A Memorable, Meaningful Christmas to You

Looking back on past Christmases, some stand out as truly memorable and meaningful. As a grown woman, I look back now and remember the Christmas that my Aunt Bonnie, an extremely talented woman who could make anything look fabulous, made all the nieces and daughters of the family smocked dresses. Each one was in a different fabric and had different color smocking across the chest. Now honestly, as a seven year old, I don't know that I showed her the proper appreciation for such an outstanding gift of time, talent, and love. As an adult, however, I look back on that effort and understand that hers was a meaningful gift, something that I remember well over forty years later.

I've seen the same kind of loving commitment and care on the part of our customers. Many of you have been concentrating this year on crafting beautiful items, hand-made with love. Quilts, purses, aprons, embroidered towels, pillowcases, shirts, and table-toppers have all been designed, completed, and lovingly laid under the tree. Truly meaningful and long-lasting.

Bill and I are news junkies, but sometimes I wonder if our desire to be informed about world events is detrimental to our psyche. After all, the economic news is all bad....or so they say. But when I see what our customers do for their families, and when I remember the golden-cream dress with red smocking that Aunt Bonnie made for me......and all those dresses that my sisters and cousins wore that day made by my aunt....I realize that the best gifts have nothing to do with the economy. They are hand-made with love.

Thanks to all of you who have helped us succeed this year. We look forward to serving you for years to come. Happy holidays to all.