I just have a quick bit of news for you today, and an announcement in which I beg your patience…!
For those who don’t know, my dad (who is 95 this year), lives with me and I take care of him (right now, with lots of extra family help, thankfully!).
He has lately taken a turn for the worse and things are pretty demanding, mentally, physically, and of course, time-wise. This is taking a toll on work at Needle ‘n Thread – which takes a toll on, well, pretty much everything for Anna and me!
This was my last outing with both my Mom and Dad, in June of 2020. We went to the Brookville Hotel in Kansas, because some 50 or so years ago, they had gone there together when they were visiting Kansas. Mom passed away in August of that year. Dad has gone decidedly downhill ever since then – and even more so recently – which is to be expected at his age. He does not look quite so spry these days! I love this picture!
I don’t know how long this stage will last, but please bear with us.
In the meantime, Anna is keeping up with shipping at the studio.
I’m working on computer projects for Needle ‘n Thread from home as I can. (And – blah! – taxes!) And basically just trying to keep things together as best as possible.
So my sincere apologies if I can’t keep up with the blog as regularly. I hope to – but can’t guarantee it. We shall see what the near future brings, and as things develop, I’ll know better what we need to do business-wise. Thanks so much for your patience!
New in the Shop
We’ve been bringing several choice goods since January, that we’ve had planned for the shop for a while. I just haven’t had time to list many of them.
This week, I listed the Avlea Folk Embroidery kits that I wrote about earlier.
I also listed these gorgeous journals that we use for tracking project notes and progress in the studio. I selected them specifically for their beautiful covers that remind me of textile – and other – art from past ages, from around the world.
We have Book 6 of The Handpicked Collection from Inspirations Studios coming soon. We’ll let you know when it gets here.
Finally, after a long hoop shortage, we are flush with many sizes of embroidery hoops – including new sizes that we’ve added to our offerings. If you’re looking for high quality embroidery hoops, we have plenty!
Have a terrific Wednesday. I hope to “see” you Friday!
No apologies necessary, Mary. Life takes over in all our lives. What a blessing you have the strength and time to care for your beloved dad. Thank you for sharing these bits with us.
Grace and peace,
Linda
Mary, take whatever time you need and do whatever you need to – family always comes first! We completely understand, and we’re not going anywhere. Best wishes to you and your family during this difficult time. And thank you, Anna, for all you do!
Dear Mary, I feel for you and everyone in your family. May God grant you all strength and may your father’s passing to rejoin your mother be gentle. I have been following you for many years and my heart is with you all.
Hey there Mary,
Don’t apologise for being normal! We all worry about the loss of our parents and wanting the very best for them right up to the end. I hope the extended family is rallying around you and giving you the support you and Dad need. One day at a time is all we get, enjoy the bits you can enjoy, don’t worry to hard about the other bits.
95 is a grand old age and not everyone is as lucky as you are in still having him around. What will be, will be. In the meantime don’t fret yourself and do what needs to be done. Remember to take some time out for you. Stay healthy. Get rest. Enjoy the spring sunshine.
All your regulars are thinking of you.
Mallory
I’m so sorry to read about your Dad. Sending prayers your way. I know how stressful this time is for you. Remember to lean on your friends- they are there to support you!
Hi Mary,
Sending heartfelt prayers to you and your dear family. What a lovely picture. Reminds us of the beauty and power of love. Peace to you, Jeanne.
I have been where you are a few times now, so right there with you. Do what you need to do.
Oh Mary, please take care of yourself and your Father and don’t worry about us! You’re doing a great job!
So sorry you’re all facing challenges with your dad, understand how important it is to be present for him right now. Sending prayers and positive thoughts.
Peggy
Hello Mary,
Thank you for the family update. I will keep your dear father, you, and all your family in my prayers.
Comfort and peace,
Karole
I pray for You and your Father and Anna! Pax et Gracia!
Sending hugs and good wishes to you and your family.
I am also caring for my 94 year old Pop… I will keep you in my prayers.
Sending thoughts of peace.
Dorothy
Oh, I hope it’s going well for you, Dorothy!!
Caring for your father takes precedence. Everyone understands that. Wish you still had some of those journals though.
They are in stock!! I made a mistake when I first put them in stock, and only put one of each in the inventory. Aaaaaargh! Big mistake!
Dear Mary, enjoy snd cherrish the remaining time with your dad. I am sure he has his good moments and he looks like he loves a good laugh. Make the most of the time with him still here. The blog can wait, as long as you can make a living. There are more important things in life than to satisfy your fan group.
I always enjoy your blog but I know the ither side, too
Best wishes to all Mary.
Please, no apologies needed. My heart aches for you and for your Dad. We went through this with both sets of parents and it can be exhausting. But trust me, the time you spend with him, especially now, will be a huge blessing over the coming years. Making those special memory moments and letting him know he’s not alone and he is loved, is the best gift of all for both of you. You will never regret it. Darn, my eyes are tearing up remembering the final months with my Dad.
Oh, Mary, my heart goes out to you. It can be so hard! I’m sending intense vibes for you to have the energy you need and the hope that you can find ways to take care of yourself as well.
Mary and Anna, my heartfelt understanding is with you. I also took care of my Dad after Mom died. It is a long and difficult journey filled with blessings and joy. Be assured that you are doing the right thing, and we understand. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you and your family.
I’m so sorry to hear that your father has taken a turn for the worse and that everything is so challenging right now. My prayers will be with you and your family at this trying time.
You are in my prayers.
Therese
Holding you and your father in my thoughts and prayers.
Sending you a big hug, filled with love and strength for you, your father and family. You have been a rock for him and I am sure he has been so ever thankful to be able to stay with you. It’s a rarity these days – please don’t worry about your fan base here. We’re all rallying behind you and understand that this precious time with your time is what matters the most. May God grant you all you need and more.
Prays are with you
Family is the most important thing
Concentrate on your Dad
No apologies necessary! You take great care of your dad and yourself and enjoy him while you can.
Prayers flooding your way! My dad will be 98 yrs on 3/15. I also been helping out my parents, navigating in home care, safety measures for the home. I’m a physical therapist assistant and using my skills to keep them safe in their home. Anything you need, please reach out!
Prayers for your dad and family!
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. It must be hard. Take the time you need to care for him and yourself.
I don’t know what to say Mary; may you find the strength of heart to deal with your current burdens, and know that your newsletter/blog subscribers are patiently waiting, understanding that life happens. The same for Anna working diligently on the background.
Mary, Such a lovely photo of your Mom & Dad. Thank you for sharing it.
Take the time you need, Mary. There’s nothing more important than looking after family. And be sure to take care of yourself as well. Blogs can wait.
Hello Mary,
No need to apologize to us! Your father should be your first priority; you’re lucky to still have him here!
Diane
Sorry to hear that your dad is ailing. I love the pic of your parents together! I can see each of them in your face. 🙂 I hope for comfort and healing for your dad, and lots of support for you. Thanks for everything you give us! Surely a little grace and patience is the least we could offer you in return.
Enjoy your Dad, that is such a gift to be able to do that.
Dear Mary,
I’m sorry to hear that your Dad isn’t doing well. Your parents look like the nicest, happiest people, just lovely. Your care must be trying but so beautiful for him. Please accept my sincerest best wishes for all of you.
Just read you article about your Dad. I have recently walked in your shoes with both my parents. No apologies needed anywhere to anyone, in my opinion. Your Dad is your priority and you will never have any regrets ☺️ love your site and thank you for all your info and tutorials
Mary,
While time with elderly parents is extremely demanding at times, please treasure these moments. After my parents were gone, I really wished I had had extra time with them. I’ll keep you and your dad in my prayers.
Diane Koza