Tony and I often find ourselves a little introvert-ish. (One-third to one- half of us are, according to QUIET: The Power Of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain.) It’s a little comical that we both chose teaching as a profession since on a typical day, I interact with over 100 students and staff (Tony, not so much having retired). After a very social day, it’s vital for me to have quiet time to recharge. When weather permits, this usually consists of quiet conversations on the back porch on our green vintage metal glider. Our favorite place recently is what we lovingly call our “headquarters,” our matching chartreuse green, plush vintage 60s swivel club chairs with matching ottoman. (We just love those chairs! So do the grandkids, because they are fun to spin:)

These last couple of weeks, though, we’ve been even more deeply immersed in community. We’ve met hundreds of new faces at Chandelier Barn Market. We’ve been more involved in events at our church. We attended a family member’s funeral, faculty meetings, organizational board meetings, a local chamber of commerce meeting, and a local poetry and prose gathering. At first it was a little overwhelming to have such “people-y” days and less quiet time, but we are learning…

We recognize that to be around people with common interests, goals and causes is so vital for inspiration, support and belonging. When we dreamed our shop, we imagined a place where people who loved art and antiques would enjoy visiting and gathering occasionally for special events. A place where people could share ideas, think new thoughts, and remember old ones.

We need each other.