I had something similar happen to me. I went from loyal customer to employee at a LBS last summer. I only worked weekends and kept my nice 8-5'er during the week. It was good for me to see the other side of things, and to get more human interaction outside of a cubicle. I don't think I profited a single dollar, as I bought so much stuff using my discount! I certainly learned a lot, and it was great to have access to so many tools. I might do it again this summer, but maybe every other weekend instead. I have some bike excursions planned and I'd like for work not to get in the way!