I take my needlepoint all around the country. 

As a little girl, I remember my mom knitting, needlepointing and sewing,  so I believe I developed my creative passion from her. I began knitting as a child, started needlepointing when my three daughters were very young (about 40 years ago) and learned quilting from a school colleague. 

I took a hiatus for a while, because life was so busy with raising my girls and working as a teacher of the Deaf and then elementary school principal. When I retired, almost nine years ago, I started needlepointing again, and it has become a wonderful way to engage in an artistic endeavor and challenge my creative abilities. I particularly enjoy meeting with the Stitcher’s Club in my 55+ community. Sharing and supporting each other, in a stitching circle, is a highlight of each week. 

Years ago, I earned my doctoral degree in Literacy Studies and my dissertation focused on the relationship between textile art and literacy. Fibers tell a story that is unique and beautiful. I like to tell an artist’s story through different threads and interesting stitches. And I love choosing just the right fabric to complement my pillows and complete the story. Many of my completed projects are “companion pieces” where the story flows from one canvas to another. I also enjoy combining my finished needlepoints with photos I’ve taken, proving that stories can be viewed in different mediums. 

Speaking of stories, the expression “Live A Great Story” has become my mantra as my husband and I travel around the country in our motor home. I stitch while he drives! Currently, I am working on stitching a multitude of “travel rounds” to commemorate the places we’ve visited. Living a great story means making every moment count by seeing and doing everything that brings joy to your life. 

One third of the year, I live in NY, one third in Florida and one third “on the road” in our motor home. I am fortunate that my husband indulges me and drives our RV to needlepoint shops across the country. However, Stitch by Stitch is a favorite because of the extraordinary customer service. I was only able to visit the actual shop once, but I know they are just a phone call or email away. They do extraordinary finishing and Betty, Madalena, and Susan are always helpful in ordering whatever I desire. 

I feel honored to have been chosen to tell my story to you this month.