I live and work in West Seattle and felt I must send you a letter of a very disappointing experience that I recently had.

I, as do many of my clients, coworkers, neighbors and friends, frequent many of the West Seattle Junction stores. Not worrying if we are paying a premium dollar for a dog bone at the pet store, nor worrying if we are paying twice the price of Macy's at Capers.

I recently was sent out on the streets to procure auction items for our school auction. Was shocked at how many "No's" were on peoples' mouths. Not a dog bone or a kitty bowl, not a potted plant from In Bloom.

I must say the experience left a very bad taste in my mouth and left the mouths of several neighbors and friends ajar when I mentioned this experience. We make it a point to shop at these stores and over the last years have given thousands of dollars to them.

The request was not overwhelming however the No's were disappointing. Will be doing all of my Christmas shopping this year downtown.

Debbie Loop

Windermere Real Estate