The Country Register NRGP | May/June 2021 Issue

View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP

May - June 2021 | Page 1

Page 2 | May - June 2021

What’s Inside?

• A Cup of Tea with Lydia - Page 4 • Cowgirl Poet - Page 5 • Know Your Needle Points - Page 6 • Take A Trip Through NRGP - Page 7 • Eat, Stay & Play in Belle Fourche, SD - Page 8 • Take A Trip Through NRGP - Page 9 • Robin’s Nest DIY - Page 10 • Gardening Tips - Page 11 • A Story of Letters- Page 13 • Porch Favorities - 15 • Dyeing Wool with Easter Egg Dye - Page 15

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Editor’s Notes

This is My Happy Place

Everyone has a spot where the world floats by, the sun shines a little brighter, and your troubles and worries melt away. For some this is the garden.

For some this is hiking through the woods or that favorite spot on the lake with a pole. For some this is a location to travel to, like a cabin, vacation home or favorite travel spot. For others this is in their sewing room, painting room or crafting room. This is called their “happy place.”

Kelsey Ruzicka

Publisher of For me, I can honestly say I have a few “happy The Country Register places.” My crafting area is definitely one. I have a of ND, SD, WY, few favorite spots to hike to and visit. But, one happy MT & N. ID place I visit the most is my patio. Here it doesn’t matter what I’m doing – working, reading, sipping tea, crafting, playing with my kiddo, napping, etc. I could be peeling potatoes, and in this spot with the sweet sunshine and porch swing cushions – everything is all right.

If you don’t have a place that you can find this sense of calm, peace and joy, I suggest you make that a new goal for 2021. It is one of the best medicines to the weight and grind of our daily lives. And look at all the options! One of the best things about my porch as a happy place, is the fact that I can take 10 mins or an hour, doesn’t matter the amount of change in my pocket, and it is always available. Now, in the Midwest, the sun is the biggest variable. But, I can tell you I’ve had some pretty soothing moments on my covered porch in a rainstorm.

I have goals to have a “she shed” someday so that my happy place can have my paints, crafts, books, porch swing, and pretty things. Encompassing a one-stop spot for happy moments. I also have goals to one day have a vacation home. But, start with what you have today. It doesn’t have to be expensive, big or shiny. It just has to provide happy.

This issue is our quilting issue, and I know for many reading this – their sewing rooms offer this exact thing. A place of comfort, peace and joy. In this issue, we will also explore various travel spots right in our backyard. Who knows?! Maybe one of these spots will end up being your “happy place.”

Stay well and choose joy.

View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP

The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains including North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, & Northern Idaho Kelsey (Snyder) Ruzicka, Publisher Produced by Moxie Marketing of the Midwest, LLC PO BOX 2015 • Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-568-0181 Office www.countryregister.com/nrgp www.moxiemarketingmw.com Publisher’s contact numbers across the USA & Canada for The Country Register Send $3 to any publisher below to obtain a paper from another area: * Indicates these editions are available on–line at www.countryregister.com.

May - June 2021 | Page 3

The Quilting Issue!

Country Register Founder: Barbara Floyd, 602-237-6008, info@countryregister.com, located: Phoenix, AZ USA * Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Arkansas: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, 405-470-2597, lenda@countryregister.com * California: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797 * Connecticut: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD 21771, 866-825-2917, Fax 866-261-9641 * Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com * Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, florida@countryregisteronline.com * Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, tcrga@windstream.net * Idaho (N): Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com * Idaho (S): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Illinois: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com * Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, IowaCountryRegister@mchsi.com * Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, kansas@countryregister.com * Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com * Maine: Deborah Daney, 660 Country Club Road, Sanford, ME 04073, 207-324-7482 * Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Massachusetts: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Michigan: Bill and Marlene Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, 48603-3143, 989-793-4211 * Minnesota: Kim & Mickey Keller, 12835 Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, minnesota@countryregister.com * Missouri: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Montana: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com * Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Nevada (N): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950* * Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803 * New Hampshire: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester Street, Chester, NH 03036, 603-571-1822 * New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com * New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797 * New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * North Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950 * North Dakota: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com * Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, ohiocountryregister@yahoo.com * Oklahoma: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Pennsylvania: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, 888-616-8319, Fax 800-609-0278 * Rhode Island: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * South Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950 * South Dakota: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com * Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com * Texas: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Utah: Available * Vermont: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester Street, Chester, NH 03036, 603-571-1822 * Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Washington: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, jennifer@countryregisterofwisconsin.com * Wyoming: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com CANADA * Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0,780-889-3776, countryregab@yahoo.com * British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, BC, V0H 1Z0, 800-784-6711 * Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, countryregister@sasket.net * Ontario: Harriet Ramos, Box 60, 4338 Innes Rd., Orleans, ON K4A 3W3, 343-882-5812

The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains

May - June 2021 • Volume 11 Issue 3

The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is published every two months. Copyright 2021.

Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited by law. The Country Register is a registered business trade name. Moxie Marketing of the Midwest, LLC produces The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains.

Subscription price: 1 year, 6 issues, $18.00. Single copies: $3.00. This paper is furnished free at each advertiser, highway welcome centers, tourism centers, shows, events, and other selected locations throughout North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Northern Idaho.

Articles published in this newspaper, which are contributed from outside sources, express the opinions of their authors only and may not express the viewpoints of the management and staff of The Country Register. Such articles that are accepted for publication herein may be edited at the sole discretion of the publisher.

Responsibility for products advertised in this newspaper lies with the advertisers themselves. Though The Country Register will not knowingly publish fraudulent materials or fraudulently obtained materials, we are not liable for any damages arising from the purchase or use of products advertised herein.

Index: See page 14 for advertiser’s index by name and by community as well as upcoming events.

Next Deadline: Ads and articles for the July/August issue are due June 7, 2021.

Page 4 | May - June 2021

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A Cup of Tea with Lydia: Simplici-TEA for Three Recently I invited my niece Joan and her daughter Lena for a Sunday afternoon tea.

“All we need is tea and time to visit,” Joan said. “You don’t need to cook anything.” I liked the idea of a simplici-TEA. Checking the family birthday calendar, I saw that Lena would have a birthday soon. I decided we needed a cake to celebrate her thir-TEA-eth birthday.

I planned to buy a frozen Pepperidge Farm chocolate cake, but Joan offered to bake Lena’s favorite plum kuchen. That suited me to a tea! It would help me follow my daughter’s advice, “Keep it simple so you can enjoy the teatime and aren’t so tired after your guests leave.”

Ambience to Enjoy With Joan bringing the dessert, I concentrated on my favorite part of entertaining—setting a pretty table. Topping a white tablecloth (a single-bed sheet) with a floral table runner and fresh flowers created a welcoming ambience. Petit Point china plates, cups, and saucers added beauty to the décor.

When Lena arrived, she greeted me with, “I haven’t seen you for over a year!” That’s right, with Covid-19 we hadn’t connected.

“You have a nice tearoom,” Lena said when she entered my large recreation room. Normally I seat my guests upstairs in our cozy dining room. But keeping social distancing in mind, I now hosted small events downstairs where we could spread out.

Individual china teapots stood ready to be filled so we could each sip our favorite blend. I offered several choices, and they both chose Harney & Sons Paris tea, a black tea with vanilla, fruit, and citrus flavors. Later I brewed Valentine’s Day tea, a black tea flavored with vanilla, chocolate, and rose petals.

Food to Savor To add to the party menu, I heated Sausage Triangles from my freezer, which my daughterin-law had made as a gift for me (see recipe in my cookbook, page 109). They are made with puff pastry and a sausage-potato filling seasoned with thyme. I cut them into small pieces for an appetizer. I also set out fresh strawberries with sour cream and brown sugar for dipping.

With the simple menu, our teatime felt relaxing. We could focus on friendship and catch up on each other’s lives. “What’s new?” I asked Lena.

“I’m starting a new job tomorrow,” she replied. The next day—on her birthday!

My motto is to never miss an opportunity to pray, so we asked God to bless Lena in her new job.

When it was time to serve the German plum kuchen, I added a candle to Lena’s piece and we sang “Happy Birthday” to her. (See recipe my niece used here: https://www. daringgourmet. com/zwetschgenkuchen-zwetschgendatschi-german-plum-cake/.)

Memories to Treasure The two hours passed all too soon. But, by keeping the tea menu simple, I had more time to fellowship with family rather than fuss with food. I sent Joan and Lena home with the flowers from the table and a gift for Lena.

When I began serving afternoon teas in my fifties, I copied fancy three-course ones like I had enjoyed in tearooms. Now, twenty years later, I’ve learned to be more spontaneous and relaxed about the menu.

By Lydia Harris

A simplici-TEA works well for any occasion or holiday. Consider it for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and other celebrations. Add your favorite make-ahead delicacies or store-bought goodies. Or just sip tea and make memories.

Later Joan emailed: “Thanks for having us over. It was so nice getting to visit and pray with you.

Thanks for the flowers, food, and tea. What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon!”

I agree! Simplici-TEA for three hit the spot for me.

Lydia E. Harris is a tea enthusiast, grandmother, and author of Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting and In the Kitchen with Grandma: Stirring Up Tasty Memories Together.

From Lydia’s Recipe File: Plum Kuchen (Made with Italian plums)

My niece made the kuchen with a delicious yeast dough (see link in column). Here’s my version using a coffeecake batter.

Ingredients for cake:

2 pounds Italian plums 2 cups flour 1/3 cup granulated sugar 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup shortening 1 egg, slightly beaten 3/4 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla

Ingredients for streusel: 1/2 cup flour 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup softened butter 1/2 teaspoon vanilla Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 9x13-in. baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Cut plums in half; remove pits; cut each half again to make quarters. Set aside.

3. Combine dry ingredients.

4. Cut in shortening.

5. Combine egg, milk, and vanilla. Stir into the flour mixture.

6. Scrape batter into prepared baking pan. Spread in the pan with moistened hands. It will be a thin layer.

7. Arrange plum quarters to cover the batter.

8. Combine streusel ingredients and sprinkle over cake. Double the recipe if you want more topping.

9. Bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick poked in center of cake comes out clean and fruit is soft.

10. Place cake on cooling rack. Makes about 12 servings.

11. Serve with whipped cream if desired.

Variations: If desired, drizzle cooled kuchen with glaze after baking. (Use a mixture of 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.) Or lightly sprinkle with cinnamon. If plums are not in season, use other fruit, such as apricots, canned sliced peaches (drained), or fresh blueberries.

View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP

Double Waffle Stitch Afghan

By The Country Register, Manitoba & Saskatchewan Every pattern I have seen for waffle stitch has always resulted in a waffle pattern on one side and a flat double crochet pattern on the other side. This pattern gives you a waffle pattern on both sides.

This pattern is for a small baby afghan but can be made as large, or as small as you like.

Starting with a chain row of 23 you can make a very warm and eye-pleasing scarf. If you want to make a full-sized throw or bed cover you will end up with a very warm and heavy afghan. Whatever you choose to make, make sure your chain row is in multiples of 4, plus 3 for turning.

This pattern also makes a very nice dishcloth when pure cotton yarn is used. For a dishcloth use a 5.0mm hook and start by chaining 43. Twelve rows of dc should make it square.

Once you have completed the first two rows, the pattern will be in 3-D in front of you as you crochet, making it very hard to make a mistake.

Skill Level: easy Stitch glossary: Ch = chain Yo = Yarn over Dc = double crochet Fpdc = front post double crochet.

Fpdc (front post double crochet) instructions: Yo, insert hook from front to back then to front, going around the dc post, yo and draw through and behind dc post, 3 loops on hook, (yo and draw through 2 loops on hook) twice.

Double waffle afghan instructions:

May - June 2021 | Page 5

Cowgirl Poet, Quilter, Entertainer Yvonne Hollenbeck

“Her Feet Would Rock A Cradle” Her days were long and lonely when they settled on the range on a new and virgin homestead out where everything was strange.

She’d left her home in Iowa to come with him out West and she had to do without so much, but did her level best.

Not any other woman lived for many miles around; the only view she had was of the rolling prairie ground.

But while her man would toil as the barns and sheds were built, her feet would rock a cradle while her hands would piece a quilt.

She claimed it was her sanity and pleasing to create the pretty blocks of patchwork during hours she would wait for him to ride the ranges, and would watch ‘till he’d come home from a window of their cabin that was built from blocks of loam.

Then in evening after supper, by a lantern burning low, he would read her favorite stories from the Bible she loved so.

She would piece a “Jacobs Ladder” or a “Star” by oil lights and would sew them into blankets for the cold Dakota nights.

Now the quilts are worn and faded and are packed in her old chest, along with other trinkets . . . she has put them all to rest.

There’s photographs of loved ones and of friends she used to know, the little shoes her babies wore, and the Bible she loved so.

Once more her days are lonely with the children grown and gone and it’s been so many years now since her husband has passed on.

Her mind goes back to days gone by; she wanders without guilt, when her feet would rock a cradle while her hands would piece a quilt. © Yvonne Hollenbeck; July 27, 2005 Yvonne Hollenbeck, from Clearfield, SD, performs her original poetry throughout the United States, captivating audiences in her wake. She is one of the most published cowgirl poets in the West and is not only a popular banquet and civic entertainer, but also co-writes songs with many western entertainers. Yvonne also pens a weekly column in the “Farmer-Rancher Exchange” and writes articles about life in rural America in various publications throughout the West. For more information, visit https://www.yvonnehollenbeck.com

With 5.5 or 6.0 hook, ch 103 Foundation Row: Dc in 4th ch from hook (counts as 1st dc), dc in each ch across, ch 3 and turn = 100 dc + ch 3 Row 1: ch 3 counts as first dc here and throughout. Dc in second dc, *fpdc around each of the next 2 dc, dc in each of the next 2 dc* repeat from * to *, ch 3 and turn.

Row 2 - 40: repeat row 1 (each row should end with fpdc around the last 2 dc) To finish tie off yarn and weave in ends.

www.t hecountryregister.com/nrgp

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Page 6 | July - August 2020

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DO YOU KNOW YOUR NEEDLE POINTS?

Become Inspired!

A Special Signature

SLIGHTLY ROUNDED POINT The slightly rounded point is the standard point shape for household sewing machines. This point shape is qualified for trouble-free sewing of most materials and many applications.

The following sewing needles have a slightly rounded point: • Universal Needle • Metallic Needle • Super Universal Needle • Double Eye Needle • Topstitch Needle • Hemstitch Needle • Embroidery Needle • Quick Threading Needle

LIGHT BALL POINT This point shape displaces woven and knitted threads, directly piercing the spaces between the threads. Therefore, it avoids material damages. This is the best point shape for embroidery.

The following sewing needles have a light ball point: • Embroidery Needle • Gold Embroidery Needle

ACUTE ROUND POINT This is a slim, acute point shape, useful for accurate piercing of densely woven and coated materials. It creates an exact seam appearance with straight stitches and helps to reduce seam puckering.

The following sewing needle has an acute round point: • Microtex Needle

MEDIUM BALL POINT (SUK) The medium ball point is more rounded than a light ball point. Therefore, it can be used for coarser knitwear, for material containing Lycra/Spandex and it is also very suitable for medium to heavy denim.

The following sewing needles have a medium ball point: • Stretch Needle • Jersey Needle • Jeans Needle

SLIGHTLY ROUNDED POINT WITH SPECIAL TAPER The slim point with special taper to the slightly rounded point easily penetrates thick layers of fabric and batting and avoids material damages. It is the best point shape for quilting and patchwork.

The following needle has a slightly rounded point with special taper: • Quilting Needle

TWIST POINT (LL) This cutting point has a lens-shaped cross-section and the incision is made at an angle to the direction of the seam.

It provides easier penetration of leather and leather-like materials. This point shape creates a decorative stitch slightly inclined towards the left (in household machines which are threaded from the front).

The following sewing needle has a twist point: • Leather Needle Information and images provided by SCHMETZneedles.com.

By By Annice Bradley Rockwell

As the month of May arrives the landscape around us is a vibrant and vital green. Dogwood trees are now freshly adorned with their soft pink and cream petals and lilacs boast their heavy blooms which send a fragrant spring scent across even the largest yard. And as we gaze upon our herb gardens, healthy tufts of oregano and lemon balm reveal that the blessings of spring sun and showers gave them strength to return again.

As our days become the longest stretch of sunlight of our year, we are drawn to our precious outdoor spaces to enjoy nature’s gift of warmth and radiance. Our days take on a special signature as our stone patios are transformed to provide extra settings to gather. On one of the first bright mornings of June a hearty country breakfast made from fresh eggs from the coop along with hand-cut bacon and fresh blueberry muffins becomes an even more soulful joy because it has been enjoyed outside. It creates a perfect start to a country day that can be spent at home tending to the tasks of spring or venturing out to our favorite antique shops to find accents for our yards.

Nature’s Time-Tested Appeal Garden beds can be amended now and our new seeds and plants can be given their new home. Each garden bed can be designed with both purpose and aesthetic. For a country garden, lending height can often create wonderful roadside appeal. Tree stumps can serve as a natural riser to hold a primitive woven bee skep or apiary box. Hand-hewn posts can be the base for a functional sundial that can still be utilized to tell time. And an early hitching post looks especially attractive in a bed of trailing squash plants or beans. Early weathered work carts, primitive barrels and sprinkling cans can be found on a day of country antiquing and can be put back to use in the garden, lending charm and appeal. Lighting, in the form of punched tin candle lanterns, can be mounted on posts and used at night to illuminate our outdoor spaces. Both useful and pleasing, these creative country additions to our landscape create a simple beauty that has stood the test of time.

As spring advances confidently toward summer, we are indeed grateful for all of nature’s beautiful blessings. And as we enjoy and enhance the essence of spring in our yards there is no doubt a feeling of natural bliss that always accompanies this spectacular time of year.

Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl.

NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com

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September - October 2020 | Page 7

Take A Trip Through the Northern Rockies & Great Plains with The Country Register!

We’ve gathered information and inspiration from our states to encourage summer trips to your “backyard.” Join us as we venture through each state of SD, ND, WY and MT to explore what these states have to offer travelers.

Explore Montana

Planning a trip to Big Sky Country? With over 147,000 square miles to explore, it can be tough to know where to start. While Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks are spectacular beyond words, there’s more to discover throughout Montana than most people dream.

Check out these trip ideas and draw inspiration to create your own unique set of Montana moments. The backdrop to your adventures — mountains and valleys, bears and bison, waterfalls and trout streams — will simply leave you in awe.

There’s more to Montana’s National Parks than Glacier and Yellowstone. In fact, Montana has a total of nine National Park Service areas. Explore everything from historic battlefields to natural wonders across all corners of Big Sky Country.

Visit www.visitmt.com for more!

CREDIT: Photos and information from https://www.visitmt.com/.

Explore North Dakota Now more than ever, people are looking for safe, affordable and engaging travel destinations and North Dakota has just what they are looking for. Their outdoor activities are legendary, their museums and galleries inspiring and enlightening. Whether you’re searching for rejuvenating recreation, tales of the Old West, entertaining family fun, eclectic shopping, arts and culture or nightlife, you’ve come to the right place.

Visit www.ndtourism.com for more!

CREDIT: Photos and information from https://www.ndtourism.com/

Page 8 | September - October 2020

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Follow the Chamber on Facebook for the latest events and happenings in Belle Fourche, SD!

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September - October 2020 | Page 9

Take A Trip Through the Northern Rockies & Great Plains with The Country Register!

Explore Wyoming

Whether it’s visiting the state’s legendary landmarks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks or enjoying a small-town rodeo, there’s never a shortage of things to do in Wyoming. World-class museums, locally-owned shops, a variety of dining options and of course — plenty of outdoor activities — await you in Wyoming. It’s time to pick your adventure. Visit travelwyoming.com for more!

CREDIT: Photos and information from https://travelwyoming.com

Explore South Dakota

Natural beauty and wonder await you in South Dakota.

Across the state, you will be inspired to expand your journey in the west from the Black Hills and Badlands, to the northeast to explore the glacial lakes and outdoor adventure. Along the way, you’ll follow the Missouri River as it flows down through central South Dakota and experience the history of Lewis and Clark. Discover the land of the southeast and its bustling cities, quiet country escapes and family attractions. As you venture back home, you will know you truly made memories that will last forever.

There are plenty of fun things to do in South Dakota for adventurers of all ages and interests. Visit our beautiful state to relax, discover, and enjoy the good life. Explore the many attractions, eat delicious food, and find a cozy place to stay for the night. Family fun is easy with so many things to do when traveling SoDak with kids.

Visit www.travelsouthdakota.com and www.blackhillsbadlands.com for more!

CREDIT: Photos and information from https://www.travelsouthdakota.com and https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com.

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Page 10 | May - June 2021

We are at the quilting issue of The Country Register. I have stated before that I am not a quilter but I love them and admire anyone that has the fortitude and patience to quilt. I see lots of quilts in the flea markets, thrift stores and even the trash and it makes me wonder who made them and how much time did they devote to them? It seems so sad that all that work is now being sold or thrown away. This project is one of many that can use old or damaged quilts to make repurposed items. A fabric pod is a storage bag that can sit on the shelf or hang on a hook. So let’s give it a go!!!

You will Need:

You will need quilted material (I used part of an old quilted pillow sham), some fabric for lining, scissors, thread, a sewing machine and a pattern. This pattern is a simple cornered bag pattern. I gave the dimensions in the photo which was cut from a sheet of card stock (8.5in x11in).

Step Two

Step Four

Fold the loop material in half (wrong sides together) and press then fold each side to the middle and fold again and press.

Step THREE

Step One

Turn the lining piece so the right side of material is out and pin the loop piece to the seamed area. The loop should be pointing down. Insert the lining piece into the quilted bag lining up the seamed areas and sew around the top (I used a ½ inch seam allowance here). Leave a 2 inch space opening to turn the bag right side.

Step Five Turn the bag right side out and push the lining piece into the bag. Top stitch around the top.

Cut out your pattern on the quilted material and the lining with right sides together. You will also need to cut out the loop pattern (which is just a 3inX6in piece of fabric.

I used the lining fabric for my loop).

Sew the quilted and lining pieces on the long side and the bottom only(I used a ¼ inch seam allowance), also sew down the edge of the loop piece. You will then open the quilted piece and sew the together, lining up the seamed side first. Do this to the lining piece also.

This is a very easy project and these are so awesome!! They come in handy in the sewing room and can be made from any material not just quilted material.

FINISHED!

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May - June 2021 | Page 11

Garden Tips From Picklebilly Farm

By Jayda Van Der Vorste Picklebilly Farm is a small farm located between Belle Fourche and Spearfish, South Dakota.

We grow farm fresh produce throughout our growing season. We also take our fresh grown crops to create a variety of homemade canned/pickled goods. Plus, we have an assortment of poultry on our farm, (chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, guineas, pheasants) that produce eggs that we sell, as well as, we hatch our own fowl each year on the farm.

When spring (finally) arises, we begin our season by starting seeds in our greenhouse to be later put into the garden. Once production starts, we then sell at our local Farmers Markets and other venues. But, we also put up a lot of our produce into our variety of pickled/canned goods that we sell as well. We have been farming for many years that started as a hobby, and for our own self-stability. This hobby turned into a business, Picklebilly Farm. Along the way, we’ve added 2 kiddos that are a huge part of it all, and help around the farm. They also love to help at the Farmers Market! There is no belter help on a farm than those that have been raised amongst it! They have learned so much throughout our family’s journey. They have many adventures to share and much more in the making! Here are a few tips we’ve learned along our journey. *Depending on your garden/farm skills, start by knowing if you want to start your own seeds or purchase seedlings/plants from another source. *Make a plan of what you want and are expecting from your growing space and set goals accordingly. Take into consideration the space you are working with and what you have for production expectations. *If you have a small growing area or using pots or even small raised beds, it is best to choose more compact or bush varieties. Otherwise, there is an over-abundance of varieties to choose from for larger growing areas. *If you have a larger growing area, make a plan more based on what and where your chosen plants prefer to survive and grow best. Certain fruits, vegetables, or decorative plants usually have a preference. They may like shade, maybe more sun, and of course soil conditions are a factor. Also, keep in mind some plants like to be placed next to each other, while others may be much more suitable to in a group of their own. *Start with your soil. Certain plants like richer soils, while others can be grown in less rich, sandier, rockier, drier soils. Each plant, whether a production plant or not, it varies. *Choose a soil enhancer/fertilizer. At Picklebilly Farm we stick with more natural ways of conditioning our soil. We use compost and use natural fertilizer or chicken droppings. We work this mix into the soil every spring before any planting is stared.

*If planting in a large area, landscape fabric is a must! Not only does it cut down on weeding, the fabric will help keep in heat and make sure moisture is properly distributed. (We have many tips of quick ways to make the best of fabric.) *Watering is the next key. Once seedlings/plants are established watering options is the next step for success. At Picklebilly Farm we have established a “pipe” drip line watering system. This can be linked to timers to ensure even and thorough watering. Drip systems eliminate many production problems such as fungus, rot, and many other issues that may arise with overhead watering and moisture settling on top of foliage. *If drip system watering is not an option, no problem. But, you need to take into consideration when and how long watering occurs. Certain plants do not like, as they say, “wet feet while they sleep.” So, for example, tomato and peppers prefer not to have wet leaves/stems at night. They do better with early morning watering (depending on temps) and prefer to be dry at night. But some crops aren’t as picky and/or thrive off a variety of moisture options. *LET IT GROW*Now it’s the time to just enjoy and watch your bounty grow. Watch the seedlings turn into plants. Watch blossoms bloom, and wait for production to come in. *Harvest, Harvest, Harvest* Certain plants grow, produce, are harvested then are done. Some crops the more you continue to harvest, the more yield you get! *Lastly, make sure you appreciate production from start to finish. Whether you are a beginner, or the most experienced producer, every season there is something to learn and help you grow in many ways. Farming, gardening, producing can be looked at as a lifeline. The more you put into it, the more you can get out of it!!

Please Like, Follow, Share and reach out to us at Picklebilly Farm on Facebook!

Email us at Picklebillyfarm@yahoo.com or contact me personally at 605-645-2859

We would love to hear any feedback from you whether you farm, garden or just interested in small town farms in your growing area!!!

*Working the soil is key! Some Springs in our area are dry, some are wet. But, it is a must to make sure the soil is workable no matter what. Otherwise, your seedlings wont sprout and/or your plant roots won’t establish properly.

Follow, Like & Share Picklebilly Farm on Facebook!

Quilters, Knitters, NeedleArtists: Find Your Favorite Shops When You Travel!

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The Knothole

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A Story of Letters

May - June 2021 | Page 13

By Kerri Habben Bosman

I want to tell you about my friend, Harold.

We were both writers. He reviewed books, while I focused on creative nonfiction and poetry. Our correspondence included drafts of our work, and we wrote one another on notebook paper. We never met in person, but we wrote weekly letters for 13 years from 2003 until his passing in 2016.

Our friendship reaches back to 1929. In January that year, my grandmother’s brother, my Uncle Henry, was working in a New York City bank vault. He and four coworkers contracted tuberculosis. It was uncertain whether or not they would survive. The bank provided for them by sending them to Loomis Sanitarium in Liberty, NY. At the same time, Harold’s father worked in the kitchen there.

While at Loomis for two years, Uncle Henry compiled a photograph album which presents a detailed view of life there. It shows the patients on sleeping porches, doctors, nurses, buildings, and pastoral surroundings. There is a picture of the kitchen staff with Harold’s father in it.

My family and I found the album after Uncle Henry died in 1992. It enchanted and compelled me. My parents and I visited the now-shuttered sanitarium grounds in 1997. I researched extensively about Loomis off and on for years.

Harold responded to a 2002 magazine query I placed. His first letter arrived in 2003 on July 27,which would have been Uncle Henry’s 98th birthday.

Harold lived in Liberty and had for most of his life. He was born a few years after Uncle Henry was at Loomis. His letters had their own charm with notes in the margin. He would use decades-old envelopes from his uncle’s general store. Every letter was folded into a bit of rectangular origami. However, mostly Harold became my friend.

At a pivotal time, he and a memory of Uncle Henry would remind me of my better self when I needed that most.

In the autumn of 2010, I experienced a rare creative crisis that I now gently call my “Picasso Blue Period.” For whatever reason, all of the expectations I’d imposed upon myself as a younger writer landed upon me. I couldn’t appreciate the successes I’d achieved; all I felt were the “should haves.”

I “should have” published a book. It “should have” been well-received. I “should have” another book by now. A deep and abiding ache buried my usual positivity. It suddenly deeply hurt to see what I had not become.

I decided to stop writing.

The following memory permeated the first layer of my self-absorption: I was 12 years old when I fully realized I was a writer. For my grandmother’s birthday present, I wrote some poems and an essay and put them together in a fabric-covered folder. Except that when she began to read, I fled from the room where my family was gathered. My stomach suddenly ached, and my head began to pound. I simply couldn’t be a witness to my words being devoured.

Uncle Henry found me in a curled-up ball on the sofa in the den, crushing the life from an innocent throw pillow. He was on his way to see my aunt at the nursing home for his daily visit. He paused at my side, and his eyes smiled as he patted my hand. “I’ll tell Aunt Wilma,” he said, “that you are going to be a writer.”

However, it was Harold who fully reversed my decision. Every letter he ever wrote to me ended with two words: “Keep writing.”

When I couldn’t tell him that I was giving up, I had to do just that. I kept writing.

I wonder now how I ever thought I could stop.

Kerri Habben Bosman is a writer in Chapel Hill, NC. She is currently working on a book of essays and poetry. She can be reached at 913jeeves@gmail.com.

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Win a $25 Gift Certificate!

The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is giving away a $25 Gift Certificate to be used at YOUR FAVORITE SHOP!

Just fill out this form and send it to:

The Country Register P.O. Box 2015 Belle Fourche, SD 57717

May - June 2021 OR visit www.moxiemarketingmw.com, click on The Country Register to sign up online Name________________________________________________________ Phone________________________________________________________ Email ________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________ City_____________________________ State ____________ Zip__________ Favorite Shop Advertised___________________________________________ This is My Favorite Shop Because______________________________________ My Favorite Feature(s) of The Country Register_____________________________ Found This Issue At_______________________________________________ Are You a:

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Advertiser Directory by Name

Always Your Design • Dell Rapids, SD.......................................... 6 Art in the Barn • Sturgis, SD....................................................... 13 Belle Fourche Chamber of Commerce • Belle Fourche, SD.......... 8 Belle Fourche Country Club • Belle Fourche, SD.......................... 8 Betty’s Quiltery • Rapid City, SD................................................. 16 Black Hills Quilt Show • Rapid City, SD........................................ 2 Black Hills Visitor Center • Rapid City, SD.................................. 12 Creative Closet • Townsend, MT................................................... 4 Designs By Daphne • Belle Fourche, SD...................................... 8 Fiber House, The • Sheridan, WY................................................ 11 Knothole, The • Spearfish, SD.................................................... 16 Lickety Stitch Quilts, • Lusk, WY.................................................. 16 Moxie Marketing of the Midwest • Black Hills, SD.................... 16 NeedleTravel.com ...................................................................... 11 North Country Fiber Fair • Sioux Falls, SD.................................... 6 Nuts & Bolts Fabric Shop • Edgemont, SD................................. 16 Office Emporium/Gone to Pieces Quilts • Belle Fourche, SD....... 8 Quilt Connection • Rapid City, SD.............................................. 16 Quilt Connection 2 • Buffalo, SD................................................ 16 Quilters Corner • Faulkton, SD..................................................... 5 Quilt Fix, The • Sheridan, WY..................................................... 13 Quilt Yard, The • Pierre, SD........................................................... 5 Tri-State Museum & Visitor Center • Belle Fourche SD................. 8 Wall Drug • Wall, SD.................................................................. 12 Wyoming Shop Hop • Wyoming............................................... 16

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Porch Favorites & Essentials It is that time of year where we clean up our porches, get out the porch swings and tables, and make our outdoor living space ready. The sun is out, the birds are out and we are ready to be out in nature once again.

We have collected a list of 15 fan favorite essential porch items you might find this time of year dwelling on patios and porches.

Plants – Pots or cut flowers. This is a must.

Porch Swing – When it comes to seating, this is one of our favorites.

Chairs or Couches – Nothing beats a cozy porch couch for reading during those hot summer afternoons.

Hammock – This is a fun piece that has made quit the comeback in recent years. People even now take their hammocks to the park, woods, and other excursions!

Umbrella – The best porches have shade.

Tables – Whether this is a side table, coffee table or dining table they sure are helpful for many things on a porch.

Signs – Inspiring, welcoming and funny signs can really set your space apart.

Pillows – A porch without pillows, is it really a porch?

Outdoor Rugs – I suppose it matters the size and location of your porch, but these are fun.

Wet Bar – A place to have ice, cups and beverages is really quite essential.

Candles – In our neck of the woods some sort of bug repellent candle is definitely essential.

Firepit – This popular item is fun for patios and porches. Brings the whole family together.

May - June 2021 | Page 15 S’mores Station – With a firepit, you really must have a s’mores station. Only natural.

Pretty Things – Plants tend to be center stage on patios and porches. But, fun add-ons like wagons, bird baths, outdoor metal décor, and fun baubles to put plants in make a space stand out.

Kid Things – At our house, our porch is not complete without our tote of bubbles and chalk.

I challenge any aged resident to have bubbles! Why not?!

Lights – You need a light on your patio anyway, it might as well twinkle and be pretty.

Page 16 | May - June 2021

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