12/31/2023
And just like that another chapter is closed. Today I officially cleared out my store (with some huge help from some great people). It’s bittersweet. Honestly it already all feels like a blur. It’s crazy how something that took so much planning and time can be boxed up and gone so quickly. I first had the idea for this store back in July of 2021. I had spent that spring going to so many amazing thrift and antique stores and really wanted to bring that to Toms River. I had my first meeting at the shop that would become my store in October of that same year, but the timing wasn’t right. When my dad passed away in June 2022, I decided I didn’t want to have any regrets. My dad always told me he wanted to be a writer, and it doesn’t sit well with me that he didn’t get to be. I was faced with the reality that you never know when it will be your last day, so sometimes someday has to be today. It was a giant leap of faith. And I am so glad that I took it. I learned so much through doing this. I learned that the amazing supportive people in my life are even more amazing and supportive than I already knew. I learned how to incorrectly and correctly file some taxes. I learned how to build the most horrifying scarecrow (and that I’m allergic to hay). I learned that I really loved having weekends off and need that again in my life. I am still learning and trying to accept that changing plans and doing what is best for yourself is not failing. I met some absolutely amazing and kind people in the small business community. I got to spend a year working with one of my friends, Michael. I am so grateful and blessed to have gotten this opportunity. Thank you to anyone who ever helped me set up my store, shopped at my store, donated your items, shared my posts, and offered me your words of support. It has truly meant the world to me. It was the absolute best part of doing this because I was reminded so often of how lucky I have to have so many people care about me. I am proud of myself. I know my dad would be over the moon. I’m happy I did it, and I am happy to be onto the next part of my journey. I’m not sure what 2024 holds, but I am excited to find out.
