Category: Shopping

Port Book and News

Port Book and News in Port Angeles is one of the local stops on a book lover’s circuit. They sell both new and used books and have a robust selection of periodicals. After combing library book sales — another great resource for readers — I managed to find two more Michael Connelly books to fill out my obsessive growing library of Bosch mysteries.

Doodlebugs

When I moved to Sequim I was newly retired. I hadn’t really done any kind of craft since childhood. The next spring a visit with my sister-in-law changed everything. I learned just enough to be dangerous and ventured into the craft supply store Doodlebugs for the first time. It felt like I’d walked into Nirvana. I was hooked and Doodlebugs had my drug.

Doodlebugs taught me all the basics. They had every tool I needed and demonstrated how to use them, one-on-one. They had “make and take” mini-classes that helped me start making handmade greeting cards. And they had top quality paper and supplies to keep me going. If they sold it it was good quality, it worked.

Cathy, shown here, her mom Mary, and their niece/granddaughter Kayla have provided the best customer service in a town filled with helpful people. They remember names, take time to talk, help solve problems. They are artists. And if they don’t have what you want they’ll order it for you.

They haven’t been able to compete with Internet competition and, now, the new Michael’s store. Since I learned they were closing I have spent hours wandering in the store. I’ve purchased more paper than I can conceivably use and then I purchased a couple of their paper rack fixtures. I stand around, talking, visiting with my friend Judy who keeps showing up, as I do, because neither of us wants to leave or let go. It’s a happy place, full of creative possibilities and good memories.

Doodlebugs will close on August 4th. They will strengthen their online presence so they won’t disappear entirely. If you’re local and they’ve helped you, brightened your day, or had what you needed, stop by and thank them. Stock up. And support them online if you can.

Am I sad? Yeah. That just begins to cover it.

Lavender lookback

There is a three day street fair as part of the Sequim Lavender Festival. Several blocks downtown become a pedestrian thoroughfare, lined with vendor booths. Lavender in every form is sold. And dozens of vendors also sell arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, candles, you name it. The fair is always a big draw and last Friday, the first day, was no exception.

This was one of the more clever tee shirts for sale.

And this was the day’s winner in the “my sentiments exactly!” category.

“I can see by your outfit that you are a cowboy…”

Now that we have the Coastal Farm and Ranch store those of us who aren’t farmers or ranchers can indulge in cowboy or cowgirl fantasies. In addition to a big selection of hats there are also plenty of boots.

I haven’t had a pair of western boots in a long time. But these fancy ones are eye candy.

I have so many other things on my shopping list these aren’t going to be anywhere near the top. But it’s fun to look.