Yes, it’s true.  We are celebrating 35 years in business!  You know, we’re not ones to brag or toot our own horns, but I’ve got to say – I am pretty darn proud of us.  I certainly don’t just mean the Elkinses “us” either.  I am proud of everything we’ve accomplished as a family, but we’ve been so fortunate to have great staff along the way, terrific support from our vendors and then of course, a dash of luck.  Oh and I should also add a little hutzpah too – I’m sure Art would agree.

Steve and I have been very fortunate to have been given the opportunity to take what Barbara started back in 1974 as a means to feed her own yarn habit, what she and Art grew together through the 80’s and 90’s into not only a great retail destination but a strong mail order company and continue to build on the tremendous foundation they established. 

It’s funny to think back on our own personal hesitations.  Art & Barbara had actually approached us a couple of times in the late 90’s.  We were always very gracious, but I can remember getting off the phone with them and Steve and I just giggling at the thought of living in Western Mass and running a yarn store.  We lived in a cool Boston suburb, we had cool jobs. . . . I think we might have even thought that we were cool. Yeah – we were young and obviously a bit delusional.   Funny how two kids a job change and relocation can change your perspective.

Steve and I were talking last night and he asked what we’d do to celebrate WEBS 50th anniversary.  I said “I hope Jackson does something great”.  His response “Our 24 year old will not be in charge”.  Won’t it be fun to see how that plays out?

For me personally, I think what I am most proud of is that Steve and I have been able to do this together and still have a great family life.  There are certainly days when I think we’d both fire each other if we could.  There are definitely days when I know our staff would send us packing if they could!  Somehow, we make it all work and I truly cannot imagine being anywhere else.

As always, we celebrate our anniversary with a killer sale.  This year is no different.  We’ve got amazing deals on knitting yarns including Cascade 220, Eco Wool, Classic Elite Fresco, Berroco Peruvia, Fiesta La Bohemme and Baby Boom, just to name a few.  If you are a weaver, there are great savings on 8/2 Tencel, Linen, 5/2 Valley Cotton and more!

Starting next week, we’ll also be offering a weekly special on one of our own Valley Yarns.  Plus, who knows what else we might just throw in for fun?

Last, but far from least, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank all of you, are wonderful customers for taking this ride with us.  Some of you have been here from the beginning, others may have just discovered us.  Either way, we’re grateful you choose to shop with us.  Enjoy the celebration!

Kathy