The Hive is set to open June 25 on the second floor of the Powder Springs Florist. What is The Hive? Part den, part seminar center, and all fun. The Hive will serve as the headquarters for the programs and confabs of local author and Patch contributor Lauretta Hannon, Powder Springs' favorite funny girl. It will be a hub of learning, laughter and good times—a gathering place for kindred spirits and those who wish to be inspired, entertained or just plain be. Above all, it will be a place where you are always welcome.Visit Hannon's website for events, and we will also post them here on the Patch.

Lily Torte Baking Company is making progress. As the opening date approaches, visions of cupcakes, cookies and cakes are dancing in our heads. Join the Lily Torte Facebook page to receive updates.

The Country Store of Seven Springs is adding more flair with new vendors, so please stop by to see what's new—even if it's old like the antiques you can find in some of the vendor booths. It's great to be able to shop and keep finding different items each week and also see the artists work on display and for sale. 

Powder Springs Florist is taking orders for Mother's Day. Have you stopped in to see what's new there? You really will be amazed at all the great gifts you can buy for your Mom, as well as friends, family and, of course, yourself.

Hand-Me-Up's has added hundreds and hundreds of new items in the last few weeks. Did you know the store not only carries women's and children's clothes but also stocks accessories, jewelry, toys and small housewares? If you haven't been in there in the last week or more, then you're missing out on a ton of new additions.

Tea at Seven Springs was the original home of The Push Rods Car Club, which is set to host a gather of classic cars this afternoon and evening downtown. Of course, Tea at Seven Springs is also the home of great scones and wonderful teas and is an ideal place to take your mom, daughter or girlfriends for a special lunch.

The Book Worm Bookstore has just added hundreds of new items to its inventory. The store now carries "the most awesomest" 3D bookmarks, as well as book lights, bumper stickers, pens and other book accessories. Join our Facebook page to be entered in the $100 Book Worm Gift Certificate Giveaway.

Powder Springs Coffee and Bake Shoppe: The votes are in: The coffee shop is the place to go for great coffee, smoothies and treats. Lots of you have chimed in and made it clear that yummy happens there. 

PearTree Interiors & Gifts has the most beautiful yet inexpensive hanging baskets, Boston ferns, planters of ivy and more. Check out the store's porch on the Town Square side to see all the great live plants, and then walk inside for all sorts of spring treats. Remember, shopping local helps your city tax base, as well as keeps small Mom and Pop stores stay open.

Susan Smelser is a Powder Springs resident and owner of the Book Worm Bookstore. She can be reached at shopthebookworm@aol.com.