The overhead costs of running a retail business is the number one concern these days.  Costs keep going up but sales do not equate to these costs, hence, why we are seeing so many closures throughout the U.S. in this industry.  Let's face it, this environment is facing extinction!!  A very scary possibility indeed!!

OK - I'll get off the platform.  Gotta hope that things will change and soon, otherwise, we might lose even more of our retail storefronts.  I will miss Sandy's presence as I know it now but I am sure that our paths will continue to cross.  Here is wishing you much success Sandy.  I hope that it all works out for the very best.  

A few other things happening include Karen Lockhart's visit to our area this month.  Only 5 more days to register for one of her classes.  We have 4 spaces left in each class so hurry if you are interested.  Karen is also signing any rubber stamps that you may have purchased (from anywhere) or will purchase so be sure to bring them along with you to class.  Classes start at noon on Sunday, 12 June 2011. 

We also have visibility on the internet and specifically ebay.  This may be useful to those of you who are out of town but just knowing is a plus as well.  You can find us at "topstamp".  We do not have much posted but the list is growing.  We do have fun with it and it, naturally, helps with the shop's expenses so do visit whenever you can.

I had in mind to post some photos but I think I'll do that in another post.  It's already late and I really should go for now.  I have no clue how many folks read this blog, or other blogs for that matter, but I do find that I enjoy it.  It's sort of like a diary in some ways with pages open to everyone.  Let me know what you like best about this blog if you are reading it.  I'd love to hear from you.  Would a contest make it more interesting?? 

Until later.... hugs to all - Doris

Comments

[Debbie G.]

you don't need a contest; I love your blog. It's almost like you're talking directly to me as I read it. Hugs to you.

[Jean Engler]

I love reading the blog. Keep it up.