Found! An independent fabric store!

...in all places, Smithville, Texas! MARILYN'S FABRICS - 1103 N.E. Loop 230 512/237-2939. She's right across the street from Dairy Queen. Hours are 9:00-4:30 Tuesday through Saturday.

VERY reasonably-priced assortment fabrics from fashion to quilting. Most are in the $2-$4 range. I found a 60" wide tan/navy striped linen for $4.99/yard! Fun variety of notions, butttons, zippers, even old patterns to discover. Marilyn is super nice, very helpful and fun to chat with. Unfortunately, she's not online. And be prepared to pay with cash or checks only.

If you are making the run on 71 from Houston to Austin, you may just want to take a detour through Smithville and check this place out...and grab a Blizzard, too! I look forward to making a fabric pit stop again soon! (And maybe a small Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Blizzard?)

7-9-09 Update: I just received a handwritten thank you note from her in the mail today!