The boss of the local thrift store retired. It makes sense at a certain age to step away from a job, even one you have loved and were good at. For more than two decades Nina channeled the flock of volunteers toward a friendly and efficient system, one where many thousands of people were able to furnish their homes and clothe their children. 

 

There was a party to celebrate her service, and fortunately there was cake. The New York Times crossword puzzle this week included a quote about such details. 

 

"A party without cake is really just a meeting."

 

People shared stories about customers. One of the employees had made a habit of counting the first languages of shoppers over the years. Rather than guessing, she asked them. Eighty four. 

 

Another woman told of a time when two customers were haggling over a vase that they both wanted to buy. It looked unsolvable, until Nina stepped in. With grace she invited them to bring their better selves to the situation. Fortunately she was not forced to resort to Solomon's tactics. 

 

I composed a ditty to honor her, and set it to the tune of Sweet Violets. If you are not familiar with that song, some of the lines lead you to expect one word, and then surprise you with another. Perhaps running the thrift store was like that. 

 

There once was a lady who ran a thrift store,. 

It specialized in things people had owned be-

Cause they were beautiful and very unique. 

The hours were regular, five days a

Month since it's difficult to find volunteers,

And being short handed is one of Nina's

Talents because she so easily recruits.

Unlike Peter Rhodes who just hollers and

Covers the ceiling with airplanes and bats,

Collected from hoarders and other pack

Horses who donate their furniture and clothes,

Which other people purchase and that's how it 

 

Goes, round and round! One house and to another!

Nina is now retiring, to work in her garden of sweet violets!!