I knew they were closing on July 31st. I knew that they’re planning to move to Santa Barbara or San Diego. Greener, warmer, more sublime pastures, I’m sure.

Ocean. Water. Blue sky. California Dreamin’

Still when I saw the post on Here’s Park Slope, I felt a catch in my throat.

Yup. Maybe because I had a glass of wine with lunch (Rose). Maybe because I’m listening to Swans (life after Death) by Islands, one of my favorite songs ever. It’s all about death and stuff.

Swans

Swans

Swans sing songs

All night long

Who knew how warm the islands were

Well, that has nothing to do with Bob & Judi’s Coolectibles closing And yet a “swan song” is a farewell or final appearance. Maybe the song is about letting go and moving onto the next thing.

Okay.

Bob & Judi’s was one of the first shops on the new Fifth Avenue, when it was being re-developed slowly and organically by artisans and entrepreneurs.

That was a while ago. Maybe 1999 or before. Before Eidolan and Al Di La. Before Blue Ribbon and Brooklyn Industries. Aunt Suzie’s was there. She was always there, of course. But Bob & Judi were visionaries on Fifth Avenue. Movers and shakers. Early adopters. A couple who wanted to sell their vintage wares.

I know they’re ready to move on. Maybe Brooklyn isn’t the Brooklyn they used to love. Maybe they’re just ready to try something new. Sometimes it’s just time…

Best of luck and love to you, Bob and Judi. We won’t soon forget you.