In the end, Firebrick Gallery and Pottery Studio owner Christine Laikind wants to focus on the fun.

But that's not to say it won't be through tears.

After more than two and a half years, Laikind will close shop for the final time on Dec. 29.

"It was not an easy decision to make," Laikind said. "There were a lot of tears on my part. I love this place. I love the people. I want to thank everyone for their friendship."

For months Laikind had been personally funding the shop as business took a significant hit from the Main Street Makeover, she said.

"We had planned for the construction, but the loss of business was more than double what we had prepared for," Laikind said.

Still, she held on, hoping her historically best months — November and December — would pull her through. When these months also came up short, Laikind had to look at the hard numbers.

"I don't have a crystal ball and I had gone through my personal savings," Laikind said. "The decision was made."

'I won't disappear completely!'

While the store's last day is Dec. 29, Laikind's lease runs through the end of January. She said she will spend that last month selling off equipment.

Down the street at Fieldstone Winery, her extended gallery will continue to hang. Laikind also plans on being an active part of the skateboard art competition, Deck Art, that she helped create with Linda Gallaher, who owns South Street Skateshop and South Street Skate Park.

"I won't disappear completely," Laikind said, half laughing through the tears. "I have no regrets; I had so much fun!"