Crossroads

Summer seems to come to an end so abruptly. Schools are starting everywhere, and for the first time in many years, I don't have a student. My younger daughter (hence The Second Child) graduated college this past spring. I have two college educated, working, beautiful adult daughters. At such a milestone in my life, of course I examine my business objectives. Am I done, should I do something different? Should I expand, open more stores? Should I reevaluate, focus on the Internet? My conclusion is no! If it's not broken, don't fix it. With so much talk of the economy, The Second Child seems to be recession proof. With so much talk of the environment, The Second Child has always been green. Business continues to grow and new consignors continue to discover. Almost daily, someone thanks me for my business and so I continue to be motivated. I look forward to a fulfilling and prosperous season!

Thanks,
Amy

Old Persian Rugs?

So, how does a store like The Second Child end up selling Old Persian Rugs? Well, I was away visiting family in S.C. and stumbled upon a wonderful antique store with great rugs and great prices. I made a few purchases for home and went on my merry way. During the night and the next day, these rugs just kept tugging at me & calling my name. So, back I went, spoke to the owner and told her I thought I could sell these for her in Chicago. She gave me 10 rugs to bring back and share with my favorite customers. They are really great looking and reasonably priced. If they go, I'll get more. So come on by and check out my latest find!

Although the weather has not cooperated, the Spring Season is off to a great start! Easter has come and gone, spring breaks are over and I am craving some good weather. My daughter Molly, a senior at U of I Champaign/Urbana, participated in an alternative spring break program organized through Hillel. Eleven students went to Uruguay to help build houses in a very poor area, that is often victim to flooding. Each student toted with them an additional suitcase filled to capacity, with clothing The Second Child was unable to sell. The items were graciously received by the Hillel group in Uruguay, and then distributed directly to the needy families. What a great, inspiring opportunity for all! Check back for pictures on our web site soon!

Spring

It's freezing outside, but it feels like Spring in the store. Our season is off to a great start. Our racks are full and it is so fun to visit with customers that feel more like friends! I love to hear the stories about the children that ask if they can go play at Amy's store. It makes me very happy to see the kids walk in, and off come the jackets and shoes, just like home!

Spring is Coming!

It's so exciting to see the Spring/Summer consignments coming in. We are busy getting the merchandise ready for the big opening, January 29th. I always worry at the beginning of the season, how I can possibly compete with the fabulous merchandise I had the previous year? My consignors never let me down. Thank you to all! This season I think is going to be the best ever! As the bags and boxes arrive, I feel like a child on Christmas morning!

Oh, don't forget to stop by during our clearance sale, through the 26th. We are practically giving the stuff away!