SPRING -  the start of a new season.  If the flocks of geese flying north are any indication of warmer weather, it's going to be soon.  I love to hear the honking as they are descending on a field to feed at dusk.  It's such a pretty sight as the sun is setting and the geese set their wings for landing.  The ice hasn't gone out yet on the lakes, but the robins have returned, the sedum is poking through the ground and the sun is definitely stronger and warmer.  The mild weather signals the return of flower garden tours, evenings on the porch and sun tea on the patio with friends.  The other great thing is springtime is quilt time!

Like the newness of spring, we have many new things to tell you about for quilting.  Cottagewood fabrics continue to be a big hit, along with the Cottagewood Quilts book and kits.

Just this week, the new Picnic Quilts book arrived.  The book is full of fun quilts, wall hangings, coasters and runners to brighten your home, cottage or screen porch for spring and summer living.  Add a touch of whimsy to your potting shed with the Garden Time wall quilt or start today with the Rose Wreath wall quilt for a fun Mother's Day gift or birthday gift for a special friend.  If you would like to lighten up your bedroom or guest room, the Summer Blues quilt and Life is a Picnic pillows are the perfect mix.

Bring spring to your table this month with our April Birthday Blast Spring Breeze tablecloth.  Once again it is a buy you cannot pass up.  Using the new Picnic fabric collection, the kit includes fabric for the top, binding, Flower Market book AND backing.  This is a $119.00 value, on-line from April 3 – April 9 for only $74.95.  That is a $44.00 saving!  Hurry, the sale is one week only on-line.

Due North and Evergreen Pinwheels are two new patterns from Thimbleberries that have come into the shops.  The Evergreen Inn collection of fabrics will be available next month but, in the meantime, we have done Due North in Cottagewood.  The flying geese block is so traditional and you cannot beat the look for a fun summer throw.

A new collection of fabric with a hint of an antique look is the new Seasons fabric line.  Comprised of wonderful basic tone-on-tone and floral prints, this collection works nicely in the designs offered in the Mostly Table Runners Two and the Coffee Time Quilts book.  For the outdoor look and feel, the Northern Shores brushed cotton line has arrived.  Perfect timing for the fisherman and up north person in your life.

Our new catalog will be sent this week.  Packed with new fabrics, books, kits and clubs, it definitely has something for everyone.  If you do not receive it within the next two weeks, make sure you let us know and we will send you one.