You may have seen the big news on my Instagram stories - I recently took on a new position at my day job that frees up a LOT more time to devote to other endeavors, including T.G.S. In the coming weeks you will probably see some changes here, including refreshed and updated informational resources such as the Fountain Pen Review Archive and other projects I’ve been working on. I also have new product collaborations in the works, and plan to continue our shop expansion with new details announced in the near future!
So What Does This New Transition Officially Entail?
I've moved to a less demanding position with a negotiated set of responsibilities and a fixed annual time commitment. The goal is for this to result in more predictable hours and clearly defined boundaries. In the immediate future, I also requested and received a four-week sabbatical to take some time off and reset.
I kicked off vacation with a full fountain pen reset. Turns out I had an absolutely ridiculous 30+ pens inked up, which is what happens with three pen shows in a month-and-a-half.
The next four weeks won't entirely be vacation: During this month, I need to make some decisions regarding how to best position TGS for future growth, including my 2024 Pen Show Strategy, new brand partnerships like Roterfaden (which has been extremely successful); and a launch plan for some content-related projects that I’ve had “in the works” for years without the time to complete them. I MAY consider attending the upcoming Detroit and/or Ohio Pen Shows, if time allows.
How Can You Help? Keep Reading!
It’s that simple! As long as you all keep coming back, reading, and engaging, I plan on running T.G.S. for the long term. For the next week posting may be irregular, as I really need some time off. Shop orders will continue to be accepted while I’m out of town, with processing time from 10/7 through 10/14 delayed by a couple of business days in addition to our normal shipping. Upon my return on 10/14, orders will resume shipping in the order they are received, and as per my usual practice when I’m out of town, all vacation orders will receive “extras” in the package. I recently placed an order for some fun TGS Swag in addition to our standard buttons and stickers, and you’ll be the first to receive them!
Many thanks, and please know that I greatly appreciate your readership and support! For some additional fun, consider joining the TGS Patreon Program. With more time on my hands, I have some ideas for expanding the Patreon and bringing content to readers there that is different, but still complementary, of the TGS site. Our next TGS Patreon Online Meetup is scheduled to take place the evening of October 21, at 8:30pm CT. I hope to see some new faces there!