Thank you & a little giveaway

Words can't express how thankful I am for all of the kindness and support expressed by each of you!

You have been a source of comfort to my entire family.

It is only now just sinking in that Dad has passed away.

I try to remember all the happy memories and know that we will be together again one day.

I have been gone too long and have so much to share from the past two months.

Bright little spots amongst the difficulties.

Early in September I was traveling quite a bit. I had a business trip to San Diego and found myself with four free hours. What is a woman to do?? Why, rent a car and visit her favorite quilt shops...

I had been to San Diego last fall and had a wonderful day shop hopping. I knew that I couldn't visit them all this time, but I headed out...

The first stop was Temecula Quilt Co.

Such incredible inspiration!

I so love the applique!

The postage stamp quilt behind it is awfully special too!

I just love the signature tiny prints in all her quilts.

Such beautiful colors

Such an eye for display

And some wool too :)

I didn't leave empty handed :) I need to incorporate those tiny prints into some of my creations.

I stopped at In and Out Burger to make my sons jealous ;) and thought I had enough time for one more stop...

Fat Quarters Quilt Shop

It may look little on the outside, but the inside goes on and on...

(For you Dr. Who fans, it is like the Tardis)

You could happily get lost inside and stay there forever ;)

I was absolutely amazed at the Lantana hedge! I plant them as annuals in Chicago and am thrilled when they are a foot and a half tall. The bees and butterflies love them, and I love the tiny multi-colored flowers. Here they are bushes?!?!

I only just walked inside the front door and was inspired by these darling little seasonal quilts!

Beautiful wool and a quilt which really isn't "my style", but it spoke to me truly - I couldn't stop looking at it! Just love all the animals and the butterflies, too.

Why did I not come home with the pattern for America the Beautiful???

I looked at it a dozen times...

This is what did fit in my little carry on ;)

The models of both Bits and Pieces by Joan patterns were so gorgeous in person!

All too soon, my four hours of fun were over and I needed to get to the conference.

Surprisingly, it was cool and cloudy in San Diego, but the final day was glorious!

The beautiful view from my room.

Gorgeous Bird of Paradise.

Well, I couldn't have fun on my little trip and not include you!

So I have a little giveaway:

A few little items from both of the shops.

So tell me what is your favorite tropical flower?

Simply leave a comment on this post or send an email to me at pgagliardi9@hotmail.com with

San Diego Giveaway in the subject line.

I will pick a winner on Tuesday, November 8th.

Thank you again for all your kindness and support!

"Surely he will save you    from the fowler’s snare
    and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart."

~Psalm 91:3-4

Thank you Kathy F. for the bible verse!

Blessings, Patti