It was an amazing feeling to be handed money for the precious items I have chosen for my store. Smiles, laughter, happy little doggy feet bouncing across the floor – it is a cheerful little place.

We pulled off the ribbon-cutting ceremony put together by the City and celebrated our Grand Opening with waves of people browsing the shelves.

Tourists walking their dogs stop in to purchase a special treat for their little friend, and I get all warm and fuzzy inside when people express their admiration for the displays I have slaved over for so many months.

I am so happy to see everything in motion, just as I had pictured it. Every item, every color, every detail right down to the ribbon and bows, reflects the big picture that I had in mind. And when I take a break, I can walk out onto the pier, gaze across the sea, and enjoy the sounds of the seagulls where I can honestly say that this is the best time in my life.