January 5, 2011

Quilters Crossing
108 Commerce Street
Tomball, TX 77375

It was such a relief to get a break from the cold winter weather.  I stood in front of Quilters Crossing Quilt Store in Tomball, TX with my face turned upward toward the deliciously warm Texas sun.  I wondered why I live in the frigid northeast when it's almost 70 degrees on this beautiful January day.  

My wife and I pulled our gear to the workshop along a rustic brick pathway toward the classroom building set back from the main store.  The classroom building was wonderful - beautifully lighted with plenty of space and electricity.  Ask Deb to show you the classroom while you are there.  She always seems to have classes, demos and groups using this space, but she won't mind if you peek in.

The shop itself is in an old house one block off the main street; just watch for the quilts hung from the railing on the front porch.  Park along the street and go on in, or just relax for a bit on the front porch.  The shop is not large but Deb and her daughter, Mandy, are fun to talk with. Nose around the four rooms of fabrics to see what you can find.  They carry oodles of non-mainline fabrics with lots of fun fabrics for the young at heart.  The back room is mostly dedicated to a collection of solids.  There's a wonderful assortment of Fairy Frost fabrics in a section of another room.  They also try to carry patterns that you might not see too often; so, be sure to pay attention and be sure to check out the projects hanging on the walls.

It is sometimes the unusual and small things that attract you to a shop.  I enjoyed the occasional Pecan banging on the roof from the large tree standing beside the shop.  I also enjoyed the stray kitty that lurked outside the shop. It often peaked in the front door.  This kitty was certainly not suffering as the tender-hearted owners keep food and water in dishes on the front porch.

WHERE TO EAT?

The Whistle Stop Tea Room is just across the street from Quilters Crossing.  Get there early because it is jam-packed by 11:30 am. I highly recommend the Tortilla Soup and the heavenly Bread Pudding that absolutely melts in your mouth. It is to die for (I think I embarrassed my wife when I picked up my plate to lick every last drop of the yummy rum sauce).  Be sure to reserve your dessert when you order because they do sell out quickly.  The locally homemade bread is terrific too - thick, soft and squishy.