By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

In the 1980s, while attending UAB seeking a business degree, it never entered Janice Fuqua’s mind to think what the year 2013 would bring to her.

After 31 years of marriage to Mike Young of Chelsea, she had attained her own successful monogramming business, had two daughters, Nikki and Pauli, and two grandchildren, Caleb and Lilli.

Janice had moved her business from her home to the Alabaster business area with husband Mike, who was always her “cheerleader.” In fact, he purchased her first monogram machine without her knowledge.

Even though Mike was quite ill last year, they thought he was going to be OK, so plans were made to double the size and services offered at her Monograms ‘n More.

“In October of 2012 I decided to expand my business,” Janice said. “You can only be as big as your walls will allow, and I so wanted a larger showroom and work area. At the time, even in this economy, it seemed to be the right decision.”

Right after the beautiful expansion was completed, Mike’s illness reappeared full force, and he passed away on Jan. 8 of kidney cancer. Like everyone who loses a loved one, Janice is still reeling through the loneliness and the lack of direction.

Janice is a magician when it comes to creations and suggestions for gift ideas. Her showroom is gorgeous, and if you are searching for that “boutique feel” with a knowledgeable owner, check out this place.

Gifts are available for baby showers, baptisms, births, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, new house, hospitality thank-yous, groomsman or bridesmaid gifts, coaches and players items, shirts, jackets, bags, stuffed animals, beach totes and towels, backpacks, table linens, about a dozen styles of soft side luggage in every design and color. The shabby chic displays and furniture set-ups catch the eye. Glass etching is also now available.

The shop is now reopened with new hours, a new look and a new feel. With a look to the future and a successful past behind her, Janice Young is an integral part of the Alabaster business community.