The Diary - April 26

“Your Wednesday will be filled with love, happiness, and harmony.”

I bought a box of fortune cookies to hand to people visiting River City Reading Room for its soft opening on Wednesday, April 22nd. When the cookies arrived on Monday the 20th, I snuck one.  My fortune is reproduced above. It could not have been more prescient.

Wednesday’s soft opening was a delight. There was a steady flow of customers who complimented the store’s design and inventory. Folks from the city, Discover Peoria, the Chamber, and the Downtown Development Corporation came by to signal their support.  Sales exceeded my expectations. After nearly four months of prepping  the store for this day, it was exciting and fulfilling to have customers in the building. On Wednesday and throughout the remainder of the week, I had wonderful conversations with astute readers who shared their interests and recommendations.

Saturday evening, I hosted a reception for friends who helped launch River City Reading Room.  I really could have invited the whole city.  Throughout the process of opening the store, Peorians have been so supportive.  You have encouraged me, shared contacts, offered useful ideas, resolved problems, and spread the news of this new store on Main Street downtown. I am very grateful.

If you did not visit last week, please come by when you can.  The fortune cookies are gone but a warm welcome still awaits.