Let Sleeping Dogs Lie...

Today felt very different somehow. There was a curious energy in town for a Monday, and I was rather taken by surprise by the number of people milling about. Maybe this means summer is truly here (I saw my first mosquito today, surely a harbinger of the season). I found myself with a bit more to do than I could comfortably handle. I think I've gotten soft from the months of sloooow business, not to mention still being on the mend from surgery. The new pace will take some getting used to. Hopefully it increases gradually. In the meanwhile, I'll pace myself.

We got in a new item today that I think may be this summer's hot property (last year it was the "1.20.09 Bush's Last Day" merchandise, which doesn't seem as hot this year). The new items are stuffed animals in 22 different dog breeds (and 3 cats) that are curled up in a sleeping position, eyes shut, in a little bed. The catch is, they breathe and snore while "sleeping," and many people who see them think they're real! We have them placed throughout the store, but when we sit outside with one, people come over to pet it and ask how old it is! They really are cute. They're called Perfect Petzzz (click for website, but don't buy one there 'cause mine are $10 cheaper!) I sold one as soon as I opened the UPS box (they're $34.95), and they're creating quite a buzz. I introduced Marley to one, but he wasn't impressed - must be the lack of scent. At least he didn't think it was a toy (I've found other stuffed animals I've tried to carry in the store in his mouth more than once....)

Spoke with a Boston attorney today regarding my financial dilemma, and he doesn't seem to think I'm in a desperate situation (easy for him to say). But since he specializes in these things, and the Boston housing market has been one of the hardest hit, I guess it was good news. The bad news is I have to pay him a sizeable retainer to proceed, but based on the advice of my usual attorney and my accountant, it appears to be the way to go. So now I have to prepare a ton of paperwork (why do I have to do all the work, yet pay him? LOL).

Kevin patched up the roof today (many shingles had blown off over the winter - I told you it was windy here, and I'm directly across from the harbor with nothing to block the wind between us). I worked in the store for about 10 hours, which was how long it took to get everything done. It felt like a good day, even though I awoke, as I often do, with a racing heart (120 bpm) that lasted for a few hours and is quite disturbing. Sure wish I knew the cause. Felt better by mid-afternoon. Pollen? Allergies? I can't figure it.

Well, off to relax. It's 10:00, and tomorrow I go to Orleans for physical therapy. I am finding the escape from town, and work, to be as therapeutic as the therapy itself. I plan on taking some pictures of Pilgrim Lake on my way back, a most beautiful area as you approach Provincetown that I always admire as I pass by. I will post them in the next entry.