what we've been up to!

I've been told that early summer is a slow time in retail, but not around here! I feel like we haven't stopped to even take a breath. We had a wonderful Girls Night Party at the shop about a week ago, and met some crazy new girlfriends. Somehow we got on the topic of clubs we used to go to, and Neo was brought up. Ah, Neo. I should take my husband there. Yea, right. Sad news, 750 closed. Remember? They played GREAT music, and you could do anything you wanted on the dance floor... just about.
We staged a room for the Southeast Style house walk a couple of weeks ago, and that , if I do say so myself, was brilliant! The homeowners, Lynda and Paul Shadrake, were fabulous to work with. All the homes, on the Southeast side of Oak Park,(thus the name), were superb. Really an inspiration for Peter and I to go home and finish all of our projects that we keep putting off. Most were modestly sized, but smart, stylish use of space, and all the homes featured were very different from each other. Anything from a truly renovated period piece, to one that had been gutted, and done loft style and modern. I liked elements from all of them!
Now we're getting ready for the Infant Welfare Sneek-a-Peek this Saturday in River Forest, and our biggest event of the year, Bastille Day! No, no rest.
When you do have a moment to breath, read Elizabeth Berg's "The Day I ate Whatever I Wanted". Love it.
Back at the shop, we have been dealing with a port strike in France, and have not been able to get our French Soaps in. Until now. we'll have them in time for Bastille Day. Phew.
One of our customers gave us a great tip. She buys whatever scent is attracting her that day, and puts them in her drawer until she needs it. Never runs out of soap, and everything is prettily scented. Great idea!
Sasha and Nelson are gracing the top of the page. Both rescues, we couldn't imagine life before them.
I hope that most of you are taking a moment and enjoying the lazy days of summer. Now I need to take my own advice. ...CANNONBALL!

Karen