From neophyte to expert in 2 hours!

Elaine and Nancy were drawn into the store by the scarves in our window display.  They mournfully walked up to our scarf rack and said "We love scarves, but we never know how to wear them."  As you can imagine, that is like a sparkly thing to a crow for this seller of wearable art!

First, I showed them how to do the twist (something I've taught many of you as well!).  Naturally, they had to follow the rule and be able to do it on their own at least twice before they were allowed to leave the store.  They took to it like a fish to water!  Both were experts at it in no time.

Next, I introduced them to the Scarf Toy Shelf.  You know, there's an entire store devoted to car toys.  Well, we have a shelf devoted to Scarf Toys.  These toys include notKnots, Scarf Rings, and magnetic pins.  All create a very different look with the very same scarf, offering a multitude of fun options.

Their minds were spinning out of control with so much scarf potential at their fingertips!  Other customers came in demanding my time, while Elaine and Nancy stayed in the scarf zone playing and playing.  In between customers, I'd pop on over and show them something new.  Then they'd be off and running trying that out, and having a very good time.

Their laughter and fun drew other customers over to watch, and low and behold, they were teaching them how to wear the very scarves they themselves didn't know how to wear mere moments before.  They even demanded be able to do each style at least twice on their own before leaving the store!  It was such a hoot!

After about an hour or so, they were actually inventing their own variations to the few things I showed them.  Proud as punch with their new inventions, they made sure I got to see each one.

Naturally, each one went home with a new scarf and some scarf toys, ready to take on the world with their new-found love of scarves.

Manya Vee
ManyaVeeSelects.com

A Thousand Cranes

We're throwing a party for old friend Bonnie H, who said of gifts, "Don't want any.  Already got everything I need."

So....The inscription on the card says, "A thousand cranes (almost) to light your journey ahead with wisdom, peace and joy."

Happy Birthday BonBon!

Jeff and Manya

Through the eyes of a child

A few days ago, I was treated to a visit by someone soon to turn the ripe old age of 3.  Her parents were letting their dog drink water at our water dish out front, and she poked her head in the door.  Everything about her body showed she was really dying to come inside and see things.  But, well-behaved child that she is, she knew to wait for permission.

Soon enough it came from mom, who entered with her.  Oh, her eyes were simply not big enough to take everything in!  She was dazzled by all the beautiful things around her.  It was a sight to behold!  She walked forward, completely mesmerized by everything, until something right at her height - a lovely red lantern - caused her to lay down on the floor in front of it to admire it at greater length.

And I repeat, this is a well-behaved child.  She was far enough away from the lamp so as not to even be within arms reach of it.  But my, oh, my was she in love with that lamp!  It captured her attention for nearly a full 2 minutes!

Then she was up and at it again, wandering slowly, taking everything in as if she were drinking the most delicious milk she'd ever tasted in her life.  This time, a group of mosaic candle cups stole her attention, as she stood before them, hands carefully crossed in front of her.  The wonder in her eyes at all the lovely colors, and details, and composition, and sparkle were nearly too much to take in all at once.

I was finally treated to some original artwork by Miss Caroline in our booklet - its the one on the front counter where we invite folks to sign up for our emails.  With mom's help, she signed it! 

It was a marvelous reminder to look at the world with wondering eyes, with curiosity, and with astonishment at the bounty of beauty that surrounds us!  Thank you, Miss Caroline, for that very pleasant reminder.  And know that you are a welcome visitor to my shop any time!

Manya Vee
ManyaVeeSelects.com