The Modern Sewist

Today marks 16 weeks since I lost Cassidy.

Today also marks the start of my birthday month.

The last time I spent any length of time to honor another trip around the sun was 4 years ago - with Cassidy. It was an incredible time with him … so many memories to cherish. He and I have had many travel memories, both here and abroad. We were good travel buddies.

So, in his memory, I am embarking on a month long journey of my own.

I didn’t have any intention of traveling at this time - the notion of having to get out of bed, shower, and engage with others is pretty overwhelming - I could just continue cocooning in my safe bedroom with my dogs.

But sometimes, serendipity happens. I received my regular email from and, as always, scroll to see when her next Embroidered Journey’s are scheduled. I’ve longed to go but with the business, could never take the time.

I found she had an unexpected cancellation - and would you believe it is right when my birthday lands? I jumped all over that without thinking. (My afterthoughts were scattered and all over the place - but I knew Cassidy would want this for me).

So, here I sit, in the Tampa airport awaiting my flight to Paris. I’m a mess of emotions - the timing being what it is (Monday’s are ALWAYS hell for me … reliving every moment from 16 weeks ago).

But this morning, I had my first vivid dream and a 2 sentence exchange with Cassidy. It was my first Monday without the visceral responses I have been prone to. The message was clear.

And so, I am off ✈️ And Cassidy is with me.

An incredibly difficult post for me today.

Unfortunately, as a result of damages to the building from recent Hurricanes, I have made the very difficult decision to temporarily close our brick and mortar shop to the public. I do this out of an abundance of concern for the comfort of my staff and my customers.

I am awaiting word from my landlord as to when repairs are to be scheduled. We are, like so many other businesses and homes, at the mercy of the very busy tradespeople after a devastating season.

I have addressed several items of interest below:

SIGNS: To dispel any rumors of our shop closing, one of our signs was taken by Hurricane Milton. The other has been removed to allow for the roof and fascia to be replaced.

BERNINA Sales and Repairs: If you are one of our BERNINA VIP Club Members, or have a repair needed to keep your baby humming, please e-mail [email protected] and we will make an appointment to see you.

If you are in the market for a BERNINA, this is the time - for you and for us. With lost revenue to make up for, we have great savings ... a win for you -- and revenue to allow us to chug away! Send a message and we'll set up an appointment.

CLASSES: All classes through the end of this month will be rescheduled. It is likely, we will need to reschedule classes for the first week or two of November as we still may have no A/C.

ONLINE SALES: We still have most of our products online available for sale - including BERNINA products (VIPs - don't forget your code when purchasing for your discount to apply).

STORE PICKUP: During this time, if you are in need of a purchase immediately, I recommend having it shipped. If you can wait to pick it up, please state that in the notes, and we'll let you know when you can do so!

FUTURE BUSINESS: It is no mystery that Florida has a slow season, especially for retail businesses. I am always well prepared for this time of year so we come out swinging and ready for our snowbirds return, with a robust class calendar, and many new product releases.

This year, this hell of a 2024 Hurricane Season, has taken an immense toll. I know this because we share similar stories; of losses, of hardships, and the sheer physical and emotional fatigue we have collectively logged in such a short time. I hear you. I see you. I was not prepared for this - not like this. Like so many of you, my staff and I have been preoccupied with preparing for a storm and dealing with its aftermath. The toll for the business has not only been physically challenging, but financially as well.

This too shall pass. This is my mantra, today and everyday.

In the meantime, I am giving you all a group hug, and looking forward to a day in the very near future where it will be in person.

Again, please address any questions or concerns via e-mail ([email protected]) - I will get that quicker than voicemails left at the shop.

My sincerest love to all of you - may the healing of this season begin.