SO LONG OLE FRIENDS!

This week my husband (after 2 years of not driving) finally accepted the fact that we may no longer be driving the 'farm truck' and his tool around van.  So he was able to let it go!  The vehicles were donated to Vehicles for Vets.  It was so easy to do and since he is a Veteran the first suggestion he would listen to or accept was that possibility.  There is a 4 step process and you can do it all online.  Just need your car registration and you are good to go.  Simple questions.  They respond to your donation form immediately and schedule a timely pickup.  Our pickup was 2 days from our initial form completion.  

Next up is (was) his favorite toy - his FarmAll 140 tractor.  This will be the most difficult for him to see pulled out of the driveway.  It is still sitting in the field where he last used it when he became ill.   But he is really being a trooper and actually handling this all pretty well.  

So he has had to give up a lot in the last 2 years:  Driving - Golf - and playing on his Tractor.  But, he is doing great about it all.

Okay, enough about what has been distracting me here at Arthur Acres.

Duo Designs Stitching Retreat - September 2023

Can you believe we are involved in processing registration fees for the upcoming Stitching Retreat featuring Gayla Elliott's Stitching Girls?  Where did the time go?

We have the full gamut of stitchers from beginners to the seasoned ones.  They hail from California to Pennsylvania! They are stitchers, teachers, designers, distributors, vendors, etc.  We are going to have so much fun and gain knowledge beyond the classroom!

If you are still considering joining us, do no drag your feet too long - the clock is ticking.  Just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com so you can come play with us.

ONLINE CLASSES

Registrations also involve our new/repeat class the Three Wisemen Encore.  This class is back by popular request!  It is not kitted, however.  Participants obtain their own canvas and supplies from the materials list provided.  Look out stash!  Here they come!

The 8-lesson packet is provided online through a private group.  You read the lessons at your leisure and stitch the same way.  You control your own schedule.  To enjoy this process with us just send an email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES

Another fast approaching adventure is the Stitching Cruise to the Greek Islands!  Greece awaits us!  But, we just so happen to be going to stop and spend the first 2 days in Venice!  Who doesn't always welcome more time in Venice?  I may have left a Murano glass bead or two there from the last visit!

We have the good fortune to travel once again on the beautiful Azamara!  Below is a picture of one of our last adventures with them.

As you can see, light for stitching is no problem!

This trip's exclusive design is fashioned after the beautiful area of Santorini.  Santorini Splendor  documents the fabulous blue theme of the area.  The rugged shoreline is evident with the constant movement of the water.  Flowers flourish to add color sprinkled all about.

This optional class kit is hand painted on 18 ct canvas.  The design area is __________.  There is a plethora of threads used including the addition of silk ribbon! The kit is $395.  Kit will be mailed to the participants prior to departing the States to those who choose to join this class.  This allows time to set up your supplies and stretch the canvas to your liking.  The stitch guide will be shared in Venice!  Email if you wish to have this Optional Exclusive Design to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

Should you choose to not participate in the optional class you may bring something from your stash to stitch on.  If this is the option you wish to pursue it would be helpful if you forward a picture of what you will be stitching and what area you desire teacher assistance.

That's all the time I have for now - till next time.

 WHAT DID I DO WRONG?

Aren't things supposed to slow down as we celebrate our senior years?  I swear - I swear - I have cut back and slowed down!  Or at least I thought I had. But there still seems to be a shortage of time at the end of day.  I'm sure a lot of it has to do with the fact that I am not as agile, energetic nor ambitious as I once was, but, hey, my mind refuses to slow down to the pace my body is willing to put forth!  LOL.  Don't get me wrong, I am absolutely not complaining!  I am just disappointed that I cannot accomplish what my mind thinks I can and should!  I am, however, thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to continue to try.

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREATS

We become more excited with each passing day as we prepare for the surprises and fun filled things we are preparing to share with you!  It is becoming more and more difficult to focus on our other projects (which are just as much fun) as we work along because we want to play with the September Retreat at General Butler Resort State Park in Carrollton, KY goodies.

Have you registered?  The fun begins on Friday afternoon , September 22, with our welcoming reception. You will meet our special artist - Gayla Elliott - and fellow participants.  We are covered from California to Delaware, North Carolina, Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and our adjoining states of Indiana, Illinois and Ohio!  So we are a very diverse group who share a passion of needlework and know how to have fun and enjoy each other!

The Retreat is focused on two special Gayla Elliott Stitching Girl designs - Boss Lady and a new exclusive just for the Retreat - Stitching Girl with her Horse.

Teresa has chosen some very exciting patterns and techniques to share with her students during the 2 days bringing this design to life. Teresa breaks down stitches and techniques for all level of stitchers so you will not go away frustrated.  Some peeks have been shared over on the special group - Duo Designs Stitching Retreats. Hop over and join this group to see what is going on and to not miss future events.

The exclusive design is taught by Sandy and she will explore a different path of techniques - more rustic perhaps.

We are so anxious for you to be able to just relax and enjoy the serenity of this beautiful setting!

Okay, so we know what we are going to be doing during the day but what about the evenings after dinner?  If you think you are going to go to your room and watch TV or go to bed, forget it!  Teresa and Sandy have -who knows what - something in store for each evening.  You must be present to participate and receive whatever the surprises are.  

There will be a great Goody Bag at registration.  You will need to bring the Goody Bag with you at all events because you may need some of the items that are contained therein -' tee hee' she snickers with an evil 'know all' smirk.

There will be nightly prizes and you must be present to collect - if not present then another name will be drawn.

For those already registered we will be sending invoices in a couple of weeks so start watching for them.

Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com if you have not received your registration form and we will get a brochure out to you right away.  The clock is ticking and we would love to have you join us!

ONLINE CLASSES

 The beginning of the new class of ORNAMENTS GALORE from JP Needlepoint will be starting this week.  If you are registered your invoice for the teaching fee has been sent.  Canvases have been mailed for those that ordered.  Follow the private group Ornaments Galore on Facebook for more specific details.

Session X for the Chinese Lanterns is next up and we have a lot of fun techniques we are sharing in this session for the JP canvas.

Then Sea Shells is also actively being stitched. Session IV is on the floor stand.  

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES

GREECE is just around the corner!  Wow it is so hard to believe that stitching adventure is only a few months away.

The canvas for the optional class - Santorini Splendor - has been received!  YAY!

This Optional Kit of a hand painted canvas and thread kit is $385 .  Kits will be mailed to participants prior to our departure so that you may stretch your canvas and arrange your kit to your liking.  Stitch guides will be handed out in Venice.  If you want to purchase this optional kit for the adventure just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

Until next time - - - - 

 RAIN!  WIND!  RAIN!  WIND!

One day it has been in the low 80s and then it is very cold again! It is so up and down!  One minute you are burning up and the next you are chilled!  Really!

I have a new experience recently.  You may remember our stray  cat - Rocky - who just moved in and decided to let us stay in our home.  Anyway, it was obvious after several months, that no one was looking for him or going to claim him.  So it was time to become a responsible pet owner and have him visit the vet and leave some of his parts behind.  No problem right?  Well we forgot about how we were going to get him to the vet.  Rocky did not welcome the carrier nor did he go down without fighting!  I finally managed to coax him with some food and throw a blanket over him.  He was NOT happy!  Poor baby. Once in the carrier he calmed down some and we were able to get to the vet and fulfill our journey.  After several days Rocky has forgiven us and has become the most  aggravating bunch of love you could ever hope for.  He continues loving his naps but now he wants to do them in your lap or at least against you.  All is well so far.

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES

Do you realize that our upcoming Greece Stitching Journey is just around the corner?  We have so much to look forward to!  Trying hard to not get too excited because we have several adventures before actually sailing,.

Is Greece and Venice on your bucket list?  We have a lady who is looking to share these adventures!  If you would like a roommate be sure to contact our agent right away!

I should have the prices for our Option Class Kit soon,  Watch the Group posting as we will share the information as soon as it is finalized!

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREATS - join the FB Group

Most of the threads have arrived for the fun kits we will be playing with in Kentucky in September.  Participants are starting to make payments in preparation for their upcoming adventures!  You don't want to miss this fun Retreat.  If you have not made your class selection as yet you are running out of time!   Both are great so you cannot chose incorrectly - lol.

Teresa and I are so busy working to put together some great surprises for you!  I'm so glad I get to go - I want the surprises too!

Food is great and the company is going to be even better.  We have so many fantastic people joining us.  Come be with us!  Just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com for more information.  All you need to bring is an open mind, a desire to have a good time, pretty good appetite, and your love for needlework with friends! You need not worry about forgetting anything as we have you covered.

If you brought a friend and are looking for them they are probably napping in this fantastic area.  If not napping they may be reading, meditating or enjoying the beautiful scenery.  

Don't forget to register for the upcoming Ornaments Galore from JP Needlepoint and the Encore class for Three Wisemen.

Stay tuned!

 EXCITEMENT BUILDS!

This past week I have been getting notices left and right from the paint services! It is always a exciting message for me and  one I look forward to getting.

 OnLIE CLASSES:

  next month we begin the exciting and fun design of JP needlepoint - Ornaments Galore.

We are going to try something different i this class.  Our first moth we will be sharing 2 classes - they will be spaced out during the month.  Likely the first mid-month and the second the end of the month. These two classes a month will be possible as they will involve stitching that requires more time rather than unusual techniques. June thru September are expected to be one session each mid-month.  

There is still to join this class but not much.  Email right away if you would like to play with us - duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

Registration is ongoing for the Encore class of the Three Wisemen.  This class is slated to begin mid-June.  Email at duodesignsinc@gmail.com to register.

needles  'n Fins Stitching Adventures - n the group

We will also be receiving the exclusive cavas for the Greece Stitching Cruise Adventures set for October!

This is a optional class kit for purchase by those who want to have this unique design.

Santorini Splendor promises to serve as a wonderful souvenir of this upcoming adventure.

duodesignsinc@gmail.com

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREAT

Have you registered for the upcoming   DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREAT featuring fantastic artist Gayla Elliott?  Class registration for desired class closes May 1, 2023.

Does the Boss Lady pique your interest?  Wait until you see the beautiful colors, threads and techniques that Teresa is going to share with you!

Teresa will assist in the wall sign and with the WIP.  Techniques that you will be able to utilize on other projects in the future!

Maybe the Stitching Girl with her Horse is more in line with what you would like to play with during your relaxing Retreat while taking in the wonderful scenery and serene atmosphere of the General Butler Resort State Park.

Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com.  Remember that everything is included except your travel and hotel costs.  Full kits, mounted o stretcher balls, all meals, breaks, goody bags, ad much, much more.  Hope to see you there!

 WHAT SEASON IS THIS?

Oh, I live in Kentucky.  We don't go by seasons - lol.  We jump from 33 one evening and wake up to 73 next morning. Right now it is 65 degrees, sun shining beautifully but the wind could blow you off guard if you don't pay attention!  But at least it isn't raining as it has been here the last few days.  Some areas are flooded - always so sad.

Hubby got his first brace this week.  It goes from the bottom of his foot up to past his knee.  He is adjusting well to it.  He is wearing it in daily increased increments of 1 hour until he is able to wear it all waking hours.  I'm glad he is not struggling with it.  His biggest challenge is getting his heel into the shoe.  Now, yes, I could help and do that for him but I refuse to do so.  I told him he needs to figure it out and that it will get easier each passing day.  I need to be careful as I do not want him to become totally dependent!

Spring is in the air!  Yes, even for me I can get Spring fever.  I am going through bolts of canvases and trying to decide what I will actually use and what needs to be used by someone else!  LOL. This is hard for me because I love it all!

ONLINE CLASSES

I love working on future lessons and trying to stay ahead of my next posting.  This week I am a little challenged as I am not seeing as well as normal.  But who knows, this might be my new normal.  Getting time for my visit to the doctor I suppose.

In the meanwhile, registration continues for the next classes.

The lovely Ornaments Galore offer us so many possibilities.  My brain goes crazy just looking at all the different techniques that we could utilize.

Those of you taking the Sea Shells and Chinese Lanterns class with us can get a pretty good idea of what some of the possibilities are.  But never fear, there will be some surprises along the way too.

Email us if you would like to participate in this 10-session class set to begin mid-May.  Duodesignsinc@gmail.com for registering.  There is $150 deposit and the. 10-Session lesson fee is $300.

Also in the registration phase is the Encore for Three Wisemen.  This finished piece was so well received that there were enough requests to warrant offering it again.

This 8-Session repeat is slated to begin in mid-June.  If you would like to join us just email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com to get onboard!

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREATS - Join the Group

We are daily playing with the upcoming Retreat for September.  While we are featuring the fun and whimsy side of Gayla Elliott, there is much more going on also.

In addition to working on the Goody Bag to be distributed on the first night during the Reception, there is much more on the agenda.  Those of you who have traveled with us on our Stitching Cruises know exactly what I am talking about.   We are daily working on surprises to be sprung on you whenever!

Doesn't this look like a serene place to take a nap?  Oh wait!  It is and I have!

You really do not want to miss out!  Email us to get your registration packet and to get any questions you may have answered!  You will have a blast!  We promise!  Email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES - Join the Group

As soon as our suitcases get unpacked, it will be time to do laundry and repack.  Our fabulous Greece Island Stitching Cruise is in October 11-23, 2023.

Our travel agent is in Greece on this sister cruise now so she should be prepared for most anything that we imagine! We are so excited as we continually send out brochures as requested.

I love the itinerary - look at all the islands we will visit - and I especially love that we will visit Venice once again. So, Italy, Greece and Turkey all in one swoop!

Email to get your brochure at duodesignsinc@gmail.com.  We'd love to have you join us!

Don't forget to visit our Etsy Shop occasionally!   Always something going on there too -  DuoDesignsbySandra

Stay safe!

 WHAT A MESS!

Those of you who follow me personally know what h _ _ _ the Arthur Acres household has been experiencing.  We had severe storms come through Kentucky and unfortunately we at the Acres did not totally escape damage.  Thankfully, there were no injuries nor severe property damages incurred - more than we can say for a lot of our fellow residents.

On March 3 we had the misfortune of having 100+ year old tree that resided next to our home just totally blow over!  Now this tree was protected by the house in addition to having what  would think was a substantial root base.  Well, Mother Nature said move over - you are in my way.   

Look at that root ball!  It is as wide as our house is tall!

See that utility pole in the background of the tree top - the tree showed no mercy!

We were without power until March 10th in addition to all other utilities - land line, cable, and most importantly Internet.  We did not get our Internet and other services reinstalled until March 14th -  it seemed like an eternity.   I did manage to get out one day and get to the library to send out essential responses as best I could.

Now, make no mistake about it, we are very blessed and fortunate.  Our adventure was a major nuisance but thankfully it is all material.  We are currently trying to play catch up!  Thank you all for your patience.

ONLINE CLASSES

We were so grateful to get our Internet in time to share our Online Class Sessions.

This month we bid farewell to our sweet pink ostrich - Bestie.  She and froggie were so fun to do.

Besties have three companion pieces as well:

We are really moving along on our Chinese Lanterns project.  We added another lantern to the finished side!

Sea Shells on Sea Shore was given the various sand interpretations for this session.

Looking forward, registration is active for the next classes of the Encore for Three Wisemen: Hope to begin this Encore class mid-June 2023.

And another great opportunity to experience several techniques, threads and embellishments on JP Needlepoint's Ornaments Galore. Anticipate class to be starting Mid-May 2023.

Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com to join the fun.

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREATS -  SEPTEMBER 2023

I will post this in the private group as well but I wanted to suggest that those of you who are paying payments in advance for the Retreat at General Butler Resort State Park please make sure that you have received an email from me acknowledging that payment.  With the crazy Internet problems we've had I want to make sure none have fallen through the cracks.  email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com if you think you have made a payment that we have not acknowledged.

Have you figured out our recent post?  Gonna be fun!

The riddle was:  What on earth is this? Whatever is it for? What will he/she do with it?

All will be revealed at the upcoming Retreat!  Be sure to get registered and join in the fun!

Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES - join the Group

As we anticipate our upcoming Greek Isles Stitching Cruise in October we daydream of what one of our bucket list items will be like in real life. What might that bucket list be? Visiting Santorini! I cannot imagine a whole community working in unison to share a theme of pristine white buildings with the beautiful blue accents! WOW! I think it is evident that I am excited about this particular visit as it is the theme of our Optional Cruise Project - Santorini Splendor.

What are you eagerly looking forward to experiencing with us!

Email with questions to duodesignsinc@gmail.com and request your very own brochure.

If you need a quickie little basket stuffer, we have these sweet little (6") bunnies that can be personalized.  We do not have enough to list in our Etsy shop as supplies are very limited.  Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

I think I've touch a lot of issues so I'm off to clean up some other issues!  Till next time . . .

 ANOTHER MID-MONTH COME AND GONE

Seems I missed last week - so sorry - but life happens.  Here at Arthur Acres our plate is full!

As usual, we shared our next lessons for the Online Classes this past week.

Our Sweet little Pink Ostrich in Besties got her hair decoration this go round.  

Now she is all decked out and almost ready to go!

We added another lantern in our Chinese Lantern canvas as well.

Methinks there might be some beads involved on this one as well!

We began our new class on the Sea Shells on the Shore.   This month we built our water that appears to be rather rushing into the shore carrying all those shells!

Be sure to register ford the next upcoming class - Ornaments Galore by JP Needlepoint.

To join us just send email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com and we'll get you registered!

This post is very short this week - sorry but way too much on the plate.  We'll try to do better next time!

 

SEA SHELLS ON THE SHORE

Wow!  Only a few more days until the first class.  Everyone who wanted to join the private group appears to be in place.  If you feel you should be in the group but are not, email me right away at duodesignsinc@gmail.com so we can take care of that!

ONLINE CLASSES

Middle of the month and we know what that means!  Current class lessons will be posted!  It is always so fun to see what the next area is going to be and what we suggest doing with it.

Our Sweet  Pink Ostrich - Besties - has her fifth session posting this week.  Gosh she will soon be finished.

Chinese Lanterns by JP Needlepoint will have session seven shared,  

NEXT UP:

Another JP Needlepoint Design that lends itself to lots of techniques. and materials is the upcoming Ornaments Galore.  

Like with the Chinese Lanterns, this design promises lots of fun things to share with you - in threads and techniques/stitches.  I can't wait! Registration is active so email us at duodesignsinc@gmsail.com to register.  This is scheduled to be a 10 session class with the first session to begin mid-May hopefully.

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREATS - Join the Group!

Be sure to join the group so you don't miss out on our fun offerings and sneak previews,

It is so fun to get emails each day concerning our Retreats.  This year we are featuring the work of Gayla Elliott - Kentucky Artist extraordinaire!  She has such a diverse talent and we have done some of her pieces Online before - remember Lovable Llama?  This time we are featuring her Stitching Girls - namely Boss Lady and Stitching Girl with Her Horse. Boss Lady offers some opportunities to interject some personal touches of the stitcher or the recipient if intended for a gift.  Girl with Her Horse is an exclusive designed for this Retreat so you will definitely be ahead of your friends in getting this one/

While this is not a 'race', these gals are running neck-to-neck in attendance.(Pun definitely intended!). 

Just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail for your brochure and for answers to any questions you may have.  Outside the registration fee the only additional expenses are transportation and lodging.  All project supplies (you bring your favorite light, stand, etc.- lots of room), meals  (dinners are all plated for Thursday, Friday and Saturday) from the Meet and Greet through the Grab and Go breakfast when you leave Sunday morning. Countless surprises are in store and you don't want to miss being present at every function (you must be present to win)! We've been known to throw in some pretty nice things along the way!

NEEDLES 'N FINS STITCHING ADVENTURES 

I have copied below the recent posting from our travel agent concerning our upcoming Greece Stitching Adventure.

Dear Travelers,

 

The Greece Cruise with Sandy is just under 8 months away and I hope you’re getting excited!!!

 

I would like to take this time to communicate with you on a few things and help you prepare and enjoy your experience.

 

Azamara Cruise Dates:

• 11OCT2023 Depart USA for Venice
• 12OCT2023 Arrive Venice for 2night hotel stay
• 14OCT2023 Azamara cruise begins on the Pursuit
• 23OCT2023 Cruise Ends – fly home or perhaps stay in Athens with a post-cruise package.

Airfare -  

• You may secure your own air or reach out to Kim Kelly in our air department via email: kkelly@vikingtvl.com with your request.
• Flight Guidelines: The only flight guideline is not to book your flight home before 11:00 am, as the ship has to clear customs.
• Be sure of dates and especially if adding on to the trip with any other pre- or post-stays.

Transfers –

• Arrival transfers from airport to hotel are not being offered by Azamara.
• Transfers from hotel to ship in Venice are included.
• Transfers from ship to airport not being offered.
• Transfers from ship to hotel for post-stay are included with hotel package, as well as from hotel to airport.

Azamara Cruise – 

• You may go online and register with your booking number (found on your invoice) and view information about the trip and all terms and conditions.
• Shore Excursions – see attached – for those needing help to book or apply onboard credit can call 1-877-999-9953

 Onboard experience- 

• Azamara White Nights still happening.
• Azamara Amazing Night – still happening
• Stitching Class with Sandy and Teresa !

 

Athens – Post-Cruise Stay –

Azamara is offering the following packages (Attached).  This needs to be requested and a good idea to get confirmed before securing airfare.

• Hotel Stay – see attachments for hotel choice, number of nights and pricing.
• 2-Night Package   $1199.00 per person, double / $2099.00 single
• 5-Night Package  $3999.00 per person, double / $5099.00 single

Travel Insurance Protection – once air is booked or any other features added on, insurance should be modified to cover all costs and blanket coverage and benefits.

FileRetrieval.aspx (travelguard.com)

 

Beginning December 1, 2022, we will no longer require proof of vaccination for sailings starting and ending in the U.S. or sailings starting and ending in Europe. All other sailings require proof of vaccination and booster until further notice. 

Visit for more information on health and protocols  Explore Well At Sea | Azamara

 

Guests can check specific travel restrictions for countries listed in the itinerary HERE or by visiting applicable government websites.  

 

Required documentation – A valid passport. Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months from return date and have a few empty pages. Names on reservation and tickets must match passport exactly.

If you are vaccinated, it’s a good idea to bring your card with along with a mask…just in case.

 

Azamara Statement - Information is subject to change.

 

Please note: Things are taking much longer these days, with long hold times, shorter staffing… it’s the new world we live in.

 

 

Elizabeth Wolak

Group Manager – 

Hours:  Mon-Fri 7:30 am – 4pm

Note Thursdays I work from home and can be reached via email or by my cell 708-638-5699

Viking Travel Service / Shared Adventures

We’re Moving Starting January 15^th, 2023 refer to NEW ADDRESS below.

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Ph: 630-321-1664  /  Fax: 630-321-1669 / Toll Free: 1-800-233-3963

E-mail: lwolak@vikingtvl.com   /   www.VikingTvl.com

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Hope to see you back next week - - -