Going down a narrow, dark walkway through two buildings lies a small door that leads to the basement location of Shop and Share. Because it is a rather mysterious entrance, you are initially thrilled at what treasures possibly await inside.
But...and I am going to preface this by saying perhaps I went on an off day...it's a pretty massive disappointment. I will give an extra star for the neatness of the shop and the fact that it is run by volunteers to benefit a mental health center.
Walking in reminds you instantly of your grandmother's basement. And not the grandmother who wore furs and elegant hats and had her pied a terre designed by Dorothy Draper herself, but the grandmother who clips coupons, wears sweatshirts with kitty cats on the front and thinks trips to the Olive Garden should be reserved for "special occasions".
The inventory is mostly sad and utilitarian in nature. Housewares section boasted a fairly large selection of glasses and dishes, but nothing unique or interesting. There is no furniture, but if you need fake flowers or wreaths in colour schemes like light blue and peach, this would be the place to hit up. The clothing area...well, how do I describe that. The back of the store has racks full of things about 1 month away from the rag bag. Wrinkled, faded, stretched out, shrunken from the wash. The front of the store has racks that seem to be reserved for "fancier" stuff, but only fancy if you are 85 years old and need something loose fitting, stretchy, and in some sort of garish pattern because your astigmatism doesn't allow you to see all that well anymore anyway.
Or, in other words, something perfect for that trip to the Olive Garden. read more