Many years ago, I found joy in volunteering. I began volunteering at my local library branch when a friend was working off fines for returning books late. I asked if I could assist too, and though surprised, they agreed.

This opportunity set me on a volunteer path. I then volunteered at a nursing home in my neighborhood, and from there, at the science museum in my community.
I started volunteering there because one of my many aspirations at the time was to become a veterinarian, and they had a program where volunteers helped care for the animals.
On one particular day, they were short on volunteers and requested help in an area called the Curator's Workshop. I had walked by the room over 100 times but had never actually entered.
When I went in it was like walking into a world of wonder and amazement. A large desk filled with cubbies overflowing with various curiosities, bottles, bones, papers, and maps greeted me. As I explored the room, I was led to a small table where a large rock sat. The person settling me in and giving me a quick overview of how to explain the highlights and features instructed me to open the rock. Confused and thinking I was being pranked, I refused, saying rocks couldn't be opened. I was told to take a closer look, and that's when I noticed a slice in the middle. When I pried the halves apart, I discovered the most sparkling, shiny quartz crystals and felt tingles on the back of my neck. I've been bitten—the rockhounding bug got me.
Since that time, I've developed a passion for rocks and crystals, with some being the typical rocks I've gathered from locations where I've lived or traveled.
The acquisition that eventually resulted in me opening my own crystal and fossil shop occurred in the summer of 1990. While strolling through the Old Port in Portland, Maine, I discovered a charming rock shop named Stones and Stuff, run by Van Marki and David Pitt. The shop was brimming with global wonders, artifacts, crystals, and jewelry. David valued my curiosity and not only taught me much of what I know but also greatly supported me in opening my shop.
We will soon be celebrating 12 years in business!!
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