For those of us who listen to NPR (and I get it – all other news outlets) … you very well know – it’s been some particularly grim reporting lately.  THE ECONOMY, THE ECONOMY, the economy.  And certainly this isn’t the 1st time the dire financial situation our country is suffering has promoted some “green” lifestyle options (alternative energies, greater use of mass transportation, less gluttony overall), but I heard a story this morning, called Broken & Broke, that really gave me hope.

It was a story about the family-run Cortini shoe repair shop in Fulton, NY that has been operating since the 1920’s and business has never been better. The current owner (grandson of the original) was happy to report that now more than ever people are having their shoes repaired rather than replaced (cue heart swell!).  He said people were even bringing in inexpensive shoes… This is fantastic news!  Could this sucky economy finally bring to blossom the concept that REPAIRING & RE-USING is better than replacing or even recycling?  Be still me heart!

Mr. Cortini (I can only assume).

For those of you who are new to the repair game… don’t give up on your most beloved shoes, wallets, handbags, sweaters, jeans – the list could go on forever.  In these glorious days of the internet,  find the most respected repair shop near you and GO!  Having my shoes, bags & sweaters repaired gives me a natural high – and I am hard on my cherished pieces. And don’t you dare think that it’s too costly.  Ok, you only spent $40 on the shoes originally and the repair might be $15, but how is that not better than totally replacing???  You’re not supporting sweatshops, you’re not creating more waste for landfills and it’s only 15 f*%#ing dollars for a like new piece.  Once you’ve got the right repair shop on your speed dial… I promise – you’re life will be forever charged!