I've been reading some posts about controlling what you buy, and so forth which got me wondering about going on our upcoming Vermont state shop hop. Last year I went to all of the shops in the state - 13, I think, for the first time. Three of them are within about 10 miles of my house, so I can easily do them, buy the passport for $7 and get the gift. Last year hubby went with me for a tour of about 5 more shops along the west side of the state, and another day a QB and I did a run up the east side of the state to complete the list. I bought something at most shops, but not a lot. It was great fun, but this year I'm trying to decide if I should undertake it again. Each shop gives you a little something - some a fat quarter, some just a little trinket like a seam ripper or something, along with a pattern. Most have a drink and maybe a cookie, but you still have to spend money on food as it's too cold to bring a picnic this time of year. There are some nice drawings, but I've never won anything at a shop hop, so probably won't this year. There are 11 shops this year.
If I just do it in one day it will be for me, more than 350 miles round trip. My Prius doesn't take a lot of gas, but it's still an expense. Most shops have something on sale, so I am tempted to buy probably more than I should. My buddy will be away this year, so I don't really have anyone but hubby to go with. He enjoys the trip, but it's not like being with another quilter.
Here are my questions:
1) Do you do shop hops?
2) Do you buy a lot?
3) Is it worth it to go so far to just stop in and pick up the freebies and enter the drawings?
If you are interested in going yourself, here is the website:
http://www.vermontshophop.com Do consider it if you are in the area, especially with a group of other quilters. All the shops are lovely and the people are very nice.