This is my kind of thread! I agree with everything said here. I, too, am sensitive to the environment in each shop. When staff rudely ignores me, my wallet doesn't feel any more welcome than I do. I also LOVE Mary Jo's. My little sister surprised me with a road trip there when I was visiting her. Believe it or not, I was so overwhelmed that I only bought one piece of fabric! I've visited some awesome shops in the Denver, CO area..most notably Harriet's Treadle Arts...where I was lucky enough to take a hand quilting class. Now, two weeks from today, my quilt bestie and I are taking a 1300 mile road trip to Missouri. You guessed it! To a retreat at the Missouri Star! To say we're excited is such an understatement. Has anyone else been there? Taken any classes?