A Sad, Sad State of Affairs

This will more than likely not affect most of you out there, but for the select few that it does, I am the bearer of sad news. Our beloved scrapbooking shop in Grafton, Massachusetts, "A Time For Memories", is closing its doors forever. After eleven years of serving the scrapbooking & papercrafting community, a poor economy has forced the demise of this warm, welcoming & wonderful store. Here is the bulk of the email I received from Lucy & Michelle this week:

"After careful consideration, we have decided that it is time to move on to life's next adventure. What does this mean for you? * If you've dreamed of opening a scrapbooking store, speak with Lucy or Michelle about purchasing our inventory (lock, stock and barrel, as they say). Call before June 28 if you're interested. (508)839-9111 * We still have a busy schedule of classes and crops for you to enjoy...and new goodies are still arriving! Our weekly email updates will continue so you don't miss out on any of the fun...classes weekly through July 26, including two classes with guest teacher Maggie White. We also have another Pizza Crop in June and two in July! If you have a class or crop credit, now is the time to use it! * If you have a Gift Card (or Gift Certificate), use it up! If you gave one as a gift, let the recipient know about our plans. * Beginning June 28, take advantage of a storewide 30% discount off all regularly priced merchandise. Stock up on your "staple" products, treat yourself to items you've been considering... * If you have requested a special order, those items are still coming in unless you are notified otherwise. * We officially close at 5 PM on Sunday, July 31. *  Store fixtures are also for sale. You can purchase them now and pick them up as they empty. Our paper racks, etc are wonderful for organizing your home craft room. Watch your email for more information as we move through this process. We're not big fans of Ebay; and everything must go!

Think of this as "bon voyage" rather than as "goodbye" * This will be an emotional time for us, as well as for our wonderful staff. Our goal is to have fun right up through July 31! Come in for a visit; and join us for Croppin' Drop-in, classes and Pizza Crops (remember to keep reading those weekly email updates for complete information). * We encourage you to continue scrapbooking, making cards, creating collages and decorating your home with wall art, coffee table books, etc. * And we ask that, whenever possible, you purchase your supplies at independent stores rather than online or at chain stores. In all retail realms, independent stores offer variety and character that you just can't get at the chains - whether it's a local grocery, hairdresser, gift shop, restaurant or scrapbooking store - they provide the spice that makes life extra nice! Fondly, Lucy & Michelle"

There you have it. Another casualty of this economy. Those of us who know Lucy & Michelle wish them all the best and will miss them terribly. Thank you for eleven wonderful years, Ladies! "Bon Voyage!"