Stella grew up in Stony Point but left for New York when she got married. When her husband, Seymore Brickson III, died, she returned to her roots in Stony Point. At age 80, Stella is getting frail, but she has a fiery spirit, and her needlepoint skills are exceptional. She is a member of the local needlecraft club and for no apparent reason has resented Annie from the moment she joined.

Ian's family owns the local sawmill. He is the mayor of Stony Point and stays very involved in everything that goes on in town. Ian has been a widower for several years, so when Annie comes to town, he finds her a very attractive addition to Stony Point.