Countless collections

“We’re big collectors,” Deb said, explaining that she and Michael fill their home with assemblages of other items, too. In a black and gold case, for example, sits a complete collection of Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit & Friends ceramic figurines.

“We’ve been married 52 years, and Michael gave me the first piece before we were married,” Deb recalled. “He just recently gave me the last piece that I needed. (It’s) one of the very rare, original ones. (It’s) Duchess, holding the flowers.” Another kind of collection is on display on the walls of Michael’s bathroom. “We collect everything we can,” Deb said, referring to the 100+ framed photos and decorative accents that adorn the space. “We (gather) these little decorative things, (which we call) goobers – that’s just something that we made up.”

Despite the countless number of items that Deb and Michael have amassed and presented in their 1,750-square-foot condo, the space is squeaky clean — and everything has been carefully curated and arranged in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

“We’re always ‘on tour,’” Deb said. “You can come to my house at almost any time, and (it’s) very neat, clean and orderly.”

Keeping their home tidy means that Deb will likely always have space to add more needlepoint decor – and that’s a good thing because she shows no sign of slowing down. The self-described fast stitcher constantly has multiple pieces going at once, and she does a little bit every day.

“My husband says it’s cheaper than therapy,” she said with a laugh, “and I love sharing it. I love it when people want to see it and enjoy it.”

This pillow in the living room has a needlepoint insert with a Christmas theme.