Are You Going on the Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop?

Are you going on the 2011 Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop? It's not too late... you have until Sunday afternoon to stop at a few shops and gain some inspiration.

Last Thursday, Mom, Deb, Jenna, and I headed out on a fun filled day of shop-hopping. One positive thing about closing my shop is that I actually had the opportunity to visit some of the other fantastic shops in the area.

Heart To Hands Quilt Shop, Deer River, MN was our first stop of the day. This quilt shop is in an old church and was a great stop to kick off our day.

ABC's of Quilting, Grand Rapids, MN was our second stop. This shop is located is a beautiful old school building. There was someone playing the piano in the distance and there was even free popcorn.
On a side note, if you are ever in Grand Rapids and have some extra time on your hands, stop at Red Willow. This is a huge gift shop with everything from furniture to greeting cards in it. Some really great stuff. I purchased a purse that looks like an old tapestry carpet bag.

Then we were off to find a place for lunch on our way to Aitkin. We stopped in Hill City and ate at the Hill Lake Cafe. I had my usual club sandwich (which was good), but everyone else had the patty melt and raved about it.

When Seams Like Home was open people used to talk about a quilt shop in Hill City that was located in a gas station/ convenience store. Well, we found it and it was great. Decent selection and great prices. It is called Elaine's Quilt Corner. While we were there browsing, we decided on a new challenge. We each chose 5 one yard cuts of batiks and we will be working on 5 yard quilts at the retreat in October. (see photo above)

Then, we were off to Aitkin. First stop, Aitkin Quilts and Fabric. Looking for American Girl sized doll clothes and accessories? Then this is the place. Then we stopped across the street at Sew Much More. They have a nice variety and also a nice selection of craft supplies.

Then, it was a mad dash to McGregor before they closed the for the day. (The day just flew by) We walked in the door and, of course, were greeted with Diane's hugs. She was kind enough to stay open while we visited and shopped... so much to catch up on and a fantastic way to end the shopping day. If you are ever near McGregor, stop in at Timeless Treasures of Mcgregor and tell Diane hello from me!

Barn Block of the Month

Well, I have been working on more of the Barn Block of the Month blocks. (The blocks are from "Quilt Blocks on American Barns" by Eleanor Burns. We started this block of the month last fall when my shop was still open, but we are still trying to finish it out.)

Above you will find some photos of some of the blocks, if you have been a part of this year's block of the month program, you should have received an email update from me today. If you didn't, please contact me.