I'm starting a new series.  I have the great fortune of visiting many Quilt Guilds and Quilt Shops as I talk about, and sign, my book, Just A Quilt?  This often puts me in some very interesting towns and shops that are outside of the path most traveled.  But, these shops and towns are often very interesting and it is a shame that more of us do not get to see them.  So, I will share some of my experiences and the information I gather on these shops and towns as I travel around the country.  I hope you find this information useful and that you have the chance to visit some of them.


January 7, 2011

Heavenly Threads Quilt Shop
334 Prospect Avenue
Trinity, TX  75862
936-594-1237

Patricia McCartney is such a wonderful person, but do not call her "Pat." She will be sure to tell you, "That's a boy's name; at least, where I grew up."  My wife and I had the pleasure of spending the day with Patricia and she was so much fun to be around. 

Tricia runs a lovely quilt shop in a small house in Trinity.  You really feel like you are pulling into her driveway (unpaved dirt)  and walking into her house; and in a way, you are.  Browse the five rooms of fabric and gadgets but be sure to visit the Adoption Center.  You can ask Tricia why it is called the Adoption Center.  Guys, feel free to sit in the comfy lounge chairs in the front room.  Those chairs are extremely comfortable!

I was surprised to find out that Santa often frequents this store.  Tricia's husband is the spitting image of him and gladly fills the role as Christmas approaches.  Tricia did not talk about it but in my opinion, she makes a mighty fine Mrs. Claus.

Be sure to talk with Tricia about all the charitable projects that they support.  She has some really good ideas and samples.

I was moved by the Prayer Board.  The names of people needing prayer for their issues and illnesses  were listed.  During the day, I heard customers talking lovingly about the concerns of the various people listed there.  Tricia is thrilled to say, "People are being touched by the prayers and we are able to take their names off the board." 

You might want to plan your visit to Heavenly Threads soon because it is likely to become a major tourist attraction. Tricia is on a mission to get into the Guinness Book of World Records.  She is having the world's largest thimble fabricated which she will use as her sign in the front yard.  I am sure the tour buses will soon be swamping Trinity as people flock to see this sight.

WHERE TO EAT?

By all means, you must eat at the Trinity Cafe in the heart of Trinity, TX.  It is between the two traffic lights in town.  There is parking along the street.  Just pick out one of the spots amongst the pick-up trucks.  You'll be having lunch with the locals who are friendly and welcoming.  The special the day that we were there was fried catfish with a variety of yummy side dishes (fried okra, ranch-style beans, mustard greens, for instance).  But, I passed up the special and had the fried chicken salad.  It was very tasty and plentiful!

WHAT TO DO?

After you eat, go next door and shop in the Trinity Florist and Gifts.  It is much more than just a flower shop.  There are plenty of fun gift items, cards, wind chimes, jewelry, fashions; oh, and flowers too.


There you go, the first town and shop to be highlighted is Trinity, TX and the Heavenly Threads Quilt Shop.  If you enjoyed this brief segment, let me know.  Thanks for hosting my visit, Tricia!