it is sad to see Peggy Ann's go. that is where I test drove my first Bernina many moons ago. I liked that their fabric was always different than other places in the area! the little lamb too? too sad, too sad. I loved that country store by the little lamb, can't recall the name of it!!
I'm with you, if I can buy from my local shop, I'm happy to do so, very rarely will I buy on line (usually if I cant find what I need at the LQS) and I never buy fabric from walmart or joanns. ok, confession, I totally do not like walmart and don't shop there for anything.
At the LQS they know me by name, they know what I like what I don't like, they help me make great choices when faced on a tough color selection, they are willing to listen to what I need and what I want, and then try and accomodate me, you're surrounded by people who are passionate about what they do and frankly, the customer service and the experience of being in a great quilt shop just can't be beat. to me, worth it, any day.