Sisters Unique is in full celebration mode.  Earlier this summer, we threw a baby shower for one of our precious girls, Rachyl Johnson.  Last Thursday, during the wee hours of the morning, she became a birthday girl and a first-time mom.  It turns out that mommy and baby girl share the same birthday — August 26th!  Little Penelope Mae made her big debut at precisely 12:01 that morning, weighing in at 7 pounds 7 ounces and sporting a button nose and a tuft of hair.

Rachyl has been a part of the fabric of Sisters for years.  She first came to work for the store during high school and has always managed to fill an integral spot in the Sisterhood.  Since moving to Florida this summer with husband, Joel, she’s been sorely missed.  Before they headed south, Rachyl presented us with a homemade suitcase and a corresponding farewell poem.

The Traveling Sisterhood
Rachyl Johnson 

There's a beat up old suitcase filled with unimaginable treasure
It's not full of raggedy old clothes and worn down shoes
But rather things one cannot measure

Inside there are lessons for all walks of life
There are stories for those who will listen
And wisdom for the newlywed wife

It's full of how t0's and recipe finders
Decorating tips, home making advice
And hospitality reminders

Don't be fooled by the scuff marks & a banged up edge
Of this suitcase torn and tattered by time
For it's laden with wisdom of those who've gone ahead

It's never locked up or kept far from reach
It is open to those who are hungry
And there are many willing to teach

This suitcase is different form any other I know
For the riches inside never leave those who go...

You see, I know a place where sisters gather
And unpack their luggage
To talk about life and the things that matter

And when the seasons change in one's journey to and from
The bitter is softened by sweet
For this suitcase travels with all those who go

We have entirely too much fun here at Sisters.  The first Doggy Days event was such a hit that we had to try for an encore.  A few weeks ago, Sisters artist Jennifer Brewer pulled out her magic pencils again and sketched more sweet pet portraits.  Her inspiration is the day-to-day dialogue between master and pet — all those goofy commands, affectionate nicknames and silly expressions.

“It’s called The Art of Conversation because the portraits are actually made up of the words you use in conversation with your pet,” Jennifer says.  ”It’s interesting to look at your relationships as a continuous conversation.  And with our animal friends, this is a playful and unique art.  Especially since we have different ‘languages.’”

The man of the hour was there, too — Jennifer’s spunky Malti-shih-poo named Oliver Twist.  (He was a little less camera shy this time.)

If you missed the event, not to worry.  Jennifer will take pet portrait orders anytime.  Just bring in a favorite photo of your pet and ask for Jen!