Borrowing unofficial Peace Corp motto: "Toughest job you'll ever love"

In Jan 2019, One More Page Books celebrates its 8th Anniversary. The last few years, we have been so busy that we don't remember it until one of the staff or a customer says something. Busy is good, but sometimes exhausting.

Our lease expires in July 2010 so over 2019 we will explore what is next for OMP.  Do we stay or do we move? How do we continue to change and evolve in this very competitive space? How can we pay our amazing staff something they might be able to live on? Will I continue to downsize?  

The store, our incredible staff and the support from many of our customers and author friends make this the best job ever, but, it is hard...  I think you would hear the same from many small business owners.

I Am A Blog Cheater

Yes, that's pretty much true.  Much of what I post is straight information or reviews by friends. While I put my stamp on it, I don't put too much that's personal out there. 

A number of people have suggested I post about getting the store off the ground.  Before the store was open, I was too frustrated. The first year of the store, I was too crazed.  Now that we're moving into year 2, I'm still crazed, but know that it will continue that way for the foreseeable future, so here are some initial comments...

• Lost count of the number of people who've told me it's their dream to open a bookstore.
• Also lost count of the number of people (generally well-meaning) who wonder how a bookstore will make in the ebook/Amazon era.  (Please don't say this -- we're tired of hearing it)
• You meet the most amazing people in bookstores -- I've also lost count of how many people I've met that I so enjoy talking with -- who make me smile just by walking into the store.
• Humbled at least 10x a day when someone asks me about a book that I haven't read yet.
• Often in awe of my staff who are so friendly, knowledgeable and genuinely interested in people and books.
• Love listening to authors talk.
• Learned that Ron Charles is a rock star in our store.
• You will never have enough money or book stands.