Living above her yarn shop, A Simple Stitch, on Main Street in her hometown was the perfect life for Eliza. One of the original downtown buildings in Spring Forrest provided her the setting for the collection of antiques passed down and finds she picked up along the way. Her regulars at the Friday Knit Out group had become like a second family, leaning on each other through many of life’s obstacles and celebrating life’s joys.

Her nephew CJ returned to open the old Café across the street after one short semester away at college. Eliza could see CJ was searching to fill a void in his life. It became more obvious with the holidays approaching. Feelings he couldn’t explain but Eliza could certainly understand. The Homestead, still intact from generations past, known as Slipknot Farm had become more important to CJ this year than ever before.

Annie Simpkins, the new fifth-grade teacher from Texas, caught his eye and stirred his interest. Now, CJ felt the need for a family gathering stronger than ever before. During the fall, Main Street comes alive with return customers, old friends, and new faces. Slipknot is transformed with the changing seasons. Visitors drop in, stories are told of the days gone by, and Eliza’s recipe box gets a workout. Everyone has a few surprises in the works, trying to make certain this season is more memorable than the last. Family priorities are realized, bonds are strengthened

Visitors drop in, stories are told of the days gone by, and Eliza’s recipe box gets a workout. Everyone has a few surprises in the works, trying to make certain this season is more memorable than the last. Family priorities are realized, bonds are strengthened and futures are as bright as the full moon shining over the barn at Christmas time.

Come along and relive the stories of Mimzie and Papa at the Homestead. As their values and strengths are remembered, A Common Thread becomes more obvious to everyone. Take this journey, and you will want to join the gathering every Christmas at the Homestead and feel like you are there.