Well, today "jump" started the Southern California Quilt Run for 2006. This year the run will be held over an 8-day period from July 15 to July 22 with shops being opened extended hours to accommodate all of the quilters.

Tonight all 30 participating shops in the area from Lancaster, CA to San Diego (and most shops in between-see map) hosted a jump-start event from 7 to 10 p.m.

I went to 3 shops in about 2 hours, whereas other “hardcore quilters” had been to 9 or 10 in the same amount of time.

The goal of many quilters “doing the run” will be to hit all 30 shops in a weeks time, get your run “passport” stamped at all shops to be eligible for fabulous prizes. Most shops are also doing give-a-ways, providing free goodies and treats and having a run “special” on select items.

Check out their website for the list of participating stores and hours.

This is a great time to visit shops out of your “local” area, hang out with friends and of course buy, buy, buy! ‘Cause we all need more fabric!

More and more areas of the country are hosting “quilters runs” or “shop hops” ask at your local shop about one in your area! Good times.

(Map courtesy of Southern California Quilter's Run...see a better bigger map on their website!)