Journeys of Life

For all you book lovers out there.

How ironic that my friend Susan McGinty asked me to help her close her store of 27 years almost one year to the day that Journeys of Life closed. Eureka is the closest thing I know selling what Journeys sold - beautiful jewelry and gifts pick personally by the owner that you would want to give and get- and they sell CHOCOLATE!

It was a year ago today when we closed the doors of Journeys. It took me a long time to not instinctively pick up[ the phone and call the store to ask Lori how the day went. It was a hard habit to break. I actually removed myself from Pittsburgh so that I It was an important time for me to process all the feelings of closing after 30 years.

Over time the sadness of closing subsided and my life became full of all those rewards I had hoped would come my way when the retirement decision was made. Some of scheduled travel was postponed because of the virus but we did get to go to Guatemala and St Croix. The time wth the girls in Cleveland has been wonderful. Henry gets excited to see me drive into the yard here in Pittsburgh. I am doing some volunteer work in the community. And I have taken up crocheting and knitting after putting it down for 40 years.

I have such gratitude right now - for all those experiences I cherish from the store, for the professional relationships with other retailers around the country that continue, for the time I have been given to be with my family, for trusting that I made the right decision for me. The list could go on and on. I will end with a favorite quote from a favorite author that certainly spoke to me......:

If you are brave enough to say goodbye, life will reward you with a new hello. Paulo Coehlo

There are many ways you can support small independent businesses where you live. Here are some things you can easily do from the safety of you home. I thank you for helping all these people who are trying to keep their businesses alive.

Elton John to host ‘Living Room Concert for America’ with Alicia Keys, Billie Eilish, Mariah Carey and more Elton John to host ‘Living Room Concert for America’ with Alicia Keys, Billie Eilish, Mariah Carey and more

There is help out there for those who need it. Thanks to all who donate to make this possible.

In times of need, United Way is here to help. As news of develops, we are taking action:
- United Way's PA 2-1-1 Southwest is ready to help people facing difficulties. Our resource navigators can help connect individuals and families with food pantries, health care services, tax prep assistance, utility and eviction prevention assistance and more. Those seeking help should dial 2-1-1, text their zip code to 898-211, or visit PA211sw.org.
- United Way’s PA 2-1-1 Southwest is a trusted source for reliable information. To receive text messages with the most up-to-date information and resources, sign up at pa211sw.org/text-alerts.

Dropping the rock will release the stress and anxiety you carry. Sort of like dropping 10 pounds instantly and taking a really deep breath.

So grateful to renew our friendship. Patti (PJ) and I started Journeys together 30 years go. Our lives took different turns but we had the opportunity to renew our friendship and catch up on so many years. Patti visited me in Kiawah. A true reward.

A fellow retailer shared this and I found it very helpful. We have been working hard to clear everything out of the store. It is like moving a house after living there 30m years. Just a little stressful!

September is Recovery Month. The Recovery Walk is next Saturday. Come and walk with those celebrating their recovery and the people who support them. Kids welcome. Food Trucks, music, activities. A fun day!