Loneliness is An Epidemic - But Local Interactions Still Matter

Cultivate relationships with members of your community ~ instead of just ordering off Amazon. Stop fussing about "all that time you waste" by going to your independent businesses, because interactions and smiles and conversation are NOT moments wasted. (Nor is the support you are giving to the local economy at the same time).

Better Choices & Thinking Ahead | Adopting An Attitude of Mindfulness This Holiday Season

Have you noticed summer is trying to slip away from us? Hmm. We have (reluctantly), however we're busy previewing fall and autumn content and images to share with you for the upcoming months. I know we've mentioned observing "a thoughtful holiday season" plenty of times before on our Facebook page and social channels, but it seems important enough to share a few brief thoughts on again.

Things You Said: the Challenges Of Small Business Owners Wearing All the Hats

In the category of "things you said".....I am ALWAYS finding nuggets of wisdom in your words, as many folks can capture certain aspects of being a SBO or are able to sum up what they see happening, in bite-sized tidbits of conversation. (unlike me, because I tend to ramble and um, go on at length 😁).

Why I Choose, Use and Love An Independently-Owned Auto Repair Shop

I just came across this picture on my computer, taken on a beautiful and hot summer Saturday when my faithful and beloved bus, aka dog hauler, ground to a halt, accompanied by loud and ominous sounds. The other half likes to ride motorcycles, so that meant (like most weekends, LOL) that I was on my own, but some nice people helped push me the beast out of the road and I sat on the curb deciding what to do.

"What An Independent Business Owner Created" (The Joy of Attention to Detail)

A Facebook post that caught my eye..... written so eloquently by a happy and grateful customer about her experience with a quality seamstress. It seems so simple and trivial almost, that I'd aspire to create a blog post around it, but that's exactly what I'm doing - because it was the caring attention to detail that made all the difference.

"Small Business Is Life"

YOU, America's small business owners, are the overcomers. When this stage of our lives passes and there is freedom to get out and rebuild and reconnect, more than anything, I hope to see our people rally around the cornerstones of our neighborhoods that never quit during these tough times.

What's Next For The Little Page With A Long Name | Go Independent, Shop Small (Anywhere USA)

You have been so kind. 💔 Thank you to all who took the time to write and share your thoughts on what my small efforts with this page has meant to you. I received a number of messages and comments, and took the time last night to read everything because I don't take projects I pour a lot of myself into, lightly.

Small Business Love For Valentine's Day

We're in February, the "month of love" as it's commonly referred to, and all I keep thinking about is our world during the last eleven months. What changes we've been through, how much businesses and normal life has changed and all the entrepreneurs who are still holding on to make it through these tough times.

What Can We Do To Support Local Businesses?

Dane Buy Local, located in Madison, WI, asked the question below on their Facebook page. Here's a few answers we thought of and would like to hear yours.

Local Quilt Shop Day

Local Quilt Shop Day - described as "a worldwide celebration of local independent quilt shops" - is held annually on the fourth Saturday in January.