Pictures from the Nashville Show

Time, Where is it? (posted: Aug. 2nd, 2010)

Hello my friends, My plan was to have a little blurb for you about every 2 weeks, Here it is 3 and a half weeks later, and I'm just doing this. Where is the time??

Let's see what we can tell you this time.

Our friend from England, Carol R. is being a designing fool, and we have 4 of her lovely designs. They are small samplers with the theme of the title. Sew Nautical: I have stitched and finished. Really pretty with a mermaid and lighthouse. Sew Sew has needle and thread theme, Sew Seasons has all 4 seasons, and Sew Noel is a beautiful one with a pretty little church. Are all similar, and can be stitched quickly. I've finished mine as a little flat hanging. Carol has used some exquisite fibers and fabrics from France, which I don't have available but she gives us the conversion for floss and our fabrics. She can take a ferry ride to France as we take a trip to Tampa. The injustice of it all! So come in and check her things out. You will want all of them.

Judy Whitman from JBW Designs has a new series. Christmas Village. 3 little designs in 1 chart. The first 2 charts are here now. What wonderful ornaments they will be. The buttons come with the chart so you are all set. Little bits of fabric and thread and you have it done! (wish it were that simple!) They are on the front table so you see them first.

The new Shepherds Bush goodies are here as well. All are wonderful kits. Friends, a really nice pin cushion, and scissor fob, and their new big kit. All here and ready to go home with you. I've already started Friends and the Fob. You would think I could finish something first. But NO the joy is having a zillion pieces started. In about my 4th life I'll have them all done. Whew!

Our Pal, Susan Greening Davis, is coming for 1 day Saturday November 6. to teach a marvelous class. It's the snappie bag. We have had these made just for the class. and we are definitely limited. These are nifty project bags about 14 wide and 8 high with a really cool closure (It's a secret) Susan has a fabulous piece of banding she got on her last Germany jaunt that she has designed just for this class.

The class is 9:30-3:30 lunch included, plus the kit, plus her trunk show, plus loads of FUN. All for $60.Sign up today. As I said we are limited to the class size. A picture of the bag will be on the web site and Susan site this week.

Speaking of Germany, September 4 I have an opportunity to go with Susan and her crew to Germany for 9 days. We are touring Zweigart, Dovo, the Linen Band factory, the lace factory and anything else she has included. I will be shopping for the store as well as touring. This is a opportunity I could never have again. I will be bringing back stuff we have never seen before, and I can't wait. From what I have learned, we only see about 20% of what Zweigart manufactures, as well as Dovo. I think I'm only taking the clothes I'm wearing so I have lots of room for goodies. The shop will still be open for business. This will be a grand adventure for me and you all will be able to see wonderful new stuff when I get back.

That's it for today. Have a nice week-end. Call or e-mail me for Susan's class 941-743-4410, cathy@goldeneedle.com

Oh and the Sat, Oct 2 Stitchy Marathon is FULL. That's 50 people. It is going to be a blast!! More on that next time.

Until then, Stitch on.... ~Cathy

Hello, Remember Me? (posted: July 4th, 2010)

Hello, My stitchy Friends, I know you remember me, just wanted to jog some creative fingers. Just because our summer season is Hot and Steamy doesn't mean we are not still stitching!

I do want to keep you up dated on even the smallest things, so you will hear from me throughout the summer.

First off we are here normal hours Monday -Friday 9-5 and Saturday 9-12. Those have been our hours since the beginning of the store, and will continue to be. Only change is a holiday or a special event. So come and see us, even if it is to say hi.. We will be closed on Monday July 5th, since the holiday falls on Sunday and the official holiday is Monday. I am taking a much needed extra day, maybe to stitch, maybe to nap, maybe to talk to my sweet little boys. I will be back Tuesday at 9. So to all of you Happy 4th!

We have received some new goodies in and I wanted to give you first crack. Lizzie Kate has done it again with a new Holiday Flip-it called Christmas Rules, I have the 1st 4 designs and the page if you want to make it a complete banner. New Halloween ABC's, and a Fabulous Summer Fob with the little gem scissors included. They have red and blue handles. It is sooo cute. These are limited edition and going fast. If you want one, let me know and I will put one aside. You can go to her website: www.LizzieKate.com to check them out.

Sweetheart Tree has some lovely new things as well. Her latest alphabet is T is for teatime, done in the same style as her other letters. She as done a lovely new Anniversary/Wedding sampler kit, a new Christmas ornament and biscornu. All are here and ready to go home with you.

I am diligently working on UFO's and my latest obsession the JABCO's newest monthly Teaspoon collection. I have always loved and collected thimbles and unusual teaspoons, so this is right up my alley. It is in their monthly style and even has a stitched case. I am finishing up March, however they just released May and the top of the case. I'm a little behind but working. Edith decided she needs to do it too. so I guess we will see who finishes first. The charts and buttons and a finished picture are here so you can see what we are doing. I'm not leaving it here on display, at least not yet, otherwise it will never get done. Has to be home.

I also am obsessing on the silk gauze pieces from Erica Michaels. This is Julies fault. She wanted to try a silk piece, and EM's latest one is Stitching Mends the soul and of course it jumped in my bag and said take me home!! and of course I did. So when I finish Summer I will start Stitching. I also have the Serenity Prayer for Edith, that was more that she could handle right now. Whew! So this may be my summer of Silk Gauze, too.

All our little boys are growing and happy. Sutton was 3 last Monday. Where did the time go. He calls me on the phone to talk and tells me all kinds of stuff. It is amazing how much he says. He loves movies and his favorite right now is Toy Story 2. (I gave him that!) Hudson even said Hi Granma the other evening. at 18 months he is such a happy little boy. His nickname is Tank and he lives up to that. Our newest little one is doing well too. He has had some tense moments during his first month, but seems to be adjusting. There are still a few remaining issues that he has, trauma of the whole high risk pregnancy, but all in all my son and his wife are very blessed. I just finished his birth picture, and it is at the framers. better late then never.

OK enough rambling. Hope to see you all soon, For those of you who are thinking of vacationing here. Our beaches are clean and beautiful and there are vacancies. Come on down. The oil spill is not here, and should not affect us. We would love to see you all.

Don't forget Wednesday July 21st is stitch nite here. Let me know if you are coming and what you are bringing.

Also Our Stitchy Marathon is October 2, Saturday, and we are Filling Fast. If you plan on coming don't delay letting me know because I only have about 10 spaces left. We have many new people coming as well as the regulars. Great fun and wonderful company and awesome food.

Have a wonderful 4th, stitch bunches, See you all soon for some new goodies, Thanks for everything.
Your guys ROCK, Stitch on, ~Cathy

Stitchy Marathon (posted: June 3rd, 2010)

Hello Everyone, We are back from new baby event. Yes he might have been high risk and yes he might have been early (2 weeks) but he was 9lbs, 2oz. He is so beautiful, even with his yellowy face and bruised body. Mason Charles is here, and they are doing well, my other boys are adjusting great to their new baby brother, and mom and dad are TIRED!!

It was a great time we made it for the actual birth, and got to spend some time with them. Even got to see our daughter, She made it before this little man entered our world.

OK Just a reminder that this week-end is our Stitchy Marathon. we start at 10 and go to 10. I have a few spaces open, if you would like to join us please let me know.

Our friend Amy will be teaching us beautiful bookmarks, in the afternoon. She will be charging $4.00 for the supplies, I have samples here if you would like to do it. It is a string weaving technique. All the supplies are available for the nominal fee, just let me know if you would like to do this. Can't decide, Come a see the samples and make up your mind Edith is cooking up a yummy surprise, and Gigi is making a yummy dessert. as well as Charlotte's famous cookies. Don't forget your lunch, tea, coffee and water will be there for us. Should be a relaxing time. I hope to finish my picture for my newest little boy.

Any questions please call e-mail or stop in. See you all then, Hurricanes we are ready, Cathy

Events coming! (Short version) (posted: May 17th, 2010)

Hello Everyone, This will be a short version to let you know some of the bigger things going on. Never enough time to get everything done, to be sure.

First, We are on baby watch. It looks like we will have a new Grandson around the 25th of this month, unless he decides to make an early entrance. This one has been testy for my son and daughter-in law, but things seem to be doing OK. She has another amino next Monday (this is the 4th) and then we will have an exact date. I think everyone will be glad to be done.

OK, now stitching news, This Wednesday is stitch nite, Usual time 6 p.m. PLEASE let me know if you are coming and what you might be bringing to share. I know I don't say that all the time but I do need to know anyway. I have had several people inquire about our stitch nights and if everyone showed up we would be stitching in the parking lot. So just let me know so I have enough chairs, and just mention what you might be bringing to share to eat. Always a fun time and everyone is welcome.

There are a few new things in, Some new threads, charts from JBW, Needle Delights, and DebBee. A few extra charts from Carriage House. She is retiring and her stuff is going away as of July 1st, so If you don't have it yet, you might check to see what you want. It is always sad to hear of designers going away. This is one we will miss.

We have the new series from Blackbird. #4 of Anniversaries of the Heart. They are doing a yearly series of adorable little houses, You can do them individually or as a whole group. They are here now too.

Part 3 of Libertyville from Raise the Roof and Belle Soie is available too. Check that out too.

Our next event is our Stitchy Marathon. Saturday June 5th from 10a.m-10 p.m. We are kicking off Hurricane Season. Bring your rations(?) and lights. and we will be stitching fools. Just as last time Edith is whipping up a yummy new dinner. Bring your own lunch, We will have power shopping , a raffle and prizes for some unusual things. (who came the furthest, most UFO brought, oldest UFO) crazy things like that. We may even have Hurricanes to drink. So mark your calendar. I have spaces for 40 and we fill quickly. Even if you don't stay the whole time, come early, come later, just join the FUN. Meet new friends, and stitch away. $20. reserves your space. Same place Habitat Community Center off of Cedarwood, about 2 miles from here.

Start signing up now. It is a blast.

To all our winter residents, Farewell and we will see you in the Fall/Winter. Please know I will ship if you need anything. I try to make Bruce go to the post office twice a week. So We are pretty regular on our shipping.

As a side note, I have many items on Back Order. I wish this doesn't happen and I don't know why it does. Please be patient with me. I try to get everything ordered in a timely manner, I do have minimums from many companies that can make it tricky but I still get it ordered. I don't always know right away if it is not available, but I will try to let you know if that is the case. I really appreciate you understanding this, and let me keep it on order. I still want to be here years from now, The internet doesn't help us, if you go there.

That's it I'm done, Off to counting, Have a lovely week-end, and we will see you all on Wednesday. Have a Stitchy Week-end, Cathy

Where does the time go? (posted: April 17th, 2010)

Hello My Stitchy Friends,

Where does the time go. I had a friend e-mail me that the last letter on the website was from February. I know we have had others because we had stitched and had a marathon. Time just gets away.

I know I haven't had much time to sit down and compose a little something and my son the webmaster is busy with 2 boys and a 3rd due in late May. This one is a high risk baby so they have spent many more appointments at the doctor and hospital. All is well, and time is short. Just less time for websites. Hopefully this will all straighten out in a couple of months.

OK, Those residents who are leaving us til the Fall. Have a safe and stitchy summer, Remember if you need anything I will be happy to send it to you, just call or e-mail me. We have had many in to stock up before the trip north. Always sad when that happens, but we know we will see you again soon.

We have a few new goodies coming in. and the online Needlework show is running right now. Go to www.needleworkshow.com and check out what is what. I will be happy to order anything you might see. A word of caution however, please check out the ordering procedures for some of them. If the minimum is too high I might not make it. I am trying to shop smarter these days, with the way the economy is still moving slowly I want to continue to be here, and as Linda from Lizzie Kate says "Shop Smarter not Harder" Sometimes it may take a little longer to get things in. Please know I'm working on it.

As many of you know we are losing several designers to retirement. The latest and biggest surprise is Carriage House. When we saw her in Nashville she was all smiles and new design ideas. Now she is retiring and the last is Autumn at Hawk Hollow. I still have her charts, If you need anything please come and see, I'll do my best to get it for you because after July 1st. it will be gone. ( I feel like a Disney ad.)

I still have a few Brightneedle older designs and they are marked down. Again a lovely designer that has retired. These charts are really hard to come by now, so if you thought about some of theirs, check now.

On the new end, The newest series for Black Bird has started and we have the first 3., 2 new series from Crescent Colours and Little house, 1 series from Raise the Roof and Crescent: Libertyville.

HandBlessings has many new Hooked on Designs and a New Blessed are the Piecemakers that is being released throughout the year. Edith has been working on that and very soon you will be able to see her progress.

We have brought in Threadworx overdyed floss and #12 perle, so that is another hole filled on the wall. and some retired Weeks floss at a special price.

Too many things to ramble on about.

Don't forget Wednesday is Stitch Nite. Let me know if you are coming, so I have enough chairs. We start at 6 p.m. It's the usual. but Marge wants a show and tell on Tassels, so if you have one bring it to show. If you have a finished piece, bring that to show too. We will inspire one another.

Otherwise all is well. Edith has a new Granddaughter, Delila Rose, 6 weeks old and so delicate.

Our little boys are growing so quickly. It makes me sad they are so far away. Sutton loves to talk to his Poppy, he has this little drawl so it is so cute to hear him talk. Hudson is beginning to talk and can say many words now. They are happy and fearless.

Not much more, you just have to show up! See you Wednesday or before. Have a great week-end,

Be Inspired: Stitch a Stitch or Two.Make your Heart Happy!
~Cathy

Superbowl Sale Is Almost Here! (posted: Feb. 2nd, 2010)

Hello Everyone, Just a quick note to remind you that this Saturday starting at 9 a.m. our Wildly popular Super Bowl Sale and Sidewalk sale will begin. Bring your cash or checkbook and be prepared to SHOP. Everything in the store (except DMC) will be at least 20% off and our sidewalk sale will be even crazier.

Saturday you can shop from 9-3 and Sunday from 10-2. All Sales are final, we will not be serging fabric, and I will only take a credit card as last resort.

We will be selling some of our models, they will have bright signs on them.

Also Saturday, March 6 will be our 2nd Stitching Marathon at Habitat from 10-10 $20. per person. Bring UFO's. More on this later.

See you all on Saturday, Remember this is the money to take me to Nashville for the new stuff. Bring friends!

Stitch On! ~Cathy

JBW Trunk show is here! (posted: Jan. 20th, 2010)

Hello everyone,

Just a quick note, never enough time, to let you know Judy Whitman's Trunk Show is here. We have some of her newest pieces done in a variety of ways and some of her classics. They are on the front table and wall behind the cash register. Come in and take a look, I know you will be inspired.

Don't forget that this Wednesday is Stitch nite, We have some new people coming so I'm excited about that. Remember to bring some healthy morsel to share, your stitching and your fun self. We will start at 6. Please let me know you are coming so I have enough chairs. We will see you all then.

Also put on your calendar Saturday and Sunday Feb 6 and 7th for our BIGGEST event of the year, our Super Bowl sale and Sidewalk event. If you haven't experienced this you must come, sales everywhere, fun time for all and a bunch of craziness. A few quide lines for this: I will not be serging fabric, we can't keep up and I will not accept gift certificates for this event. I'll giving away too much that I must have some restrictions. It is only these 2 days, not before and not after, so you must be here to join the fun. Times are 9-3 and 10-2. This is my money to go to Nashville to buy new stuff, The vicious cycle continues. See you there.

An update on Edith, Her surgery went well, and she is healing slowly. She came home quickly and is recouping there. We probably won't see her until SuperBowl week-end, and all of you who asked about her she thanks you. It has put me behind in the back but I keep plugging along. I thank Barbara Jefferies for filling in, in the back. It has been a new learning experience for her, but she jumped in with both feet and has done great. Thanks also to Barb and Carmen for all their filling in too. I appreciate everyone's efforts and patience.

Well that's it, see you all soon, hopefully Wednesday. and any other time.

Until then Stitch On, ~Cathy

Happy New Year and Thanks! (posted: Jan. 1st, 2010)

Hello Everyone, and Happy New Year. Who knew it would come so fast.

I just wanted to let everyone know I appreciate all of you and Thank you for all your support over the years. We are still standing strong, and hope to be here many more years. All of that is because of you. The wonderful friends we have made and the people we meet. Thank You, Thank You!!

For those of you who can't miss anything. Susan Greening Davis has a couple of spaces left in her class on Saturday. January 2nd. It is such a truly delightful way to bring in the New year. A very special class with wonderful friends and great information. Sally Criswell former owner of Cross Stitch and More in Gainesville, will be here too and serving a marvelous lunch. We start at 10 a.m. and go til about 3. You can shop Susan and Sally's trunk show and the shop will be open too. Just give me a call or e-mail me if you need to sign up. $65.00 is the class.

We have a busy couple of months ahead of us. I'll fill you in on a few things now.

After Susan's class, the next week we are travelling to Ft Myers for the Lee Co Quilt Festival Jan 8 and 9 We have a booth there, and I'm really excited. We haven't done this show for several years. So it is great to go back. It is at the Lee County Civic Center. off of Bayshore in Fort Myers The times are 9-5 both days. Come down to see us. If there is anything I can bring for someone, please let me know and I'll stick it in a box.

We have a few weeks of normal (?) and then February 6 and 7 will be our Famous Super Bowl Week-end. That's right it's coming. 9-3 on Saturday and 10-2 on Sunday. Everything in the store will be at least 20% off (except DMC) and we will have the wildly successful sidewalk sale out front in the parking lot. If you haven't been to one, you must come. This year we will have many models for sale too. We need to work on updating and what a great time to do it. Out with the old and in with the new. This sale is only 2 days and only those 2 days. Surprises galore and a fun time. Save your dollars and be prepared for fun. Hopefully it will be sunny . Mark you calendars NOW.

As many of you know this money will take me to Nashville for our spring buying. They have moved the venue and changed the date, but we will still be there. Can't wait to see all the new stuff, and what the hot new items of the season will be. That is February 19-21, It is a cash and carry so I will be here in trhe shop Monday Morning with suitcases full of stuff.We fly Southwest so bags fly free. Not many clothes go so more room for goodies. Then the next week-end is another quilt show here in Port Charlotte, Then March 5th (I think) will be are next stitching Marathon. We are shooting for that first Saturday in March. Still waiting on confirmation of the Habitat Community Center, but circle that 1st Saturday. As before there will be a nominal fee to come to cover costs of food and the place. maybe some games, more demonstrations and wonderful friends.

OK I'm tired, I guess I will be busy. We are working really hard on some classes. days are really hard, but we shall see.

Again hope to see you all really soon, Have a Happy and Healthy 2010 Make a few good resolutions. (I'm working on finish 2 UFO's then I can start a new one) and Just be Happy. Life is Good.

Until I see you all again, Stitch On
~Cathy

New stuff here and going on! (posted: Nov. 28th, 2009)

Hello Everyone, Happy Belated Thanksgiving. Hope you all had a wonderful day, and enjoyed your families.

We were fortunate enough for our daughter Kim to be here with her SO Joey. As much as we wanted her football team to make the playoff, we were glad they didn't so she could be here. It was a great and relaxing day. I did the dinner and the rest of the family who are local came to feast. It was a nice day. Kim and Joey had to leave early Friday. Joey has National weightlifters he coaches and he said 1 day off is too much! At least we got to see them.

Trace and his family didn't make it but we did see them last week-end for Hudson's 1st birthday. The day after we left Hudson took his first steps. Rats!

Anyway, we have some new goodies in the store, ideas for Christmas, and all around good stuff.

Lizzie Kate as new charts. Live Simply and Dogs leave paw prints on your heart are her 2 newest Snippets. She has a new full sized chart on Words to Live by.

New Holly and Ivy Kit from Sweetheart Tree, and a wonderful little chart (comes in a 2X2 disc box) that says Merry Christmas. I just love little packaging.

Some cute new scissors from Kelmscott. A tiny gold pair that have an Elizabethan scroll handle and they are very reasonably priced.

Beautiful new scissors fobs from a designer from St. Augustine. She uses some lovely stones and cute charms. A great stocking stuffer.

Of course the best light ever Might Brite floor light and magnifier. This is the one that runs on batteries or plug in. The goose neck adjusts to where you want it, and the lights around the magnifier and bright and cool. What more can you ask for. I can't keep them in stock so if you need one for Christmas come in now.

Our Beginning of the year class is filling fast. Saturday January 2nd at our Habitat center. Susan Greening Davis is doing her cushy Place to stash your stuff. It is like a saddle bag that can go over a chair and has pockets on either side. The bag is already assembled and we will be doing stitching on 3 different pieces of cloth to attach to the bag. It is here in the shop, not quite done, but you will get the idea. I will have a picture of it up on the web this week. All for $65. 10:00 -3:30 and it includes a wonderful lunch prepared by Sally Criswell. Let me know or e-mail Susan sgreeningd@aol.com for a space. The shop will be open for you stitching needs as well as Susan's and Sally's wildly famous trunks shows at the center. This is the greatest way to start the new year. Wonderful friendships and great instruction from the Master. Susan!!

Come in to see us. Get a quick chart to make for Christmas.

Oh we are still accepting donation of food or money from EVERYONE for the Harry Chapin food bank. We will be taking it to they around the 2nd week of December. So help us out.

We all have much to be thankful for. Edith and I were going through that the day before Thanksgiving. Even something as small as being able to take a walk outside. Or hugging your husband or watching a baby's first steps, we are fortunate.

I am also thankful that Bruce is slowly improving. The therapy seems to be helping. He is riding the bike there. We still have bad nights but they are not as bad as earlier.

Well I must get going. Have a great week-end. Hit some more sales, and I hope to see you all soon,

Remember. Stitch-On... Cathy

Stitch Nite, Stitch Nite, Stitch Nite!!! (posted: Nov. 13th, 2009)

Hello Everyone, I was trying to do a song with my subject, I don't think it worked.

A few things to tell you and there never seems to be any time to do this.

First A thank you to Susan Greening Davis for a spooktacular class on Halloween. The little purse and accessories were darling and of course all the information she sends our way was wonderful. A special surprise was Sally Criswell came and took the class too. It was great and everyone seemed to have a howling time.

We are doing it again for the beginning of the year.

Yes Susan is coming back on January 2nd that's Saturday for another wonderful class. This one is a cushy seat to hold your stash. It is almost like a blanket saddle with pockets on both sides to hold your stash, a picture will be up next week, I'm almost done with the model. So give me a call if you want to join the festivities. This is a great way to start the year. so many years we have had a great ending but now it is the beginning.

Wednesday the 18th of November is our stitch night. be here or be square! bring your favorite healthily dish and a UFO or 2 or 10, and join us. 6 p.m. or so til we are done.

We will be talking about our holiday function, and as a suggestion we thought this year rather then exchange gifts among ourselves, we would make a donation to the Harry Chapin Food Bank. We are all so fortunate to be able to come and stitch and visit. not everyone has that chance. So bring a couple of canned goods, and a dollar donation of $5. or $10. that we can present to the food bank in December sometime. Hope you all think that is a good idea, then we can just have a regular stitch night in December. Yeah!!

Now on a sad note for those of you who know Janet Wilson of EGA, Hardanger fame, her brother called me on Wednesday to tell me she had a stroke then a second stroke and when they were checking her found bone marrow cancer. Hospice is with her now and her situation is very grave. I don't have an address for her but if I hear anything else I will let you know. Any of you who had the experience of taking a Hardanger class with her, experienced a person who truly loved the craft.

Oh that is it, See you on Wednesday. We do have a few new goodies. Keep stitching. It's cool enough to to enjoy something on your lap.

Stitch On! ~Cathy

October Happenings (posted: Oct. 18nd, 2009)

Hello My Stitchy Friends,

So much stuff is going on in life and I wanted to just give you a short update.

First of all our First UFO Stitchy marathon day on October 3rd was a huge success. We had 29 people come and everyone had a great time. Edith cooked a GREAT dinner and Karen demonstrated flat folds wonderfully, and Julie tasseled herself into oblivion. Thanks to all who came and stitched and played and ate . We will do it again probably the first of the year. Hopefully we can do it 4 times a year. So keep a couple UFO's just for that time.

My husband Bruce just came home from the hospital yesterday. It was 2 weeks of long days. His knee replacements went well, but the drugs did not set with him as well as we hoped, so He is pretty weak, but moving forward. It has all been extremely overwhelming to me, but we are taking small steps. He is walking and his range of motion is good so far. The pain is still there. His first night home wasn't good but again it is all going to take time.

Because of this situation I need to cancel stitch nite this month. I am sorry, but Wednesday will be a day of many doctor visits and by the time we get home, I think we will both be exhausted. I hope everyone understands and comes back next month.

We are still getting great things in from the show in St. Charles so come in and check out the newer things. Edith is slowly coming back from her ordeal with pneumonia. She isn't able to do the steps really well but she can still help. She hasn't forgotten everything.

We have 2 spaces left in Susan's October 31st class. Can't wait til I see the design. I just love the little bag. It should be an absolutely great day. 11-4 on Saturday. Bring your spooky treats and be ready for some fun. Call or e-mail me if you want to sign up.

Well that should do it, again sorry about Wednesday, but will see you all again soon,

Until Then: Stitch On... Cathy

St. Charles and More (posted: Oct. 2nd, 2009)

Hello my stitchy friends,

Just returned Monday afternoon from the St. Charles show and It was wonderful. Lots of new stuff, great to see old and new friends and it was COLD ( I guess in relativity) The morning we left it was 50. I'm glad I had a sweatshirt.

The trunks are on the tables and more will be added with the new goodies for you.

Wonderful new stuff from Lizzie Kate, Val Stuff, Nancy's Needle. To Die For charts from DebBee Designs, Michelle Ink, Firecracker Designs.

Fabrics from Picture this Plus ( you 14 and 16 count girls I have some pretties) Crossed Wing and Lakeside.

Christmas at Hawk Run, Carriage House, and Marking Samplar.

Little Tins from SamSarah and a really nice wedding sampler too.

Shepherd's Bush did some great things. not all came home with me but its on it's way.

Scissors, Ribbons, silks and new Weeks and Sampler Threads.

You just have to come and rummage the suitcases.

The Knotty girls did some of their charts in cross stitch plus we will have a class from them in knots.

JBW did a little kit with finishing some of their ornaments. It was great.

And Remember Saturday is our UFO Stitching extravanza. I am completely full for that. The shop will be open at 9 so come early to shop. We start at 11 a.m. to stitch. Bring a sack lunch. We will have tea ,coffee and water available. bring your own sodas if you need that. After lunch, Karen will be demonstrating flat fold finishing. you can listen in on that if you desire. Then at about 4 p.m. we will have power shopping. I am opening the shop just for us. so If you need anything or want to look, now is the time. It will only be for about 1.5 hours so you have to shop quick. Then back to the center for dinner. Edith and Gig will be making magic for us to eat. Then after dinner around 7 or so Julie will be doing a SMALL hands on class of mini tassels. We only have space for 6 in that and I already have 2 signed up. You will need to purchase 2 balls of #8 perle and 2 tubes of beads from the bead shop or 3 packs of Glass Seed Beads from here. We have the other supplies for you. If you have silamide beading thread in your stash or some other beading thread bring that along.

We will be there til 11 p.m. stay as long as you like. It should be a most spectacular day. and the beginning of something wonderful.

Directions to the Habitat center: From the shop. go to light at 776 turn right (going towards Englewood) Just past light at Enterprise Dr. there is a gas station on the left (Marathon gas) turn left there Collingswood. The first right is Cedarwood Rd. turn there. go about 5 blocks(??) on the left you will see a grey building that's it.It is not marked as to what it is. turn left then right into the parking lot in the back. The doors will be open. Any questions call the shop and I'll help. Can't wait to see everyone. It should be a great time. I'm still tired but will eventually get over that too.

Stitch On! ~Cathy

So Many Things To Tell You (posted: Sept 14th, 2009)

Greetings my stitching friends, This one may be a long one. I have a boat load to tell you about and I want to make sure I get it all in. I'm going to try to keep it in order for the month, but if I lose track I'm sorry.

Here Goes: Next Wednesday is Stitch night. 9-16 starting at 6 p.m. as usual bring a healthy yummy and let me know if you are coming. We have some new friends that will be joining us and I'm excited about that, as well as our "regulars" I don't want to get too crowded but we may have to be really friendly. As always it is the best time, even if you don't stitch, just to visit with other stitchers is great.

Those of you who are stitching Michelle's Quaker Gone Tropic, could you bring that piece no matter how far you are. She wants to see our progress and I see her the end of the month and want to take some photos .

With that, Our next trade show is in St. Louis on Sept 25,26,27. We are leaving the evening of the 24th, and returning Monday the 28th. Have to get in every little bit of time. It is a cash and carry/ I do know so far, Carriage house is releasing Christmas at Hawk Run Hollow, on a special cut of Lakeside 40 ct. I have a bunch of those on pre-order plus the fabric in 32, 36 and 40 count. I realize my eyes aren't happy with 40 count, so why should you struggle We are to be happy stitching!!

Lizzie Kate has 4 new designs 2 of which are limited, and we have those ready to go too.

Little House has a new winter piece with a wonderful stitching pocket, similar to the one they released in February.

Kelmscott has some great new scissors.

Michelle has Quaker Gone Spooky and of course I have to put Quaker Gone Tropic down to start Spooky. Similar to Tropic not as big with the greatest willow tree and tombstones.

If you are needing anything special, please let me know I will be happy to bring it back or order it. Just be aware If you order something I expect you to take it. Unfortunately in these economic harsh times I don't need any extra inventory then I already have. I don't take a deposits because I trust all of you and I would hope you understand I expect you to take it when it gets here. Sometimes things are on backorder and we all have to deal with that. So please help me stay here by respecting an order.

Next: Put Saturday October 3rd on your calendar. We are having our very first UFO Saturday Stitching Extravaganza! From 11a.m. to 11.p.m.(yes 12 hours)

These are the requirements. anything you bring must be already started. I don't care if you bring 1 or a dozen. but they can't be brand new. We all have these nasty UFO's floating around and they need to be finished. so bring them and get to it. Bring a bag lunch. We will have Iced Tea (sweet and unsweet) Coffee, Lemonade and water. If you want soda bring those too. The center has a huge refrigerator so we can put sodas in there to keep them cool.

Edith is making us dinner so we will have something yummy to eat then.

Karen Richards has kindly agreed to demonstrate how to put together one of her little flat fold hang ups. you will be getting some info on that to take with you. That demo will be early afternoon and you are under no obligation to listen. We will also have about an 1 hour power shopping spree to the shop before dinner so Edith can quietly prepare.

If you haven't been to Habitat's center, It is a great place to stitch and visit. Lots of chairs and tables to spread out and wonderful light. We will probably throw in some extra surprises to make the day even more fun.

You don't have to stay the whole time. but plan to be there.

We hope to make this a quarterly event. So sign up now. You might even get a goodie for finishing a project there. I can't wait.

Then October 31st is our Teeny Tiny Tulip Spooky Purse with Susan Greening Davis. The purse is here, the guts are a surprise. Sign up now for that. The purse is also on the web site www.goldeneedle.com to look at. Class time11 a.m. to about 4. p.m. Another spectacular day.

Oh The JCS Ornament Issue is here. It came yesterday and it is really Good. Come and pick up a copy. We have been drooling over which to do first. I have a bunch of issues and can get more.

Told you this was long; The last thing is my husband Bruce is having some major surgery on Monday October 5th, so I will be crazy for a little while If I am not here, please be patient with me. This is going to be a long process for rehab too. He will be bionic when it is all over, and I will be a little more frazzled. Just understand I appreciate all of you: Edith, Gigi, Barb, Carmen and anyone else who will be pitching in during these next months. Thank Heavens for Stitching. With that I am done. (Whew)

See you all really soon, Sign up for everything and keep those needles loaded. ~Cathy

Oct. 31st Party (posted: Sept 6th, 2009)

Hello Everyone,

On Saturday October 31st from 11-4 we are having a wonderfully spooktacular Halloween class, with our bestest spooky pal, Susan Greening Davis.

The purse, which will be on the web in the next couple of days, is just a little tease to get you going.

These tiny tulip purses are being especially made for our class only, add to that a wonderful banding from Susan's trip to Zweigart in Germany, add to that some cute little small attachments, add to that a fabulous Susan trunk show and Shazam you have a fundesparkle day! Come in costume, or with treats, bring a friend but you must sign up. $75. is the fee and it includes the very limited edition purse, goodies, lunch and treats, great friends, and wonderful instruction from: you guessed it, Susan Greening Davis. No matter what she does, you are guaranteed to leave with a new appreciation for this art. Space and bags are limited and we will not have anymore when they are gone. The purse will be in the shop for all to see up close and personal. Lots of good space for little things, an outside pocket for scissors or to hold a zinger. You will want to be here. Call or e-mail today. You must make a deposit when you sign up or I won't consider you in the class.

This will be so much fun and on Halloween to boot.

See you then!

Stitching (posted: August 17th, 2009)

Hello Everyone, My subject is pretty basic this time. I guess that is where I am Just Stitch!

I feel like Julie last year with her summer of needlepoint. This has been my summer of silk gauze. I just finished my 3rd piece of 40 ct silk gauze. It has been so much fun, but I must finish Quaker Gone Tropic. I see Michelle in late Sept. and I really want it finished, besides if she has Quaker Gone Spooky ready to be released I need to do that one.

It is been the Hot summer slows here. Always that way when school begins and since school started here in Charlotte Co. last Monday, things should be getting back on track.

We are stitching on Wednesday evening, so let me know if you will be here. I already know of a couple who will not, but if you are coming please let me know so I have chairs and space. Bring something healthy and yummy to share. It should be fun.

We have a few new things here, I think everyone is quiet because of the summer, and economy. We still have lots of wonderful things to choose from. A small project can go a long way to bring a smile on your face.

The sentiment to my last silk gauze piece is My Big Toe's Happiness begins with just 1 stitch. and you know that is true. Even thought I did it teeny tiny it would look great on any count fabric. Check it out when you come in.

Had my little boys here last week-end, what a treat. My son is starting a new job tomorrow, and they came to visit. Sutton at 2 is just amazing. He loves the pool and BBQue chips, and is fearless. Decided 2 swim rings were more fun then 1 and even sat on the step, shoved himself to the edge and went under. I was just glad his Dad was in front of him. Came up laughing. His brother Hudson is a smiley, happy little guy. He is fondly known as Tank, cause that is what he is. He stands up at the table and wants to walk so bad. He loved the pool too, and the dogs and my bowls. It was great fun.

Nothing much else, hope to see you all soon, It is cool inside so come on in and relax a while, browse the stuff, and find something wonderful. Sorry it's so short. Keep on Stitching,
~Cathy

Many Wonderful Things about Stitching (posted: July 14th, 2009)

Hello my Stitchy Friends,

Once again a note about things happening at the shop.

Firstly, This Wednesday is Stitch Night starting at about 6 p.m. Bring some healthy goodie to share, and let me know if you will be here. We have some new friends coming, and I want them to feel welcome and get to know you regulars. I'll make sure the A/C is cranked down, (Gigi and I will bring sweaters) and we can stitch away. Always a great time. Bring some show and tell too, always love to see what people are stitching. It motivates us all.

Edith finished her very first counted canvas piece. It is beautiful and at the framers as I type. She loved doing it and did a great job.It's a Laura Perin Quilt Collection. I don't think it will be ready by Weds. but you will definitely see it next time.

A few FYI of importance.

Many of you may already know that Needlepaints by Lavender and Lace have been IMPOSSIBLE to come by. We aren't really sure if they are out of production or just behind. They were manufactured exclusively by Marilyn. As of to date, a few colors still remain, and Rainbow Gallery is filling in with a pre-packaged sets in the color range. Our biggest problem has been the purples. I have the RG packages on order, so please be patient. Everything is taking time.

Also there is manufacturing problem with Jobelan. I know many of you love that fabric. The sole US importer of Jobelan doesn't have any information on when this problem will be resolved and if it will ever be corrected. For you evenweave fans, Jazlyn is the new Jobelan. We can get it in many colors and is very nice to work with. Doesn't have quite the scheen of Jobelan but is lovely to work with. I will still try to get Jobelan, but please note we may have to substitute.

The new Country Register is now here and available. If you haven't ever seen this lovely little paper come in and pick one up. It is strictly for the state of Florida and has SPECIALTY shops advertised in it. Not just quilt shops, but Cross Stitch, yarn, furniture. etc. Also has great little tips and articles and wonderful recipes. They are on the front counter.

Our most exciting news this week is Our largest chart company is launching a great new video to get people to cross- stitch. This is wonderful if you are brand new or need a refresher. and the video is done by none other then our favorite designer Frank Bielec of Mosey N' Me. Now if that name doesn't sound familiar to you, then do you all remember Frank of Trading Spaces??? Same crazy guy. He and his wife Judy have been in the industry for boat loads of years, and is really a spark to the industry. Go into www.hoffmandis.com and click on the Frank video.

We have his fun little heart chart, fabric and red floss and of course those ever important needles for you as a gift. We will get you started and get you HOOKED!!!

If is so exciting to have something as wonderful as this to jump start the craft.

Also don't forget October 31st. That's a Saturday for Susan's tiny Tulip Tote class. This is exclusive to here, Only enough bags are being made for this one time class. They are adorable. I will have a bag here so you can see it. (not the exact bag) Secret. but one similar. Beautiful banding ,wonderful threads, great instructions and a blast of a time. Sign up NOW We are limited on space and bags so check your calendar and let me know.

Susan just came back from Germany and Zweigart. Brought tons of banding and fabrics with her. We get some of this banding in our kit so that is really special .

We are still a work in progress, Much of the up stairs is rearranged. Lots of new goodies here. come-on in and check it out. It's cool inside so join us for fun.

I must go I've really rambled enough.

Our older grandson Sutton, is becoming a big boy. Learning to use the potty, lets you know when he is hungry, and helps with the little brother (who is only 7 lbs lighter then he) Everyone is well and happy and healthy.

So see you soon, my stitchy friends, Cathy

Happy 4th! (posted: July 4th, 2009)

Hi Everyone,

Just a real quick note to say Happy 4th. Hope everyone has a safe holiday. Enjoy it by stitching on something new.

We will be Open on Friday July 3 regular hours, but will be closed on Saturday July 4th to celebrate with our family. So come on in tomorrow and add a few goodies to your stash.

Edith and I are re-arranging the walls today so who knows where you will find things next time you come in. I guess it those nesting tendencies we all have periodically. I have a mess up stairs right now, so I'm going back to it.

Take Care and stitch lots. See you soon, Cathy

Hot June (posted: June 13th, 2009)

Greetings my fellow stitchers, Well summer isn't here yet, but the temperatures are. As I looked over the river last night I saw smoke coming from somewhere in North Port drifting across the horizon thinking where is the rain. I'm sure lighting struck somewhere and a fire began. As much rain as we have had it still isn't enough.

We even drove in early today because the shuttle was taking off at 7:17 a.m. and Bruce was hoping to get a picture of it launching. No luck. So since I'm here this early I figured I could send out a few reminders.

Don't forget Wednesday, June 17th is stitch night. Hope to see you regulars and newbie's as well. Let me know if you are coming, and what healthy little goodie you are bringing to share. We start at 6 p.m. and go til we finish. We generally start wrapping up at about 9 or so. Bring your stitching, show and tell or what ever else you want to do. Sometimes it's nice to just sit and visit.

There is a show in Columbus this week-end. I'm obviously not there: more Needlepoint and knitting then cross stitch. We will be going to the September show in St. Louis Mostly cross-stitch and a cash and carry.

We have the new Homespun Elegance, Witches Stitch too, and the latest ornament a cute little Santa Called the Merry Stitcher.

Shepherds Bush is releasing many new ones, and we are on their list for those. Remember is a little kit with vines and bees in their signature colors. and Finch Song is their newest Big Kit. These should be arriving shortly, so add those to you wish list.

Rosewood Manor's latest is the Language of Flowers. Barb has started this one and it is lovely. So delicate with beautiful colors to go with. That chart is here now.

The newest Mill Hill ornaments have arrived for the Fall and are so cute. As well as the newest winter ones. Their latest perforated paper kits have also started to come in . I really like the white trees, and Holly ones. Barb loved the Poinsettia and Edith was partial to the skating pond. It's good we all agreed however that these would be quick and fun to do. I also loved the trick or treat kit for Halloween. The little kids are dressed so cute. (The dinosaur must be Sutton) Don't forget a Tacky Bob for your beads. Makes beading life so much easier.

Lizzie Kate's latest double flip spells Merry Christmas and is so pretty. It is in the double flip style. She is also releasing a new quick flip. You don't want to miss that. They should all be in towards the end of this next week. We also have the Halloween Double flip it piece all done thanks to Mary Ann. It isn't framed but hanging right at the stairs. Check it out. You will want to stitch it once you see it.

My hottest seller to date is Day Light's LED magnifier light floor stand. It runs on batteries or plugs in and sells for $100. It is well worth the money, I have 3 on their way. When I get one up I'll take a picture of it for the web site. Many of my customer/friends love them because they are portable enough to travel with. I just sent one to a gal in Idaho. They live in their RV and she can run it on the batteries and stitch anytime. Weird me thought how great this would be if we lost power, I could still stitch in the dark (SICK) No power outages for us please!!! So check that out next time you come in.

Well I think I have rambled on enough. Come in and say Hi. Always something new to look at. Keep stitching. It's cool inside so we don't have to stray far.

Kids are doing well. Sutton danced for me the other evening. Hudson is sitting up nice and tall and rolls everywhere. At 7 months he is almost as big as his almost 2 year old brother. They are so cute. Of course we have lots of pictures on the computer to share. We hope to see them all again the end of this month for Sutton's birthday.

And I hope to see you all on Wednesday or anytime soon. Remember we will ship to you if you can't make it in. Have a great week-end, and I'll see you really soon.

May is for Mats (posted: May. 17th, 2009)

Hello all,

Here it is again later then I wanted it to be... Happy belated Mothers Day to all.

Our newest grandson was dedicated on Mothers Day and we were able to share that joy with my son and his family. We had a wonderful time in our short visit. Both our grandsons were the noisiest during the service. Sutton (the oldest) was hollering for Poppy (Bruce) and seeing all the words on the screen behind him. Hudson was just "telling a story" As my brother said they were joyful in their own way. I agree. It was a wonderful Mothers Day for me, being with them and our daughter Kim.

We are having a special Mats in May sale.

I have a limited number of Shepherds Bush kits with the mats on sale this month for 25% off. Take advantage of the special. It is only what I have here, no special orders and they are sold as a set. There are some wonderful buys, big and small. Just as a teaser I have the Wool Gatherer, Heart Blooms, Oh Beautiful, Spooky Sheep Land of Liberty, and Patriotic Snowman. just to name a few. They are upstairs in the cutting room. Mats and kits are together. The mats comes with the mat board backing so all you would need is a frame. The special runs til May 30. Stock up now.

Don't forget that this Weds. May 20th is our stitch night. We have had some much fun during these nights. Last time our pals Julie from Naples and Sarah form Venice, were enticing you all with counted canvas. If you need some assistance they will be here Wednesday and can help. Or if you need some more encouragement to buy. talk to them. Last Summer was Julies summer of Needlepoint and she went crazy and loved every minute. Talk to her and catch some of her excitement.

Since it is summer find that great project you need to do. We have some great stuff, canvas work, Lizzie Kate's Boo Club, Shepherds Bush kits. Michelle's. Quaker Gone Tropic, A little Sweet Nothing by JBW or a Pearl from SamSarah. We are here to get you through the summer.

We are also gearing up for the Fall. Mark Saturday October 31st on your calendar. Susan Greening Davis will be here in the afternoon with a great new class. The Teeny, Tiny, Trick or Treat Tulip Tote. We will be start about 1 p.m. and go til about 4p.m. then the store will still be open for shopping and fun. We are having these adorable totes especially made for our class. Susan just returned from Germany and a major trip to Zweigart. so the banding we will be using in this class came directly from there. Not sure of the cost yet I'll let you know shortly. The tote will be here shortly too. Sign up we will be limited on totes. It will be a wonderful class. and GREAT Halloween Fun.

Ok Its time to open, Have to fly. Hope to see you Wednesday or sooner. Have a great week-end and Keep stitching.

~Cathy

Bunches of New Stuff (posted: Feb. 17th, 2009)

Hello Everyone,

I survived the trip and had a wonderful time bought WAY TOO much stuff, but Oh Well.

We have lots of great stuff from lots of wonderful designers.

I took a class from Teresa Layman. Her things are all knots and I'm hooked. I have her trunk show coming in. Look for it around March 16th. The little knots are so cute and easy. You don't even have to think. I have a piece started here so you can see. It's like doing little miniature rugs. I also took a Hardanger class, I learned some finer points that really helped me.

I got to stay with my friends Michelle and Gail and found a new friend Patty Yergery. She is Samplers Revisited and has some beautiful reproduction samplers.

Michelle had a huge hit with Quaker Gone Tropic. Her Quaker sampler is a take off but in wonderfully wild colors. I started it while I was there, and now Martha and I are playing dueling samplers.

I will tell you I had to ship many things When you only have 100 lbs of suitcases, and 200 lbs of stuff it gets a little tricky. So it will be Christmas for many weeks.

DeeBee Designs had some fabulous canvas pieces as well as From Nancy's Needle. Some of them are here.

The Etui Collaboration piece from With My Needle is here. Those of you who pre-ordered I have them in the bucket for you. She also did a wonderful basket with the inside stitched, that I'm taking orders on as well.

Don't forget that Wednesday is Stitch Nite. Let me know if you are coming. Bring a healthy goody. and I'll see you at 6.p.m.

We are busy getting everything finished marked. (Mary Ann is at it right now.) so you will be able to pick and choose then.

See you all soon, I'll keep you posted on other goodies, My head is swimming.
~Cathy

Off to Nashville!! (posted: Feb. 5th, 2009)

OK Good Start, I'm off to the Needle work show. My plane leaves at 5:00 p.m. tonight and I'm going to more freezing Nashville. I'm excited that I'm staying with Michelle and Gail (we have a history) and get to take some super classes and see wonderful designers, and friends.

Because of you all and the Huge success of our Super Bowl sale I can bring back Lots and Lots. Thank you all so much for braving the cold Saturday and coming to shop, Sunday wasn't as cold but was just as successful. My hands didn't thaw out until Saturday night. It was so cold.

Anyway, I'm taking the camera so I can take pictures from whomever lets me, and we will post the fun on the web site when I get back. See you all next week with wonderful new stuff to entice you all.

I'm bringing back Judy Whitman's trunk show: that's JBW for those who might not recognize Judy's name and My Big Toe's trunk will be in today. The girls will be putting that up hopefully tomorrow. Stay warm, and I'll see you back here on Tuesday.
Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Super Bowl Weekend Sale! (posted: Jan. 29th, 2009)

Hello all, This is a very quick reminder that It is almost here! Yes the Super Bowl Week-end you have all been waiting for. Saturday 1-31 from 9-3 Sunday 2-1 from 10-2 our biggest sale of the year. Everything inside is at least 20% off (not DMC floss) some things deeper. and Out side is the wildly famous sidewalk sale where bargains abound! Come early and stay late. We will do our best to help everyone, but due to the nature of the sale we might not get to everything. Everyone will be here to help, so come on over. You will be home in plenty of time to watch the game and enjoy your goodies! See you Saturday at 9a.m.

~Cathy, Edith, Gigi, Barb Carmen, Mary Ann, Martha, and Bruce

Happy New Year! (posted: Jan. 5th, 2009)

Hello My stitching Friends,

Happy New Year, I know it is just a few days late, but still there. Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and is now enjoying the new year.

We had a quiet Christmas. Our daughter Kim came home for several days, and it was lovely. We just relaxed and enjoyed. She had to leave a little earlier then I had hoped, Basketball Tournaments over the vacation and she being the forever athletic trainer had to be there.

I am forever grateful for the time I have with my kids. So little bits are always wonderful. Bruce keeps hoping the trainer at Lemon Bay will retire and she will come back home. I am more realistic and know she loves where she is and at least she is fairly close.

Our son and his family weren't able to come: new baby and all but we skyped him and got to see all the wonderful things Santa brought . It is so funny since Sutton knows when Trace gets the laptop out and starts dialing, there is going to be granma and poppy on the other end, before it even comes up to screen, you hear Hi, Hi. It is so heart warming. He blows kisses too. It just tugs on my heart. Hudson's tricks are eating and sleeping and that's fine too.

Ok Enough family now down to business:

January finds us with some exciting stuff happening.

First Susan's tips class has been postponed. She was scheduled for 1-21 but that has been cancelled. New date not available. so cross that off your calendar. However, that is stitch night and we will be here for that. It is Wednesday starting at 6 p.m. again as usual bring some healthy goodie, and let me know if you are coming. It is now season and I know of several winter residents who plan on being here, so I need to know who will be here. Hope to see you all them.

We are working on a fresh front table with Valentine and spring goodies so take a peek when you come in.

We haven't finished inventory yet, try counting the threads in a day (ha!!) so I'm just alittle behind in new ordering. Take care it will all be here shortly.

Now for all of you who are asking January 31st and Feb 1. that's a Saturday and Sunday, is our World Famous Super Bowl Week-end Sale. You have been waiting and it is rapidly approaching! Saturday 9-3 and Sunday 10-2. Everything in the store (except dmc floss) will be on sale at least 20% some things even deeper. and of course we will have our wildly popular sidewalk sale outside with crazy mark downs. Charts for $1.00, fabrics by the yard for $5.00 I lose my mind on this one. It is just those 2 days not before not after, You will be home to watch your favorite team of the season play and you will have wonderful new stuff to stitch.

So don't use the I have to watch the game as an excuse for not being here. 2 days of craziness. Can't wait.

Then the next week-end is our Nashville show where I get to bring back all the new stuff for spring. The money I make at the sale gets me going in Nashville. (See there logic in what I do!)

If you see anything on a preview let me know and I will be happy to bring it back for you. I already have the With My Needle collaboration piece on order and beautiful fabrics from picture this plus waiting for me. So let me know and I'll add it to my book of orders.

And as a future class Susan Greening Davis is coming back on Saturday March 7 for an all day event. It is a beautiful carry bag. with a practice piece on one side, and the actual piece one the other. The cost is $125. for all the class from 9-5. If you are taking this class you must give me half to reserve your spot. The bag is here on display and will be on the web site shortly. come in an sign up We are limited on bags so don't delay. It is really a great bag that you will use again and again. This will be Susan's last class we have scheduled for this spring season. Add her to your list of have to's.

As usual I have run out of time.

I just wanted to thank all of you for making our 2008 year successful We are still here and standing strong, and that is because of all of you. I hope to continue to move forward in 2009 . Please stop by and say hi. We love to hear what's going on with all of you. Continue to pull that needle through that fabric. This is truly one of life's simple pleasures. Finish some projects, start some great new ones. Try a new stitch or even a different medium. I'm taking a couple of different classes in Nashville so we shall see. I still love to make those little x's.

See you all soon, Thanks again, Your stitching Friend,
~Cathy

Holiday Stuff (posted: Dec, 8th 2008)

Hi Everyone,

Why is it December 8, Where has the time gone. So much happening so little time!!!

First off We have a new Grandson. Hudson James born November 18th. 8lbs. 8oz. a half pound lighter then is "big" brother. Momma and baby are doing well. She came home on Thursday and was doing great. We went up on Weds and Sutton shared the stomach virus with all of us, so our trip was cut a little short, though I got to love on the baby a little. He has his Dad's nose, and not anywhere as much hair as Sutton did. All is well and Hudson is adjusting to morning and nights. We can't wait to see them all again soon, Hopefully Trace will put a picture of the new family on the web site for all to see.

Now down to stitching business.

Barb has set up a lovely table right when you walk in with Christmas stitching goodies, If you have a last minute project you might need there are some great little projects on the table that you could finish in no time. Come in and check it out. We have 2 installments of Crescent Colours/ Little House Needleworks "From Sea to shining Sea". It is on my pile to do, but at the rate I'm going it won't get started time next year.

We have started a new project on our table stand in the thread room, It is a Heaven and Earth design. We just wanted everyone to see how one of these progress. I must be crazy but with Edith, Barb and myself taking little stitches it might be done in 2012!!!

An important reminder: Susan Greening Davis' class is December 27th. If you want to take it, I can still take you. $95. for the class and all the goodies. Susan's classes are the very best. You will leave relaxed, informed and realize it was money WELL spent. If your name is on the list and you haven't paid, I need payment now. I need firm numbers for the room and Susan by the end of this week. If you haven't paid you will not be included. Please join us Dec 27th from 10-4 for a great end of the year party.

Susan will be back in January on the 21st for her tips and techniques class. This class is a listening class with lots of wonderful goodies to take home. The cost is $50. and will be from 6-9. This is our regular Stitch Nite, so we will not have it in January. Susan is coming here on her way to St. Augustine for her Pirate camp. Sign up now it will be well worth the time!

Don't forget Weds. Dec 17th is our Holiday party. Bring your filled bowl for exchange and happy faces. Edith has kindly said she would make dinner for us. I know it will be wonderful as she and Gigi were restaurateurs in former life. If you would like to donate a couple of dollars to the cause, see Edith on Weds. I'm sure it will be delicious. and she would appreciate any help.

I'm sure there are other wonderful things in the store I don't remember to mention, so come on in say hi and take a peek.

If anyone needs a gift suggestion, Gift Certificates are the perfect gift. One size fits all and you get what you want.

Well its time to go, Hope you are all well, and staying warm. Too chilly right now. Have a great week, and if I don't see you before, have a Merry Christmas and Wonderful Holiday,

Stitchingly, ~Cathy

Victoria Sampler Trunk Show (posted: Sept. 1, 2008)

Hello my stitching friends, I just wanted to send a quick note that I have a brand new Victoria Sampler Trunk Show here and I should have it up by Wednesday. I am so please this worked out. It is brand new stuff of Thea's so you get to see some of her most recent designs. Please wait til Wednesday to come because it will take me that long to get it up.

Also a reminder this Weds. is Stitch nite. we will start at 6 p.m. and go til you leave. Bring a healthy pot lucky dish. and we will have a great time.

Also we will be CLOSED on Monday for Labor Day. This being the last summer holiday, we are taking advantage of spending time with our families. but we will be back bright and early on Tuesday.

And Weds. Sept. 3 is Public Stitch In Day. The EGA will be stitching at the libraries and if you have a chance find a spot and show your stuff, This is a day for public awareness for stitching. Take it to work and just put it on your desk, maybe someone will be interested in what you do and will want to learn. We need to pass our craft on to any and all, and this is a good start.

OK that's it for now, Have a great week ,see you soon, to Ooh and Ahh at the trunk show, Come in to say hi, grab a new project, or sign up for Susan's End of the year extravaganza. See you soon, ~Cathy

Stitch Night (posted: July 15, 2008)

Hello All, Just a few short reminders for this week. It has been really hot and steamy these past few days, (weeks, months) so it is the best time to sit down, put your feet up and pull out that project. Every day I try to at least take a couple of stitches to relax my mind or make me nuts depending on what I working on at the time.

Speaking of which, my pal Martha was in last Thursday and told me of her latest idea. Reverse stitching. or start everything in your stash. I guess one of her blog mates decided, she was going to start a new project from her stash every Sunday. Martha was buying projects to add to her stash so she could start them. Now I know we all have tons of stitching stash plus many UFO's and we all have a one day pile (one day I'll do this) So Martha's thought was start something new every week, and even if they don't get finished you can say Wow I'm glad I got some stitches in that. I realized 1 a week is 52 projects, and never in my lifetime would I get half those done. But just to say they are started seems to make it more satisfying. So how about that as an idea, I did take a new project home and started it on Saturday, and am still working on it, I think I am the queen of partial projects but I really think Martha is on to something. We never know how long our eyes or hands are going to hold out. so get it going now. We do have some lovely new and vintage charts you can add to your stash and get started.

Now that you are all laughing hysterically at that thought, on to other business.

Wednesday is Stitch night and we will be pot lucking. Let me know what you are bringing and if you are coming so I have chairs. Always good to see new and old faces, so if you were thinking of coming do it Weds. We start at 6 p.m. but I'm here so come early if you like.

Then Saturday 7-19 is our tassel class from 12-4 If you want to see the finished product, check out the web site. It's on the first page. www.goldeneedle.com They are so lovely I can't wait to do another one. We do have a few spaces left, so let me know. $25. includes supplies for the tassel.

I am putting together models we will be selling later in the month. I'm going to post them on the web site as well. As all of us there is not enogh wall space, and many of the models are from charts no longer available. so out the door they will go. I am going to try to have 1 wall, probably the hall upstairs devoted to the sale, so towards the end of the month come in and see if you need any great pieces. That is also whay we are trying to show some other ways of finishing so we don't have to frame.

Mary Ann has been frantically stitching new models so we can add more to the vacant space. I got 2 from her yesterday. and they are so pretty. She does such lovely work and I keep her off the streets.

Ok enough of this foolishness. Edith is on vacation so I'm solo for this week. I better get to something. Hope to see you all soon, Have a great week-end and start stitching that stash.
~Cathy

Short List & Framers Request (posted: July 5, 2008)

Hello everyone, Just a really quick note to say we have decided to close both Friday and Saturday for the holiday. We will be back open on Monday at 9 a.m.

We got some new Lizzie Kate in Hocus Pocus, Fall Squared, and their latest double flip It for Christmas Holly/Stocking and Santa/Cookies. plus the chart Retirement and her latest limited edition Normal:Is just a setting on the Washer.

We got some new Pine Mountain Pillows and her latest series, that look like ravioli pillows. Really cute.

As an important side note. Our pal Linda of Creative Framing. wanted me to let you know that she as been working like a mad woman over the last few weeks putting together some fabulous pre finished frames in sizes from 1X1 to 16X20. Go up and see her and take your stitching with you to pick up some wonderful bargains. Her finished frame sale will be on for the month of July. Take advantage of her hard work. If you haven't been up to see her, she is the next light past Jacaranda Blvd.. in South Venice about 20 minutes from here. 2357 Tamiami Trl in Holiday Center, Venice Fl. 941-493-2276. She has some wonderful gifty things as well as the framing.

Hope everyone has a safe holiday. I'm going to relax I think or clean or stitch. See you all soon for those summer projects. Happy 4th to all, Cathy and Edith.

Stitch Night (posted: June 17, 2008)

Oh Wow, Where has the time gone? Wednesday is Stitch nite, and it will be pot luck. I know I've already talked to some of you and you are coming, but those others let me know. I know I have 2 chickens coming, so that is a start.

Things have been very quiet here. I'm hoping to take advantage of this quiet time and get things a little straighter. We may paint and stuff, but just try to update a little. If has been 9 years since we moved in this store, so we need a little face lift. I have a few ideas so hopefully we can get them going. You will have to excuse our dust some time in the near future.

The June Market is now history and many new things will be on thier way. You know it will be like Christmas everyday shortly. New kits from Shepherd's Bush, New threads from Dinky Dyes, Caron, new colors from Crescent Colours, and Weeks. I appreciate your patience, as I try to spread the goodies out. makes the fun last longer, and the bills less painful. If there is anything you see, let me know I either have it coming in or will get it. You are my eyes and ears when it comes to some things. I just can't see it all.

Our Habitat project is going along wonderfully. They are so appreciative of all our work. Karen is working very hard to finish banners as we go so keep bringing them in. We have the first 5 for the building blast to them, and there will be 2 donated this Saturday. many more ready to go. Thank you to everyone how has done them and who continues. We want to keep going on this for a long while. We will have some pictures shortly, so you can see our project. I still have charts if you would like to pick one up and stitch. It basic DMC floss and 14 count fabric. So we are keeping it simple.

Well I must go hope to see you all soon, Just stop by and say hi. Stay cool. and stitch fast. Cathy

Hot Agenda! (posted: May 17, 2008)

Hi Everyone, Hot is the word, Where did the cool weather go. I guess the same place lower gas prices went. YIKES!!

Bunches of stuff going on and I will run through it.

Firstly, Thanks to Barb K. and Edith for pitching in last Saturday for the onslaught of girls from the Camp Stitch Away. All of a sudden we had 20 ladies power shopping. It was wonderful and we took pictures of the group. They had a stitching retreat at our Habitat community center, and stitched and chatting for 3 days. After they left here they swarmed the Bead Room. I really appreciate the help from the two that got overwhelmed. We will do it again in a heart beat.

Speaking of Habitat. Our latest challenge is Habitat for Humanity. They have done so many good things for the community, building and supporting in need families, We decided to help them too by stitching banners to be presented to the families when they move into their new home. Karen Richards, friend and former owner of Needlepoint Ivy and I brainstormed this idea, and we were just swept away. We found a lovely chart by Lizzie Kate which says Home is where our Story begins, Linda created this after Katrina ravaged the gulf coast, and it is appropriate for us here too. Lizzie Kate has donated 50 copies of the chart to our cause, Which is wonderful and I have purchased 14 ct rustico. Anyone who would like to donate floss and time can stitch one. Karen has graciously offered her time and sewing expertise to finish these as banners and I will help her with the sewing as well. Habitat rules require they all be the same so we are keeping with 14 count, floss and banners. This weekend is their building blast where they finished 5 houses in 5 days, we weren't quite prepared for that, but they are looking for 20 homes in 3 months. So anyone who would like to stitch 1 or 10 come on in and I'll give you a chart and fabric.. When they are presented to the homeowners, everyone can come and it will be wonderful. Anyone who would like to participate is welcome, Stitch group members, customers, family members who stitch. We feel this is such a worthy cause, and gives these special families something to remember where their story began. We are also sending pictures to LK and she will include us in her web site.

Don't forget that Weds. is stitch night 5-21. We are having pot luck, So many of you are following healthy diets that we need good healthy stuff, maybe we should start with walking around the building 10 times, I already have 2 baked chickens and a healthy salad coming. So plan according and let me know if you will be here. As always we won't be closing so if you come early, I may not be ready but you are welcome to come and shop or relax. Hope to see you all then,

We have new charts from Drawn Thread. and Victoria Sampler. We haven't had anything new from Drawn Thread for quite a while so they are exciting. and Thea has done T is for Teacher and a butterfly sampler. Cathy Jean has done a Sunflower Sampler with a cute little house. Another project to add to my stash. UGH!!

Things are still showing up from the Needlework show. I still haven't received everything, but I guess it will get here eventually. Our biggest success has been the Stitching Palor's My first Sewing Box using the Whitman Candy Tins. I have 2 yellow boxes left, the others are completely out of stock and hopefully will be in shortly. Please be patient,. It is so much fun to do. In fact We have some other bigger flatter tin that Susan has used for a wonderful sewing box,and that we hopefully will be teaching in the Fall. Keep you eyes open for a sample. Laura Perins newest Lily of the Valley should be in this week, and we got the final of Northern Pine designs Heart of Fire in too. Really dramatic pieces. You just have to come in and look at everything.

Also we will be open regular hours Memorial Day week-end Saturday 9-12, CLOSED Monday 5-26, and then open Tuesday regular hours 5-27. So come and get a new project so when you are off that Monday you can relax and stitch.

One more note. I have thought about this long and hard and have come to the decision that I will NO longer be offering discount to any guild members. With the cost of goods going up daily , shipping reaching an all-time high, credit card fees and everything over all increasing, I really want to keep my prices as they are and to do this right now I need to no longer extend that luxury. I am sorry, I have already heard from customers the only reason they shop here is because of the discount. That makes me very sad because I could like to think you are coming because you like it here and we offer great selection and service, not because we are giving a discount. If I lose customers because of it, again I'm sorry. I want to stay in business and I have to look at the best way to do that. I hope those of you who continue to shop here will understand.

Remember too I will ship anything to you. Gas too has gotten bad. (small understatement)

Ok I have really said too much. Hope to see you all soon, It's nice to know we can take a small project and sit in the cool and relax. Have a great week. ~Cathy

New Updates (posted: Apr. 27, 2008)

Hello everyone It is Saturday, My Husband is happy because it is the NFL draft, and he will watch some of it, I'm happy cause it's Saturday and the week-end is here (yes I get to spend tomorrow cleaning and washing and stitching) and it is a lovely day. Wouldn't it be wonderful if the whole summer was like this, nice breeze, comfortable temperatures. (HA!! We can dream)

I wanted to thank you all who participated in the Needlework online show. Stuff has been ordered and is on it's way, some has already come in (Love those designers who are sooo speedy) and I'll be getting it ready for those who ordered.

The thing I love about this show is we get to see designers who can't make the bigger shows, for whatever reason. Believe me the life of a designer is not always glorious. They work and struggle as much as we do. One of my closest friends is a designer, and is really working hard to make a name for themselves. I stayed with them in Nashville and was amazed at how hard they worked to make their goal. Who has the best gimmick, what special? what pieces do you put right up front to entice people. Don't think because they have name recognication it all gravy. Certainly a learning process.

Anyway with that, some new goodies are here and ready to go home with you.

The Stitching Parlor released a cute little design called my first stitching box using a Whitman tin as the box. We now have the chart and the Whitman tin (yes full of chocolates) They come in green, pink or yellow, and make the cutest little stitching box. I think I need all three. but I'm working on a yellow one right now.

Liberty Hill has released a scissor tray and mini thread holder, This is nothing to stitch but a great accessory for your stitching needs. They are done in a more primitive style as Liberty Hill does, but are really cute. Jeanette Douglas has released the stitching accessories to their fabulous Stitching Treasures box. Great little smalls to place in your box.

My Big Toe (love that name) Has a great scissor block to hold 4 pairs of scissors, or 1 pair, a laying tool and a pencil or marker. She has designed 2 charts so far to stitch a design to wrap around the wood block and has a monogram design in the works. I think this is a great idea to hold all those extras. I know my scissors seem to be under the couch cushions when I need them, so this would be a great parking spot. I love it when everything is all together.

All the new Bell Soie colours from Crescent Colours are in, You must try this new silk it is so soft and pliable. The colors are yummy too. We also have the Complete color line of Dinky Dyes on their way too. (I'm so weak when it comes to threads) and some beautiful new scissor fobs.

As always there is plenty more I forgot to mention so you just need to stop by and check things out.

Remember those of you who have traveled back up north, We will ship anything to you, don't want you to go into stitching withdrawal.

Hope to see you all really soon, Summer is fast approaching, and new projects are calling. Have a wonderful and relaxing week-end and keep those needles moving. See you soon, ~Cathy

P.S. No new updates on my new "little" man however he has 1 tooth trying to come in, My son is slipping on the pictures. Guess he is over busy too. Sutton likes to clap and says DaDa no MaMa yet, I'm sure that is very soon. We hope to see them soon too. ~Cathy

Happy St. Patricks Day (posted: Mar. 17, 2008)

Hello Everyone, Are you wearing green? I guess today we all get to be Irish!

Hope everyone is doing well, stitching away, and getting ready for Easter. Wow, it is really early this year.

I wanted to remind everyone that this Weds is stitch night. Hope you have marked your calendars. We will be doing pot luck stuff, so let me know what you are bringing and if you are coming. Those all important chairs need to be set up. Bring some show and tell too, I really want to see what everyone is working on. We have a few new things here, and maybe more by Weds. It is that trickle in time. Little bits each week. A new little storage tin from Homespun Elegance is just the cutest. All you need is fabric and a few threads. You stitch the needles and pins motif for the top. New Victoria Sampler charts, She is up to S and what else but Stitcher, She also released one of her classes Where Friends Stitch that has a needle book, fob and scissor case, really nice.

We have some new threads coming in. Dinky Dyes overdyed silks from Australia are here. We have started that line. so you get to see the first 25. Really nice to stitch with and reasonable at $4.50 a skein. Check out the colors and try a few. Our stock of Needle Necessities is dwindling so if you need a color, check with me, once it's gone it's gone. ThreadWorx is doing something similar, I want to see them in person before I bring them in so that probably won't be till the June show.

Things here otherwise are quiet. We are staying busy. Have made some new friends form other areas of the state which is always fun. Many of you have already been in to say so long for the season. Don't forget we will ship. Not only far away but close too. I know the cost of gas can be make a trip prohibitive, so give me a call or e-mail us and I'll drop it in the mail.

Also some items are on back order. I wish I had everything in stock all the time, but distributors and manufacturers don't make that possible. Some also have minimums that make you think about ordering. So please bear with me and I appreciate you patience. I've waited 3 months now for a particular fabric. It's been backordered from Zweigart that long. Then there is always the chance that our distributor will run out of their stock before they get to you. Ah the life of a shop owner.

Well got to run, Edith and I are going to Miami tomorrow to take an embroidery machine for repair. I get to be a trucker! Barb and Kaylor and her sister Carmen have been kind enough to help us out at the shop. So if you are in tomorrow I appreciate you patience. It should be fun. Edith is excited about the road trip. I'll let you know how it goes.

Well have to fly, Hope to see you all on Weds. Take care and keep stitching.
~Cathy

Good Things Happening This Season (posted: Jan. 28, 2008)

Hello my stitching friends,

Just a quick note to let you know what is going on here at the shop, and why you need to participate!!!

Jan 25 and 26th, We have a booth at the Disconnected Quilt Guild's show at the Lutheran Church of the Cross , 2300 Luther Road in Deep Creek. It is just off of Rampart Blvd which is off of Kings Hwy. These shows are always so inspiring. Come and see us and all the other goodies. The show is from 9-6 on Friday and 9-4 on Saturday. The shop will be open regular hours as well.

Then next week-end Feb 2 and 3 is our HUGE Super Bowl Sale. Yes 2 days of crazy shopping. Sat 9-3 and Sunday 9-2. Everything in the store (except DMC floss) will be at least 20% off, some will be greater, and our Famous Sidewalk sale will be going on outside with off the wall prices. This year we will have selected models on sale as well. bring LOTS of cash, because the next week-end I will be in Nashville for our cash and carry show. Yes I get to bring as much as I can back (heaven help the airplane) so Tuesday 2-12 you can come and see all the new stuff.

Then on 2-23 Susan Greening Davis will be here for her adorable pouch class. $35.00 does it all. Remember its a bagged lunch you bring. We will have snacks and drinks and lots of fun. There are still a few spaces available so sign up now. Then after all those week-ends I will be very tired.

You probably noticed that the week-end of the 16 is not planned. My son will be 30. (How did that happen???) and we hope to get to Jax to see them. Once again on the road. We were there last week-end, and had a wonderful time with our little buddy, Sutton, He is so amazing. I'm printing pictures out tonight, so I have new.

Speaking of grandchildren, Edith's granddaughter Pailey likes to stitch with Ama, in the mornings. At 2 and a half we think that is wonderful. So whatever Edith is stitching on will have little finger help. Start them early!!!

Any way mark your calendar for the next month and come see what's up with us here. Have a stitchingly wonderful rest of the week.
~Cathy

Susan's Class (posted: Jan. 5, 2008)

Hello Everyone, and Happy New Year,

I can't believe the first week of 2008 is done. I hope you all had a healthy and safe New Years, and started off right by stitching. Any New Year's Resolutions yet? As last year I'm going to continue to try to finish some old projects. I got a few done last year, so I moved in the right direction just not as many as I should. However, Gigi, Edith and I have made ourselves a challenge. We are taking one ridiculousy large project and each of us is going to start it and see how far we get by the end of the year. We thought it would be fun just to see what we can do with a sizeable project. Edith selected a vintage piece, the one o our friend Eleanor was finishing. We found the chart (1989) on e-bay and purchased copies so we can do this. Check with us to see how we do. Each of us have different commitments in our lives and stitching is at a precious premium, so I will keep you posted.

OK now on to business, Our Victoria Sampler trunk show will be leaving next week so if you want a glimpse one last time come in soon, I still have charts, because you will be inspired. We will then try to do some rearranging and updating. I just need a few days of quiet time to get it back together. I keep trying but there is never enough time.

We will be stitching this month on Wed Jan 16th. I realize it is a different day, and it may change again. Alot is happening in the strip center here and I want to make sure I have a good day for everything before I commit again. So stay posted on dates and times. Let me know if you are coming so I have enough chairs. It starts at 6 p.m.

Our BIGGEST event of the year is rapidly approaching and that is our Super Bowl week-end. That's right Saturday 2-2 and Sunday 2-3 we will have our giant sale. The stuff outside will be marked crazy and inside will be at least 20% off the whole store. Come in and stock up. Remember because of the nature of this sale, we will be accepting only cash or checks. This is the money I get to take with me to Nashivlle (the next week) to buy all the pretties for the Spring. The more money, the more stuff I bring back. so mark your calendars and come early. Sat and Sunday. We will start at 9 a.m. please give us enough time to set up outside, we will be here at 7 a.m. to start, so you can start shopping at 9. It is always a fun event.

Our end of the year party with Susan Greening Davis was the BESTEST time. We had a new place to hold it and it was Marvelous!!! As usual it was relaxing and informative. We also got to meet the newest member of her family, her little yorkie, Bailey. He was the cutest and good. I appreciate all the positive remarks about the class for all of you. Susan is super at what she does, and I'm so grateful she comes and teaches here. She will be back for a quick little class on Feb 23 (Sat) from 10-2. We are reserving the same spot for the class, so we can take 30. Sign up now $35.00 gets you in. (Gosh I sound like those weight loss commercials $9.99 gets you started) The class is a great little pouch to hold scissors, needles, small projects. This is her mail order piece, but gosh if you get her expertise along with it what a Bonus!!! We will be brown bagging it this time. but I will have drinks and a snack as well. Call or e-mail me to sign up. If I don't have money you are not on the list. The picture is on her web site www.susangreeningdavis.com or on ours shortly." Cute As a Button" is the title and it is. You all need at least one class in you life with Susan, make this the first of many.

We have lots in store for the year, this is just the beginning. I hope to see you all really soon, Please let me know if you want anything special from Nashville, and I will look and buy. Thanks for making 2007 a great year, Let's make 2008 even better. Happy Stitching

P.S. My Webmaster is supposed to have a picture of our tree on the web as well as the baby. Maybe this will jog his fingers and it will magically be there this time. Keep an eye open. ~Cathy

Susan's Class (posted: Dec. 26, 2007)

Hello Everyone, Hope Santa treated you all wonderfully, and you all had a peaceful holiday day. Our Christams Day was wonderful. Bruce's Dad was able to spend it with us, and he seemed to enjoy himself. I think we tired him out because he was happy to get back to the quiet of his home last night. We were thankful he was well enough to be with us.

As a Huge Reminder Susan Greening Davis' class is this Saturday. Yes, the day is upon us. If you haven't signed up, I have 2 spaces left. We have plenty of room, so sign up now. The piece is still here in the store so if you get in before hand you can check it out. Lots of fun, excitement and goodies for this end of the year party. We are holding it around the corner at the meeting room at Habitat for Humanity. Stop here first and I'll give you quick directions. very spacious, and great light. Bring you usual stitching supplies,. We will be having a raffle so bring some extra dollars. All the proceeds will go to Habitat for their kindness. Susan will be bringing her world famous trunk show so you can shop to you heart's content and the store will be open before and after for your shopping pleasure. We will start at 10 so come early. We will be open here at 9 as usual so you can come early. Can't wait to see you all. Have a great rest of the week, and for those I may not see, Happy New Year.

~Cathy

Stitching Party! (posted: Dec. 11, 2007)

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to let you know that THIS Wednesday Dec 12th is our Christmas party and stitch in. I could not find another date to do this, so this is it. We will have a pot luck and gift exchange. Nothing fancy, a Dollar Store item would be great, its the spirit of fun. Then we will stitch. Let me know if you are coming and what you are bringing to eat, so I can set up chairs. Remember we start at 6 p.m. Hopefully by that day the Victoria Samppler Trunk show will be up. I am so far behind, It is still in the box under the table. Every day for the last few days, I have every good intention but I just run out of time. So we are concentrating on getting it up by stitch nite.

I still have a FEW spaces left for Susan's end of the year class, The model is here in the store, and so lovely. It is Saturday Dec 29th from 10:30 - 4:00 Again if you haven't experienced Susan it is a wonderful treat, and the class is a real bonus. As always there will be her famous trunk show you can shop from and many goodies that come with the class. We will be having a raffle as well, so bring a couple extra dollars, The proceeds from the raffle will go to Habitat for Humanity. a good cause.They have been kind enough to let us use their conference room for the class.

A few new things are here, The designers are waiting for the January kick off show, then Ours in Nashville in early Feb so keep you eyes peeled. Hope to see everyone on Wedsneday. For the rest of you , Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Joyous Stitching.
~Cathy

Cooler Happenings (posted: Nov. 5, 2007)

Hello Everyone, Just wanted to say Hi and give you a few reminders of some things this month. It is so nice it has cooled down, actually for me I'm chilly, but it is refreshing.

If anyone still has ornaments for the tree, I need them ASAP. Our tree is up, and will be decorated this week. It must be wired and ready to be transportated to the Historical Society on November 19th. I'm still a little short on ornaments so please get any to me right away. The tree Sarah found for us is really lovely. It is a pre-lit skinny tree. It is up in the front room. Thanks Sarah for helping us get it. Also thanks to Charlotte Nelson for assembling many of the ornaments. Those of you who have stitched but not assembled, Charlotte, has done a wonderul job, she has a few now to finish. For those of you who have finished the stitching and need it put together, get them to me by the end of the week and Charlotte assured me they will be done to put on the tree, before it goes down. The Historical Society's Symphony of Trees will be November 26th to the 1st of Dec. you can go and see all the lovely trees, and pick your favorite. If we are selected as people's choice we receive a bonus for our charity. For those of you who don't know who that is, it is the Women's Crisis Center in Punta Gorda.

Also remember we needed to change stitch nite to Wednesday November 14th, at the usual time. Too many goings on this month.

The goodies I ordered from the on-line show are coming in. Those of you who ordered things be patient, I'm putting them all together before I call you. Some are here, but more are on their way.

Our end of the year party with Susan is filling fast. Mark you calendars, for Dec 29th that's the Saturday. from 10-4 right here. It is a beautiful combination pin holder scissor attachment with lovely stitches. It will be here after next week-end,. If you can't wait to see it, Go on www.susangreeningdavis.com and check her teaching schedule. It is pictured there. The cost of the class is $75. that includes all the goodies and Susan's wonderful expertise. If you haven't taken a class with her, it is a special treat. We have such a wonderful time, What a great way to end the year. Let me know if you want to sign up. A small deposit will save your space.

For those of you who I might not see, Have a wonderful Thanksgiving. My son and his wife and the little man are coming for Thanksgiving so we are really looking for to that. Hope to see you all soon, Enjoy the cool and stitch bunches, ~Cathy

Stitching and More (posted: Oct. 17, 2007)

Greeting my fellow stitchers.

Just a short(?) note to say hi and to give you some info on a few things happening around the shop.

Tomorrow is the 3rd Thursday and that means stitch nite!! Let me know if you are going to make it, We will be doing a pot luck and of course have time to stitch and visit. As a reminder, in November we will be meeting on WEDS. November 14th. (second weds) and in dec will will be meeting on the 19th 3rd weds. for our Christmas get together. I can't believe it is almost the end of the year. So let me know about tomorrow so I have enough chairs.

We have been collecting lots of Christmas Ornaments for the Symphony of Trees. I still need to get a tree. The ones I have found so far are a little beyond my budget , so we are still searching. I have a few other options, and Sarah has been searching Venice as well. I should have one shortly, and it will go up and be decorated. Keep working on your ornaments., The ones we have received so far are lovely. This is going to be a very special tree.

Also Saturday is our Tassel class. If you have signed up be here a little before noon, the class should run til about 4.p.m. We will break for a short snack. Just bring your scissors and humor. Martha does such a great job on these things. No wonder she is the queen of tassels. The cost is $25. and you can pay on Sat. That includes your materials and Martha's expertise. Of course you are going to want to buy lots more perle and beads to make more. We do have kits put together so you can select one to make. So many pretty colors, so little time. I will see you then.

Starting today there is a needlework show on line. Kind of like shopping in your PJ's. the web site if you would like to visit is www.needleworkshow.com/index.html This will get you into the show to visit the vendors. The show lasts until Monday at noon. You can make a wish list and e-mail it to me and I can order whatever you want or like. Its like going to the show with me and seeing all the new goodies. Once you have made up your mind I can do the ordering. all you have to do is let me know. Only thing is if you get your list to me after noon on Monday, I may not get the stuff in a timely manner. This is a unique way of shopping for us, and you get to see the new stuff when I do.

There are only a few new things in so far for the fall. I have almost completed Homespun Elegance's new kit from Hoffman using Crescent Colours. It has everything in the kit, and works up fairly easily. The new fall goodies from Shepherds Bush are here. Pumpkin Hill, Happy Haunting, a fall scissor fob. and the mats for the new kits. I'm still working on Happy Haunting, It is upstairs in the chart room. You can get an idea as to what is looks like from what I have done.

Be thinking of your wish list for the holidays, We are putting together an evening of shopping for family and friends. All I need to know is what you want and we will be here to assist them, and wrap for them too. It will probably be in early Dec. so be thinking of what you want on that list. That special pair of Dovo scissors, or a floor stand or a magnifier light, or a wonderful kit. More on that later.

Well I'm done, Hope to see you all soon, Keep stitching, Oh we got to see our new little man this week-end and he is "talking" now, told me all kinds of stories. It was a very special day.I have new pictures. Take care and see you soon too, ~Cathy

It's Here! (posted: Sept. 12, 2007)

Hi All, The new JCS Ornament Issue is FINALLY here. If you ordered one from me, I'm putting it aside, if not let me know. I have about 50 copies, and last year they left pretty quickly. So many lovely designs. OK when can we start them???

Speaking of Christmas, we got our form for the Symphony of Trees, I'm looking for a 6 Ft tree this year, and one that is pre-lit. I already have some ornaments for the tree. and Charlotte N. has kindly offered to finish some of them for us. I really appreciate her kindness, cause that's one less thing I have to do and I'm struggling with finishing models right now. I still have some designs left so if you want to add to the tree pick one up. I hopefully will have the tree here and up by October 1st. If anyone has any suggestions as to where we should donate the money this year, let me know, otherwise I think CARE will get it again. Maybe we can double our money this year.

The new Homespun Elegance designs are here. They did a lovely kit for the winter holidays. Everything in it for $28.00 plus their 3 ornaments that they do evey year. Their Cinammon Stick is a santa head profile.Really nice in her usual primitive style.

Next Thursday is Stitch nite. We will be bad and I'm ordering pizza. Oh well, I'll have some salad too, at least make us think we are being good. Thats 9-20, Let me know if you are coming so I have chairs.

We still have a few Hog Rvier Frames left at 25% off. Grab them while they are still available. Cause when they are gone, that's it.

Oh friends Sisters and Best Friends have gone out on thier own, and Koneta has come out with 3 great new designs. She is continuing her inspiration series, with the Poinsetts Sampler done similar to the pansy sampler: Strength that is on the scolls right at the front door of the shop. plus a new stocking sampler. She has had frames made for these pieces that are done from an old covered bridge plank. I have them coming in too. Her 3rd piece is a replica of a covered bridge plus the frame to match. They should be here in the next couple of weeks. So be on the look out.

Raise the Roof has a new wash line called Hang ten. Perfect for those of us that live by the beach. That is here now as well.

Martha's Tassel class is full for 10-20 but we will be adding another class either in November or after the first of the year. Hopefully the tassels will be on the web site this week-end. I'm just behind with my pictures.

Our grandson is growing by leaps and bounds. He "talks" to me when I call .Trace says he knows my voice. I know... who is that strange lady?? He is sleeping through most of the night and is a happy baby. He loves his nightly walks around their neighborhood. I;m hoping to have a few pictures on the web site of him as well.

Well got to fly. Keep stitching and hope to see you all really soon, Cathy

More Summer Info! (posted: Aug. 25, 2007)

Greetings my fellow stitchers. Martha, Anita and I just returned Sunday evening from a Grand Class in Savannah with Susan Green Davis. We drove up on Friday and Back on Sunday afternoon. Long journey but worth every mile. Martha expressed it best when she said a friend couln't believe we travel 6-8 hours to put a needle in a piece of fabric. If you have never expierenced the joy of stitching and the calming effect it has it is hard to explain. We had such a wonderful time meeting old and new friends, sharing stitching time and a breathtaking project, and just being around stitchers. I always said I was most comfortable around other stitchers, that is why I loved the trade shows. Jay, Sharon, Kim, Karen, Michelle, Gail, Kay, , we would all come together and was as if we never left, that common bond of needle and thread brought us back. Probably a little weird, but true. Anyway Susan's project is now high up on my pile and I hope to have it done before the end of the year. Thank you Susan and Sally for such a wonderful time we will see you soon.

Speaking of Susan, mark you calendars now, because on Saturday December 29th, she will be here for our 3rd annual end of the year party. It is a delightful project beautiful stitches and colors, and of course some great finishing tricks to make us all happy. We will have pictures soon, so mark your calendars. We will be starting at about 10:30a.m. and go til about 4p.m. with a few snacks thrown in. Space is limited so call now.

We are also going to have a tassel class on Saturday October 20 from 12 to around 4p.m. So many people have admired the tassels we have done and our own Martha will be guiding you in the fine art of tassel making. I have 2 hanging here at the shop and I'll have them on the web site shortly so you can see. They are embellished with beads at the top. You will want to make bunches for every scissor ,bag or whatever you have. We will have kits for thread together, and hopefully coordinating beads. The cost of the class will be somewhere around $20.-$25. for kit and class. Let me know if you are interested. Oh we might be serving tea.

Lizzie Kate's new limited edition Christmas piece is now available and it is so cute, HoHoHO is the name. It is all kitted and a steal at $28. Edith and I are fighting over who stitches it first. She will probably win, on that one.

Some of you may know that Hog River frames has retired, and we have some of their frames still here at the shop. I am marking them down 25% so take advantage of this sale. They are primitive but very cute and could work for many pieces.

We have added to our line of Gloriana threads, I now have most of their silk threads and ribbons. So many beautiful colors to choose, we also have the complete line of Crescent colors floss. Edith and I are still rearranging a very slow process, but we are getting there. I appreciate everyones patience in our mess.

As I have said before We will get it done and then start again, It seems to be a work in progress.

Lastly, as many of you know our lease here is up Sept. 30th. Bruce and I have been searching for a new place on one floor that is still centrally located and reasonably priced. Unfortunately no one in our town wants to negoiate price. I guess they want their buildings to stay vacant. and if it isn't base rent its the triple-net fees that I don't quite understand but that can make your rent $4-$8 more per square foot. So we will be here in this location a little while longer. For those of you who cannot make the stairs, you know we will be happy to bring anything down for you to look at. I'm at least happy we can still be here to continue our stitching quest.

Well I've rambled on enough. Come in and say hi, look around, sit awhile and visit At least it is cool inside.

Have a wonderful week-end and we will see you soon. ~Cathy

Hot August Happenings! (posted: Aug. 11, 2007)

Hello Everyone,

It seems like forever that I have written, It has been quiet here, just too HOT to do much of anything and vacations and other obligations have taken up time.

I just wanted to give you a little heads up on what is new here .

First off, we had a wonderful surprise visit from our new grandbaby this past week-end with of course his momma and daddy, so we got to visit and love up this sweet little baby. I'll make sure we get a picture on the web site so you can see the happy little family, He has a full head of hair already. He is a good little baby. We also had a chance to take a picture of 4 generations with Bruces dad. That was very special.

OK. The Victoria Sampler newest stuff is finally here, The new Harbor Village is so lovely, as well as the bell pull finishing chart. I have priced them all separately since the thread pack is pricey and I wanted you to have an option. New charts from My Big Toe are here as well as the goodies from Historic Stitches. She has a new chart with the painted thread boards to put down on you fabric for 3" 2" and 2.5" and the carrier for you to make. very primitive looking but beautiful.

Edith and I are working on rearranging the rooms upstairs, We have pretty much finished the front room. Its getting together. In that room are finished frames I have placed around the floor. Take a look when you come in, The Hog River frames are 25% off. She has retired from our industry, so the frames are no longer available. I am moving them out to make room for other goodies. So take advantage of the discount.

The Laura J. Perin charts are hanging now and grouped as to the collection. We will see how long that stays. Her newest Hydragea sampler and Victorian Ribbons are here.

Don't forget next Thursday is Stitch Nite. We will do a pot luck again. Hope to see everyone. Then on Friday bright and early a few of us are travelling to Savannah to take Susan Greening Davis' latest design. We had such a wonderful time last year, with exception to the bad storms so we are going back again. She is teaching some of her Italy techniques. I can't wait. I haven't seen her since April so I can't wait to hear all about her escapades in Italy with Sally and friends. Just as long as we don't have any bad storms on our way, I'll be happy. We will be open here at the shop then.

Well I can't think of anything else right now. Stay cool and stop in to say hi and see what is new. Have a great rest to the month.

~Cathy

June Updates! (posted: June. 19, 2007)

Wow Is it June already, Where has the time gone. Too many things not enough time. I wanted to give you a few up dates in the World of Golden Needle.

First We are on baby watch. Any time now we will have a grandbaby. We can't wait and I know Jessica wants in done too. We were hoping for this week-end. What a Father's Day gift that would have been for Trace and Bruce, but the doctor says not yet, or the baby says he's too comfortable. I will keep you posted, The baby sampler is ALL done except the name (no jinx) and Linda is ready with the frame, I can't believe I'm that prepared, must be a fluke.

OK, now business. This Thursday is Stitching, seems like forever I've said that. We will do alittle pot luck. So many of you are being so good with diets and watching fats etc, that I just can't justify pizza, so let me know if you are coming and what you'll bring. I can't wait to see everyone. Remember we start at 6 p./m. but I don't leave so we will be open.

Well I did not make Columbus this year. Our summer show was just too many miles away and not possible, the month of April just did me in, but that doesn't mean we don't have some fabulous goodies coming in for your stitching pleasure. This was an order show so it will be like Christmas for the next 4 months. New goodies from Shepherds Bush, Lots of patriotic stuff now, and Fall lovelies in late August. New fairies from Mirabilia, Her limited edition Thanksgiving one. New limited edition Prairie Schooler kit. an adorable collabration from Crescent Colours and praiseworthy stitches, beautiful new charts from Rosewood Manor. wonderful scissors from Dovo. Sisters new strengh, Ole and posey pig. New colours from Gentle Art, limited edition colors, and Americiana 2 and 3. Wonderful new wooden thread winders and thread boards from Historic Stitches and Liberty Hill. and some new models.Whew, more too I just ran out.

Oh the 2007 Christmas Ornament edition is coming out in late August, and I am taking pre-orders. The cover should be on the web site now. if not this week. It looks great this year, I can't wait.

We are planning to do another Symphny of Trees this year. We have decided on a theme, and I have charts for anyone who might be interested. You can pick up a copy on Thursday or whenever. Remember we donated $200. to CARE last year, maybe this year we can double it. So think about stitching and start now.

All the painted canvas is now gone to canvas heaven throughout the country, and I am trying to figure out what to do with the empty spaces upstairs. Edith and I are racking our brians. Please excuse our dust, but we will be great when we are done. It will probably take many months to complete, then I'll start over again.

I am also trying to come up with some classes for the Fall, and winter season. Sylvia and I are talking Hardanger. I know there will probably be a Hardanger group stitching one day. Susan Greening Davis will definitely be back. She is already scheduled herself for our end of the year party on Saturday Dec 29. Start thinking about signing up now, we have sold out completely the last 2 years, so don't delay, plus we have been talking about a 1 a month or so special SGD class.

My son the web master is working hard on getting us up as an expanded ordering looking web site, shopping carts and all, between full time work and baby on the way, I must be patient. I'll give you progress on that too.

Well I must fly. I have about 15 projects in various states of completion Edith just shakes her head. She doesn't quite grasp the obession mode of stitching, she is still cautious. soon she will slip and be that bad!!

Mary Ann sends her best, she is in MI and enjoying being closer to her kids and Grandbaby.

See you all soon, Happy Hot Stitching, Cathy

Happy Mothers Day! (posted: May. 10, 2007)

Hello Everyone, It seems like forever that I have written something. I guess too much has gone on in my life in April. Soon I'll be back on track and in the swing of things.

Just a reminder that next Thrusday May 17th is Stitch nite Wow It seems like for ever that we have stitched together. We will have a little pot luck and enjoy the evening. Starting this month however, we will only be stitching on the 3rd Thrusday, until November. I guess I need a break in evenings here so mark your calendars for only the 3rd Thursday.

Hopefully ,next week Mary Ann will join us too, she has become a snow bird and will be leaving us June 1st or so and will not come back til January. She has been filling in occasionally and I really appreciate it, so another friend will fly the coop for a while. Just let me know you are coming and what you are bringing.

Another thing I am changing at the shop is All the Painted canvas will be GONE as of May 31st. I have tried eveything to sell them, and people just know me as a cross stitch/ counted canvas shop and not needlepoint. They are all 30% off so if you want it buy now. Believe me they are on their way on the 31st. I am making room for other cross stitch goodies. Rest assured I am not getting rid of anything else. We will still have the counted charts and the blank canvas and all the wonderful threads. just no more painted stuff, I'm going back to my roots!

We do have a few new charts in. Some great stuff from Rosewood manor, La D-Da has a new one, New magnets from Kelmscott ( a beautiful dragonfly one) We have the new Antique Quartely Sampler magazine and Home Companion. Gentle Art has released a new simply Wool similar to the weight of Medici but in their wonderful overdyed colors and that is on it's way, plus who knows what else. Oh new Americana scissors from Gingher and more new scissors from Dovo(the true cadillac of scissors)

Also, as I started my subject as Happy Mothers Day, I quess this one will be especially hard for me, 2 weeks ago today my Mom passed away. We were in Maryland for 5 days for the services, and I guess it still hasn't sunk in. Some of you knew she was gravely ill, I did get up to see her before and she did remember me. and now she is in peace. During that time I know I wasn't focusing on work as well as I should have even though I was here, so I know I forgot things you might have requested, I apologize for my shortcomings and am trying to get everything ordered and in soon. I'm thankful for so many kind friends and great help here. If I did forget your order, I'm sorry this time I had a good excuse.

I think Sunday will be a sad day.

Now only good thoughts! Hope to see you all soon, Summer stitching can be fun, come in and find a great new project and get started. I'm struggling with the baby sampler, my mom got to see ultrasound pictures of her first great=grandchild before she passed. Modern technology to the rescue. The sampler will be done by the time the baby is here, plus all the other millions and jillions of UFOs I have in my pile.

Take care to all -Happy Mother's Day and Happy Stitching, ~Cathy

New Reminder (posted: Mar. 21, 2007)

Hello everyone, Our friend and master framer Linda of Creative Framing asked me to send this out to you, She will be teaching a shell class on Friday March 23 from 1-4p.m. at the Venice Gardens Community Center in S. Venice Those of you who have joined her before know what beautiful items you make in just 3 hours. All supplies will be furnished. the projects are 18" shell grapevine wreath, Pearled Christmas Ornament, and Abalone nightlight.

Also, a large sale of assorted shells will be held at the same time. If you need more information or would like to sign up call Linda at Creative Framing 941-493-2276. Hope those of you who can make it will. What a great opportunity to have on Friday.

Lastly, Susan Greening Davis' class on April 5th is full. For those of you who signed up Thanks, I'll see you then. I'm so excited we have a maxed out class.

See you all soon, Call Linda at the number above for her class. ~Cathy

Stitching Thursday (posted: Mar. 14, 2007)

Hello my stitching friends!

Just a few reminders for you to add to your list of many useful things.

We had a GREAT show in Sarasota at the quilt show. So many beautiful quilts, wonderful people and freinds I haven't seen for a while. We sold lots and lots and now I have to put the rest of it away.

Don't forget the Thursday is stitch nite. We will be doing assorted foods so just let me know if you are coming. I have heard from a few of you so you are already on the list. I feel I haven't seen you all in forever so I can't wait.

The Victoria Sampler Trunk Show is here and up. Even though is is mostly her older works they are still so beautiful. I want to do so many of them, Where will I find the time. They are on the front wall and soon of the front table, (overflow) so come in an take a peek. If I don't have the chart I can get them here quickl. Her newest pieces N is for Nurse will be here by the end of the week.

OK, I have 2 spaces left for Susan's class on April 5 (that's a Thursday evening 6-8:30 p.m.) The piece is here in the store so you can take a look. Those of you who signed up can see it on Thursday or whenever you get in. It is so beautiful I can't wait to stitch it. I have already finished the etui she did on Feb so I'm ready for a new piece. ( not that I don't have tons more of hers to do.)

Well not much else, I must go to pay some bills. Take care and hope to see you all soon!
Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

One Last Class with Susan (posted: Feb. 26, 2007)

Hello Everyone, I just wanted you to knwo that I spoke to Susan Greening Davis this week-end and she has found a date to come back to us before she heads back to Michigan. So put it on you calendar and send me money. Thursday April 5th at 6p.m til 8:30 p.m. Susan will have a very special farewell class for us. It will not be posted on the internet, you have to come by to see it and it will be here by this week-end. This is an "in house" project no mail orders or peeks. It will be a real fun party to say farewell to our pal Susan til next fall. This project has special buttons, mother of pearl doo-dahs cool ribbon and the slickest finishing technique. The calss is $55. Call and reserve your space and pay for the class. If I don't have money you are not signed up. You know what Susan designs are so sign up on blind faith. We will have a great time. Even a few surprises from the shop. We are limited so call today. Susan helped me at the quilt show this week-end and we already have 4 signed up.

That's it for now. See you all soon, We will be stitching twice in March, so we will have a great time.
Stitchingly yours, ~Cathy

Home and More (posted: Feb. 15, 2007)

Hello Everyone, Just a quick (I hope) note to let you know we are home and frantically pricing stuff from market. It should all be out by tomorrow. We had such a great time but it was COLD. I was thankful that I was not flying north, they were all going into snow and other nasty stuff.

I brought so much stuff back I had to ship some and a friend in Venice who was there with her daughter was kind enough to bring back 3 boxes for me. WHEW!!!

So many things to tell and so little time, Great stuff from Nancy's Needle, Stitchers Hands, Lizzie Kate, JBW Designs, Brightneedle, Sweetheart Tree, Picture this Plus Fabrics, Raise the Roof, Sisters, Lakeside linens, the Cats Whiskers, Sampler Threads, New threads from Valdini, New magnets and cute little scissors, and much much more. We will be packed to the gills by the time this is all done, so come a visit. Judy Whitman's trunk show will be up for viewing by Friday too. It was all so overwhelming, I was glad we had a room in the hotel so we could take breaks and sort through.

Don't forget tonight is Stitch Nite, see you all. We will probably have pizza and Eleanor is bringing some fancy cake for all of us to try.

Susan's retreat starts tomorrow. If you haven't signed up I still have a couple of spaces left, Everyone is welcome. We begin at 6 p.m. but come early to pick fabrics, threads and ribbons. those of you who need directions to the house for the Saturday class let me know,I'm making copies so you will know where to go. It will be a little chilly but we will have a warm time.

As a side; Bruce and I are going to be Grandparents. My son and his wfe are having a baby in mid June. A little boy. We are so excited. I have been frantically looking a birth samplers, and think I have found the perfect one. So exciting times ahead for everyone.

Well I need to start clearing tables for the new stuff. See you all soon,
Happy warm stitching, ~Cathy

Reminder (posted: Feb. 1, 2007)

Hello Everyone! Are you as chilly as I am? My hands are numb. Oh well. We will complain about the heat before too long.

This is a BIG reminder that this week-end Feb 3 and 4 is our Super Bowl Event. 2 Days from 9-2 on both Saturday and Sunday. That is a change from years past. Every thing in the store except DMC floss and our floor lamps will be at least 20% off many with deeper discounts. It will be different both days, ans we will have the fabulous side walk sale as well. If it rains it will be a very crowded thread room. Come early and stay all day.

This will be a CASH or CHECK event NO credit cards. ( will take a debit card but not a credit card) again because of the nature of the sale, I need to do this. It is only the things in the store and not anything I order for you. It will also include some of the shop models that have lost their excitment and need a good home.

So see everyone on Saturday at 9 a.m. or Sunday at 9a.m. Remember this is the money to take me to Nashville to buy more stuff. (what a vicous cycle) SEE YA!!!
~Cathy

Stitch Night (posted: Jan. 16, 2007)

Just a one liner: Stitch Nite is Thursday, starting at 6p.m. Little pot luck, lots of fun. Let me know if you will be coming. Bring your list for Nashville market. I'm taking orders, See you in a couple of days, ~Cathy

New Winter Happenings (posted: Jan. 10, 2007)

Happy 2007. I'm only a week last in wishing this, but its the story of my life. What a start. busy and hopefully cooler. We have many things I want to remind you of so make notes and mark them in red.

Have any New Year resolutions??? I do. I'm going to finish more then I start. One week in and I'm doing good. Tonight I'll finish my 2nd piece that has been around for months. So far so good. Then 10 of Susan's pieces and back to models. Don't remind me that Nashville is just around the corner and it's cash and carry and the new goodies are already calling me. I'm trying to be tough. But you know as collectors we can become weak! So I will press on and hope for the best.

Speaking of Nashville and events Don't forget Our Super Bowl Week-end Sale. Did you get that? This year it will be 2 days. Saturday and Sunday Feb 3 & 4th. from 9-2 both days. and there will be different things on sale each day. This is our biggest and best event of the season and I have so much to share I'm doing it 2 days. Come early and stay late. Besides all the goodies on sale in the store, models will be up for sale, goodies that have been hidden deep and our world famous sidewalk sale of outstanding offerings. Also as a reminder this is a CASH only sale. I will accept checks and debit cards but no credit cards. This is my money to take to Nashville to buy, buy buy all the new spring and summer stuff. There are so many vendors this time the Embassy Suites are overloaded. I can't wait. So mark your calendars for these dates and come 2 days.

Then on the 16 and 17th of February Susan Greening Davis is having a retreat here. River Time Stitching. The designs she has created will be on the web this week-end hopefully. Friday Nite we will be here at the shop for her strawberry pin cushion. This is done on 20 or 10 ct and beautifully put together. We will have an exclusive Nashivlle nite that evening as well. so you ladies will be the very first to see all the goodies. The cost of this strawberry class will be $45. We will begin at 5:30 with greetings and selecting of your fabrics and threads.

Then on Saturday 2-17 We will be stitching at my home a lovely etui designed just for all your notions and needles. We begin there at 9:00am. and will go to 4:00 or so. It will be a relaxing venue hopefully warm enough to stitch on the lanai and enjoy the Myakka River. We are very limited on space so sign up now for this one. The whole week-end will be $200. Friday and Saturday. If you want one or the other. $45. for Friday and $165> for Saturday. It should be wonderful. I can't wait. Then Feb 23 and 24th. We have a booth at the Peace River's Quilt event at the Harold Ave Rec Center in Port Charlotte. Susan will be joining me for the day there. and we hope to see everyone being inspired. If you need more information on this give me a call.

Finally, you all must come in and see Sarah's Wall. Our friend of many years Sarah D. has always been kind enough to share her pieces with us. We have watched her tastes go from cross stitch to canvas with some beading thrown in. She has some Beautiful things on display now and they are on the front wall behind the counter. One of my favorites is her Noel beaded piece. but the silk guaze pieces are a close second. We have the charts available. Come in and take a look. Sarah has done some great stuff and is a good friend, and we wanted to share them with you.

Well enough rambling. Time to go count more threads. Hope to see you all soon, Keep those resolutions in mind Keep me honest and remind me of mine. and I'll see you all really soon,

Happpy 2007!!! ~Cathy

Susan's Coming! (posted: Dec. 27, 2006)

Greetings Everyone, on this chilly morning,

Hope Everyone had a wonderful Christmas and are itching to get back to stitching.

I want to remind you all the Susan will be here on Sunday Dec 31st to close out the New Year with a wonderful project, the lovely needles and pins boxette. We will be starting at 11:00a.m. and will be done around 3:30p.m-4:00 with a lunch break. A totally delightful way to end the year with one of our best friends - Susan Greening Davis. The class is $65.00 and includes the DVD so you can work with her when you are home. Such a deal! Sign up now you last minute procrastinators, and you won't be sorry.

Also our Lizzie Kate trunk show is up on the front wall, and is so cute. We have all her charts here so come take a look and be motivated.

Happy New Year to every one I hope it is Happy and Healthy and a great stitching year to all.
See you soon, ~Cathy

Merry Merry! (posted: Dec. 20, 2006)

Greeting's my stitching friends,

As far behind as I am on writing, I may catch up with myself going. So I'll get this little note out quick.

I wanted you to know that once the dust settled, we made $200. on our tree. The crisis center was thrilled to have our holiday cheer, and I was so excited we did so well. We didn't win peoples choice, but we won becuase we were bid on! A lady from Punta Gorda was the lucky one to take the tree home, so hopefully its happy and safe. Thanks to all of you who made ornaments and helped out and went to see the display. There were so many beautiful trees , wreaths and centerpieces. so many talented people out there including us. Thanks again for all you efforts. I really appreciate it.

Don't forget that Thursday is stitch nite. That's 12-21 and we will be partying. Bring a small gift we can exchange and something to share food wise. Maybe we will get a chance to stitch, if not we will have fun. Let me know if you are coming so I have the chairs ready, and hope to see you all on Thursday.

The reissue of Darlene O'Steens The Proper Stitch is here now. If you didn't get to see it the first time you need to see it now. It is a definite for you stitching library. I have 6 copies left. If you want me to put one aside for you let me know.

We have a few new things in from Homespun Elegance that are her usual great goodies.

I have completely sold out of the Christmas Sampler from Victoria Sampler, and do have more coming in but they will not be til the first of the year, If you would like for me to reserve one for you, please let me know. It is so beautiful. Bigger then her usual pieces, and fun to stitch (so I'm told).

I can't believe another year is about to close. I truly hope you all have a wonderful and safe holiday, and look forward to an even better 2007. Thank you for all your support and friendship. It's you all why I do this. Take care and if I don't see you in the next weeks. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Symphony of Trees and more (posted: Nov. 29, 2006)

Greetings all,

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving. My daughter and her husband and their new puppy came to visit for the week-end. It is nice to see them and we had a great time. Never enough time to spend with your kids. They won't be down for Christmas, this year is Mikes parents turn, but my son and his wife will be coming, so that will be good. Hope you all had some time to stitch during the holiday, I didin't get to until last night. Oh well, a little is better then none.

Edith, GiGi, and myself plus our husbands went to the Symphony of Trees Gala this past week-end, it it was so impressive. So many beautiful trees, wreaths and centerpieces. We didn't receive any awards, but have been bid on, and I was really excited about that. Our tree number is 19, so bid for us. There were so many beautiful trees there, each with a different theme. so lovely to look at. The historical society was really interesting too. So many things to read about our county and how we have grown. Ediths husband Jeff, has been here for 40 years and remembers many of the old places they had displayed. It was interesting to listen to him as well. Anyway the Tree viewing is open this week until Sunday, So go and see and vote for us. Call the historical Society for exact times 941-629-7278.

We WILL NOT be having stitch nite on Thursday 11-30. I have a commitment with Bruce and I can't be 2 places at once. I'm sorry but too much going on. We will meet again on 12-21 for a little party. Everyone can bring a small gift to exchange , it doesn't have to be stitch related, but it would be nice. Then we will eat and drink and be stitchy!! So mark off this Thursday and I'll see you all in Dec.

I didn't realize that as part of Susan Greening Davis class on 12-31 you get her newest DVD which is the class she is teaching. So you can go home and watch it as you stitch along with her all over again. Such a deal for the price. Don't forget to sign up. A great way to end the year, or start the new one, a new project and wonderful friends. What more could you ask for.

Well I must be on my way. Again sorry for no stitching on Thursday. but hope to see you soon, Enjoy the lovely weather, and keep those needles flying.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

New Goodies and Stitch Nite (posted: Nov. 17, 2006)

Hello my stitching friends,

I just returned from a glorious week-end stitching with Susan Greening Davis in Treasure Island. The project was fantastic, the weather beautiful (got to WALK the beach with friends), and Susan and Sally were at their best. Unfortunatley we must come back to the real world and work.

I wanted to remind you all of some happenings here at the shop. Don't forget this Thursday is stitch nite, and we will be doing some pot luck, Let me know what you might be bringing and if you are coming, We have overflowed the store, and I am trying to see if there is a bigger place to go or what to do. Problem with that is I then have a rental fee, and we are away from the store for shopping but we will do what we can.

Also our Symphony of Trees is turning out nicely, Thanks to all who have donated so far, and to those who still have ornaments to bring, please bring them in this week. The tree goes to the Historical society on Monday Nov 20th and the viewing begins on 11-24 (I think) You can go and see the trees and vote on your favorite, and bid on them as well. Remember all our money will go the the Women's crisis center in Punta Gorda, The director of the center was so excited we had chosen them, So I hope we generate lots of interest and money for them. If we win Peoples Choice we receive an extra $100. for our cause. So I need all ornaments here by Friday 11-17, so I have time to wire them to the tree and make sure they are in the right spot. Don't Forget. Pictures of the final tree will be on the web site next week.

We now have the Hands to Work Trunk Show . It is hanging upstairs on the hall wall. She has so many beautiful projects. I now want to add even more to my ever expanding pile. Come on in and take a peek. I have all here charts available, most of the fabrics and can order many of the frames. It will be here til the 1st week of December.

We have some new models hanging and because of our wonderful framer Linda at Creative Framing in Venice I have made the designers proud. I took pictures of these new pieces that Linda framed and sent them to the designers, and they are going to be using them on thier web sites. How cool is that. I can't wait to see our stuff on the designers web.

We have some new goodies coming in from Old Colonial designs great little projects for the holidays

They should be here shortly, and will be quick to stitch.

We currently have 3 spaces left for our end of the year party. Sign up now, Susan may have a couple of kits available for those of you how can't make it. (Those nasty bowl games make a hard choice) Let me know if you plan to be here. I was to get the piece this past week-end but both Susan and I forgot. We had such a wonderful time last year, and were done in plenty of time to avoid crazy drivers. Last year too was our last time we saw Merrill Golden, so it was even more special to us. Gone too soon, but always remembered, her spirit will be stitching with us on Dec 31st. I just know. The piece is still on our web site, so you can look at it again, Just give me a call to sign up.

Well I have to run, stuff is calling to be done, Take Care to all and hope to see you all this week or the next. Keep stitching and enjoy the cooler weather.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Cool Fall Stuff (posted: Oct. 2, 2006)

Hello my Stitching Friends, I think it is getting cooler out there, at least the nights seem cooler. Maybe the weather we all have been looking for is on its way.

Things here have been moving along. There is a pretty Fall table in the front room, with some great stuff to tempt you stitching needs. and some really fun winter stuff in the thread room to motivate your stitching fingers, I tell you there is just not enough time to get it all done. Just 1 less work hour would help my stitching fingers, that's for sure.

Our Christmas tree for the Symphony of Trees will be up before stitch nite this month. Too many other life things that got in the way, so I'm behind in getting it up. Start bringing in your ornaments. and Thanks to those of you who have donated lights and other trinkets to make it really pretty. Remember everyone is invited to add an ornament to the tree. It should be wonderfully special. It will be an international tree since our friend Carol R. for England has done an elegant ornament and will be placing it on the tree when she visits later this month. I can't wait!! I will be taking pictures and putting them on the web site before we take it to the event in November. I'll keep you all posted of dates and times, so you can go see it, as well as all the other beautiful trees that were done.

Our Lee's Trunk Show is here now and will be through Nov 1st. They have so many beautiful painted canvases, and leather goods. The show is upstairs in the fabric room. Be prepared to spend some time going through all the canvases, as well as the leather goods. The new colors and styles are to die for. I know you will want it all.

Just as a reminder Stitch Nite is October 19th. We are getting bigger and bigger , so please let me know if you are coming. I may have to rent some chairs or a place for us to stitch, if this keeps up. Let me know if you are coming. I already have a list.

If you haven't received you Ornament issue, I still have a few left. It is a delightful issue this year. It has so many really nice ornaments. I want to do a bunch of them. We will see how fast my fingers will fly. I will save one for you if you haven't gotten one yet. Just let me know.

We still have a few spaces left for Susan's Class on 12-31. I know it's hard to decide if that will be a good day to take a class. It is so wonderful to finish out the year with such a wonderful teacher and friend. Believe me it puts you in the right frame of mind to look forward to 2007. The piece is on the our web site, www.goldeneedle.com so you can get a sneak peek. You get to select your colors, just need to purchase complimentary colored beads. Let me know if you are going to be here. You will be home in plenty of time for any festivities later that evening.

Victoria Sampler's "K" is for knitter is here as well as the Victorian Rose Sampler.

Not much else going on. I'm improving everyday, Feel really good. Who knew this procedure could make such a difference??? Hope to see you all really soon. Happy Fall stitching. ~Cathy

Stitching Updates (posted: Aug 30, 2006)

Hello Everyone, I'm so glad we didn't get a hurricane. Just a little rain coming our way, and that's OK. If you had seen Bruce yesterday afternoon putting the plywood on the store, you would know we were worried.

Just a few short notes so you can be updated, then I'll be on my way. I guess we will be having stitch nite tomorrow. I probably will be slow, but we will have fun. I miss seeing every one, so hope you all come. We will probably do pizza, since my head is not focusing on anything else. Just let me know you are coming.

We will be closed on Monday for the Labor day week-end. That is the last summer holiday we take. So I hope everyone has a great week-end and relaxes on Monday, or stitches for sure. I haven't been stitching a lot, couldn't move my arm for a while, but now I'm doing little bits. Yeah. Have to stay on top of that. The never ending pile doesn't seem to get any smaller.

On Tuesday Sept. 5th we will be starting our Hardanger class at 9:30 a.m. Kathy will be here teaching you in Janet Wilson's great style. The cost of the 6 week class is $25, not including materials. I do have a couple of spaces left so sign up today. It is such a wonderful technique and can add to your stitching expertise.

A reminder to you also that the wonderful class Susan is teaching on 12-31 is up on the website. www.goldeneedle.com Scoll down the first page and click on the pictures. It is so beautiful. You get to select 1 overdyed silk as part of the class. (I have more Mermaid Shimmer Martha.) But you will need to purchase 1 tube of #8 and #11 beads in a companion color and 1 tube of #8 . Sign up today, it is a steal at $65.00 and you will be home in plenty of time for New Years festivities, or extra stitching time .

We now have Susan's wonderful DVD's here and for sale. I am still so honored I get to be part of a special group that has her goodies for sale all the time! Stock up today. They are a great addition to your stitching library.

New charts are coming in from all kinds of designers, The newest loose feathers is here, I love it. It went home with my stash. new prairie schooler santa, new Hands to Work , Workbasket, New Monica Ferris book, and much more. Hope to see you all tomorrow night, Thanks for all your good thoughts,

Happy Rainy Stitching, ~Cathy

Stitch Nite and other Interests (posted: Aug 18, 2006)

Greetings my Friends,

I hope this note finds you well and staying cool. It is funny because it seems we are actually cooler then many Northern states. It is still hot.

We went to Jacksonville this past week-end to visit our kids, and had a nice visit with both. It was Kim's turn to "put us up" and all the doggies got along well as usual. It was great seeing both Trace and Kim and their spouses, it is just never long enough.

Our first agenda is Stitch Nite. It will be CANCELED this Thursday. I have to have surgery and will be going into the hospital on Wednesday a.m. and will be there for a little while. I'm thankful enough that Mary Ann and GiGi will keep the store open and running during the days I'm out but Stitch Nite is a little much to ask. Hopefully I will be back in the swing of things by the end of the month, I guess I'll see after Weds. Just have good thoughts for me and be patient with the girls. MaryAnn will be maning the cross stitch and Gigi will be running the machines. I'll have a whole list for her. Sorry for any dissapointment for Thursday.

Now onto other goodies. The new Shepherd's Bush kits are in and they are beautiful. O Beautiful is their newest big piece and a companion to Come Tarry. Autumn Blessings is a smaller piece done in beautiful fall colors. 2 smaller pieces Keeping the bees and planting the garden, and quick ones Summer and Autumn are all available.

Olde Colonial Designs have out done themselves with their new basket design. It has 3 pieces that goes with it to complete the look. Wonderful colors and finishing. We have those here now too.

Our Christmas tree will hopefully be up by the end of the month. Remember everyone is invitied to donate an ornament for the tree. and the tree is going to be in the Symphony of Trees the end of Nov. I know many of you are already working on ornaments. I have 1 completed, and Mary Ann has 2 so we have a beginnng. I will let you know when the tree is up, so you can start bringing the ornaments in and we will hang them. Thanks to everyone who wants to participate.

I must tell you that on August 4,5 and 6 4 of us ventured to Savannah to do a retreat with Susan Greening Davis, and had the most wonderful time. The M & M bag she created is so wonderful. She had a packed house for this venue and we had a great time. It was wonderful to see her and Sally C. as well as new friends we have made. Some exciting news too is Susan is now published with some charts. and we have her first 2 to sell and they are signed. Even more valuable!!! Her famous boxettes have become charts. The first is a baby Orts boxette done in her signature purples. We have it as a kit or a chart if you perfer to choose other colors. I finished mine over the week-end and it is here on display. Her 2nd is a boxtte chart with various colors included as well as great sitiches. We have those here too. I was so excited to be one of the special few to get these early. Let me know if you would like for me to save them for you.

As another reminder, Susan will be here on Sunday Dec 31st for her end of the year party. The design should be on our web site by the end of this week. www.goldeneedle.com It is so incredibly beautiful, you will definitely want to take this class. another boxette, with beads and a needle felt for your needles and pins. You will get to select your own colors for this, so it will be great. We will be starting at 11a.m. and be done before 4p.m. Plenty of time to get home for any festivities. Sunday shouldn't be too bad of a travel day. Sign up now I'm already half full. Cost is $65.

Well I don't think I have much more this time. Every one take care, and hope to see you all soon. Again sorry bout Thursday and Stitch Nite, but keep stitching . Have good thoughts for me,

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Stitch Night (posted: July 20, 2006)

Hot Greetings to All. We are going to melt if this heat doesn't stop. Wow and we have just begun.

A couple of things for you to make note of, then I'll be on my way.

New goodies are SLOWLY coming in. Not alot of new since last time but odds and ends are here. The new Weeks colors are here, and the new Victoria Sampler. Another gazebo sampler that is lovely. Cathy Jean has a new chart in her series. Sing like no one is listening with the cutest donkey in sunflowers. I just love her designs. New to us is MiLady's needle. Her charts are antiquey looking. She has some very nice key chain tags that the key chain is included.

For those who missed it, our class with Susan was a blast, We played to a packed house Again, and had a wonderful time. The gadget basket is a keeper, and must do. I am working on it now, and hopefully will be finished in the next weeks. So many projects...... and her class in Savannah is in 2 weeks. Oh My !!!

Susan will be back to teach here on Sunday 12-31, with a fabulous Boxette. These are little baskets that are made of fabric and flat and can be tied on the corners to make a little basket, or boxette. She has done a couple of them for the fall, and the one for the end of the year is to die for. We will have it on the web in the near future. We were over flowing last year so I am looking for a different venue to hold it, but sign up now. You will be home in plenty of time for New Years parties.

Tomorrow is Stitching. Let me know if you are coming, again everyone is welcome, but I must know so I have enough chairs. It's good we are all friends since it is really cozy. We will have something to eat, So I'll see you then.

The new 10th anniversary edition of the Ornament issue is now here, and a new magazine from Zweigart too. Both are lovely. I had a few minutes the other day. (What free time? something must be not done!) anyway as I was looking through the ornament magazine and there where many ornaments I didn't remember and want to do. It is amazing how soon we forget. In fact some of the designers are now longer around, This is a true collectors edition. Come in and pick up one today.

Speaking of ornaments. Our Thursday stitch group and the shop has reserved a tree for the Symphony of trees to be held from November 24-Dec 3. We will be making crossed stitched and needlepoint ornaments to go on the tree. Any one and everyone is welcome to participate. Our tree will be up in the store starting in August, and you my friends can donate an ornament to the tree. All will get credit. and the money earned from the raffle will go to the new woman's shelter in Punta Gorda. We all felt this is a great cause. Let's see how many ornaments we can get, and how pretty our tree will be. I'm really excited about this project. Thanks Mary Jane for suggesting it. So an invitation is extended to all to join this wonderful project.

Well I must go straighten fabric, Things have been unusually quiet these past weeks, I'm sure the heat has something to do with it. We need to be expanding our stitchers. Find a new stitcher and help her along. ?We need our art to continue and it is up to us now to do it.

Hope to see many of you tomorrow.

Oh our painted canvas is still 25% off til the end of July. We still have many nice projects left.

Happy Hot Stitching, Cathy

Reminder (posted: June 27, 2006)

Hello Everyone,

Just a quick reminder that Thursday is again Stitching, and we will be having pizza. Please let me know if you are coming because I am pretty full right now and want to make sure I have enough chairs.

The goodies I ordered from Indy are beginning to come in. So many lovely things, so little stitching time. I hope to have them out for Thursday, or at least a box you can look through. Things will be arriving from now until September depending on the designers schedule. I'm really excited about what we have coming in so I can't wait to share them with you.

For those of you taking Susan's class on Saturday, we will be starting at 9:30a.m. so don't be late. I have 2 baskets left for anyone who hasn't signed up and wants to. $100. will do it for the class. I'm really excited about Susan coming for a short break to her Florida friends. Sally Criswell, former owner of Cross Stitch and More in Gainesville, will be joining us on Saturday as well. So lets make there stay a memorable one. Come and have one of the most enjoyable classes of the year. The baskets are here and they are adorable. I can't wait to start. I've done fairly well on finishing her things, so this one will go in the finish quick pile.

We will also be taking reservations for her Dec 31st class. I already have people signed up, so don't delay. A small deposit will hold your space. We had the most fabulous time last year, and this will certainly be the same.

Well I've got to fly, hope you all are well and those summer needles are flying. I have finished 2 more projects, they are here, but not framed so you can see. Have a great 4th and Happy Stitching,
~Cathy

P.S. I have a new helper now. Her name is GiGi. comes from the restaurant business but is willing to try a new technique. Great gal, still learning, so you will see her around as well.

Tent Sale at the Framers (posted: June 12, 2006)

Hello Again Everyone, Sorry about yesterday's excess e-mail. I'll try not to do that again. See that's what I get for trying something new. Next time I'll wait til my son is here and he can walk me through the techniques.

Anyway, I wanted to let you know that my favorite framer, Linda at Creative Framing in Venice, is having a "tent " Sale this Thrus, Fri and Sat from 10 - 5. All her pre-finished frames will be blown out. She said she has lots of mini frames ready to go. plus other wonderful goodies. So get up there and make some great selections. Her address is 2357 Tamiami Trl in the Holday Center in South Venice. Phone is 941-493-2276. She is about 20 minutes north of me on 41. the next light past Jaccaranda Blvd. This is a great sale and she generally only does once a year. So go and stock up. She has some wonderful gift items in her shop as well. Tell her I sent you. See you soon, ~Cathy

June Happenings (posted: June 07, 2006)

Hot and Humid Greetings my fellow stitchers,

I wanted to give you an update for June, before it really got away from me. We will be stitching twice this month. June 15th and the 29th. Yea!!! So mark your calendars and get you projects together. Remember we start at 6 p.m. and go until we leave. Come to stitch, shop or just visit. We will have something to eat as well. You know the drill.

This Friday June 9th , I leave for Indianapolis for our summer trade show. I hope to see lots of wonderful new things for the summer and fall. It will be a whirlwind trip, but it should be great fun. Karen and Marian, will be manning the shop on Friday so don’t stay away. This is an order only show, so it will be like Christmas every day for the next few months. We will do some rearranging here to have just the right spots for all the new goodies.

Speaking of rearranging, I have decided to no longer carry painted canvas, with the exception of Lee’s leather goods and the canvases to match. I have tried for the last 4 years to advertise and build on my canvases. I think everyone knows us as a cross stitch shop so that’s what I’m going to focus on, I will still carry counted canvas charts and blank canvas, since we have done well with those too. But the painted canvas is just not there. My rep, Ron says fill it or dump it, so I’m just going to do that. So for the month of June, all painted canvas, except Lee’s, will be 25% off. We have some wonderful pieces, so take advantage of my loss. I will still have all the thread and more, because you can’t live without thread, only difference will be less painted canvas. Hope you come and take advantage of the sale.

When you stop by take a look at the finished Spirit of the Southwest piece done behind the counter. Our friend Terri Vehse, took the class in November and finished it. You must know Terri, was new to this technique, but was a natural at the stitching. She hasn’t had it framed yet, but was kind enough to let us hang it for you to see. She selected Turquoise as her main color, and it is beautiful. This is a major Susan Porta classic. And Terri did a beautiful job. I still have a few charts left for those of you that might want to tackle this project, My is still as it was from the class. 9 outlined blocks. Oh well, I am working on unfinished pieces, and that is LOW on the pile. Next up is Libby’s Santa. We had such a great time with her, I can’t wait to see her new things, I know there is a snowman and a new tea pot with a blue tine roof. Wow blue tarp. I will definitely be ordering those.

Well I’ve got to go, Hope this heat isn't slowing your stitching down. Hope to see you all soon, Have a great week, See you after the show.

Stitchingly Yours. ~Cathy

Susan's Sizzlin' Summer Stitching Escape (posted: May. 25, 2006)

Hello everyone, Just wanted you to know our good Pal Susan Greening Davis is escaping to Sunny SW Florida for the weekend and has put together a MARVELOUS class for us on Saturday July 1st. There are Limited spaces so sign up TODAY. She is teaching her fabulous gadget basket. Class is limited becasue she can't get any more baskets. so this is definitely a first come first serve basis. I need payment right away or a credit card to hold your spot, so let me know. The cost is $100. and includes all you goodies, plus lunch and all of Susan's wonderful expertise!!!

I'm really excited she needs an Florida fix and is coming to see US. There is no model so you need to go on the other great projects of her to know this will be right up there in must haves. It will be personalized since every one gets to pick their own solid silk color. The basket has a swing handle and a liner so we will be making all the little stashy places for our goodes. As I said this is a very limited class, We start at 9:30m that morning and will finish when we finish. Hope to see everyone at the Sizzlin' Escape.

~Cathy

Stitch Nite (posted: May 17, 2006)

Hi Everyone, Wasn't that rain great! Especially since that last big fire in Charlotte Co was near our home. It's always scary when it jumps the road and canals. Fortunately no homes were damaged.

I just wanted to remind everyone that tomorrow is stitch nite. I don't know what we will be eating, if you have any suggestions let me know. I guess I'm in a food slump. Same at home no creative ideas, but we will have something and have fun.

We have a few new things in, I know the designers are gearing up for our Summer show in a couple of weeks, and I will be ordering lots of new things.

We have the new Wooly Thyme from Homespun Elegance, and their newest charts.

Victoria Sampler's Gingerbread Cottage sampler is here and. it is so pretty. I want to stitch this one too. A new designer to us, Country Garden Stitchery, with some very nice small projects of flowers and gardens. They are on the front counter so take a look when you come in. New R& R fabrics are on their way, and the Cricket Flip flops. They are so cute. The buttons will be here shortly too. I am always a day late it seems in getting my orders in, so I'm a little late in getting the stuff… -it will be here however.

Just as a side note, we will be closed on Monday May 29th to celebrate Memorial Day, The summer holidays we do take, gives me a little break and extra stitching time. Well that’s all (I said it would be short) Hope to see everyone on Thursday, and Thanks for all your support.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Thursday Night (posted: Apr. 19, 2006)

Hello Everyone, This is a quick update and a reminder for tomorrow nights stitch nite.

Bruce and I just got back from a cruise. Our vacation was a little earlier then we had hoped, our daughter Kim had spring break last week, and that’s when we went. It was a great time very relaxing but now I'm back to the every day grind. Oh well, It's always good to get back home..

Tomorrow is Stitch nite, and we will be doing part 2 of our tassels with Joy. For those of you who want to continue (and I know I do) bring the beads you need, nymo thread (beading type) and some beading needles.

I don't have the thread here but I do have needles. We will hopefully finish them tomorrow, and then have beautiful tassels to hang on our scissors.

I will probably be solo tomorrow day and evening, so please be patient with me, Mary Ann's husband had surgery yesterday and is on the mend. She needs to be home with him and may not be here, or maybe she will be running away and be here anyway. We wish him well and a quick recovery and patience to MA.

We will be having pizza tomorrow. We haven't had that for a while, so I figured we can gum up our arteries a little. Just let me know if you will be here. Hope to see everyone then.

We have a couple of new things in that I want to share with you.

The latest kit special by Raise the Roof, called Warm Water Wash is here. It is complete with threads and buttons. All you need is the fabric of your choice. It is sooooo cute, I must do one for the shop. (Along with 8000 other projects in production) When will it end?

Then Homespun Elegance's Wooly Tyme sheep. This will be a monthly project. You get a great little sheep made out of overdyed wool felt, and a chart to make his blanket. (I have one saved for you Connie) You will get to change the design as per the season. He is just adorable. If you are a HE fan and a sheep lover (Louise???) You will want this for your stash.

Cricket is releasing their latest series of Flip Flops, and some wonderful Summer cottages. I think this will be huge this summer. They are on order and should be here shortly. Place you order now and we will call you when they come in.

Libby's Santas and newest Gingerbread Tea pot are now available. If you missed her class you missed a real treat. I am frantically working on the Dancing Rainbow Santa, and Marian is stitching a teapot for the shop. Libby's directions are great and the stitching is so much fun. She will definitely be coming back next year.

We have new charts from the designer, Whimsical Element, here now.

She has some great tropical designs available. Check those out when you are here.

My thanks to Karen R. for her wonderful rearranging of the models while I was gone. She worked really hard on putting up things in a great way. You will notice them as soon as you walk in. My thanks too, to Mary Ann, Marian and Brian for all their hard work in keeping the store running while I was cruising. I really appreciate all their efforts. We are a small staff but we are mighty. Thanks everyone who helped.

I received a lovely note from Janet Wilson the other day. She thanks all the hardanger girls who worked with her, and hopes you will continue her presence with learning and teaching the art. The note is here for anyone who would like to see it. We will miss Janet terribly and wish her well in her new adventures in Wisconsin.

Well I must go, the machines have stopped running so I need to see what's up. Hope to see you all soon,

For our winter residents who have departed, have a wonderful summer and we will see you next season with more goodies and inspiration, more classes and excitement.

Keep those needles flying and Happy Stitching, ~Cathy

P.S. I know the gas situation is making driving a major event. Please note I will ship. If you need something and I am not on the way give me a call and I can drop it in the mail. At least that will keep you going. We all need to plan our trips now. It's hard to be impulsive when gas is $3. Just keep the mailing in mind.

Reminders For End Of March (posted: Mar. 15, 2006)

Hello Everyone,

Wow how nice was it to wake up to a cool breeze this morning. I know it won't last, but it sure felt good.

I have a few things to remind you of, and wanted to get to it first thing, so read on about March:

We still have some openings in Susan's class on Sat March 25. This will be her LAST class here of the season. She will be leaving for parts North just after the class. She won't be back until probably our end of the year class (12-31). So sign up now. The purse and the goodies are on the web site, www.goldeneedle.com, on the first page. We will be starting the class at 10 a.m. and go to about 3 p.m. with a break for some lunch. If you haven't taken a class from her, this is a perfect opportunity. It will be the best class you do. Just let me know.

On Sunday, March 26th, Libby Strudy will be here teaching her Dancing Rainbow Santa. This class also has some spaces, and is on the web. Her technique and class atmosphere is wonderful. You will leave with a wealth of information to help in your stitching. I am so lucky to have Libby here, so sign up now. That class will be all day from 10a.m. til about 5 p.m. We are cramming it all in!

We also have a boat-load of trunk shows here now. It should satisfy anyone’s taste. Val's Stuff is on the front wall. Really cute cross-stitch full of cats and fall goodies. Come in and check it out. This show will be here until the end of March.

Then we have Harbor Light designs. A wonderful grouping of counted canvas pieces. Their colors and technique are also great. They will be hanging upstairs in the canvas room. We have charts for both of those shows, so you can add to your stash.

We also have many charts for Libby's things. Two of her pieces are here stitched so you can see, (plus one Joy did and has been hanging, Thanks!) Come on in and check them all out.

Tomorrow is Stitch Nite. We will have assorted goodies to eat. Just let me know if you are coming. Don't forget to bring stitching or you can buy something new and start it. Mary Ann and I will be here, so you can come early if need be. We don't start until 6. Hopefully we will see you then.

I think after these next weeks I'll need a vacation, just to sit and stitch a while would be great!

Well I've got to run, hope to hear from you soon,

Until then, Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

March News (posted: Feb. 26, 2006)

Hello again everyone,

I just wanted to let you know what is happening in March.

We are still getting new stuff from the Nashville show. I've been really excited because lots has left here too. I can't decide which model to stitch first… I'm trying to get a few done before I start a new one. Yeah, that will happen. This year’s goal is to finish more then I start. We will see. Where are the stitching fairies when you need them???

For March we are having Val's Stuff as a trunk show. She is a cute designer. Favors kitties, and has lots of bright and cheery designs. We will have her trunk from about 3/3 til the end of March.

On Tuesday 3-7, Janet Wilson is having her hardanger stitch-in here from 9:30 to 2:30. Anything hardanger can be stitched, and if you have questions Janet will be here to assist. This will probably be the last time this season we will see Janet, since she will be making her way back up North in late March.

Our biggest events for this month will be Susan Greening Davis and her wonderful new felted clutch and accessories on March 25th, and Libby Strudy and her Dancing Rainbow Santa on March 26.

Susan's class is so beautiful. The clutch is already felted and assembled and we will be making the accessories to go in it. It is done in cheery Florida colors of yellow and pinks. Susan will be dropping it off to us on Monday so you can see it. The cost will be $125.00 and includes everything plus lunch. We hopefully will be stitching at a new place just down the road that has more space. I’ll let you know as we get closer. The class is limited and we must have a count since we need to know that we have enough supplies. Please let me know.

Then on Sunday March 26, from 9:30 till 5:30 Libby Sturdy of Just Libby designs will be teaching her Dancing Rainbow Santa. She has so many wonderful designs, and this one has great technique: wonderful blending, composite stitches, and colors, plus her signature Santa style. We will also have a trunk show of hers to show you her other pieces. This will be taught by Libby, an excellent teacher. She has never taught in Florida before so hopefully we will give her a reason to come back. This will be a 1 day class and an all day class. We will break for lunch. If you want to see the design, my piece is on display with a few stitches in it. The class includes a line drawn canvas, all the threads and instructions. The cost is $180. We are limited on this class as well, so let me know. It will be a busy week-end for all but a fun one.

As another reminder Stitch Nite will be Thursday 3-16 and 3-29. We have an extra this month. so be prepared.

Hope to see you all soon. The class pieces should be on the web this week. As long as I remember the digital camera... Have a great week-end and keep stitching.

~Cathy

Nashville and New Stuff! (posted: Feb, 17 2006)

Greetings Everyone!

I haven't yet thawed out from my Nashville trip. It was so cold there, good thing we didn't have to go out much.

It was a great show: lots to see, lots to buy and old friends to hook up with. Though we really missed Jay. Even got some time to stitch and finished 2 projects. Yeah for me!

I brought back as much as I could without the airlines charging me an arm and a leg and I shipped a bunch. Come in a look at the new goodies, they are wonderful for the Spring.

The sampler A Most Noble Pursuit is here with the fabric and the silks are on their way. It was prettier in person then on paper. 10 designers made this, and you must see it. You can do the whole big project or some of the small designs. It uses Needlepoint Silk and that has been kitted for us. How easy can it be? Now all we need is time.

Picture this plus outdid themselves with their fabrics. I brought back some of the newest ones, and ordered more! They had many models done on their fabrics and it gave me some very creative ideas. I can't wait to start Skeleton Crew from Cricket on the fabric I got. It will be a conversation piece for sure.

Some newer designers for us will be finding their way here, plus some trunk shows so you can see newer stuff. As fast as we are stitching, there is still not enough time.

Blackbird's new loose feathers designs will have a garden theme, and they are on their way.

The newest Stitch every Day will have a new fun theme as well, with new R&R Fabrics and they will start in March.

New from Hob Nobb are Doodles. Little tiny boxes that have the chart and button. All you need are scraps of fabric and floss. A great way to use up your stash, and a great gift idea too. I've already sold a dozen of them already so I must order more. You will love this quick idea.

Michelle and Gail out did themselves with their new charts. Gone, Color Outside the Lines and Nothing says love like a waggy tail are wonderful.

They will all be out by tomorrow.

There is a lot more stuff here and coming so you just have to check back often.

Tomorrow is stitch nite, if you would like to bring something to eat please let me know. I already know of a couple of salads, I'll probably order a couple of pizzas too. Let me know if you are coming so I have enough chairs.

Also a big reminder. Susan Greening Davis will be here Sunday 2-19 for her chatelaine & cigar box class. We are full, but not everyone has paid. I do have a waiting list so if I don't have a deposit from you, you don't have a seat. You know who you are. Please call or come in before, so I know to save your space. It is going to be a wonderful class, I just can't wait. We begin at noon, and will go to 5:30. I'll be here early so you can come and visit or shop. Make sure you have your skein of over-dyed silk, solid silk and 1/2 yard of coordinating fabric before hand.

This next item should have probably been first but I made it last.

Once again I am looking for help. Now the help I'm looking for is for the embroidery part of the business. Louise has moved on to bigger adventures and we will miss her terribly and wish her well. Mary Ann and I are running the show with a little help from Marian and Karen. I need another regular part timer and they need to be willing to learn to run the machines. Stitching experience will be a plus, but that's not where I need the assistance. It will be 2, sometimes 3 days a week and an occasional Saturday. Most days are 9:30 to about 4:30. If you would like to learn or know how please let me know. We do have fun, but I need to stay up on the embroidery. Mary Ann knows how to run jobs too, but I need another person. E-mail me or come in and apply.

Well, the machines have stopped, and I need to get some stitching stuff ordered. Hope to see you all soon, and I better warm up soon too! It is still too cold here. Take Care, A big Thanks to Ginny R. for all her help in Nashville too.

I'll continue to post new stuff as it comes in so check back often. Hope to see you all really soon,
-Happy Stitching, ~Cathy

Suberbowl Sunday (posted: Feb, 03 2006)

Hello Everyone,

I just wanted to remind you that this Sunday, Feb 5th from 9-3 is our Gigantic Super Bowl Sunday Sale. Come early and get a jump on the great selections. Out with the old so on Thursday when I leave for Nashville, I can bring in all the new goodies from the show.

Everything in the store will be at least 20% off (except DMC floss) many items will be more. So you must come and see. We will also have our famous Sidewalk sale outside ( please no rain) with deeper discounts on other great stuff. Remember this is before the Super Bowl so you can get home, relax, look at all your new goodies, and watch the game with a new project. We are rooting for the Seahawks, since the Redskins didn't make it (Oh well, maybe next year…) -So you won't miss a single minute of the game by coming here first.

Please remember because of the nature of this sale, we are only accepting Cash, Checks, or Debit cards. No Credit Cards or Gift Certificates. Thanks for understanding.

Then if anyone is in need of something special I will be happy to pick it up at the show. Just let me know what you need.

The shop will be open while I am gone. Louise and Mary Ann will be running the show, so don't stay away!

Hope to see you all on Sunday. It will be a GREAT Event.

Happy Stitching! ~Cathy

New Winter Happenings (posted: Jan, 11 2006)

Hello everyone, Happy New Year again!!

I wanted to give you a heads up on some dates in the next couple of months, so you can put them on your calendar.

First off I wanted to again Thank Susan Greening Davis for coming on Dec 31st, and teaching a wonderful class. We had the best time. She is such a gracious lady and a knowledgeable teacher. We were packed to the gills but it was great. I think it was just one giant "intimate moment" for all of us. I can't wait for her next class.

Speaking of which, it will be February 19th. That’s a Sunday from 12-5:30 here at the shop. It is going to be her chatelaine plus a box. We have become so taken with these cigar boxes that have been lined and put together for our stitching stash. Our friend Krista K. helped us find a bunch of boxes, and Susan just whipped up a little something to go with the chatelaine. She bought up the box yesterday and it is here on display. The chatelaine is on its way. This class will be one of her most "personal" classes. You will be selecting the colors that suit you the most. You will need to bring 1 skein of over dyed silk and 1 solid that matches plus a 1/2-yard of fabric to line your box. This all needs to match. Oh course there will be goodies here to pick from as well. Susan will include in the kit the box, the banding for the chatelaine, metallics, ribbon, instructions and practice supplies. Other doo dahs will be available to add to your box, but bring any special buttons pins etc. you might want to include. Everyone's will be different. That's the best. The cost of the class is $90. and includes a snack. Sign up NOW. The box will be on the web site www.goldeneedle.com by this weekend. Can't wait for you to see it.

We have a new designer here now. My Big Toe Designs. She has done some lovely pieces and they are set up now. She also has fobs, counting pins and markers included in the trunk. Come by and take a look. Her stuff is great. The show will be here until Feb 10.

We have a booth at the Disconnected pieces quilt show on January 27 & 28. It is held at the Port Charlotte Cultural Canter off of Aaron Street. Come by and see some wonderful quilts and shop too. The store will be open as well so you can come by after the show. The hours for the show are Friday 9-7 and Sat 9-4

Our BIGGEST Event of the season is our Super Bowl Sunday Sale, Feb 5th from 9-3. and if the Redskins make it to the game it will be an even crazier day. ( Am I a 'skins fan or what?) Every thing in the store except DMC floss will be at least 20% off, some things greater. And as an added bonus we will have our very popular sidewalk sale too. Out with the old in with the new. This is the money I take with me to Nashville to buy new stuff. Because of the nature of this sale, we will ONLY accept cash, checks or debit cards. No credit cards or gift certificates. Put this date on your calendar and be here early. We have a great time.

Don't forget stitch night on Jan 19th. from 6p.m. until we are done. We will have goodies to eat and a great time. Hope to see everyone there too.

As another reminder. Our Hardanger stitching group meets the first Tuesday of the Month. That will be 2-7 from 9:30 to 2:00. This is a relaxed stitching time. Janet Wilson is here stitching too, so if you have a question she can help. Any Hardanger level is welcome.

I am doing some rearranging upstairs and the mess is calling me. Hope to see you all in the coming days and months. Thanks for all your wonderful support. We are into our second 10, so it will be better then the first 10 years.

Stitchingly Yours,
~Cathy

Happy New Year! (posted: Dec, 29 2005)

Hello Everyone,

I hope that you all had a wonderful holiday and Santa treated you really well. We had a great Christmas. My daughter and her husband came down with their dogs and we had a wonderful time. Now we are back to work and the grind of after Christmas.

I wanted to let you know a few end of the year things, so here goes.

Thursday we are stitching again. Everyone is welcome. We will be having pizza. Let me know if you are coming to the last stitch event for 2005. We start at 6 p.m.

Saturday is Susan's class, What a wonderful way to end the year. We will be starting at 10 a.m. and will go to about 2 p.m. with a break for lunch. If there is anyone who still wants to take it we can squeeze in a couple more. Just let me know.

Starting on Tuesday 1-3-06 we will be having a Hardanger stitch-in. Janet Wilson is retiring from teaching but will be here with the group to stitch. Any one who has Hardanger or does Hardanger is welcome to attend. We will be here stitching from 9:30 to about 2:00 the first Tuesday of each month. We will certainly miss Janet's expertise and wish her well in wherever her path goes.

As a future to look for We have a brand new designer My Big Toe Designs sending her trunk show to us from Jan 10 to Feb 13. She has some wonderful charts and accessories. You must come and take a look.

Well I must fly. Hope everyone has a very Happy New Year, no storms, and flying needles.

Until next time, Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Holiday Stitch Night (posted: Dec, 14 2005)

Greeting my fellow stitchers,

This will be short but I wanted to let you know a few things before the day got away from me. Tomorrow is Stitch Nite and we are having a little holiday party. It is a pot luck and gift exchange. Sarah and Mary Ann decided last time that we should get something small from the dollar store to exchange, try to make it related to somethng for stitching. Also please let me know if you are coming and what you are bringing. We have lots of dip to choose from so far, so lets see what else we get. Bring your stitching because we will have time to take a stitch or two.

The latest for Stitch Every Day is out and it is soooo cute. "Bring it on" is a little snowman being blown away , We have 2 versions available 1 in cross stitch and 1 in wool applique. Louise is working on the applique and I'm doing the cross stitch. I can't wait for you to see him.

We also received the new loose feathers: Evergreen. Another great one to add to my stash. Speaking of stashes, I'm trying really hard to control it and it is not working. Over the week-end as I was finding the last of my Christmas decorations, I was finding charts and fabrics hidden all over the place. I've got to get to work here. Maybe this year my resolution will be to finish more and start less. HA!

If you are looking for one more great gift, might I suggest the Daylight lights. I have 2 table models and one floor model left. We are selling them at 20% off retail. They are very lovely in a burnished gold color with a maginifer and chart holder attachment. The floor model is on a rolling base. Check this out the sale is til 12-24.

As a reminder for those of you taking Susan's class on 12-31 we start at 10 a.m. and go til about 2p.m. I can't wait to see Susan again. We are full for the class . It is a wonderful way to end the year.

Well I must fly ,see many of you tomorrow . For those of you I won't see Have a wonderful Holiday, and a Happy New Year.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Spirit Weekend (posted: Nov, 16 2005)

Good Morning everyone.

Just wanted to give you a few quick updates before my day begins. ( actually it began at 4a.m.) Tomorrow night is Stitch nite. We will be having pizza. Please let me know if you are coming so I can set up. Mary Ann and Sarah will be running it for a while since I am going to pick up Jay at the airport in Tampa. We should be back at the store by 9. Save him some Pizza!!!

Then on Friday from 2-5 Jay will be here in the store to meet and greet you all. If you have questions about a project or Spirit come and see him. If you just want to come and visit do that too. It is so amazing that one person can have so much knowledge about thread. All you have to do is listen. Then on Saturday at 10a.m. we will be starting our Spirit class. I'm just so excited to beable to do this. It is been on my to do list for forever. We will be supplying lunch, so bring yourself and your stitching supplies and be ready to go. We are alittle smaller then originally planned but will still have a great time. We have prizes at the end so it will be great.

Another great teacher I had the pleasure of spending the week-end with a couple of weeks ago is Susan Greening Davis. 5 of us from here took her week-end retreat in Treasure Island. It was a fantastic class and an to die for project. Our table has a challenge of finshing the project by our Dec 31 class with her, and I'm on my way. Susan is one of the most enjoyable teachers I know. Her knowledge is extensive and her technique precise. Another one that all you need to do is listen. The knowledge just comes out. She will be here for our New Years blast on Dec 31 from 10-2 teaching her beautiful needle roll. It is a bargain at $50. Sign up now. We still have a few spaces left. What a great way to end the year.

We have some charts from a brand new designer By the Bay Designs Very colonial looking. There are here now for you viewing and stitiching pleasure.

The Trail Creek Farm Trunk show is here through Thanksgiving . Come and take a look at her great pillows and designs. I really like her innovative style.

Well got to fly. Hope everyone has a Wonderful Thanksgiving. We will be open the Friday after. Come and see us. For the stitch nite see you tomorrow. ~Cathy

Fall Changes (posted: Oct. 29, 2005)

Happy Saturday.

Hope this cool weather is motivating you into some great stitching. Doesn't it feel wonderful. Don't forget to "fall back" tonight and change those clocks.

I wanted to let you know about the changes to our big event that was postponed, and some other things that are happening here at the shop.

Jay's Spirit class has been rescheduled to Sat and Sun November 19 and 20. He will be here on Friday to greet everyone and have studio time for those who would like to get some extra info and any stitching clues. Because of the changes I have a couple of vacancies in the class. If anyone else would like to sign up, please let me know. There is pre-work so sign up soon. Cost for class is $250. Call me 941-743-4410 or e-mail me cathy@goldeneedle.com and I get the supplies together for you.

Susan's class will now be Saturday Dec 31st from 10-2. What a way to end the year. We still have space there too. The cost is $50. for the class. The model is still here so you can stop by and see it or check the web site, www.goldeneedle.com, for a peek. Unfortunately, Susan experienced Wilma in all her glory in Bonita Springs and we hope she is well and safe and we will see her soon.

Janet Wilson's Hardanger class begins Tuesday, Nov 1st. and runs for 6 weeks. We have space in all levels. The 9:30 a.m. class is the intermediate class and the 2:30 p.m. class is the beginner class. Again let me know if you will be here . I have no sign ups for the evening class that begins at 6 p.m. The cost is $25. and does not include the materials.

We have some great hand-dyed fabrics in from R&R as well as Picture this Plus. Many of the designers are using these fabrics and they really make the piece. I also have a catalog of the Picture this Plus fabrics. I can order any of these in the fabrics.

We also have a great selection of Pine Mountain Designs. on the front table. These are great little pillow kits that come with every thing. The tie on ones and wrap-arounds have everything but the pillow. Come in and pick up some. These are great little Christmas gifts.

Lastly, Our next Trunk show will be here around 11-8 and it is from Trail Creek Farm. She does some wonderful pillows and kits, You will get to see all her stuff soon. I especially like the acorn pillow with the stitching "Nuts Stitch Here". Louise finished one over the week-end and its hanging now.

Well I've got to fly. To all of you south of us, we are thinking of you in your recovery. And hope to see you soon.

Enjoy the cool temperatures, and keep those needles flying.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Party Postponed (posted: Oct. 19, 2005)

Hello Everyone,

It is with great disappointment that I must postpone our week-end events. Mother Nature is certainly not on our side. I don't want anyone to be concerned about the events when we are so conerned about a hurricane. Jay has graciously agreed to come on Saturday and Sunday, November 19 and 20 to teach Spirit. Put that date on your calendars. Susan's schedule is a little tighter, and will let me know on her class.

I hope everyone understands we must be safe and not sorry ,but we will do it later.

I will be here tomorrow night for Stitch Night for anyone who is still planning to come. Hope to see you then.

Again I am truly sorry, and hope everyone understands.
See you soon, ~Cathy

Party Week-end!!! (posted: Oct. 17, 2005)

Hi everyone,

Just a quick note to tell you the BIG week-end is almost here. I can't wait. I've even got my pre-work done. I probably won't get much more done at the class but I'm on the right track. Jay flys in on Thursday evening, and will be here in the store on Friday. As an added bonus he has agreed to some early class time for anyone on Friday. This will be a FREE gathering from 2-5p.m. on Friday 10-21. If you are in the class or not but have questions about a project, help with threads, or just want to hang out with a master stitcher and thread expert. come and see us. As I said there is not charge for this. If you are in the class and are pokey on the pre-work or what ever stop by. Just give me a heads up if you are coming. I want to make sure we have chairs.

Then Saturday the classes begin. 10a.m. sharp. Both Susan Greening Davis and Jay will be here When we break for lunch you will have an opportunity to visit with both designers, and look at Susan's "trunk show" and purchase what you might like from her. Lunch will be included and we will have coffee and sodas and water through out the day.

Also Thruday is Stitch Nite, We have been playing to a packed house, so if you are coming please let me know!! I think we will have pizza this time, If you have a preference let me know that too.

The Birthday gift bag will be up then too. As my way of saying Thanks to everyone who has helped me get this far we have put together a stitching bag. Everytime you purchase $10. or more your name will go into the basket for a drawing. It is a wonderful bag chock full of goodies. The drawing will be November 18th. so you have lots of time to get you name in the bucket. We are still tweaking the store. I guess there is always one more thing to do. Keeps me off the street.

Well I've got to fly. See you later in the week, or whenever. Thanks again to everyone for making this such a great experience. I couldn't have done it without you all.

Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

New Trunk Show from Sundance Designs (posted: Oct. 12, 2005)

Greetings Everyone.

Hope this finds you well and in the mood to stitch. Bruce and I just returned from a week-end in Maryland. Our closest friends' son was married this past week-end. It was a lovely wedding, but the rain was awful It couldn't have rained any harder the day of the wedding. But it was fun and we got to see old friends we haven't seen for many, many years. Great to catch up.

Anyway, We now have a WONDERFUL trunk show from Sundance designs. They are painted as well as counted canvas. We received a wonderful selection for you to browse and buy. Sundance destributes many designers so you must come and see what is available. They are more then just Southwest, as some of you might remember them. It is spread out throughout the store for you viewing pleasure. This show will be here until the 25th of Oct. So get in quick.

As a reminder. We are 10. Yes this is our birthday month and we are celebrating 10 years of stitching. Who knew. Our celebration has lots with Susan Greening Davis Jay Patterson, Sundance's Trunk show , drawings for special prizes and just Happy to be here. Come and visit ,see the stuff, and take a class, We will see what we can do for the next 10 years.

Thanks to everyone for making this possible, I appreciate and love all of you. Hope to see you all really soon,

Oh and Mary Ann is a Grandma to a little boy Jackson Thomas. born Sept 30. Yeah to her. She will be back in the store tomorrow.

Have a Happy week, Hope to see all of you really soon,
Stitching yours, ~Cathy

lizzie kate trunk show (posted: Sept. 27, 2005)

Hi All, Just a quick little note to let you know we now have Lizzie Kate's Trunk show. She has so many cute things, you have just got to come by and check it out. We have it throughout the downstairs, so check it all out. One is cuter then the next! This trunk will be here through Oct 10th, so you do have alittle time.

Dont forget too, this Thursday is again stitch night. We are having pot luck. If you signed up for something bring that. Just let me know if you are coming and didn't sign up for something. I need more chairs. Can't wait to see everyone. I love sitich night.

One class I forgot to mention is Hardanger. Starting November 1st. We will once again have Janet teaching her 6 week class. We will start at 9:30 a.m. with the level 2 class, We will also have a class starting at 12:30 and one at 6 p.m. Cost is $25. and does not include materials. Sign up now. Janet is truly an expert in this field.

Dont forget to check out the web site. It continues to evolve. I'm still working hard on getting it all together, and it is slowly coming. More pictures will be coming too.

We still have a few spaces for Susan Greening Davis' Class. It will be such an experience you must consider it. The piece is on the web site so you can get a sneak preview. Give me a call and I'll be happy to sign you up.

Well got to fly, hope to see everyone soon, Have a great rest of the week, and keep stitching. Cathy

Ornament Issue is Here and other goodies (posted: Sept. 14, 2005)

Finally the JCS Ornament Issue has arrived. If you pre-ordered I have a copy saved for you. You can come and pick it up anytime. If not there are plenty available for you. I bought lots this time and can re-order more. Start stitching for the hoildays. As usual it is a great addition to your stash.

Please pardon our dust, but we are doing some major rearranging. The store is now a mess, but hopefully in the next week we will be all better! Just wait until you see what we have done. Who knew I had so many threads. All of us here are have a great time doing all this remodeling. Louise is having so much fun with the canvases. Marian is screaming over the threads, Mary Ann is overwhelmed with all the charts,Bruce is just shaking his head and I'm just shocked. Come and see our new look. It will be all done very shortly. Just if you are here for stitching Thursday please excuse the mess.

Speaking of Stitch Nite. This Thursday is it. We have become so full, I need to know if you are coming so I have enough chairs. We will have pizza too so I will be ordering that. I'll probably have a salad going too. Remember we start at 6p.m. and go til you leave. The best part is we will do it again on the 29th. We will do a pot luck on that date. Hope to see you all on Thursday.

We have received some new Designers recently, and you have got to check out their charts:

• My Big Toe Designs: Eat the Chocolate, Dog Hair: Just another Speciality Fiber. (Cat Hair too).
• Ruby Slipper Designs. When Life Gives you Lemons: a new twist. Bippity Boppity Boo. A great Witches Hat.
• Chen Designs: Seasonal Squares: Great for Canvas as well as X-S
• Michelle Ink: Relaxation: A glass filled on a wonderful overdyed fabric. Warm Sandy Beaches; Beautiful Shells. perfect for here.
• RK Portfolio: 4 different cocktails with the buttons. I love the olive!
• Trail Creek Farm: Wonderful new pillow kits for the fall. One is an acorn that Louise is working on right now.
• New Lizzie Kate: October and Noverber Flip It. A pair of Pilgrim stand ups that are so cute. Tiny Tidings X and her new Santa '05
• Wonderful new scissor fob kits; Beautiful crystal and charms. Look in the front case. The newest Gingher scissors: Sophia. The handles are red floral.

In the next couple of weeks I am going to have selected shop models on sale. I need to clean out even the models. They will be marked so you will know which ones, and it will not be all of them. There will be some great buys so check it out. I should have all that done by the end of this month.

Now the CLASS schedule. We have been working very hard on getting some things together and we have come up with these so far.

Thursday October 6 from 1-4 Punch Needle. Learn how to punch. It is all the craze. Louise is punching a very cute little pumpkin for the fall. One of Sisters and Best Friends pieces. We have it here on display. The fee for the class will be $10. and does not include materials. Learn how quick and easy this technique is.

Monday October 10th from 10-12 begins our canvas class. Want to learn some new stitches? Need to know how to tackle that canvas. We will show you how. During this 4 week class we will show you 5 stitches and a self finishing little pincushion. You will be working on 14 mono canvas with #3 perle cotton.

Back by popular demand: Our famous Ravioli pillow. Saturday Oct 30th. from 1-4p.m. Learn how to make these adorable pillows and learn a great cording technique. Great Christmas gifts as well. This is a lecture. Cost is $10.

We will also be offering a beginner cross-stitch class, but we are working on that.

I think I have written enough. I started this at 8a.m. this morning and it is now almost 1p.m

Hope to see many of you tomorrow night. Let me know if you want me to put an Ornament issue away for you, and about classes.

Soon it will cool off and we and enjoy why we are in Florida.

Stitchingly Yours, ~ Cathy

P.S. Mary Ann is going to be a brand new first time grandma. They leave Sat to go to Michigan for the event. We wish her well and expect lots of new baby pictures.

Summer Musings (posted: Sept. 1, 2005)

Greetings Everyone,

I'm back with a short note to say Hi and to let you know of what is happening in the next couple of weeks.

Firstly, Our prayers go out to the people in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. How we remember our devastation and what we were spared, To think that could have been us had we had gotten the storm surge. It's hard to watch the TV.

On a lighter note, I wanted to let you know that on Friday and Saturday, 9-2 & 3. Our friend and master framer Linda at Creative Framing is having a Blow Out Labor Day Sale. All her finished frames, mats, decorations, gifts are going on sale. from 9-5 Get up there with your stitching and take advantage of this great deal. She only does this once a year and this is it. I know she has a wonderful wall of finished frames, Lots and lots of mini frames and anything thing else to tempt your framing pleasure. So get to her this week-end and take advantage. She is the next light past Jacaranda Blvd. on the Right hand side on 41 in South Venice.. Call her for directions if you need more 941-493-2276.

Our dear Friend Joy Abbot has lent us two wonderful models. Both are Shepherd's Bush, one is Little Witch a cute little kit with a great mat The other is a to die for piece. This is the piece we took at the retreat last Sept. It is call Come Tarry and is being released in September. Joy has finished hers and has framed it with Jill Renzel mat and frame. I am taking pre-orders on this so come in and take a peek. It was worth the price of the retreat. My is about 1/4 done. So hooray for Joy.

We have some new counted canvas pieces from Nancy's Needle They are seasonal and beautiful. I really like the winter one. Each comes with a great button embellishment for the center.

We received David McCaskill's Halloween Hat. It is the greatest canvas and a wonderful centerpiece. It comes with the stitch guide and one of the Needle Necessities fiber. This is a definite for my stash. It was advertised in the last issue of Needlepoint Now.

This week-end we are putting pictures of Susans piece and the Spirit piece on the web sight so you can see them. If you want to sign up for them there is still room. Remember the Spirit piece has pre-work that Jay expects done. I realize they are both on the same day, but you will have the opportunity to purchase either kit then. This is our 10th Birthday Bash and we wanted it to be crazy. So I have done my job.

We just got in the newest charts from Homespun Elegance, she has been doing some great stuff with felt. Check them out when you are here. We received the 15 newest colors of Watercolours and Wildflowers and Louise and I were fighting over the best colors. Wow they are to die for. We will show them to you when you come in.

I got Flip Flop Days back from Linda, and she out did herself. It is hanging right by the cash register. I also just got back my Port Charlotte piece Randee designed for us. It took a little trip to Charlotte a couple of weeks back and now it is home. We have the charts so you can pick one up. Randee has also done some new birds and drinks. Check them out too.

We will be closed on Labor day, so hope to see you after that. I guess that means the summer is over. We will be doing some rearranging and working on getting those classes I promised firmed up.

Have a great holiday week-end and we will see you soon,
Stitchingly Yours, ~Cathy

Party Tomorrow! (posted: Aug. 12, 2005)

Hello Everyone, Just a quick reminder that tomorrow Sat 8-13 is our Charley Party. It is really special to all of us in the community to beable to see progress and know as hard as it might be we can survive. So starting at 9 we will be celebrating here.

As part of the day we will have some specials through out the store. As a sampling:

• All Painted Canvas 20% off
• All Rainbow Gallery charts 25% off
• Just Nan Charts 30% off
• Michael Powell Kits 30% off
• Drawn Thread charts 30% off
• All Lights are 20% off
• Goodies outside and more inside!

Everyone will receive a little treat bag from us. Your Hurricane Emergency kit. So don't forget to pick one up.

The new Loose Feathers chart and fabric is in and I love this one. It is called Sunflower charms.

The new Praire Schooler Santa is here and he is a quilter.

If you are thinking of Jay's class in October we have pulled thread groupings so you can see the colors and have 2 models hanging. Sign up now, We are running out of space.

Susan Greening Davis will also be here teaching a beautiful needle keeper roll She shipped the model to us yesterday and it should be here next week. It is really lovely. Her class will be $50. and will also be on that Sat 10-22. We will be hopping for sure. That's what you do when you are 10!

This is the last week-end for our Halloween wall so check it out when you stop by for the party. It will inspire you.

Hope to see you all tomorrow. We will be here with bells on. No Hurricanes for Us!!

Happy Stitching
~Cathy

Hurricane Party & Other Goodies (posted: Aug. 3, 2005)

Hello Everyone and welcome to the summer heat. Man it is hot! But a quiet one so far. I wanted to give you a heads up on a couple of things so you can mark your calendars.

First we will be closed for a few days, from 8-4 to 8-9 We are going to Seattle for our nieces wedding. It will be fun to get away and see some mountains, however I am taking a sweater cause I know it will be cool in the evenings.

Then when we get back we will be raring to go. Put Saturday August 13th on you calendar cause we are having a Charley Party. As you know Charley hit our town hard last year, but with determination we have made it back and we want to celebrate. Our town is still rebuilding, but we have a roof over our head. and we are thankful for this year. So come and celebrate from 9-3. We will have specials and goodies, and treats for every one. It should be a lot of fun and what better way to remember that day but a party.

Our latest Stitch everyday is here, and it is so cute. It is a box of crayons just for school and it says Open A New Box. with some great buttons to add to the cuteness. The R&R fabric is in too. so you can pick up the whole kit. We still have a couple Flip Flop Days left. I have stitched that. It is so adorable, wait til you see.

Stuff is still coming in from the Columbus trip. Remember w.e are now carrying painted canvas as well. Please come in and check out the canvas room I just love it all.

Also remember 8-18 is stitch nite and let me know if you are coming. We had a great crowd last month and hope to see you all again. We will do a pot luck this month so let me know what you are bringing.

See you all on the 13th have a great week and stay cool by stitching,
Cathy

Stitch Night (posted: Jul. 21, 2005)

Hi Everyone

I just wanted to run a quick note by you to let you all know that tomorrow is Thursday 7-21, and it is stitch nite. We will be having pizza, so let me know if you are going to join us so I have enough chairs.

Anxious to see everyone. I guess I need that fun time. We continue to get goodies in so you will have to look everywhere. Some new Hardanger pieces, some new Laura Perin pieces new Shepard's Bush. Come on in and check things out. Hope to see you soon, Remember we start at 6p.m.

Oh, and we will be saying Farewell to Ginny. She will be moving to Arkansas in early August. I will really miss her. Hopefully she will come back and visit us. Well need to run.

Happy stitching to Everyone,
~Cathy

News For The Summer! (posted: Jul. 12, 2005)

Greetings my Stitching Friends, I hope this little note finds you all well, and in the mood for stitching.

It has been a while since I have been able to send a note to you. The computer has not been well, and when they are sick it is major, So after a new server placement, new e-mail source, I think we are back on track. Let me know if you get this.

For starters we had a wonderful time in Columbus. Saw some old friends, and hooked up with some new ones. and bought like crazy. Wow. What finds for the summer and fall. I just don't know how I'm going to get it all stitched.

By far one of the nicest was Just Nan. Her new WhimZis are to die for. They were shipping on 7-11 so expect them shortly. The groups of charts have these wonderful frames that go with them and they are in different metals.

The other greatest was Sisters and Best Friends. Their new Snowman Friends is the 3rd in their series. and he is just adorable. I also feel they out did them selves with their new Santa piece. It has a polar bear and penguins. You have to come in and check them out.

We now have Silk and Ivory for you stitching pleasure, and Ty-Dy soft silk. If you work on larger count or on canvas, these are definites for you stash. The colors are wonderful and they stitch like a dream. They are in the thread room for all to see.

The Caron Collection is distributing some beautiful little charts, The models are done over one but they can be done as nicely over 2. There are 5 pieces that use their threads. They are here now.

I broke down and bought the new 18 ct mono canvas that is vintage brown. It looks like old canvas. It would lend itself to many pieces, and we will cut it in any size. I also got the vintage sage too.

More and more will be coming in over the next months. I will definitely keep you posted when the new stuff is here. We also have some speical things happening too so be in touch.

As a very special reminder for October. It will be our 10th birthday with stitching. Wow how far we have come. As part of that celebration, Susan Greening Davis will be here to teach a special little birthday piece. Donna Taylor is designing something just for us. and Jay is coming to teach Susan Porta's Spirit of the Southwest. This is a to die for piece. I will have the actual model here next week. Jay said you can pick your own colors, which is a plus and it will probably be a 3 day class. This is certainly a great way to celebrate. I'm not sure of the cost for this yet. But once you see it you will know it will be worth every penny. If I'm good I'll try to post it on the web soon. So be on the lookout. We are limited on space, but not time. Jay retires in August so he won't have to get back to the office right away. Let me know if you are interested, and I'll take a deposit.

Well I must fly, hope to see you all soon, It may be hot and we may be looking at a hurricane, but we can still stich that stress away.

Talk to you all soon,
~Cathy

Spring Happenings (posted: Mar. 29, 2005)

Greetings all, This is just a short note to remind you that this Thursday we are stitching again and all are welcome. We are having a pot luck so let me know what you might bring.

I still have a few spots in Susan Greening Davis' class on Sunday 4-3. We start at 11a.m. let me know if you would like to join us, Hope to see those of you who have signed up.

We now have Heart In Hand's trunk show here and on display. It is so cute, you must come and check it out. It will be here to the middle of April . We are overlapping trunk shows a little because we will also have Erica Michaels show starting April 4th. Lots of goodies to look at so be sure to look next time you are in.

Well, that's it for right now, I've got to fly. Hope everyone receives this and is enjoying this beautiful weather.
Keep those needles flying and Happy Stitching, ~Cathy

News From The Shop (posted: Mar. 19, 2005)

Greetings and Happy Spring to all. I think it is on its way.

I haven't had much luck with the computer, we have had many problems with it, but thanks to Larry D. we are all brand new and up and running. He is a computer wizard.

Lots going on here at the shop. Our biggest event for Spring is Susan Greening Davis is coming back on Sunday April 3rd for another great class. I have the piece here and hopefully will get it on the web site by this week-end. It is a delicate little pocket, made from banding to hold your special treasures. She uses some great threads and ribbons.

The class will start at 11 a.m. and will be $60. which includes everything. There is limited seating, so sign up now.

New goods are coming in every day. More then I can mention. We now have the new limited edition Little House Needleworks "Americana" and some wonderful new kits from Homespun Elegance. Let me know if you want me to save anything for you. We also have some great new canvases for you painted canvas buffs. Along with that I now have the 5 and 8 overdyed perles from Needle Necessities. One color is prettier then the next.

We also have Rainbow Gallery's newest threads. Mandarin Floss, made from bamboo, and Sparkle Braid. The mandarin floss is so wonderful to use, it feels like silk but a much cheaper price. We have it featured on the table in the thread room. The Sparkle braid is a very tight braid that works like blending filament without the hassle. Come in and see the new colors they offer.

Don't forget that tomorrow, 3-17 is stitch night at 6 p.m. and 3-31 will be the 5th Thursday so we stitch again!!!

All are welcome, we have a great time.

We hope to see everyone soon. That's all for right now. To those of you who are going North, stop in and say bye before you leave.

Keep you needles flying and your stitching near by.
~ Cathy

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY SALE!!! (posted: Feb. 03, 2005)

Hello everyone,

This is a quick note to remind you of our biggest event of the season, Our Super Bowl Sunday Sale this Sunday (2/6) from 9am to 3pm. We are having some great reductions, so come and take advantage of this event. Remember this is what gets me to Nashville on Thursday. Money to Burn! Our Nashville cash and carry is from 2/11 to 2/13. I'll be back on Monday 2/14 with suitcases full of new stuff. But come Sunday and take advantage of the discounts... (**Credit Cards will not be accepted during the Super Bowl Sale)

See you then.

~Cathy

Night Hardanger Class (posted: Jan. 15, 2005)

Greetings Everyone,

This is just a short note to let you know that starting this Tuesday, 1-18 at 6p.m. we will be beginning a Hardanger class. Janet is available that night to share her expertise with you on the joys of Hardanger. Please let me know if you would like to attend. I realize this is short notice, but hopefully it will fit into you plans. It is a 2 hours class, and is 6 weeks long. I'll be taking it too. We should have a great time. The cost is $20. for the 6 weeks, and does not include materials.

Also Randee will be here tomorrow from 12-4. Take a minute to stop by and meet her and see her wonderful designs. The store will be open for regular shopping too.

And Thursday is our stitch night. Jan 20 is the date Let me know if you will be here so I have enough chairs.

That's it for now. Hope to see you all soon,
Happy Stitching, ~Cathy

Exciting Teacher News (posted: Jan. 8, 2005)

Hi Everyone ,

I just wanted to let you know we have Susan Greening Davis coming to teach a BRAND new class on Saturday, February 19th, from 10-3. It is a wonderful pin keep she has designed for our Nashville Market, and she has graciously agreed to teach it here after the show. I can't wait. As many of you know Susan Is truly the Ambassador of Needlework and loves to share her expertise. The cost of the class is $60. and it includes all materials and lunch. I hope to have a picture of the piece soon to put on the web site. Sign up now, space is limited and I already have a list.

Also don't forget Sunday January 16th from 12-4 with Randee Kilgore of RK Portfolio. We are having a tea, and Randee will be here to meet you and sign charts. You can also shop to your hearts content, because we will be open for business. Her trunk show is here now so come in and see all her wonderful designs.

Got to run, hope to see everyone very soon!
~Cathy

New Years Greetings (posted: Dec. 29, 2004)

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are relaxing for the New Year. We had a great Christmas. A quiet one, none of the kids were here, but still it was very nice.

I wanted to update you with a few things for the new year and give you some dates to mark on your calendars.

Janet Wilson's Hardanger class will be starting on Jan 11th. We were originally scheduled for the 4th, but she has a conflict then. For those of you who are taking the class, there is some pre-work so call us for directions. Remember it will be Tuesday, 1-11 at 9:30a.m. She will be also be offering an evening class as well. Dates will be firmed up shortly.

We are fortunate to have RK Portfolio's Trunk show beginning Jan 3rd, and even more exciting is we are having a tea with Randee on Sunday Jan. 16th from 12-4. Come and meet Randee and her daughter Stephanie. Randee will be signing charts, giving gifts and visiting with us. It should be a very exciting event. Mark your calendar to meet this up and coming designer.

Please note our biggest upcoming event is the Super Bowl Sunday Sale, Sunday, Feb. 6 from 9-3. You won't miss the game and you can stock up on your favorite designers, fibers, and fabrics at great savings. As always we will have our popular sidewalk sale out front with even more bargains. Start to save your quarters because this will be a cash only event. Remember too, this sale is what takes me to Nashville the next week to buy all the new Spring stuff. Circle Feb. 6th and be ready.

Also Susan Greening Davis was in the shop today, to let me know of a great event she will be hosting with Sally Criswell in Fort Myers on April 23 and 24. I have flyers here so you can sign up. It should be a wonderful time, and right in our back yard. I'll be there. Susan is planning to do some teaching here next year so we are looking forward to that too. Remember next time you are in to pick up a flyer.

Well I must fly, the day is almost over, and I need some stitching time. Hope you all have a Happy New Year, and hope to see you all in 2005 ready to start new projects or finish old ones. Thanks for all your support and kindness throughout 2004. It was a great year for us, as well as a trying one. Onward to '05.

Happy Stitching to All. ~Cathy

December Happenings (posted: Dec. 5, 2004)

Hello Everyone on this cool Saturday. Hope everyone has recouped from Thanksgiving, and moving on to the Christmas festivities. I just wanted to let you know about some things happening this month. and the few new things that have arrived.

Trail Creek Farm has done some great new charts with pillows to match , we have kitted them up so all you have to do is pick them up. Really lovely holiday goodies. Victoria Sampler has started their newest charts of alphabet samplers, you can do one or all of them. The first is A if for Angels. It is so lovely, I had to reorder already. It will be back in sometime next week if you would like to get it. Mary Ann has started to stitch it, and the colors are to die for.

On Tuesday Dec 7 and 14th Janet will be here for her Hardanger group. This is just a stitching group not the class, If you are a Hardanger groupie and would like to come and share some of Janet's knowledge join her here at 9:30 a.m. bring your stitching and questions. Then on Tuesday Jan. 4, 2005 at 9:30 a.m. Janet will begin her Level one class. This will be a 6 week class teaching you all the ins and outs of Handanger. Janet is truly a gifted teacher, and we are delighted to have her back and ready to teach. If you are interested, please let me know because the class is very popular and will be full soon. She will also be teaching other levels as well. The class fee is $20. for the 6 weeks.

Don't forget stitch nite on Dec 16th. This will be a pot luck and ornament exchange. Bring a wrapped ornament and a dish to share. Oh bring stitching too, we might have time to make a stitch or two.

All this month the Christmas charts will be 20 % off so take advantage of this. Also all the Gund holiday plush are 25 % off. You can find some really good deals. Also in that light we have a box here for donations for Toys for Tots, if you would like to bring something and drop it off or purchase something here and put it in the box. I think this year especially with the summer we have had here in Charlotte County, we need to help others too. The box will be here until the 17th.

We have added to our painted canvas line with some wonderful new designs from Jane Nichols. If you don't know, Jane is from Naples, and has done some great tropicals . They are exploding in the canvas room, and anxious to go home with you to be stitched. Included in this are some great belt motifs. We also have a belt finisher to send them to.

Take a peek next time you are in.

On a business note I am looking for some help. This would strictly be part time and besides the needlework, I do have those nasty embroidery machines, that I would like someone to learn as well. Sadly, Ginny has decided to retire and spend time between here and her new place in Arkansas and Carol and her husband are relocating to somewhere in the mid-west. It is always hard to see friends leave, but I know they too are following their dreams. Mary Ann has agreed to begin working, but there is a need for others as well. If you are interested, I would love to talk to you.

With that I must sign off, Those machines are calling me. To everyone, a very Happy Christmas and Festive holiday. Hope to see you soon.

Keep stitching - and thanks to all for making this such a special year.
~Cathy

Fall Updates (posted: Nov. 13, 2004)

Greeting Everyone,

Just a short note to say Hi and hope everyone is doing well and stitching all those wonderful holiday gifts.

We are doing well here at the shop. Even though we had a slower summer, things are now really hopping.

There are a few things I wanted you to mark on your calendar as reminders. Don't forget next Thursday is stitch nite. Just let me know if you are going to be here. Remember everyone is welcome, even if you aren't stitching, but just want to come for the friendship. We have a great group, and I am especially grateful to have such wonderful people in the store. Lizzie Kat'es new little HoHoHo scissor case is here, as well as Mrs. Flossie Claus, companion to Needle Nick.

The latest Blackbird book Peppermint and Holly has 10 holiday designs, and they are great. We got more tacky Bob's in for those who can't live without one. I sold mine to Jay and he used it on his trip back to LA and besides being very happy with this new gadget, could have sold some to other stitchers!

Don't forget Kay Walsh's needlepoint class starts this Weds, 11-17 and there are still some spaces, I need to know if you are going to be here, so I can plan accordingly. The cost for the 2 days is $40. Come early to pick your colors. We will be starting as 11 a.m.

For those who may not know Ginny fell 2 weeks ago and broke her ankle so she is on "vacation" for about 6 weeks. We miss her terribly and hope she is back in the swing of it real soon. She tells me she is becoming a real terror with a walker. I think we need a picture. Carol and I are pretty much running the show. It has been fun. I think Carol is learning more then she ever thought she wanted to know. So please be patient with our slowness when you come in.

For those of you who are looking for a great gift Gift Certificates are the perfect size. We can send it to anyone, so let your family know. More new things are still coming in. I'll never catch up from the Hurricane mess, but we are moving forward. Come in and see what's new, pick up the latest Country Register, and visit for a while.

I must run. Hope to see you all soon, if not have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I have 27 people coming to the house for dinner. Can't wait!!!!

Happy Stitching and Hugs to all,
~Cathy

News For Fall (posted: Oct. 17, 2004)

Greeting Everyone,

I hope this little note finds you all well and recovering from the storms. We have a new roof at home and I am happy, soon we will be back to some normalcy.

I wanted to up date you on a few happenings coming up and new stuff coming in. First, there are still 2 spaces in Jay's Tenjin class, if you would like to sign up. It is next week Oct 23 and 24. Sat and Sun. and it should be an exciting time. The cost is $175.00 and it is worth every penny. Not only do you get a wonderful project, but the information you will receive from Jay is worth the cost in itself.

Jay is retiring sometime next year from the industry, so we may not get to see him as readily. Take an opportunity to benefit from his expertise. E-mail or call me today.

Kay Walsh, an expert on Needlepoint and a member of our local ANG, will be teaching a beautiful basic needlepoint piece, on Weds Nov 17. and Thurs. Nov 18. This is a 2 part back to back class. We will be starting around 11 a.m. The piece is hanging in the store. You will learn counting and different stitches. It is done in traditional Christmas colors but you can choose your own color scheme. The cost is $40. for the class. Sign up today.

We now have some of Randee Kilgore's models in the store.. She is a local designer who has done some great things. Her latest are a pelican and blue heron. Come and see the models and pick up the charts. She has also done some great Ikki Matsmoto designs and we have a few of them. I am so thankful she is willing to share some of her goodies with us.

The new Sister's charts are here. Their new Noel is lovely, and already being done as a model. The buttons, and speciality threads are included in the pack, so get your fabric and stitch it quick! They have also done a new chunky alphabet, that is great. It includes all the letters, plus some ideas to put together some wonderful designs.

Lizzie Kate's newest scissor case, a tree shape, will be here any day and you can include that in your stash as well. We have some wonderful new scissors from Dovo that would look great in those little cases. Check them out when you come and visit.

Don't forget Stitch Night on Thursday Oct 21. starting at 6p.m. Everyone is invited. I've had some ladies tell me them are not able to stitch right now but want to come. Everyone is Invited!!! I understand the not being able to stitch, cause I'm there too. Just come to visit and meet new friends. If you are knitting bring that, if you just want to get out of the house, do that. We are here to de-stress, and visit. Just let me know so I have enough chairs.

We had a great time with Carol Ridyard, our friend from England and her ornament class. I have a completed ornament here, and the instructions for anyone who might like to make it. The cost of the chart is just $8.00. Her directions are very concise, and easy to read. It's great to have an ornament as well to see how pretty it turned out.

We hope to see everyone soon. Come in and browse and check out the new stuff. You have to look everywhere, cause that's where it is. I'm using all the nooks and crannies. Carol and I are here now, Ginny will be back next week. So we hope to see you all.

Take Care, and keep those needles flying. ~ Cathy

Stitch Night & More... (posted: Sept. 16, 2004)

Hello everyone from hurricane ravaged Charlotte County. Will it ever end? I'm so tired of moving furniture, and being afraid!! We evacuated last Friday because of Ivan, and went to visit the kids in Jacksonville. We returned Monday afternoon. and opened again on Tuesday . We packed stuff in plastic bags and placed them in our storage closet; what a mess. So now we are putting everything back! A huge thanks to Mary Ann and Carol for all their help. I couldn't have done it without them.

Now on to better things. Thursday Sept 16th is our stitch nite and I will be here with bells on. So let me know if you are coming. I need a night of relaxing and laughing. Usual time 6 p.m. no curfew, so we can stitch the night away!!!

The Just Cross Stitch ornament issue is here so whomever asked for one I'm holding them, and also have them out. Some great ornaments from our favorite designers.

A couple of new things are here, Lizzie Kate, Waxing Moon, Homespun Elegance, just to name a few.

Carol Ridyard from England is coming to visit, and teach her annual Christmas ornament. It is a 3 sided ornament, with NOEL stitched on it. The class is Sunday, October 10th at 10:30 a.m. and the cost is $25. I have pictures, of it and the pre-work if you choose to do it.

Some of you might know that the Bead Room just a couple miles from us was destroyed during hurricane Charley. I went and offered some space to Gail here at our shop to keep her going. She hasn't taken me up on it yet, but if you see her the offer still stands. I can't imagine what it would be like to lose both you business and house, one damaged is bad enough. But hopefully we will see her soon, with inventory.

My most exciting news is next Wednesday 9-21, is that myself and 7 other crazies are going to the Shepherd's Bush retreat in Utah. I can't wait. The store will be open and help will be there, so don't stay away. I'll be back on Sunday and in the store on Monday 9-27. This is something I've wanted to do for a long time, and I'm excited I have the opportunity. I'm sure I'll have some great stories to share.

Well got to run. Hope you all continue to stay safe, and stitch lots. See you soon. We are open our regular hours.

Thanks for all your support. ~Cathy

Summer At The Shop (posted: Sept. 1, 2004)

Greetings all:

Hope this little note finds you all well and adjusting to our new situation in Charley's wrath. I found that during that first week everything I tried to stitch had so many mistakes I had to throw out 2 projects. I've never done that before. Oh, I've thrown them out because I'm so tired of looking at them, but never because of total lack of concentration. But I'm slowly getting back to some semblance of life, and the stitching is easier.

I wanted to let you know of a few new things, and other happenings here. The new stuff from Homespun Elegance has arrived, and their 2004 ornaments are really cute. They have a Santa and snowman, plus their newest littles with 3 projects in one. Susan's daughter, Hollis, is designing as well and we have some of her charts as well.

Imaginating has a great new bag with a snow lady dressed in her finery with the saying "Born to Shop" plus some green work and blue work that is great for this upcoming season.

Just Nan's newest for the fall is here. And the 3rd of her samplers is beautiful. It is called Winterhaven and we have the silk thread pack to go with it. Her Noel ornament is in Nan's tradition of elegance. Her ghosts are great as well, and includes a skull charm. We have the silk pack for that as well. Her latest Red hat is called the Reward, and that is here too. Waxing Moon's new fall charts are here. Their stack and fall samplers are just great. Come in soon, to stock up for your fall stitching. I expect we will be seeing more from our favorite designers in the future and I will keep you posted.

I am also anxiously waiting for the Christmas issue from Just Cross Stitch. It should be in any day. I have a list of people who want it, so I'll let you know when it is here.

As a reminder, there are still a few spots left for Jay's Tenjin Class Oct 23-and 24. We will be starting at 10a.m. both days. Most of the supplies are here, so you can start your pre-work. Sign up now. This is a must class for counted work. Great experience in metallics, beading and stitching. Jay is always entertaining as well as informative. E-mail or call to add you name to the list.

Our friend and Master framer Linda, at Creative Framing wanted me to let you know that she is having a Labor Day sale this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Fri-Sat. 10-5, Sun 10-2. All her prefinished frames, mats, and prints are on sale. You must check this out. She is located the next light north of Jacaranda Blvd, on 41 at the intersection of 776 and 41 in South Venice. Call her for directions, 1-941-493-2776. . This will definitely be worth the trip.

Hope to see you all soon, and that you too are back to the joy of stitching.

We will be closed Monday Sept 6th for Labor Day. Thanks for all you support and thoughts. Sorry if this note is a little disjointed, I guess my brain is still a little muddled

Stitchingly yours, ~Cathy

Extra Stitch Night (posted: July 28, 2004)

Hello everyone, Just a little reminder that tomorrow night will be another stitch nite at usual time 6 p.m. until we are done. It's great having a 5th Thursday. Hope to see you all here. Just let me know if you are coming so I have chairs. I don't know what we are eating, but I'll come up with something. Any suggestions?

I also wanted you to have a heads up on the new stuff still trickling in. Birds of a Feather has done some great shoe kits. Very much like the Dr. Scholls. with great canvas tops. Finishing is included. All you need is bits of thread. I just love them, and can't wait to do a pair for myself. If I don't have your size I can get it. We have rearranged alittle so you will see different stuff . The new tacky Bob's are here too. If you do any kind of beading, this is a must have. I'll show them to you when you ask. More is on its way. I really think some distributors are taking the slow boat from China. Where are they? Oh well, spreads it out more. Hope to see you soon, and tomorrow night.

Stitch lots of pretties, ~Cathy

New Stuff From Columbus! (posted: July 10, 2004)

Hello everyone.

Just wanted to give you a little up date on the new goodies that have started to show up from the show. So many things, and so little space!

My biggest problem is I want it all here now, but I must be patient, just as you are trying to be. But it has begun, so this is just a sampling.

New from Zecca, is great company with scissor fobs, zingers and magnets which are made with clay or some such medium, with great designs. I really like the one group of fobs, because they have a fancy rubber tip that you can put on the end of your scissor point. Wonderful bright colors too.

Nan's first group of designs are here. "Girls nite Out" are 3 witches with a red witches hat. Marching Orders comes as a sampler or needle case. This is the one with the stitching with a Golden Needle. Next on my pile!! Her latest angel. "Serafina", and "Summer Night". All wonderful, and so true to Nan's designs

Sisters charts and new canvases are here. "Pals" is the companion to "Buddies", a sweet little snowman with a tiny bunny looking up at him. "Wish" is their latest Santa, and he is great. "Baby Jack" is a new canvas piece. I started him right away, and will have him done this week-end. He has the most wonderful, pumpkin face. 3 little holiday charts that come in a stocking with all the embellishments.

Picture this Plus, is a fairly new fabric company that has done some incredible hand dyed fabrics, and they are here. It will make a huge difference in what you stitch. We also have the newest Jobelans that are hand-dyed. Bittersweet, Raspberry and Blueberry. I feel like I want to make a parfait with these new colors. Plus some new colors in cashel as well.

Stitching Pretty Presents, my friend Michelle's design company in Maryland, has some great new charts as well. Gail's latest I don't need a therapist I have my Needlework is one we all need to do. Its done in great bright colors. Joann's newest Heart is a must have as well.

Bent Creek "Neighborhood" and "Halloween Row" are in their typical row line, and are great.

River Silks, a new line of overdyed ribbon comes in 4,7,13 mm and we have started to get some of that. They are so beautiful. Right now we have some of the 4mm, so come in and check it out.

The Just Cross Stitch Christmas issue will be out in late August, so place your orders now. I will hold a copy for anyone. Just let me know.

I must fly, almost opening time. Hope to see you all soon. More to come later. Have a wonderful week-end and keep stitching, ~ Cathy

Summer Goodies! (posted: June 20, 2004)

Good Morning all!

I hope this little note finds you well, and longing for a new project. I'm a little late with this but better late then never. Let's see... The wedding was wonderful everything was perfect, and hopefully we will have pictures soon.

The Columbus trade show was totally overwhelming, but I pressed on. I missed some people but saw a lot more. Lots of goodies will be coming in starting in the next few weeks, and continuing through the fall. I will try to keep you posted on the new things. The most impressive was Just Nan and Sisters and Best Friends. They both out did themselves for this event. All their charts and projects are on order and on their way.

Nan's new red Hat is a witches hat for Girls nite out. Totally cool. A new mini sampler and needle case that has the verse "Wear a Red Hat and Carry a Silver Needle". It is also charted for carry a Golden Needle. While I was in her booth, Nan came up to me and asked if I noticed the 2nd version and I told her I did, She told me she did that for our shop. I just couldn't believe we were so special. I can't wait to get the chart so I can stitch it.

Sisters had a companion piece for Buddies called Pal. His sweater is more pastel, and he has such a sweet face. Its stitched on a great blue hand-dyed fabric. I'm going to have to stitch this with my son Trace in mind because I always called him Pal.

Their new Santa is a winner too. They have a cross stitched version as well as a painted canvas version. Plus some samplers for the season that are great.

• A new scissor case from Lizzie*Kate, new Woof and Meow bonus Blocks.
• A new Santa from Homespun Elegance
• Beautiful garden samplers from Liz Turner Diehl
• New Beaded Kits from Mill Hill
• New scissors from Dovo with lovely colored handles.

-And I could go on and on. I'll just have to keep you all posted as it comes in.

For those of you looking for dates on Jay's Tenjin piece, it will be Saturday, and Sunday Oct 23, and 24th . There will be pre-work and homework, and he tells me he will bring lots of door prizes. The piece is still hanging and will be here until the class. Cost is $175. and I need payment to keep your space. The class is limited so sign up today. Well I must go, Lots more to share as the weeks go on.

Don't forget Stitch night on the 3rd Thursday, (7-15)

Have a great week-end and see you soon,

Happy Stitching,
~ Cathy

Spring Updates! (posted: May 16, 2004)

Hello Everyone, I am so excited. The wedding sampler is here framed and hanging. Linda once again outdid herself. I'm just so glad to have it done. I have moved on to other stitching, and what else is it but Halloween, Yes, I'm working on Brightneedle's House on Booberry Lane. I'm doing it on Blended Needles Candy Corn fabricand its so cute. My next project is Crickets Haunted house. (an oldie but goodie). I should be done with my little house this week.

Another new chart that is on my definite to do list is Mirabilia's newest "Emerald Mermaid" She is so beautiful, and doesn't look like she has a ton of embellishments. I can't wait to start her. Let's see when will that be?

Oh before I forget, we will be CLOSED from Thursday May27, til Tues June 1, in celebration of our daughters wedding. We are travelling to Jacksonville Thursday a.m. and the Wedding is Sat. I can't believe it is almost here. So many emotions running through my head. What a happy time. Even better, both my brothers are coming down, so I get to see them and their wives. Of course when we get back we will hopefully have lots of pictures to share.

Also Stitch nite is this coming up Thursday May 20 at 6 p.m. . Hope to see you all then. Just let me know if you are coming so I have chairs.

I am traveling to Columbus on June 11th until the 14th for our summer trade show. This is a newly combined show with TNNA and will be huge. It is an order only market, so I'll be looking for all the newest stuff to send back. If there is anything in particular you are looking for please let me know so I can get it. I can't wait. I'm taking some classes, and seeing some old friends. I'll also be firming up the dates with Jay for his Tenjun piece, and looking for some new trunk shows to bring in for the Fall.

In January 2005, Janet Wilson will be back to teach 3 levels of Hardanger. If you ever wanted to learn the technique or brush up on it, now is the time. She will be starting the first 6 week class Tuesday, Jan 5 at 9:a/m. with level 1, which is the basics. Her class is limited so sign up now. The cost will be $25, plus materials. I have the list here so you can start looking now. Janet is a master in Hardanger, and loves to share this technique with all. So get started on a true heirloom. Her other levels will be the same day, but later. It should be great fun.

Well I must fly. Hope you are all well, and I will see you soon.

As always Stitch Pretty Things, ~Cathy

Spring Happenings (posted: April 27, 2004)

Greetings Everyone,

It always seems to take forever to sit down and write this note. Time flies, to be sure.

We have some things going on this Spring and looking to the future.

First of all, there are 5 Thursdays this month, so we are having another stitch nite! Yes that's right. 4-29 will be it, at the usual time. Bring your stuff and we will stitch. I'm excited we get to share an extra night. Let me know if you are coming so I can have enough chairs.

We have received some new charts, and I wanted to let you know about them. Our newest charts are European and are lovely. They are from Italy and along the same lines as Lavender and Lace, Angels, and Fairies. They also have a few with Christmas themes that need to be stitched.

We also have some new charts from Heritage stitch craft, and Margaret Sherry. These are great new cats, doing what cats do.

One of the newest designers out there is Little House Needleworks. Great small charts, in a old world look. She is featured in this issue of Just Cross Stitch, so you can see her things. We have many of her charts, so come in and have a look.

Our Crescent Color overdyed line is expanding weekly. Soon we will have them all. They are on the same line as Weeks and Sampler. Many designers are using them. So I should be able to pull them for a chart. They are hanging on the back wall in the thread room.

Come and see our new shop models. I have picked up the latest from Linda at Creative Framing, and as usual she has out done herself. Plus we still have the canvas models, that Rainbow Gallery, and Kim Crum were kind enough to lend to us. They will be here until June so make sure you check them out while you are here.

One piece we have is stitched by Jay Patterson, and he will be coming to teach it in the fall. It is a Catherine Coleman piece called Tenjun, and is beautiful. It is a counted canvas piece with lots of wonderful embellishments and innovative stitches. It will be a 2 day class. So check it out and sign up. I am still firming up dates with him, but it will be late Oct or early Nov. I'll keep you posted.

Oh, as a side note, the Wedding sampler is DONE and at Linda's, as well as the ring bearers pillow. When It is finished, I'll hang it here for a little while. The wedding will be here before you know it. and as a celebration, ALL painted canvas and counted canvas charts will be 20 % off during the month of May. Come in and stock up with these great savings. We I have run out of time and space.

Have a wonderful week-end and hope to see you soon. For all of our winter friends who are traveling back North, have a safe and stitching filled summer!

See everyone soon, Thanks for all the great support,
~Cathy

Nashville Goodies II (posted: March 20, 2004)

Greetings my fellow stitchers. I hope everyone is enjoying this lovely spring weather. Too pretty to be inside, so we must move our stitching to the lanai!

This little note will bring you up to date on the 2nd round of Nashville stuff.

First and most importantly, Just Nan's Red Hat chart, "The Promise" is here. Those of you who preordered, I have yours here, just let me know what you want to do, I'll ship to you if necessary.

Shepherd's Bush 4 new hearts have arrived and they are true to the SB tradition. they are small and could be completed in a week-end. If you love their mats they are available, but my suggestion is to give Linda at Creative Framing in S. Venice a try. She has this new mat cutter that is to die for. Come in and see what she has cut for me. It is just incredible.

The new canvases from Sundance Designs are here, some very unusual ones with a southwest flair, and the new Laura J. Perin canvas charts. Her latest are the Impressionist designs, and we have the first 3. As well as a couple new Quilt collection charts.

We also have the newest shop models from the Rainbow Gallery, and they are really nice.

Judy Whitman's trunk show is here, and is as elegant as ever. Come in and take a look. They are on the front wall, and are an inspiring selection. They will be here a couple more weeks, so come in and see.

I'm almost done with the ring bearers pillow, and I'm struggling with the sampler. I'm tired of it and want to move on to something else. Can't yet. I'm planning on working on it seriously this weekend.

Well, more coming, but I've got to run. Hope to see you all soon, Take care, and Keep stitching.

~Cathy

Nashville & Spring Update (posted: February 28, 2004)

Hello Everyone,

Where does the time go? It seems like just the other day it was Super Bowl Sunday. Well there is a lot to tell, so I'll see how far I get before I run out of space.

Nashville was great, however there were many sick people. I was fortunate enough not to be one of them. It was wonderful to see everyone and hear about all the new stuff, and it was great buying all the new spring and summer goodies. There are still lots of wonderful things here, and many more coming in. My shopping was a little limited, but I power shopped anyway. Come in and see all the newest of the new. We are working frantically on shop models as well, but I think you will really like what was offered.

We now have the models for the new counted canvas pieces from Rainbow Gallery, and Kim Crum's new tea pot. This is her 3rd in a series. It is truly lovely. Jane Ellen Buzeweit's Touch of Spring is the 3rd in her series as well. We have Fall ,Winter and Spring hanging.

Some great new charts from 4 my Boys, and Trilogy. The new silk gauze kits from Krienik, Just Nan's new things, Plus she has re-released Lady Scarlett's Journey, and we have all 3 parts. That is such a special piece I can't wait to do it. Speaking of Nan, she is releasing in mid March her latest piece Red Hat Society, and it is gorgeous. Please reserve your copy now because this one will not be here long. It is a small sampler with an enameled red hat, and has a stitching sentiment to the verse. I will be more then happy to hold one for whomever requests it. Let me know

A note for my Hardanger ladies, Our Tuesday Group WILL NOT be meeting this month (Feb). but will return on March 6th at 9 a.m. Please mark your calendar if you care to attend.

Also in March Judy Whitman, of JBW Designs will be sharing her latest trunk show with us. If you missed her show last time, make it a point to see it this month. Her pieces are lovely and inspiring. We should have it up the first week of March and it will be on display for the month.

I am frantically stitching on the Wedding Sampler for my daughter and am making progress. I hope to have it completed by the end of March to be framed and hung here in the shop for a little while. I am also making the ring bearers pillow and am doing well with that too. It is frustrating, since my other stitching is lagging behind, but I must be persistent on these things. May 29 will be here too soon.

We also have started to get Crescent Colours and Six Strand Sweet in for you thread lovers, as well as the new Caron colors.

Well got to run. Hope you are taking advantage of the cooler weather and stitching alot. We hope to see you in the shop soon.

Have a great week-end ~ Cathy

Nashville Trip (posted: February 4, 2004)

Hello my Stitching friends,

This is just a little note to let you know I'm leaving tomorrow morning for Nashville and our cash and carry trip. I will be returning on Monday Feb. 9. I'll be in the store Monday afternoon with all the new merchandise that I can carry. Do not despair however, the shop will be open while I am gone. Ginny and Bruce will be here to help you in any way that they can. . I've gotten out my heaviest coat, because I know I'm going to freeze. It will be great to see all my stitching buddies whom I haven't seen since July.

Hope to see you next week so you can shop for all the newest Spring and summer Things.

Don't forget our stitch nite on Feb 19th from 6-?. I'll have more to tell you next week.

Keep stitching. ~ Cathy

Super Bowl Sale (posted: January 22, 2004)

Hello my fellow stitchers, I hope this little note finds you well and stitching away.

This note is a BIG reminder that this Sunday, is our Super Sale from 9-3. Yes, Jan 25th is the date for our largest sale of the year. Its the Super bowl sale 1 week early. Just think of it as a day you can take your time and shop, so next week you can relax and enjoy the game and have all your stitching there to concentrate on.

Everything regularly priced ( except DMC floss) will be 20% off plus deeper discounts on special designers throughout the store, and you have to be here to find out. We will also be having our popular side walk sale with great bargains outside. Because of the depth of this sale, I will only accept cash or checks( Debit cards will be accepted too.) this day. Save your credit cards for another day.

Remember this is the sale that takes me to Nashville. So the more you shop the more I can bring back. Nashville is Feb 6-8, and is a cash and carry, so I have lots of suitcases ready to go. I will be back in the store Monday Feb 9, at around 1 p.m. and the stuff will be with me and ready to sell. I've already located some exciting new things and can't wait to share them with you. So come on Sunday, and take advantage of our sale. You definitely will reap the benefits.

There will be a big sign posted at the front door telling you of all the sale specials so you can plan your shopping before you even walk in. Can't wait to see you Sunday. Ginny, Carol, Sally, Shirley, Bruce and myself will be here to make you shopping experience a great time. Bring a friend or two, too share the experience with.

As a side note Wednesday and Thursday, Jan 28 and 29, we have a booth at Victoria Estates for their Quilt show. Wednesday is from 9-7 and Thursday is from 9-5. Come by and say hi, and view the beautiful quilts on display. We always have a great time at these shows. Hope to see you there.

Well lots more to tell you but I'll save it for a later date. Hope to see everyone on Sunday, with your shopping shoes on. Stay warm, It's Florida, where's the warm weather? and keep those needles flying.

New Year's Eve Update! (posted: December 31, 2003)

Greetings my fellow stitchers,

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday, and are looking forward to the new year. We made it through healthy and had our kids home for Christmas so it was a great holiday. We had a loaded house with people and dogs, but it was great.

I just wanted to give you all a little reminder of things happening in early January, and some dates to mark down.

Tuesday, January 6, from 9-2 is Janet's Hardanger group here at the shop. Anyone with Hardanger is welcome and Janet will guide you if you need some assistance. The ladies who have come have enjoyed themselves, so join us if you can.

Thursday, Jan 15 is our stitch nite from 6-? so mark that on your calendar.

January 16 and17 we will have a booth at Harborside Event Center for their Quilt show. Both days will be from 9-5. Ginny and Carol will be there on Friday, and Carol and I will be there on Sat. I will be in the shop on Friday and Sally will be here to help you on Sat. These quilt shows are a lot of work, but great fun. The quilts are wonderful, and inspiring. If you are in Ft. Myers, stop by and see us.

We will be at Victoria Estates for their Quilt show on January 28, and 29. Even though it's in the middle of the week, it is still a great time.

We have now received the new colors of Caron threads. 27 new ones. Let me know what you think.

Lizzie Kates new monthly block chart is here, They are really cute, and a nice addition to their charts.

Also as a reminder, even though Super Bowl is February 1 we are having our Super Event on Sunday January 25, from 9-3. We will have some great bargains inside and out, as well as specials throughout the store. Since we will be doing this a week early, you can shop for lots of wonderful things, and be ready for a new stitching project during the Super Bowl. Mark you calendar with a big red X.

We are still working on classes in the Spring and other good events. I will be traveling to Nashville for the cash and carry February 5-9, so hopefully I will have lots of cash to take with me from our Super Bowl event, so I can bring lots of exciting merchandise back to you.

Tomorrow, we are going to the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville to see the University of Maryland beat (hopefully) the University of West Va. We will be open on Friday, Jan 2 normal hours.That's all for now. Happy and Healthy New Year to all.

See you, Cathy

December Update! (posted: December 12, 2003)

Chilly Morning Greetings to all my stitching friends.

I didn't move to Florida for this cold weather. My daughter called from MD. last night where she is visiting my family with her fiance, Mike, and it was 23 degrees and there was still snow on the ground, and Mike has never seen snow before. He was thrilled. It's supposed to snow on Saturday there. Oh well,. enough of that cold news.

I wanted to let you know about some end of the year goings on.

RK Portfolio's trunk show is here and on display. What wonderful pieces Randee has done. These will truly inspire you to stitch for Spring. As many of you know Randee is a resident of Palm Harbor, former owner of Lasting Impressions in Tampa, and now a fine designer. Included in her portfolio are pieces designed for stitching of Ikki Matsumoto paintings. Come in and see some lovely work.

Next Reminder. Wednesday Dec 17 from 6-8 is our night to shop for that special someone. Send you spouse, kids or whomever, and we will set them up and we will wrap it too. Ginny and I will be here to give any assistance needed. So mark your calendar for this date.

Thursday, Dec 18 will be our regular stitch night and we will be having a little holiday party. Bring a small gift of stitching nature, or an ornament you have stitched, and we will have a little gift exchange, also if you can bring something to share to eat, we can have a small pot luck. Figured that could be more fun than pizza. Any one is invited to come no matter what, and its the regular time 6 p.m. until we are through. Bring stitching too, cause we will probably do some of that as well..

The Bizzi Creation box kits finally are here. They are a great little gift idea, to either give or stitch. They are just $24. and come with everything including the box.

Our Mill Hill Pixie Picket Fence exclusive Kits were so popular we sold out in 2 days, but for those of you who wanted them and didn't get them, I have a few more coming. They should be here some time next week. I couldn't believe how quickly they sold out. They really are adorable so let me know if you want me to hold one for you.

There will be a lot going on next year, so keep your eyes posted for the e-mails. Just as a beginning note. Put Sunday January 25, on your calendar. That's our Super Bowl Sunday sale, from 9a.m.-3p.m. and this will be our biggest yet. Great bargains inside and out. More to come on this

I hope everyone has a very Happy and Healthy Holiday. Thank you for all your support throughout the year.

Keep those needles flying and I will be seeing you soon, Cathy

November Update! (posted: November 12, 2003)

Greetings my fellow stitchers,

Hope this note finds you well and stitching for the holidays.

We have received a few new things and I wanted to let you know about them.

The Trail Creek Farm Trunk Show is here and it is great! Lots of cute charts and pillows to stitch. They are on the front table just as you walk in. I especially like the summer bag she did. The show features some fall and summer items, come in and check it out, it will be here until Thanksgiving. Sisters and Best Friends have outdone themselves again. They have 3 new charts: Happy Holly Days, with a long sock attached, Make and Wish, an alphabet with stocking and a little teddy, and Chilly Willy and his best Friend Nick, The cutest snow man and Santa being pals. I can't wait to stitch them all. They are in stock and ready to go.

On the counted canvas end, Laura Perin has 3 beautiful new pieces, Amber Waves, Independence Day, and Kimono with fans. They are truly exquisite and ready for your stitching pleasure.

Don't forget that next Thursday, 11-20 is our regular stitch nite, from 6p.m. until we are done. The usual goodies will be served and of course it will be fun.

Ginny and I are venturing to the EGA stitch nite tomorrow at Idle Hours in Fort Myers. We have talked about doing it and I'm making myself go. Hope to see some of you who are involved.