happy holidays

Another season of window painting is complete. Shannon and I put in 3 long hard days. I cleared 10 days on my calendar, but somehow with today's economy, businesses don't think that a cartoon reindeer and "ho ho ho" painted on their windows are a high fiscal priority. Sadly, our children rely on business' cash flow to keep them supplied with their gifts under the Christmas tree each year. In fact, that concept has worked into our sales pitch a time or two. I'm not sure how to remedy our shrinking holiday business.
One shopping center we have painted over the years was really struggling, many businesses gone or almost out of business, except for one jewelry store that seemed to be thriving. They gave us some cash to paint something fun and festive on their neighbor's business window. They said it had been a hard year for her in business and in her personal life. I thought that was very thoughtful that small businesses look out for each other.
It's always fun to hang out with Shannon. We've been friends since our kids were babies but we don't spend enough time together during the year, so it's always fun to catch up on news and family and gossip for a few days. I'm afraid her painting skills are taking over our business. I need to work on my skills so I can keep some job security.