So to say 2017 was an unusually challenging year would be an understatement! We started out in January with the epic snowfall making it a bit "challenging" for our business. (we were open 12 days that month). Meanwhile, Lori was feeling poorly and visiting her doctor. We were stunned to find out she had Stage 1, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Scary stuff. We all rallied in support, got shifts covered, tried to make life easier and PRAYED a lot. After many tests and consultations she began eight weeks of chemotherapy in late Spring (and folks she was a trooper- we've been friends for almost two decades and business partners for nearly 15 years. I've NEVER admired her more- and there is a lot about her to admire. She handled the whole event with grace and dignity and I'm so proud of her and just so in awe) . It was a nail biting few months but we got news in late June that she was officially in remission but would need to retest every six months or so probably for life. Obviously we are so grateful and thankful it wasn't worse but what a ride!

We just about got our feet back under us when a truly devastating thing occurred in July. Our long term employee- sweet little Brandon- committed suicide. It was a shocker and sent us reeling. As mothers we had a really hard time wrapping our minds around his devastating decision. He has a large and loving family and their pain was a very difficult thing to watch. And for us, we saw him in everything at the store. The display he built, the note he left, the sign he made. There were a lot of tears shed and we still have moments. He was a sweet, gentle soul who will be missed always.

Last but not least, in a four week period this Fall, both Lori and I lost our beautiful and very loved rescue dogs, Maggie and Mac. Both were far to young to pass on and it was very difficult to say goodbye.

And this, my friends is when we said "ENOUGH"! 2017 needs to step OFF! It's time for some cheer, and good karma and JOY to be going on around here. And so:

1) We donated to a cause in Brandon's name which we prefer to keep quiet about.

2) We designed a special candle in honor of our rescue dogs and 25% of sales will be donated to Meridian Canine Rescue to help dogs like ours find their forever homes.

3) We are going to have a PARTY ..... well maybe a month of parties...... And consider it our own personal new years. Lets celebrate all the great things in life. Like our personal passion.... this little shop we've built. Our families and friends who've supported our vision even when its been tough. Our absolutely AMAZING customers (that would be YOU) who make us smile every day. Let's have a cocktail or some cider, a slice of pie or a treat. Let's put on our party shoes and enjoy all the pretty holiday baubles we ordered last April (we will be as surprised as you are to see it all. We've already forgotten about half of what we ordered!). Lets raise some money for a great cause. Let's have some freaking FUN! And in our minds we will be starting 2018 a tad bit early- come join us. We officially declare November and December the months of new beginnings. January will just have to take a back seat! So come see us. And in particular visit: Thanksgiving weekend..... Zen Friday (we have wine! And snacks! And a mellow, wander around atmosphere) just come and......... be. Small business Saturday, more of the same plus some surprises. And Saturday, December 9th. It’s take 20% off any one item day. And we will have......, wait for it....... wine...... and snacks ...... 🤣🤣🤣. Join us. Let’s start New Years right here and right now!!!!!!

Enchanting Objects