Running behind! (or ahead?) May I blame it on Hurricane Milton?

Our first major hurricane is behind us!  We were so blessed as the eye went north of us.  However, there were over 11 tornadoes in our area - one very destructive one approximately 15 miles away.  As I said we are blessed.  Our park suffered no major damage at all.  Lots of palm branches and that type of debris and a couple of smaller trees broke and toppled missing property on their way down.  No flooding.  We did lose power for several hours and we were able to test our new generator.  It came through with flying colors.  So we are watchful because a couple more are out there brewing and what will be will be.

DDI UNIQUELY YOURS FLORIDA STITCHING RETREAT

Our contacts tell us all is well for our upcoming Retreat in November.  The area where our resort is located managed to escape any major damage.  The Events Manager told us it is basically clean up and in fact they were receiving over 150 guests two days after Milton went through.  Apparently no surge hit that particular area of the beach.  (Remember our classrooms are on the 9th floor with a beautiful view.)

The shop also let us know that they escaped major damage.  They were without power for some time but they are open and operating around the clean up in their area.

One thing I have deduced in the short time we have lived here - Floridians take these storms seriously!  They know how to prepare. Once past, however, they know how to recover as quickly as possible!  They are amazing!

RETREAT 2025 particulars will be revealed at the Resort in a few (😜) weeks!  Remember when Retreat seemed eons away?  Can't wait to see you all!

ONLINE CLASSES:

Memories of Hawaii has had the last session posted.  I cheated and posted it a couple days early as the lesson was ready and we had power.

Next up is Ornaments Galore.  Another ornament is being shared today.  This class has offered so many opportunities to use stash and it is fun to work the various stitches and techniques taught. Here's a view while being stitched.

UPCOMING!  REGISTER NOW!

Helga's Hats is another canvas that presents us with many areas to explore different threads and stitches. Another stash buster opportunity.

Notice that the hats are different colors.  Look also at how they are decorated differently.  Of course there is included with the witch the obligatory black cat and crow.  Wonder what the background will be?

Registration is currently open for this 6 Session Online Class.  The first Session will be shared mid-January 2025 and each Session will follow one month later.  Remember these Online Classes are shared in the pdf format and the participant has access to the Sessions whenever it is convenient for their individual schedule. 

The design is painted on 18 count canvas. The area is approximately 18.5" tall by 4.5" wide. 

Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com for particulars if interested in joining us.

So that's it in a nutshell.  Terri and I will see ya in a few!  😎 So EXCITED 😃 !

 ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL MORNING HERE LOCALLY.

Had very busy week with hubby doctor visits, etc., but all is progressing well.  

Some of the snowbirds are starting to trickle in so little extra activity buzzing there.

ONLINE CLASSES

Canvases arrived for those signed up so far for Helga's Hats!  They are so cute.  I'll begin stitching this cutie soon so that those participants can gather their threads and supplies from their stash or LNS for the class.

Registration is open and active. Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com if you would like to join us. Design is handpainted on 18ct canvas.  Design is approximately 4.5" wide by 9". Class will consist of 6 postings where participants have opportunity to access information on their own time schedule.

Currently our time is greatly consumed with preparing for the upcoming Florida Retreat to be held in Clearwater in November.We are also preparing information for the 2025 Retreat.  So much excitement!

Stay tuned. .. .

 Good Saturday Morning!

It seems things will not slow down for the Arthur’s even here in sunny Florida!  But, hey, it keeps us active.

DDI UNIQUELY YOURS FLORIDA STITCHING RETREAT for November is full.  We are so excited and anxious to see what everyone is going to do with the stitches, techniques and suggestions that Terri and I are  anxious to share with the participants!  We have such a diverse and fun bunch of canvases that are going to start their new life in stitches!

We are having so much fun gathering goodies for your registration and events!  We also plan to share the designs for the 2025 Retreat and working on details for participants early registration.  The 2025 classes will be fully kitted project classes and limited in number.

ONLINE CLASSES

Registration is active for our new class scheduled to begin mid-January!  We received our canvas for the cute Helga’s Hats from the talented Rebecca Woods Designs line.  To register email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com for details.  

That’s it for this week - gotta go play home nurse!  All is well - stitch with a smile until next time!

TORNADO DEBBY IN FL!

Well Debby has left our area!  Thankfully mostly rain. Surrounding areas, however, really got hammered.  Lots of flooding, downed branches/trees, etc.  We were very fortunate.

UNIQUELY YOURS FLORIDA STITCHING RETREAT - NOVEMBER 1-4, 2024

Playing with items for the upcoming Uniquely Yours Florida Stitching Retreat being held in Clearwater, FL on November 1-4, 2024.  We could make room for a couple more if you would like to join us.  Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com .  For full details scroll down earlier posts to get brochure and registration form!

ONLINE CLASSES:

Ornaments Galore and Memories of Hawaii are on schedule for their mid-month postings.

Here's a new design that is being considered.  Let me know if you would like to join this class.  It will probably be 6 sessions and begin after January 2025. This will depend on the amount of interest.  I do not have the details of the canvas size, cost, etc., this stage.  Email if you would like to be added to the list of interested paerticipants:  duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

That's it for today!  Stay safe everyone!

 FLORIDA RETREAT IN FULL SWING!

Rooms are filling quickly!  Be sure to reserve yours right away if you want the benefit of the Group Rate.

As with the Retreat last year, we have participants from all over - California, Tennessee,Texas, Pennsylvania, Louisiana,New Hampshire,the Carolinas!  So exciting!

Part of the process of the Uniquely Yours© concept is that you may use a canvas and/or threads in your stash (of course you may also order a new one if you prefer).  As soon as possible after registration send a copy of the design to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.  We can then be sure that your choice will allow you to utilize the full benefits of the concept of the class.  You definitely want room enough to see and learn the stitch.  Many of the techniques shared during the stitch illustrations will pique your creative juices and let your imagination take hold.  We are loving the pictures of canvases we have received so far.  Keep them coming!

There is still time to register so you won't miss out on all the fun!  We'd love to have you join us.

Check out the previous blog post for the Retreat information and the Registration form. Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com with questions.

Have you visited our Etsy Shop lately?  There are tons of stitch guides available for instant download.  Also available are some canvases that were extra from classes at a great price. Give them a look!  Etsy:  duodesignsbySandra

Enjoy your stitching . . . til next time!

RETREAT NEWS!

Duo Designs, Inc, Uniquely Yours FL Stitching Retreat 2024 is officially open for registration!  The fun begins on the afternoon of November 1, 2024 for registering for the event (then you are free to play on the private adjoining beach).  Classes will begin at 8:30 am through 4:30 pm on Saturday, November 2, 2024 and Sunday, November 3m, 2024 with checkout Monday morning.  There will be optional evening workshops from 7 to 9 pm Saturday and Sunday to work on incorporating the lessons of the day on your personally selected design. Teachers will be present to assist with questions, etc.

On Saturday, November 2, 2024 we are being treated to a special afternoon at The Flying Needles needlepoint shop.  With the help of the teachers and shop personnel we will select other threads and embellishments you might wish to add to your canvas!

Uniquely Yours© is a Series of classes by DDI wherein you use your own canvas and pick your own threads.  This is a great stash buster series.  Classes will involve guiding you through the process of reading your unique canvas,  stitches being taught and discussed how to best utilize them to achieve various looks and results, and helping you learn how to best use certain stitches on your unique design.

Space is limited so be sure to secure your unique spot early!  Note that the hotel has a deadline for registering for the Group Rate of October 1, 2024!

Once you have registered send a good photocopy picture of your canvas design to duodesignsinc@gmail.com so we may be better prepared to assist you with your choices at the event.

Retreat information:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dMBl-xO61Ip8W--LCb9EZotoC4R8zYHN/view?usp=drive_link

Electronic registration form:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LY1_wJ_ndqWBxplF9414DuARo_2ZalYL/view?usp=drive_link

Lots of fun and surprises in store!

ONLINE CLASSES

JP Ornaments Galore continues to have a new ornament added to the group.  There are so many possibilities explored on this canvas!  It is a great one for this type venue. Below is current ornament WIP.

Our first session in Memories of Hawaii was shared recently also.  We began the water background.

ETSY SPECIAL!

In recognition of the upcoming Retreat and remembering last year's wonderful Retreat, our Etsy Shop - duodesignsbySandra - has reduced the two Retreat Canvases to $140 plus S/H for a limited time!  

Check out Stitching Girl with Her Horse and Boss Lady!

So we are off to enjoy our Florida weather and just chill! Until next time . . . .

SUNSHINE IS MARVELOUS!

We are loving our new environment.  I am currently working on starting to do some beginner needlepoint classes here at the clubhouse for the elders (of which I think I am the eldest!)

We'll see if it goes through. 

DUO DESIGNS STITCHING RETREAT 2024

The poll seems to be pointing towards the beach (even though more $$$$) and hopefully close to a needlepoint shop.  We have sent out inquiries and made phone calls.  We are gathering information in order to move forward to making some definite plans - stay tuned!

The format for this event was chosen by past participants who have taken several sessions of the Uniquely Yours online classes.  They are always fun and exciting.We look forward to sharing the same concept in person.  The event is tentatively scheduled for late fall (September-October) before the holidays.  Be sure to provide your thoughts and input in the Group.

ONLINE CLASSES

Registration is open for the next Online Class that will be starting mid-May 2024.  Memories of Hawaii has a plethora of techniques that we will be sharing.  Review the previous post for more details.  Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com with questions and to register.  

                    Invoices are going out currently for the deposit segment.  Balance due May 1 - will invoice                         separately.

More later . . . 

 Way Behind!

Where is the time flying off to?  This retirement stuff in Florida is making the days just whiz by.  I'm not complaining but cannot believe how I lose track of the day of the week.  Each day has something going on either Bunco, Mah Jongg, Bingo two days a week, Shuffleboard, Hand in Foot cards, and somewhere along the way I should do chores!

ONLINE CLASSES

Our online classses continue to move along - that's one thing that does not slip my mind though I may be tardy occasionally.

Speaking of Online Classes we are getting ready to introduce a new class.  The class will be conducted over 6 months with one lesson posted about mid-month for each session.  This piece will be the Memories of Hawaii.  

Hand Painted Needlepoint design on 18 ct Monocanvas. The design area is approximately 10" x 11". The cut canvas size is approximately 15" x 16" leaving ample room for strecher bars and doodle space.

If you have been to Hawaii you will readily recognize the beautiful icons of great memories on the Hawaiian Islands.You can’t think Hawaii and not see visions of sand, water, swaying palm trees and the lovely hibiscus and plumerias.

Class is limited to the number of handpainted canvases that are available.  Class fee (including handpainted canvas) is $450.  Participants will provide their own threads.  A list of threads used will be posted in the private group so participants can begin gathering their threads for the class.  Most threads are easily available and/or substituted. 

Class will begin May 15, 2014.  A non-refundable deposit of $150 will be needed to reserve your canvas.  The balance of $300 will be due May 1st and canvas released at that time to participants.  To reserve your spot send email to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.  Once received you will get a PayPal invoice for the non-refundable deposit.

Well I'm off to ride my trike and enjoy this beautiful day!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!    

I think most of us are ready to move on to 2024! The past year brought many changes in our lives and we are now ready to move forward and embrace our adjustments as needed.  Still need to be assigned a couple specialists but the critical ones are in place and working,

A little cool here by southern FL standards - 63 deg. - but very manageable,  We played shuffleboard this morning so couldn't be all that bad.

ONLINE CLASSES

Nothing new to report as yet. We're working on a possible Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring geometric series that is aimed more toward the student that is intimidated by specialty stitches and is seeking more of the beginning stitch types . We'll work on shading and compensating. Each season will be an individual class project. Students will have choice of the Twisted Diamond or the Twisted Square.

If these classes are of interest to you email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com to be added to the list of potentials.  

 MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE

Enjoy the holiday season and we'll check back in next year.

In the meanwhile be sure to check out our Etsy Shop - duodesignsbySandra.  We have in stock the hand painted Stitching Girl Canvases of Stitching Girl with her Horse and Boss Lady.

CRUISING ALONG THE COAST!

This week we went to Punta Gorda to enjoy the Sunset and Christmas Lights Cruise. This took place at Fishermen's Village.The sunset was beyond stunning! It went on forever - well worth the trip.

The Christmas lights on the canal were beautiful and very diverse.  Several different themes, etc.  I am sorry but I was unable to get any pictures.

Following the cruise we went inside Fishermen's Village restaurant and had a wonderful dinner.

t

ONLINE CLASSES

This week we shared our mid-month lessons for our Online Classes.

Session VII for the Three Wisemen Encore class has been posted.  We continued the finishing touches for one of the cloaks!

An additional ornament joined the others this week also on the Ornaments Galore canvas from JP Needlepoint.

We are moving right along on this one.

ETSY SHOP - duodesignsbySandra

Books seem to be very popular this month - maybe being shared as gifts. 

As you may recall, we had an exclusive design created for Duo Designs by Gayla Elliott in the Stitching Girl Series.  This design was used to launch our annual Retreat held in General Butler Resort State Park in Northern Kentucky.  Since Kentucky is the Horse Capital we asked for a horse themed design.  Stitching Girl with her Horse was created, 

We are now releasing this design in our Etsy Shop for the enjoyment of others.  There is also available for purchase a stitch guide that one can follow. Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com for inquiries.

Be sure to check out other Stitch Guides for instant download,

Okay - today is Saturday and also Shuffleboard day!  Gotta get that upper body exercise going as well.,

 COMMUNITY STUFF

We have learned when Bingo nights or days are that are workable for us so that has become a regular activity.  This week I attended my first Ladies Luncheon.  That involves a bunch of us getting together and going to a local or close by facility and enjoy each other's company.  Next up for us is to get back to the shuffleboard court.  Which we did yesterday.  Finally, I am being taught how to play Hand and Foot and am on the substitute list.

On Sunday, hubby's birthday, the kids took us to lunch and we drove around and stopped at a lake.  Hubby saw his first up close alligator!

Now if this became a race who do you think would win?  No thank you - much too close and open for my comfort!

Daughter was thrilled at the chance addition to the lake shore and bonus birthday wish!

Although not a shopper, I managed to buy some yard art at a fantastic pottery complex while in Punta Gorda.  Oh dear!  Too much trouble to be had there.

Those who know me remember our precious Henry - I could not resist this guy in his honor.

He rocks back and forth in the wind and the glass just glistens!  I know, he probably only has a face a mother could love and I do love it.

Can hardly wait for plants to start filling out, etc.

Tomorrow we head out to a boat cruise to see the sunset and Christmas lights.  We will then eat dinner while we are still in town before heading home.

Later . . .

 CHRISTMAS IS IN THE AIR!    

Well Christmas will certainly be different for us this year that's for sure. It really is different weather and quite an attitude adjustment as well as physical adjustment for us to go from very cold, snow, heavy coats to sunny days, short sleeves, and shorts - but we'll manage 😊 . It would be nice if my waistline could shrink as well as our tree size did.  We have gone from an 11 ft tree to a 6.5 ft tree - but we surprisingly really like it.  It fits perfect where we are. 

 As far as decorating here, the park appears to have about every theme represented. Lots of cartoon characters, super heros, palm trees with full coastal flair, and what we call traditional of some beautiful religious displays and of course santa and reindeer.

Hubby has a birthday coming up tomorrow.  The kids got him a trike so we now can ride together.

ONLINE CLASSES

Posted a little surprise for my students this past week.  We shared another ornament in the Ornaments Galore class!  

This guy included some beads for bling.

People are still signing up for this class.  It has 20+ areas that are individually featured so it will take several months to cover.  The above photo is of only the third ornament so far.  Such fun!  If you would like to join just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com.  Canvases have been mailed for newcomers.

ETSY SHOP - duodesignsbySandra

Have you checked out the canvases that were extras from our previous classes?  Have a look see - there may be something that interests you.

We have the travel canvases back in stock now so check out those as well - Italy, The Danube, Netherlands (Tulips), Hawaii, Greece (Santorini)  - -

Until next time , , , 

 HOLIDAY SEASON IN FULL SWING!    

Thanksgiving is now behind us.  I must say, however, that our celebrations are nothing like Thanksgivings past.  As time has taken more and more family and friends the circle grows smaller and smaller. Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners were our family contributions for many, many years.  Bake that turkey (minimum 22-25 lbs), stuff it with dressing, baked sweet potatoes, cranberry salad, potato salad made by hubby, watergate salad, deviled eggs, green beans - cooked and also casserole, homemade pumpkin pie, etc., etc.  Now it seems the norm for our age group is to have dinner out as family is so scattered and schedules are so varied and full that is the most convenient option for all involved. We were blessed to have both our children with us, however, and thankful for that special gift.

ONLINE CLASSES    

This past week we posted the mid-month lessons for the Groups.

Sea Shells on the Shore had its final session.  Finishing up were the two starfish.

French knots were the main feature of one of the starfish and students who stayed with it should be French knot experts!

A second ornament was shared with the group in Ornaments Galore from JP Needlepoint designs.

Additionally the Three Wisemen - Encore had another part of this fabulous piece to stitch.

We are currently auditioning designs to consider for future online classes.  Your input is welcomed.  Just email your request to duodesignsinc@gmail.com.

Etsy Shop - duodesignsbySandra

So excited to announce that the popular To The Beach,  Cruisin' Stitchers and Hawaii  handpainted canvases are back in stock over in our Etsy shop.  Hop over and take a look.  Digital stitch guides are also available for instant download.

Remember also there is still time to join the JP Needlepoint Ornaments Galore class and there are a few canvases readily available.

Until next time . . . 

 ALMOST NORMAL ROUTINE!

We seem to be settling in pretty well here in our new Abode. We are slowly but surely adding hubby's specialists as they can work in new patients.  The drive is becoming more comfortable for me as it is becoming more familiar and not too bad.  We have avoided rush hours so that might help.

It is becoming very busy around here as the snowbirds are flocking down. I don't even know the full timers like ourselves much less those who just come down part time.  This will ease up as time goes on and we intermingle more.  It amazes me how much people go in and out - seems like constantly.

ONLINE CLASSES

This area of our lives seems to be starting to fall back into place - thank goodness.  This coming week we will be sharing the final session of Sea Shells on the Shore by JP Needlepoint. Unbeknownst to me at the beginning of this class selection, I will have a new piece of needlework to display in our new Abode.

We will be sharing the second session of the Ornaments Galore class as well. Christmas pieces always are special to me as I find they provide an outlet for sharing many techniques, special threads and fun embellishments.  You could still join this class if you would like.  Just email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com for details.

The Three Wisemen Encore class will also have its next lesson posted to the group!

ETSY shop - duodesignsbySandra

Our Etsy shop is your place to find most of our instant downloadable stitch guides.  We don't have all of them listed so if there is one you are seeking just ask and we'll let you know if we have it. We also list surplus class canvases heere as well as our own designs.

Now, you are the first to know of a special we are hosting.  Since our address has changed all our book covers now have the old address.  This is not a critical difference but one we will be changing as we deplete our inventory.  One step we are taking to help with this depletion is running specials through the end of the year.  Our first special involves our first set of books - Shapes of Needlepoint.  This is a series of 4 books.  The books have received the prestigious Literary Award twice from the American Needlepoint Guild - once for the publication of the first 2 Series and then again for the last 2 Series.  Series I covers Circles, Squares, Triangles and Rectangles; Series II covers Diamonds Hearts, Octagons and Stars; Series III covers Corners, Hexagons, Ovals and Parallelograms; and, Series 4 covers Diagonals, Horizontals and Verticals. Currently the set of the 4 Shapes of Needlepoint retail in our Etsy Shop at $200 plus S/H.  Our special offers the set of 4 at $150 plus S/H ($20- US shipping only). This price will be honored through the end of 2023 or until the current inventory is depleted.  Email us at duodesignsinc@gmail.com to order and we will send a Paypal invoice right away.

That's it for this week folks - remember to Stich with a Smile!

HAPPY!  HAPPY!  HAPPY!

Our snowbird kids - Teresa and Mark have arrived for the winter!  We are so excited.  Things are really buzzing around here as more and more snowbirders arrive daily - it is almost like grand central station! 

Although we have activities year round here, it moves to a whole different level when the winter residents arrive. A party-type atmosphere vibe sorta moves in!  Woo Hoo! 

Stitching around and on the Greek Isles!

Teresa and Bill on Water Taxi on the Grand Canal going to hotel in Venice

Top priority - Gelato!

On the ship and working!

There is a large screen for students to view if desired.

Students at work!

Class is in session.

Teresa intensely working on her mosaic at Mykonos Greece.

Teresa creating Windmill Mosaic on Mykonos Island of Greece

I chose the very 'exciting' interpretation of the oldest cathedral on the island for my mosaic.

Reminded me of kindergarten  days.

A few didn't make it for the group photo.

To enjoy the sites and beautiful scenes of this cruise be sure to go to the group Stitching and Needlework Events https://www.facebook.com/groups/748907069549635. - Bruce Hart generously shared the trip through the lense of his camera and as always he did not disappoint.

Next stop - USA!

While the trip was great and the company even greater, it is always wonderful to get back home.