Fifth Street in Downtown Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada……is a small area of just 2 blocks…but is Abundant with Diverse & Creative Merchants.

I have shopped here for 20 plus years, and was delighted to discover so many wonderful new nuances during this assignment.

A Wonderful Gentleman Gifted me a Box of Truffles, because I had a beautiful smile he said.

~Hot Chocolates~

~Rattan Plus~

I had always rushed in and out of this store…as I had with most I visited……and Oh, did this store have a lot to offer….so many new insights, great furniture made from re-cycled wood that could be ordered online, garden furniture, so many bedding sets, but the most endearing were the Yoga Cows…..who did come home with me…to remind me to do my Pigeon Pose and Shoulder Stand daily!

~Ski and Surf~

I spent most of my time here fascinated by all the amazing colorful ski designs. How wonderful there are great jobs for Creatives designing skis!

Also had a great conversation with the owner, and when I told him how much I loved a sundress I’d gotten there in the summer he told me he had one left in another color…in the basement, that I could have for a great deal! What a hidden gem, in a beautiful color…ready for a winter trip.

~Robert A Couture~

I have bought MANY of my clothes here for years…they call me when something comes in that they think will be great for me…and they are usually right. So I wasn’t sure what new insights I would find here….

But, the wonderful thing…was the welcoming fireplace that was burning…how could I not have noticed that before….so as I took the time to sit….I noticed all the beautiful displays in a whole new way….and learned they do all of their won display work.

Ahh ~The Tea Centre~

Another of my favorite spots…..today I took the time to smell so many teas, and learned where they were from…and have a WHOLE new appreciation for Tea.

Another great new learning…I discovered Matcha stirring wands…who knew!

And I had never noticed the great sit t ing spot just inside the door…to enjoy a sample of the tea of the day brewing….which I did.

And, finally…..at Secret Drawers, a few things to keep me warm this Winter

In my observations, I was most impressed at the level of Creativity in all of these businesses…that has kept them thriving with the arrival of numerous large box stores in the area in the past few years.

I connected more with each of the owners, and have created joint ventures with several, where I will be going into their stores over the holidays with my massage chair to offer Acupressure Neck and Shoulder releases to tired shoppers…..bringing added value and experience to their clients, and possibly creating new clients.