NOTES FROM THE LODGE Sunday, November 16, 2008

November really is clicking by awfully fast---it is true that time flies when you are having fun. This week the open house events downtown at businesses owned by my friends and fellow shopkeepers got underway. I tried to make all of them and believe that I was successful. I hope that you too got an opportunity to visit all the great shops on Queen Street and begin shopping for Christmas. We are so fortunate in Martinsburg to have a great many fine retail opportunities.

Our own Open House will be this coming Saturday from 10:00 to 3:00. Most of our merchandise has arrived, much of our decorating has been accomplished. We are excited about offering you the finest in fabric, unique kits for quick and easy projects and some wonderful stocking stuffers with the quilter/sewer in mind. Don't forget also that we have gift certificates in every denomination you choose.

On Saturday our friend and neighbor Pam Wagoner of Depot Florist will also be celebrating her open house as well as her 10 years in business. Located just around the corner on King Street from 9:00 to 4:00 you can enjoy unique shopping at both Nutmeg Lodge and Depot Florist all at the same time. Refreshments, door prizes and fun galore!!!! Don't miss out.

Then on Friday night , November 21 downtown---come and experience the tree lighting and the start of the magic that is truly unique to Martinsburg. The lights, the tree, the ice palace, the snowflake village. Every bit a small town experience that can't be had anywhere but Martinsburg.

We also have Black Friday (Nov. 28) to look forward to and our Santa's Workshop (Fri., Dec. 5). I am especially excited about Santa's Workshop. We will be collecting food for CCap/Loaves and Fishes. Loaves and Fishes especially needs Mac & Cheese, canned spaghetti sauce and spaghetti. Please come and enjoy Santa's Workshop and please share what you have with others by helping our local food bank for so many in need this time of year.

Barbara