Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else.

James M. Barrie (1860 - 1937)

Its always a little bit difficult going back to work after a week off...I found the reminder that the break offered me, of 'sometimes its good to relax', was still sounding loudly in my head yesterday.

But then I was soon back in the swing as I worked finding places to display some of my latest vintage finds on to the shelves in my shop. (I also moved in most of the treasures that I found at the flea market at the beginning of my week off.)

I changed the window displays to show off some of the latest pieces...

And I started working on some new handmade items for the Vintage Bazaar, Frome. Its not until the end of next month, but its good to be organised, as it takes the pressure off a little...I want to find time to make some special Christmas fairy dolls and possibly some large rag dolls, which I'd like to dress in a more antique style this time.

It can be difficult to keep coming up with new ideas, when there is so much background stuff that needs to be done with the running of the shop...Or maybe its just my age?! ;-)) But its fun having something to focus on to keep me on my toes!

I'd also like to make another collection of hanging heart brooch pillows, as its been a few years since I came up with them, so I'd like to develop the idea a little further.

I generally use my shop now as a workshop/studio. To have a place to go to be motivated is good for me...If I sell a few pieces during the day, then that is a bonus. Times are hard for most, and with my stock being of a mostly frivolous nature, it can be difficult to secure a sale. Yesterday, almost entirely, my sales were to several dealers in the antiques/vintage trade.

I'm not completely certain that Shepton Mallet will regenerate its High Street, particularly given the current climate...

(I am asked A LOT why I have my shop there)

BUT, I will say that having my shop on the Market Place works for me, for now...My rent is reasonably low, and so I can justify using the shop as my workshop. I can be regularly found there when people want to visit, but can focus on my sewing when its quiet.

Its possible that if I was in a much busier place, that I would not be able to run my business in the same way. If customers were constantly coming in and out, my time to handmake my stock could become non-existent, and so my shop would no longer reflect my style and what is important to me. Maybe in a few years time, when hubby and I are 'empty-nesters', we may have an opportunity to move house and possibly change our lifestyle to include a more ambitious business plan...but that's a few years down the line...

If you happen to be in the neighbourhood and would like to visit Nostalgia at No.1, then you will always be made to feel welcome! You'll always find plenty of reasonably priced stock and lots of handmade gift ideas. :)

Niki x

Thought I'd just add these quotes for fun:

"By working faithfully eight hours a day you may eventually get to be boss and work twelve hours a day!"

Robert Frost.

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"Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all."

Sam Ewing

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"The supreme accomplishment is to blur the line between work and play."

Arnold J. Toynbee

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"When your work speaks for itself, don't interrupt."

Henry J. Kaiser.