A few months back I got the idea that it would be fun to go to the AQS show in Branson. I’ve never been there and seeing Branson plus a quilt show struck me as a golden opportunity. I asked Mike if he wanted to go and he responded “no thanks” (ever since he retired from flying all over he doesn’t want to go anywhere – and I get it). So I asked if he’d mind my going with a friend and got a sweet – “no problem”. So I texted Cathy and we made plans. After looking at the map I realized that Hamilton, MO was sort of on the way, so this past week we loaded up the car and headed south.
It was a lovely day for a road trip and we arrived right at 5pm.
We checked into our lovely Air B&B, just a block off the main street, and went for a walk.
The stores had all just closed, so we took an obligatory selfie, peeked in a bunch of windows, and had a quick dinner at a local shop. We were even privileged to see the biggest spool of thread. I only wish I’d had some thread with me to add to it.
That night we found a puzzle in the B&B and had it together before going to bed. Cathy and I both have puzzling brains.
The next morning we hit the shops of Missouri Star with enthusiasm and oh what fun we had! The fabric was gorgeous and plentiful, and the people were so friendly.
Each of the buildings housed a different type of fabric (solids, kids, batiks, seasonal, etc.) and most of them were connected. Everything was delightfully neat and organized, with oodles of encouraging and funny quilting phrases and signs painted everywhere.
I was so impressed that I had to give Jenny a high five:
We have plenty of purchases to remember her “buy” 😁.
Then it was time for lunch. Mrs. Littles Tea and Toys looked intriguing:
The decor couldn’t have been more charming.
Our soup, sandwiches and all the special extras were served on tiered plates, and every bite was delicious.
After lunch Mrs. Little came out to see how everything was ~ and we told her how much we enjoyed it. I asked her if I could take photos and include them in my blog post about our visit to Hamilton and she was thrilled. So thrilled that she told me to tell all of you that if you travel to Hamilton and visit Mrs. Little’s Tea and Toys, simply mention you heard about her here and she’ll have a little treat for you.
What a wonderful time we had in Hamilton! And that was only the beginning of our trip! Next week come back to hear all about the 100th AQS show and our adventures in Branson.
And if you haven’t been stitching on any quilts recently, remember what it says on the side of a building there:
I think they forgot the word “quilts”, but you get the idea.
judy raddatz says
What a lovely virtual trip with you and your friend. Here I sit inside while snow remains outside. Thank you. Looking forward to next week. You’re the best!
Mary Beth Weeks says
Several years ago my husband and I stopped in Hamilton to visit the Missouri Star shops. We soon discovered that each had a place for him to sit and wait while I looked around. One shop even had reclining chairs for the waiting husbands!
Joanne Corrigan says
Thank you for the Hamilton experience! Loved it and oh what fun it must have been!!
Carolyn Lawrence says
I’ve always wanted to visit there. Looks like fun! Thanks for sharing your experience.
WANDA KRUGER says
I love going to MSQO; always a treat. Don’t go as often as i would like – I have quilting to do!!
Laurie Neubauer says
Oh yes Chris, these pictures and travel stories are delightful. I know now that I need to carry a spool of thread around with me along with the tiny, tiny scissors I have (just in case). My purse gets bigger and bigger. Those signs announcing Hamilton are a riot and Mrs. Little’s Tea & Toys brought back many memories with her dolls, doilies and the tea pots. I have 2 of the ones she has on the shelf in your picture. I got them from my Mom. I’m glad you got to escape from the snow, but our turn will be next soon. The warmth of Joy in the heart is what counts and we will “Make More,” Quilts. LOL
Laurie
Barb Jordan says
Went there for my 75th birthday. It was also their birthday at the same time in September. Lots of fun going on and lots of people. I will go again given a chance. Glad you had a good time.
MariLynn Bergmark says
Memories! We stopped at Hamilton going to and from Arizona on two winter vacations. When I looked at the map I asked my husband if we could “swing” that way and stop at Hamilton. We got there just before closing time and were able to get “2” Daily Deals. (My husband has his OWN MSQS account!) The next morning we stopped again to take advantage of the Daily Deals before we “hit the road” for Arizona.
Patty Mattingly says
Did you stay at the airbnb owned by Jenny’s daughter-in-law?. Isn’t it fun in Hamilton?. I went to a Doan Sisters retreat last year and had so much fun im going back April 9th. I can’t wait. I will mention your blog when I get to Miss Littles!
Debby Abe says
I love Hamilton! I have been to Missouri star quilt shops several times, and loved every minute of it! Next time I drive through I am going to save enough time to go through the quilt museum.
Mary says
What a great trip! Can’t wait to see the rest!
I may have to drag my daughter there… Hopefully two daughters.
Alice says
I had the pleasure to visit in late fall. It was such a neat town centered around quilting.
What a difference one family can make in a town.
I loved the tea shop and loved tea a sweets more than once at the store.
I make a Kaffee Fassett lap quit from one of the layer cakes as my personal momento from the Missouri Star trip.