The Diary - October 3
The Diary
October 3, 2026
I wonder how much to share. People often ask me how the store is doing. How should I respond? Is this the business equivalent of “How are you?” -- a question that often does not call for an extensive answer or even a truthful one. Or is it an invitation to share the highlights and challenges of this journey? Do I put the kettle on, invite the asker to take a seat on the couch, serve the tea, and then really “spill” the tea?
My natural response is to be truthful and provide succinct responses. Typically, my answers are positive, touching on the fun I have had and the warm reception from customers. Recently, I have noticed that I have been freer in sharing my worries. I confided to more than one person that, one day this week I sold a grand total of two books (small poetry volumes) for the magnificent sum of $19.60.
Since the end of August, there has been a noticeable drop in foot traffic on Main Street. My lunch hour trade, strong throughout the summer, has all but evaporated. Has the novelty of the shop worn off? Do I need to pivot—a different product mix, more marketing efforts? Or are larger macroeconomic trends at work? Whatever the reasons, Caterpillar’s closure of its AB Building for renovations will not help.
Then there are evenings like last night. It was First Friday. Linda and Joe Couri did an excellent job of drawing folks to Joe’s exhibit of national park photos. Nick Lee played guitar and sang, joined by his wife, Beth Ann Evers. They, too, drew new people to the shop. Attendees thanked me for opening the store. Sales were very good. I am indebted to Arts Partners for providing the musicians and creating an event that drives traffic downtown.
I imagine that it will be an up-and-down journey going forward. To wit, it’s Saturday afternoon and only two folks have ventured into the shop today. In the coming days, if you ask me how the shop is doing, I’ll try to respond by thanking you for visiting because that really is the answer to the question. On the other hand, if I tell you I am putting on the kettle and I will join you on the couch….