Brenda and the Serial Starter - Episode #88 (1/22/23)

[@elizabethcorsini5499]

Brenda, your framed Elizabeth Hunt is so stunning! Well done. And I love how you blinged out your giant tomato, to display all your pins and floss rings. That is a great idea.

[@katietaylor5681]

The community is so important 💜 and so much comes from being part of one. We are so lucky that with modern technology our communities can spread all over the world. I'm so glad you had an extra special birthday Brenda!

[@stitchreadrepeat]

Thank you for sharing all the excitement from Sampler Symposium, Brenda, and happy belated birthday! I'm so glad you had such a special time to celebrate with the cross stitch community at The Attic, and how special that your family was able to be there, too. Laura, your stitching is beautiful, and I especially love the piece that you just started with those gold flowers on it. The colors look so great with the fabric. Always love seeing your WIPs and haul, ladies :) Happy stitching!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Caitlin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Happy Stitching to you too!!!!

[@margaretblank9351]

"If only every weekend could be like Sampler Symposium" -- Please know that for those of us who live too far away, for whom it would cost mega $$$ to be at such a place -- especially considering $$ exchange rates -- hearing your stories, sharing the experiences, seeing your work/learniing/hopes/plans/dreams...it's like that for us. I'm 70 years old, with an annual income of about $24,000/year USD. I have enough to purchase...carefully...the things I want -- including stitching supplies. And I'm old enough to have enough stash from which I can "shop". I can't get to those special retreats -- but can feel the joy when you share your experiences...and for that, I am very grateful. ❤

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Margaret! We are so happy to know that you have the ability to purchase the things you want and that you have a stash to draw from.....I bet if we were all just left with our stash we could be truly happy. But those designers keep tempting us!!!! Hugs!

[@Strickbirgit]

I love the Brenda‘s Sampler, it‘s so beautiful.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Isn't it though???? Thank you Birgit!

[@dorissanders1950]

Absolutely lovely! What fun. Nothing finer that stitching.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

That is the truth!!!!! Thank you Doris!

[@shebeesstitchyworld]

Brenda’s Sampler is beautiful. WOW!! I know you will enjoy stitching that special project.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you!!!!

[@Marcie-withneedles]

I just discovered “floss tube” about two months ago, and I think I have watched every one of your episodes. You ladies are great together. In keeping with Laura’s marching orders, I now have a FFO with a project I had for many many years.

[@kathyfavila8397]

Dear Brenda and the Serial Stitcher (aka Laura), I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate you both! I am quilter and have just started doing cross stitch again after a 40-year hiatus, believe it or not! Well, you know, work got in the way of me doing what I love. Your channel and your projects have inspired me to start again...I have ordered everything I love -- starting with some smalls on smaller thread count! You are both so positive and encouraging and make me want to be a part of the cross-stitch community! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Love you both -- keep doing what you are doing!! God bless you!

[@karenkirk8261]

We are you relieved you like the sampler. The model is stitching up really nicely and we will send you the final chart when it’s ready just in case I make changes as I stitch 😂 We will be including the Brenda extra bits like the flag in with the chart ☺️ And yes, you both need to come to Australia xx

[@christinecrane4864]

I CANNOT Wait for this chart!!! Its gorgeous!!!!!

[@karenkirk8261]

@@christinecrane4864 thank you so much

[@marleenoceanbreeze6510]

The sampler to honour Brenda is beautiful! You guys are so kindhearted.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you again so much for that wonderful birthday present for Brenda!!!!! And so happy to hear that the flag will be an option in the chart. You are such generous and kind friends!!!! Love, Brenda and Laura

[@hollyyingling8449]

Beautiful chart and so very kind of you to do this for Brenda. Look forward to your release.

[@theresaclark762]

I want to thank you girls for the tip of binding books at the UPS. I need a book done and the only place to do it would have been close to a 3 hr. drive. So I went to my local UPS store, they did it. Yay, I'm so happy.

[@gingershull2364]

That was fabulous! I needed you today. I was feeling burnt out from intense sampler stitching . Stitching for a finish is NOT the same as stitching because you enjoy it. Your video pulled me out of my slump! I’m so glad your time at The Attic was all and more than you expected! It brought tears to my eyes hearing all your friends did for you ! I can’t think of a more deserving person!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Ginger!!! Glad we were there to support you through that slump.....now you just get back to no pressure stitching!!!!!!

[@jomayo3621]

You two are precious and deserve all the love

[@jackietrembley9827]

Wow! I think I say that every time, but you two just make my day with your videos. I loved hearing about the Attic retreat and all the related goodies and haul. But I also loved, loved, loved the Brenda’s Sampler and I can’t wait until it’s available to purchase! I have Laura’s sampler pattern too and I think I need to start them both stat! And can I say, oh my gosh - that giant tomato pincushion and strawberry! They are genius! Where else but your videos do you get to see something like that? Both of you have very, very wonderful couple of weeks!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Jackie!!!!!!! And Brenda's sampler will be coming out at market!

[@faeriepabich6414]

My goodness, what a delight! Brenda, do you see how many people appreciate you? And Laura, you are the ultimate friend! There was so much to see and love today, especially you two lovely ladies. You are so gracious to share your time and your joy of stitching with us. May your year be as wonderful as it has begun!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Faerie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@cathylounsbury7707]

Hi Ladies!!! What a fantastic video! It sounds like you were treated like a Queen for your birthday, Brenda! So deserving you are! So much eye candy and so fun to see! And Laura, you have some great new things to stitch as well! Too fun! Happy stitching til next time!! 🪡🧵🪡✂️✂️✂️🎈🎈🎈🎈💕💕💕💕

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Cathy!!!!!!

[@joybelangia8475]

I absolutely LOVE y'all!! I've just come back to cross stitching after about 25 yrs!! I'm enjoying it so much an ALL your videos. I keep rewatching them !!. I love your sayings ..helped up ,,an marching orders, an haul....y'all are sooo fun!!! An I live bout 45 mins from dying to stitch!!? Keep up the great videos an happy stitching!!!!! Ps!! I grew up drinking TAB!!! my mom had it at her beauty shop !!!! ❤️🤷🙆😘🤣

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Joy!!!! Have you shopped at Dyeing to Stitch yet??? You must go!!!! It is such a great great shop!!!!!!! Tab!!!!! I want some now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@joybelangia8475]

@@brendaandtheserialstarter2410 yes I've went 2 times now..bought supplies an even bout a piece of linen...I'm trying to learn how to stitch on it.. 28 count.soft as butter... I'm really HEPPED up bout my stitching!!😘🙏🤷🙆😼

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

@@joybelangia8475 That is soooooooooooooooooo exciting!!!!! If you need help with the linen, ask Ann at the shop!

[@michellelovejoy7253]

Brenda and Laura, just ordered Mary Woodward Little Gem as my first HATS to try. Wish me luck! Also stitching Santa ornaments for gifts. Love, love, love your interactions. You two put a smile on my face every time. P.S. I always rooted for Michigan vs. Notre Dame even though I live outside Philadelphia.

[@deborahfitzer6877]

The symposium sounds like such an amazing time! Thanks for sharing all the goodness! Ladies, you are such enablers…..I hadn’t stitched a sampler yet but after seeing all the small ones and Laura’s pillow, I just couldn’t resist! Bought Mary Woodward and The Giant Pear and the Rose. Mary is coming along beautifully! Happy stitching!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

That is so exciting Deborah!!!!! So happy that you were inspired to stitch those two beautiful samplers!!! Those are great ones to start with!!!!! Please keep us posted!

[@stitch_u_ation]

OMG you had me crying with all the lovely things everyone did at the symposium. Happy Birthday Girls.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Teresa!!!!!

[@ceryllharper]

so beautiful

[@loisschumacher9869]

What a lovely video! So happy for you that your birthday was SO special! You are so loved Brenda! Brenda's Sampler by Fox & Rabbit was fabulous! Will be a definite purchase when it becomes available!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Lois!!!!

[@Roberta.SABLEStitchers]

Loved the recap of the Symposium! It adds so much to the enjoyment of this hobby knowing more about the history. Best wishes for a wonderful year ahead!

[@trishaolson6597]

Brenda's Sampler brought tears to my eyes!! How truly special!!! Was so excited to see your faces today!!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Trish!!!!!

[@ceryllharper]

thast so great

[@Itsreallyme571]

So happy 😊 ...New video!! Big hello 👋 from Belfast Northern Ireland x 🍀 😀

[@patsyowens7365]

A wow floss tube! Beautiful charts galore what talent throughout this community! Karen of Fox And Rabbit knocked it out of the park with Brenda’s Sampler, a must have. Great job ladies!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Patsy!!!!

[@ceryllharper]

nice one

[@malewis205]

Wishing you a happy, happy birthday, Brenda!!! 🎉🥳🎉🪡🧵💜

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Meredith!!!!

[@chrissieb3350]

You two always have the best flosstubes. ❤️❤️💖💖 and that special Sampler for Brenda....😍 GO BLUE!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Chrissie!!!!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Isn't that amazing!!!?? thank you Chrissie!!!

[@elenalashkova]

hi, you are so cool, with humor. health to you. you inspire us to embroider.hello from Russia We are watching you too.

[@lisabarcomb2655]

Happy belated birthday!! I love watching you two and I hope I get to go to a retreat with you some day. I can’t wait to get a copy of Brenda’s House sampler…and the Michigan flag is a must. Go Blue! 😊

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Lisa!!!! Hope we are all retreating together someday!

[@katiestrachanembroidery]

Happy birthday Brenda! We're all so lucky to have this wonderful community, and to have you and Laura bringing us joy and stitching goodness on the regular. All your birthday treats were amazing but the scepter with thread and Karen & Bren's sampler were just incredible. As to This Joyous Season, you have way more than you need to stitch the words and the border as well. You could stitch a term paper with 50 meters. So glad you got yours Brenda, all the kits were shipped Tuesday morning but Laura's zoomed straight to her and yours apparently wandered around local post offices for a few days. The mysteries of the USPS!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Katie!!!! And thank you also for all the wonderful inspiration you provide to us and so many others!!!! You are a treasure!

[@debglastetter851]

Wow, what a video! Brenda this video brought tears to my eyes. I am so happy for you. What a good time you had at the Attic. I took notes from the stitching and charts you both showed, so I have some shopping to do. The chart from Fox and Rabbit is gorgeous. I cannot wait to until I can purchase it. I hope I can get one with the flag. Ladies you both are wonderful and I always look forward to your videos. This is what makes my day watching the two of you. See you in two weeks and Happy Stitching.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Deb!!!!!! and the flag is going to be part of the sampler charted for market release!!!!

[@debglastetter851]

@@brendaandtheserialstarter2410 Yeah!

[@joycehoferer9103]

I love your videos. I love your friendship. Thank you for sharing. It made my day when Brenda showed her hoop and that she stabs and pokes. I’ve been stitching for 30+ years and since I’ve been watching Floss Tube I’ve been trying to teach myself the in hand sewing method. I do not like how the x’s look but with every new project I try it and frog it out and go back to stabbing and poking. As of today, I’m done trying. It’s ok to use a hoop and to poke and stab because Brenda does it, too! Lol!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

That is right Joyce!!!! Pokers and Stabbers unite!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@kristinbahn4880]

What an amazing video. Just so you both know, we are stitching bff’s but we just haven’t met. That is how bit feels at least. Thank you for the community. I was stitching along with the video until I was crying over Brenda’s sampler. The Scottie dog. Oh say. Thanks for another amazing time with you. ❤

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Kristin!!!!! Hope we meet someday!

[@stitchingincostume]

Just loved hanging out and stitching with you ladies today. So much sampler goodness... you always inspire. I'm working on Florence Mary too and seeing your progress makes me want to pull her out and stitch like mad!! So beautiful. Thank you for sharing all of the Attic info. I feel like I got to see it from your eyes and got a little choked up. I love this community and you two are the heart of it! Off to watch Susan and meet more of my heroes! 🥰

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Katherine! We all need to go to a retreat together....maybe next year Sampler Symposium!

[@stitchingincostume]

@@brendaandtheserialstarter2410 I’m in! Fingers crossed 😻

[@donnafedewa7073]

Excellent video ladies. You hit the nail on the head with stitching purely for the love stitching! And the fellowship of women is what my beloved auntie used to describe as soul satisfying!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Your aunt said it very well! Thank you Donna!

[@donnalynnobra4277]

Thank you Ladies for another wonderful floss tube...sharing your stash, and gifts....I hope the two of you realize that you get so much because you GIVE so much to the stitching community!!! Words cannot convey how grateful I am that I have you in my life through your floss tubes. Maybe one day I will meet you at one of the retreats. I started Martha Evans on 1/15 and got the top third done in a week. Really enjoying the stitch!!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for your dear sweet comments Donna!!!!!! They mean the world to us! Glad you are zipping along on Martha!!

[@mymwesties]

What a wonderful episode! Absolutely love the sampler Fox & Rabbit designed for you Brenda, she captured everything! I think Laura gave herself marching orders, so many gorgeous samplers to choose! Love love love the giant tomato, it's a classic! Happy stitching friends 💚

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much!!!! That sampler is amazing!!!! So glad Karen is releasing it for market!

[@carlarigel252]

Thanks for sharing! Happy birthday, Brenda! This was a wonderful stitch along video! You two are always awesome to watch!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Carla!!!

[@scienceknitster]

Another awesome video! Enjoyed all the inspiration. We are all so lucky to belong to the community of stitchers. Take care ladies!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Aren't we lucky??? Our community is the best!

[@beverlyparker-swinford6878]

Wow a wonderful floss tube, birthday full of heart. Love the tomato pin cushion. Beautiful treasures.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Beverly!!!

[@juliaomcs]

Your excitement is so contagious, I really was uplifting. Now, all the Creme Brulee fabric I have seen is so extremely mottled I could never use it. The Stitchers from the 1800's would not have used it either I bet. Just because antique samplers are mottled today, they were not that way when stitched. But, If you take the Creme Brulee fabric, wash it, then TEA DYE it with a good British tea, Barrys, Yorkshire, or PG Tips, it would even it out, blend it together and still have an antique look. The black teas have a rosy tint sometime, (Don't use Green teas!), do a test on a small piece. Or just bleach the dang fabric.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thanks for all those tips Julia!!!!!

[@kckoehler1766]

So enjoyed your video today. Thank you.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for watching!!!

[@amotleyartwkatherine]

Sounds like Brenda had lots of fun! Thanks for sharing. Happy Birthday! Lovely stitching Laura.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Katherine!

[@alisoncaronflyingfree]

What can I say but bless you both. How wonderful to have such a close, kind, fun, and dear friendship. xoxo

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Alison!!!

[@elleemen4238]

Shining examples of great friends and generous (in the giving sense) women. You two just fill me with joy!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Elle! That is very kind of you!!!

[@chelseahaynes2375]

You two are the best! I feel so blessed to be part of this community 🤍🤍🤍

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Chelsea!!!!

[@PrincessKJo]

I love Andrea’s stuff. I have a project bag of hers in the same cat fabric!

[@barbaralajoie1825]

“Stitch amongst yourselves” will go down in flosstube history!! 😂 I was laughing so hard when you said that, at 1AM, I almost woke my husband up!! Awesome video, thank you for sharing. You two are the best. ❤

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Barbara!!!!!!! It just came out.....I need to remember it for future usage!!!! Glad you did not wake your husband up...he would not have understood why we think that was so funny!

[@melissaj8384]

That tomato! Oh em gee! The button and the needle too. What fun! Friends and family, by blood and by choice - sounds like a great time. Brenda's Sampler made me cry

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Melissa!!!! Isn't that sampler just amazing!!!!!

[@heidilehnig3099]

Thanks so much for sharing !

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much for watching Heidi!

[@donpettitt3542]

Hi Brenda and Laura you two are the greatest. I'm not really a sampler cross stitcher but I'm open minded and tastes do change over the years. I have been stitching for about 50 years. When I look at your walls Brenda I feel like an under achiever. Keep up the good work. Pennie

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Pennie!!!!!!!

[@bettylowdermilk4296]

This was so wonderful and at times so touching. When you started your floss tube, little did you know all the love and admiration that you would receive. You two have become endearing to all of us. You are very very special. So comforting to watch you guys and stitch along. Happy Birthday Brenda.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Betty!!! You are right, we had no idea that we were going to become the luckiest stitchers in all the land. We are so grateful to everyone!

[@wandamccoll3739]

Brenda and Laura, I don't think you can possibly know what icons/treasures you are in the stitching world and how much you are loved. Your birthday celebration at The Attic sounds fabulous Brenda! Elizabeth Hunt is stunning!!! Thanks for another fabulous flosstube!! Happy stitching!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for your lovely and kind words Wanda. They mean a lot to us.

[@cathleensullivan7621]

Thanks for sharing all your lovely stitching and items. Have a good wee!😊🪡

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Cathleen!

[@margomcintosh763]

Great job swallowing back the tears Brenda! Happy birthday!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Margo!

[@blkdogflex]

Your owls could be sitting on eggs. They mate late January, early February, so that’s why you now only see one! Exciting ! Really enjoy your stitching adventures!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Kathy!!!!!!!! We enjoy your model stitching!

[@dianemckoon7808]

So nice, Brenda. Had a great birthday! All the goodies! Thanks for sharing! Take care, have fun with your ginormous 🍅 tomato!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Diane!

[@loriginsberg7261]

I had quite a triumph while watching your video. I was working on the border for Martha Evans and it totally met up! 😍. I've never stitched the entire border on a sampler before and I was so excited! I usually start in the corner and stitch portions of the border as I go. But I decided to give stitching the whole border first a try. What an accomplishment made even more special because I completed it while spending the evening with you lovely ladies and your KZbin video. I am hoping to finish Martha by September when I turn 70.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

That is wonderful Lori!!!!!!!!!! So glad we were "together" when your border met up!

[@kendraelliott6761]

Laura’s Reactions are ALL.OF.US #definitelymissedout Happy birthday Brenda!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Right?????????????????? Wahhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@barbarahouser]

What a great video; Brenda, so glad you had such a wonderful birthday surrounded by love & kindness! Laura, you are such a dear friend to help out with the surprise!! I still haven't received shipment I of the Birthday Sampler SAL from the Attic. I know it will be here but I really wanted to start it on Jan 16 since that is also my birthday! I am already getting excited about sneak peeks of Nashville Market releases for this year....just wish I had a money tree to pick from!! Have a great week and see you again soon!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Barbara!!! I bet your kit will be there soon and you can start! Remember there is plenty of time to start....but we know how it is when you are waiting for something...you want it nooowwwww!!!

[@lynnbencic3089]

Wonderful video!!!! Loved hearing about and seeing all the beautiful projects from your retreat!!!! Fantastic haul!!! So happy you had such an an amazing birthday weekend!!❤ Hugs, Lynn

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Lynn!!!!!

[@betsykohl7226]

Happy Birthday Brenda! Happy Birthday to You!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Betsy!

[@barbolivieri-soshesewsquil4867]

Oh Brenda, the Fox & Rabbit sampler of your home is beautiful! Such a wonderful sentiment 🥰 The Symposium sounded fantastic! I'm headed to my very first retreat in October at Hobbyhouse! Happy stitching!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thanks Barb!!!!! So glad you are going to Hobby House! You are going to have so much fun!!!! That shop is amazing and they know how to put on a retreat!

[@mayolson2]

All I can say is WOW !

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you May!!!

[@angelmassey6586]

Happy birthday Brenda! What a bday bash you have had!!!! Thanks for sharing all your haul and LUra it was good to see you😍 You girls keep us all up to date and inspire me every time! Much love❤️

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Angel!!!!!!!! You have been working on some beautiful projects!

[@pamlacey136]

This was such a heartwarming video in so many ways. So happy for you, Brenda, that you were able to go to the Attic - just the best! Love that your family was there too. I also have owls that I hear almost every night by my bedroom. There is usually two of them but there has been as many as three hooting back and forth! I love to hear them, and then I will also hear the coyotes. They sometimes sound like they are in my yard - I live in the country. So fun. Thanks so much for sharing all of the gorgeous needlework items. I always enjoy seeing everything. Happy stitching…………………

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Pam!!!!!! Love hearing about your owls. Hope all else is well and that you are doing fine. It was so much fun having lunch with you at the Silver Needle!

[@deannaellett1906]

Oh my! Your sampler is beautiful and is a touching gift. It was fun to hear about your retreat and birthday celebration. Look forward to your next video. Thanks for sharing and happy stitching! 😊

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Deanna!!!!

[@SarahsStitchySpot]

Simply delightful!!! Great Sunday afternoon on stitching on Martha Evans and my first 40 count linen. Love you both to pieces!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Sarah!!!!! How is the 40 count going.....hoping that you are liking it!!!! We are sending you lots of love!

[@SarahsStitchySpot]

@@brendaandtheserialstarter2410 the 40 count is going well with my good light in my stitchy spot. Thanks for all of the support.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

@@SarahsStitchySpot That is great to hear!

[@annemarie6962]

Great ending to a lovely day. Brenda, I'm so pleased you got to celebrate your birthday in style with both of your families. The weekend sounded wonderful. I love your sampler, what a special gift. Every time I watch the pair of you, I wish I had a stitching friend who lived locally. Your friendship is a pleasure to watch. Take care, best wishes from 🇮🇪

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Anne!!! We hope you find a local stitching buddy!!!

[@jendickson2201]

How very lucky you two are to have the friendship you have ! I love the history of the samplers . I looked it up - my house is exactly 5 hours and 20 minutes from the attic ! My husband may not even realize I’ve left 😂. So happy your birthday was wonderful! You both inspire me so much .

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Jen!!!!!!! You have to go ASAP!!!!!!!! Maybe you can make a weekend trip for you and your husband!!!!!!! Keep us posted!

[@desireepheister2633]

So happy to spend time with you both today! My favorite part was the Sampler designed by Karen for your birthday, Brenda. It is so wonderful! I am not a big Sampler stitcher although I have done a few but that one is very special. Both of you have helped stitch our community together and are much loved. Thank you for your kindness, your quirkiness (you know which one you are at which time you are!) your joy in our art, and your happiness in sharing it with all of us.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for your lovely comments Desiree!!!

[@wooleygirl5240]

What a wonderful video! I enjoyed every minute of it! Wow! Brenda, what a great birthday you had-I'm so happy for you. I love that giant pincushion! And the sampler pattern that Karen and Bren created for you. You are a lucky girl! Laura, it was great seeing you today, too. You two are so funny and cheer everybody up with your laughter and funny comments. Thanks for sharing with us today-you are both such a Joy! Love ya! Pam Miller

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so so much Pam!!!!

[@juliemcolgan1446]

I stitch on my breaks and my lunch break to keep me calm. It is a great stress relief!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

For sure stitching calms us down......and shopping for stitching supplies gets us all hepped up! Thanks Julie!

[@margaretbramlett1645]

I was so happy to be at attendance at your coronation. Loved see you again and Happy Birthday. I will be starting Martha Evans soon.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Margaret!!!!!!

[@bethliotta267]

You two are the best. And Brenda, you are loved on your Birthday so much. Laura, you are the best friend anyone could ever ask for. I so enjoy watching you two! Have a great day and I think they should leave the Michigan flag! I WILL be purchasing this chart!!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Beth!!!! and we heard from Karen that the Michigan flag will be an optional thing to add on the market release sampler!

[@hannamansfield2894]

Well, we sure appreciate you two....love you in fact...lol

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Hanna!!!!!!

[@deborahdelisle35]

You two ladies are so loved! Your kindness is spreading! Every week I’m weeping with Brenda as she’s honored by so many. Wish I could hug you gals! 💕

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

We are sending you a virtual hug Deborah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!

[@ritadepalatis6366]

Our stitching community is amazing. Going to Sampler Symposium was a "mountaintop experience". Seeing all the beautiful stitching was great but even better was meeting old and new friends and the community and support we experienced. Seeing what others have stitched during the show and tell was amazing too. I could go on and on about all the individual people who were there but it would take too long. How lucky we are to be part of the stitching community!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

We totally agree Rita!!!!! Just as it was so wonderful to be together last February!!!!!!! We are all lucky to know each other!

[@lindaskinner5887]

Thank you for a wonderful video. Happy belated birthday Brenda.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Linda!

[@terryj8459]

What a great video! Brenda you are an amazing lady and Laura is such a special friend. Happy Birthday. Have a great week.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Terry!!!

[@pigtailquiltingstitching5635]

Love all you two do and share! Your samplers are amazing and give new stitchers like me so much to aspire to. Thanks for the inspiration once again!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for watching!!!! and commenting!!!

[@ElleSnapsAndStitch]

Happy Birthday Brenda! It sounds like it was an amazing time. Super happy for you. And the owls!!! I love them, they’re amazing! Love your start on Mary Hill Laura! I can’t wait to see that chart release. Thanks for the video and sharing. Have a great couple weeks! Happy Stitching!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Lisa!!!!

[@frontofficed.burnell-power6288]

i love you guys! I especially love how much you care about and for each other. The stitching is simply the bonus.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much!

[@stitchingbythemoon]

Another fabulous video! Brenda, it looks like you had your cake and icing, too, for your birthday with all the live and celebrations! How fantastic for you!! May your year be filled with all the happiness and health a girl could ever want. ♥️

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much!!!

[@marciastille5868]

Thank you, thank you, Laura for saying out loud what I have been thinking - stitch what you want to stitch today! During December I watched so many floss tubes that went on and on about plans. I almost felt bad I didn’t have a plan - ideas, lots of ideas but then I did some soul-searching and realized I am not that kind of a stitcher. My husband and I are retired, living the good life in Texas! Love your flosstube!!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Marcia!!! I love making plans....but I rarely stick to them. I am just careening through my stitching life like a ping pong ball. But it is fun and that is all that matters!

[@kathyharris7158]

What a great time listening to you both today. Happy birthday Brenda. It looks like you and your family had a wonderful time to Arizona. You of course gave me some great new ideas for stitching.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Kathy!!

[@ChristyHunter]

If I were to stitch the Brenda Sampler I'd have to put in the Michigan flag. My husband, who is a Razorback fan, would just have to be OK with that. I would probably even add "Go Blue!" right above the flag. It's such a beautiful sampler. You both are such a joy to watch and I'm glad you don't spend time doing giveaways. You probably have enough starts, consults and haul to keep up with. 😂

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Christy!!!! Good news...the Michigan flag is going to be an option in the chart when it is released. So...you can drive your husband nutty!

[@athenabesa380]

Belated Happy Birthday, Brenda! May you always be blessed!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Athena!

[@debbiiesiken2686]

What a wonderful floss tube! And oh my gosh..Brenda's Sampler..how super cool is that! Well we know what you will be working on soon! :) Happy Birthday! And what a way to celebrate!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Debbiie!!!

[@lesliedelooze3681]

I liked so many of your comments about Sampler Symposium--it's not a contest, it's a community--because as a first-time attendee at this (or any) stitching retreat, it was absolutely overwhelming...in a good way. I appreciated that you didn't do much stitching, which made me feel better as I was consumed by taking it all in and just couldn't concentrate on a project, too. And, yes, everyone was so very welcoming, which is a relief to those of us who came alone not knowing anyone. Jean and staff do an amazing job with this event; I have new stitching friends from my table; and you were so friendly to this random person who introduced herself and told you that your flosstubes were great. I'm off to look at the things you suggested in this video...

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Hi Leslie! This is Laura here....so glad that you met Brenda and even more happy that you had a communal experience at Symposium. Stitching retreats are like food for the soul and especially so at the Attic. You described it all perfectly!!!!! Here's to more retreats in the future!!!

[@lesliedelooze3681]

@@brendaandtheserialstarter2410, you two are such an inspiration and so much FUN!

[@ambermilone937]

Sampler symposium looks like it was fantastic! I hope to someday attend an attic retreat. Glad to catch up with you ladies! Happiest of birthdays Brenda!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Amber! and yes, you must attend an Attic Retreat!!!!! Must!

[@marygoode1058]

I absolutely love your videos! You two are the best...so much stitching inspiration and fun! Thank you!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you so much Mary!

[@noufgazi4900]

Happy birthday Brenda 🎉 Joy is a great word . I cherish the JOY of needlework and handcraft which brought to my life through cross stitch. More importantly, the joy of belonging to the cross stitch community which represents great values of friendship, respect and appreciation of human creativity.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Nouf!!!!! And we agree with every word you said!

[@carolynmaclean6076]

Hello, I just wanted to say that I enjoy your videos. Thank you for sharing your time. From a subscriber in Canada. 😀👩‍🎨

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Carolyn!!!!!!!!

[@WaterfallFW]

You made me cry over kindness. Love you ladies!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Debra.....acts of kindness always make us cry too!

[@estherovalle7909]

Hi ladies I love all the patterns and floss thank you for sharing all the beautiful things 😊

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you for watching Esther!

[@judylquiltsxstitch8711]

I was stitching on This Joyous Season while watching your video and saw Katie's gorgeous conversion to silk. I have too much finished to start over. Bummer! I love owls. I have seen them in Colorado and Arizona. Brenda, what a wonderful birthday celebration. You are one lucky gal. Happy stitching!

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Judy! Watch Katie's Floss Tubes because I bet she will be interpreting other charts for silks and then you can try it.

[@marilynferlitsch2003]

A fabulous video! I love every single thing you have shown. Thanks for sharing about the Symposium. Marilyn

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Marilyn!!!!

[@marlaberends9235]

Hi girls!! I LOVED your visit today!! Happy birthday Brenda!! I will miss your visit on Feb 5 as I’ll be getting on an airplane to go to PHOENIX!! I will go to the Attic while I’m there. I hope some of your stitchy goodness was left behind. I am a slooow stitcher, it’s my dream to stitch like you girls. ❤Marla

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

So glad you are going to the Attic Marla!!!!!!!! As we discussed, please let me know how your visit goes!!!! I am a slow stitcher too so we are in the same boat!

[@clarec6659]

With my time table today,your visit was all day and now into my evening. Fabulous spending so much time with you both. So sad it wasn’t in person but love these visits. So pleased Brenda you had such a wonderful progressive birthday. Some happy stitching coming up. Blessings.

[@brendaandtheserialstarter2410]

Thank you Clare!!!