Thanks nor'easter. I do receive JoAnn gift certificates from friends out of town, most of whom aren't quilters. Mom and DH spoil me with LQS sprees at Christmas and B-day----sometimes mother's day as well. I prefer quilt shop fabric BY FAR but this is an expensive little hobby I have going on and I'm a SAHM. I'll use my stash and add to it every chance I get (never say no to fabric!!!).
I tend to buy notions at JoAnns and an occasional block of the month because I'd never be able to do one on time through the quilt shop and I can learn it at my own pace. I also purchase most of my books through Amazon now because the last one I bought at the quilt shop cost double what it was online. I just purchased a book recommended here and a companion and got free shipping. The two books together were less than one at the shop. ON the other hand, I couldn't imagine buying applique supplies through a chain store and I prefer the patterns available at the quilt store, too. I want to have my cake and eat it too. What can I say?
HAPPY SEWING!