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G. Willikers in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, by Nathalie Strassheim |
Portsmouth, N.H.—While there were certainly plenty of folks out and about in daytime Portsmouth, I sensed a palpable pickup in the liveliness factor as the sun set (behind the clouds). Folks seemed freed of the drizzle, somehow, and small groups roamed the sidewalks, peering at posted menus and settling into outdoor cafes. If I hadn’t already been slated to visit McMenemy’s Irish Restaurant & Pub, I would have had no problem finding other interesting dining spots. Portsmouth teems with restaurants. And the streets teem with people looking for them. Some of the shops stayed open, in part because it’s now officially summer, but also probably to snag a last few customers. I myself couldn’t resist G. Willikers, a toy shop on Market St. Don’t tell my son: there’s a bright red stuffed lobster waiting for him in my suitcase.— Nathalie Strassheim
June 29, 2009 at 5:53 pm
Hi Nathalie,
I am so glad you enjoyed your Portsmouth visit, and that you found G.Willikers! It’s always fun on summer nights at our store. People seem ready to play. Many couples out on a date can’t help but wander in and pick up something for their kids. I love the photo you took. We recently freshened up the front of the store with a brighter green, and it looks so nice in the lamplight! We are a family owned second generation business, and have enjoyed being on Market St. for 31 years!
Sincerely,
Jody Breneman
Co-Owner
G.Willikers Toy Shop!
“Family Fun, Family Run Since 1978!”
July 1, 2009 at 8:27 am
Hi Nathalie
I remember our conversation on the night of your visit! I still think your work sounds facinating!
Although my job is pretty fun too – I get to meet interesting people (like you) and work in a very fun store in beautiful Portsmouth. The picture of the store front in the lamplight is wonderful by the way.
Hope your son loves his lobster!
Karin Scott
G. Willikers! Toyshop
July 1, 2009 at 9:53 am
My son fell asleep the first night I was home flat on his back with the lobster on his chest, antennae tickling his chin. He LOVES it.
Your shop was something else. I frequent toy shops (2 kids, 2 and 6 yrs) and enjoy poking into new-found gems. Portsmouth in general was terrific — I thoroughly enjoyed walking around and seeing things. I just wish it hadn’t been so rainy!