I have come to the end of a chapter. On July 30th, I will be closing my bookstore and moving on to the next chapter of my life’s journey. It’s a bittersweet thing. You know how it is when you are reading a really, really good book – you don’t want to put it down because you can’t wait to see what happens next, but on the other hand you don’t want to read it too fast because then you’re done. That’s kind of how it is with this. The bookstore has been so much fun, such a huge learning experience, and I’ve had a blast. I don’t want it to be over, but I also can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next. Does that make sense?
So . . .
This week I sent an email out to all of my regular customers about our closing, and I also put up signs on the windows to let everyone know we are selling everything in the store at a 25% discount. Wow, it’s been busy! Most of my customers have been so wonderfully encouraging, and I love that. But others – well – let’s just say sensitivity and tact are not their strong points.
Customer #1: Couldn’t make a go of it, huh?
Customer #2: I always thought this was a dumb location for a bookstore. (Gee, thanks.)
Customer #3: Are you going to get a real job now? (What was I doing up until now?)
Customer #4: Can you hold these books for me until you start selling off stuff at a 50% discount? (Seriously?)
Customer #5: I have a whole bunch of books I’d like to order. (Customer was upset when I told her she would NOT get the discount on a special order, and quickly decided she would not order after all.)
Customer #6: So now where am I supposed to get my stuff!?! (Not my problem.)
Makes me chuckle.
Inside the Writer 
Wendy, I especially liked the comment from Customer #4. It made me LOL. All the very best with wrapping up the store and moving on to the next exciting phase of your life. An ending is always a new beginning, isn't it?