What’s Inside?
• Cup of Tea with Lydia - Page 4
• Art in All the Wrong Places - Page 5
• Picnic Ideas - Page 5
• Ruby Gabriel - Page 6
• Mystery Quilt 2 - Page 6
• How Quiliting can promote Relaxation & Mindfullness - Page 7
• My First Quilt - Page 7
• Surviving any Roadtrip with Young Kids - Page 9
• Things to do on a Road Trip - Page 9
• Robin’s Nest DIY - Page 10
Editor’s Notes
www.MoxieMarketingMW.com
• 605-568-0181 • Kelsey Ruzicka • Publisher of this Country Register!
May and June are such great months. It is a time that winter truly begins to melt off, and traveling becomes more carefree. Perfect for exploring new landmarks, shops, festivals, shows and just getting away in general. With this kick off to travel season, we decided to focus on the road trip experience. In this issue you will find lots of fun articles about road trips, playlists from every generation, road trip snack ideas, and how to survive while traveling with littles. We know you will have fun exploring this issue.
• Plant a Garden in Your Sewing Room - Page 11
• I Sew Poem - Page 11
• How to Find a Quilting Retreat Right for You - Page 12
• Introducing Quilting to Our Younger Generations - Page 13
• 15 Great Road Trip Snacks - 13
• Advertiser Directory - Page 14
• Things to do in... - Page 15
Use the Country Register as a Travel Guide on your next adventure!
Index on page 14 to help you find & explore a new shop!
The Country Register is a perfect travel companion on your next adventure. Our indexes let you find a shop or several in your destination town. Or maybe pick a fun shop and make it the journey to somewhere new!
The road to success is often paved with bumps and stops along the way Our journey to expand and create a bigger Country Register footprint has been fun, rewarding, exhausting and full of grit. We know there has been a bunch of change and some delays, but we have been working so hard behind the scenes to make each edition of Country Register better than the last. Smoothing out the wrinkles and bumps of getting all the logistics, data, and communication in a good rhythm. We sure appreciate your patience, support and kind words as we have and continue to fine tune. We are committed to high quality and high service standards for our shops and our readers. Moxie is something you can truly count on from our crew!
Prosperity and fun is on the horizon, and we are so glad to have our loyal readers and advertisers by our side. Thank you for taking the time to ride along with us through The Country Register. We couldn’t do it without each and every one of you.
Best wishes and happy trails,
-Kelsey kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
Office: 605-568-0181
Kelsey Ruzicka Publisher of
The Country Register of ND, SD, WY, MT & N. ID
The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains including North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana & 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.
Owners: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950
* 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: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.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 Quilting Issue!
The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains May/June • Volume 14 Issue 3
The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is published every two months. Copyright 2024.
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, $20.00. 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.
SEE OUR AD INDEX ON PAGE 14
Next Deadline: Ads and articles for the July/August 2024 issue are June 7, 2024.
A Cup of Tea with Lydia: A Bridal Blessing Tea
By Guest Columnist, Laura Lee Leathers
When I learned my friend and fellow tea enthusiast Laura Leathers was planning a spring blessing tea for her granddaughter’s wedding, I asked her to be a guest columnist and share her plans. Here’s Laura, sharing about her event:
My only granddaughter, Abby Kate, was engaged to be married, and I wanted to do something special for this momentous occasion. So, I planned and hosted a Bridal Blessing Tea.
Invite Your Guests
I wrote the invitation as a poem and included instructions for the teatime. You can change the names and adapt the poem for your tea party.
On November 10, 2023, Morgan Hutton got down on bended knee and asked Abby Kate Leathers, “Will you marry me?”
To celebrate their upcoming wedding, a Bridal Blessing Tea was planned. To make it extra memorable, come with a treasure in hand.
A personalized wooden box was be gifted to place inside their home to hold mementos and keepsakes for all the years to come.
Your advice, letters, cards, or books were lovingly placed inside. When joys and challenges come their way, your wisdom can be their guide.
The hostesses created invitations (time, date, and place) using a download from Etsy and printed them professionally. We mailed the invitations and poem cards three weeks in advance. The guest list included the bridesmaids, and the bride’s and groom's mothers and grandmothers.
Bless the Bride
At the tea party, guests who brought cards and letters with advice for Abby read them aloud. She placed them in the unique walnut keepsake box with the bride’s and groom’s names and wedding date engraved on the top.
Then the ladies stood, making a circle around Abby, who sat in the middle. Those who desired prayed blessings for Abby, the groom, and their marriage. Guests wiped tears from their eyes and shared hugs after this meaningful time.
Time for Tea!
Antique white and off-white linen tablecloths graced the tables. We used floral teacups, saucers, and plates from my tea collection. Each place setting included silverware, cloth napkins, and napkin rings.
A three-course tea menu followed. We served assorted dainty tea sandwiches: cucumber-andcream cheese; strawberry-and-cream-cheese; ham-and-Bousin-cheese pinwheels; chicken salad in croissants; and tomato-bacon-bit tea sandwiches (recipe included).
Next, came warm scones with lemon curd, Devonshire cream, and raspberry jam. The final course followed with fresh fruit and decadent homemade desserts: buttery wedding cookies, toffee squares, mini brownies, and lemon squares.
Several weeks in advance, I ordered a caffeinated tea blend from Harney & Sons called "Wedding, A Tea for Marriage". It’s a pleasing blend of white tea, lemon and vanilla flavors, and a touch of pink rosebuds and petals.
As a gift, the bride received a personalized tin of 30 sachets of wedding tea. The mothers and grandmothers each received a personalized tagalong tin with five sachets. I made a gift bag for each bridesmaid using a blue teapot and teacup printed fabric, tucked three sachets inside, and tied it with a blue ribbon.
A Thank-You Note
Later, Abby sent me a thank-you note saying, “I loved the bridal tea party. The letters and the keepsake box were extra special. My bridesmaids are still talking about the lovely event.”
I am thrilled that I could bless my granddaughter with a Bridal Blessing Tea. It’s an experience we will both remember and treasure.
Laura Lee Leathers is a freelance writer, speaker, and the founder of Tea Time Treasures, a ministry and a business. Visit her website: www.lauraleeleathers.com.
Lydia E. Harris has written “A Cup of Tea with Lydia” for more than 20 years. She is the author of three books for grandparents: GRAND Moments: Devotions Inspired by Grandkids; In the Kitchen with Grandma: Stirring Up Tasty Memories Together and Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting. All are available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
Open-Face Tomato-Bacon-Bit Tea Sandwiches
From Laura’s Recipe File
Ingredients:
10 slices bread (white or wheat)
1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup fully cooked real bacon bits
2 T. chopped green onions (include onion and greens) (optional)
1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced sprigs of fresh parsley or basil
Directions:
1. Combine mayonnaise, bacon bits, and green onions. Chill to blend flavors.
2. Cut bread slices into desired shapes with cookie cutters, such as hearts, flowers or circles. Make two sandwiches from each slice.
3. When ready to make the sandwiches, generously spread filling on the bread. Place tomatoes on each open-face sandwich. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or fresh basil leaf. Serve immediately.
Serves about 6 to 8: Two or more tea sandwiches per person.
Get
Lydia’s New Book!
Art in All the Wrong Places
By Barbara Kalkis
It was a cloudy day in Boston when I boarded my flight and took a window seat. Despite dark clouds, I settled in for a smooth trip to the West Coast that would put my arrival in time for a late lunch. The local forecast predicted a rainstorm, but what do weather meteorologists know?
If we boarded on time, I figured we would depart before the rain hit. So much for that theory. A fierce late summer storm arrived with sleeting rain, impressive bolts of lightning and booming throbs of thunder. Watching Mother Nature pound everything in her path, I was thankful that the air controllers had prevented our flight from leaving the gate, although it was clear that I wouldn’t make my connection in Minneapolis.
Now, as a side note, I will pass along the handy tip that it is always wise to keep an extra change of clothing and necessities in your carry-on luggage. It is excellent advice, which I completely disregarded. I was sure nothing would happen, so four Nancy Drew mysteries that I had purchased at a used bookstore filled my bag. I mean, what could go wrong?
What went wrong is that our full Saturday flight landed in Minneapolis-St. Paul as airlines, shops and restaurants were closing or cleaning up for the night. Even the lighting had been dimmed. So much for lunch in California.
After slogging through the chaos of arranging for a taxi, hotel and dawn flight the next morning, I straggled down the hallway toward luggage claim, only to discover it was closed for the evening – with my suitcase inside. Lesson learned about extra underwear in the carry-on.
Now, airports are stark buildings decorated with signage, advertisements, warnings, directional plaques, and blaring announcements that always seem blurred by a bad audio system. Nothing about them invites lingering – until that night. In that cold, deserted atmosphere, I was stopped by the most unexpected sight: a quilt exhibit!
The Minnesota Regional Studio Art Quilts Associates (SAQA) was displaying quilts celebrating the state’s waterways. Boats drifted on lakes, birds and dragonflies danced against a backdrop of greens, blues and turquoises of air and water. Shells and beach
inhabitants nestled in tufted shorelines. It was all there in colors and designs that were completely out of place in the airport’s dreary coldness. But, by their presence, the delicate beauty of the quilts communicated tranquility. That moment of calm broke through the stark ugliness of an environment structured to keep people moving and focused on their next destination.
The exhibit was more than an oasis of beauty, it was a public relations coup, informing visitors and residents that Minnesota’s lake shoreline – in their words – is “3.5 times longer than the ocean shorelines of California, Hawaii, and Florida combined.” The display achieved results in publicizing the art of quilting, the sponsoring organization and the pieces on display.
What a brilliant idea to bring art to the people in an air terminal! Given that millions of people move through the world’s airports, it makes sense to bring art to where they spend some amount of time. Paintings and posters are expected visuals, but fabric arts are a novelty. The tactile quality and artistry of quilts deliver the third dimension that arrests our attention. It’s an idea that should be repeated in other unexpected places.
The airport display soothed the frayed edges of a delayed trip but, even for those with no delays, the exhibit nudged people to stop a moment, savor the beauty and take a deep breath before rushing off again to catch their next flight.
© 2024. Barbara Kalkis teaches English, writes, and works as a marketing consul tant. She is the author of Little Ditties for Every Day: A Collection of Thoughts in Rhyme and Rhythm. Contact her at BarbaraKalkis01@gmail.com.
Grains of Sands by Patty Arensen
Watch the Magic
Mystery Quilt - 2024
Designed by Ann Jones, Nevada, MO
If you have any questions contact Erica at Nine Patch Quilt & Fabrics, Nevada, MO ericaskouby@gmail.com or 417-667-7100. Miss one of the parts? Check www.countryregister.com
PART II:
Piecing the Quilt Top (Option #1):
- Following the diagram below, piece together like a nine patch. Make four sections.
- We’re now going to take these four sections and sew them together like a 4 patch, turning them so the dark patches form the center diamond. See Diagram below for guidance.
- This completes the baby quilt version of this Mystery Quilt. Quilt and bind as desired. Thanks for joining me! If you want to make a bigger quilt, leave the quilt top as above (don’t quilt it!!) and look for Part III in your next Country Register.
“It’s More Than A Place...West River”
Ruby Gabriel Article - “It’s More Than A Place… West River”
Let me introduce you to, Ruby Gabriel. Ruby is a born and raised South Dakota author. She ventured into writing and history after a beautiful West River sunrise caught her attention. Her book “It’s More Than A Place…West River,” explores the history and relives stories and memories of the past. Ruby spent time in the South Dakota archives, libraries, interviewing and researching to compile her tidbits and tales.
The picture on the cover of her first book is what sparked a journey of West River Historical Lifestyle accountings. One evening, Ruby took a picture of a beautiful sunset behind the old school house across the road from her homestead just 32 miles north of Wall, SD. She mentioned to her mom, “Gosh that is such a beautiful picture someone should write a story about it,” and that is just what she did. Ruby’s dad was born in 1913, and purchased his initial ranch property later in life from an original 1902 cowboy. Her parents and her family all grew up ranching, and her siblings all own ranches that sparked from the original homestead. Ruby lives and ranches the original homestead. Education has always been important to their family. All 3 children went to school and have college degrees. All of their education finds stems from the old school house pictured on the cover.
Established in 1948 as a country school, it served approximately 10 families from grades K-7 in its lifetime. One teacher for all grade levels like most country schools. If a teacher couldn’t make it, Ruby’s sister (20 years her senior with a teaching degree) would substitute. You can find a poem “The Chalkboard,” on page 53 about Ruby’s step back in time as she walked through the school house and relived old childhood memories.
One day Ruby noticed a couple in the parkinglot of the church while driving by, seemingly. She stopped and offered them directions and the gentelman responded that they were right where they wanted to be, they were looking for this church but it was locked. The husband said he wanted to show his wife where he had gone to church as a little boy. He said it seems to be locked. Ruby had the key right there in her pocket and offered to let them go inside the old Dowling Church. Ruby took them inside and showed them around. Through discussion, Ruby mentioned to them about her writing and research project. They said they had a diary they would like to send her a copy of. 2 weeks later she received a copy of the diary and incorporated Aunt Bessie’s stories into her book. Find these great tales on page 66.
Be sure to get a copy of Ruby’s book! Just $12 + tax.
Contact author, Ruby Gabriel to purchase: 605-441-3579 | Rubygabriel@msn.com
Protein
Bites Ingredients
• ½ cup creamy natural peanut butter (just peanuts + salt)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup old fashioned rolled oats
• ¼ cup flaxseed meal
• ¼ cup unsweetened finely shredded coconut (I use Bob’s Red Mill) Mix-ins:
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup M&M’s (or your favorite chocolate covered candies)
Directions
Step 1 - Add peanut butter, honey and vanilla to a medium bowl, mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 2 - Add the dry ingredients to the bowl: oats, flaxseed meal and shredded coconut and mix together until combined. Fold in the raisins, mini chocolate chips and M&M’s until well combined.
Step 3 - Use a medium cookie scoop or your hands to grab dough and roll into 10 balls then place in an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week, or the freezer for up to 2 months. Enjoy!
How Quilting Can Promote Relaxation and Mindfulness
By Steve Baker
We all know what quilting is, but let’s explore how quilting can promote relaxation and mindfulness and share tips for incorporating these practices into your quilting routine.
The Benefits of Mindfulness in Quilting
In today’s circles where mental and physical health are so important, we hear a great deal about mindfulness. It is the conscious practice of being thoroughly present and engaged in the current moment. It involves non-judgmental awareness of your thoughts, feelings and physical sensations. When you practice mindfulness, you’re able to let go of distractions and focus on the task at hand. This can lead to a range of benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved emotional regulation and increased coping skills.
The Comfort of Repetition
One of the key ways that quilting promotes mindfulness is through the repetition of simple, familiar motions. When you quilt, you may find yourself repeating the same stitch pattern or motion over and over again. At first, this may seem tedious or monotonous, but over time, it becomes a soothing, comforting process. Repetition is comforting because it creates a predictable rhythm that you can rely on. It can be particularly helpful when you’re feeling stressed or anxious, as it provides a sense of stabil ity and routine.
Practical Tips for Practicing Mindfulness While Quilting
If you’re looking to incorporate more mindfulness into your quilting practice, here are a few practical tips to keep in mind.
1. Create a Comfortable Space: The environment you quilt in can have a big impact on how relaxed and present you feel. Create a comfortable, inviting space that feels safe and soothing to you. You may want to add soft lighting, calming music, or other elements that help you to feel relaxed and focused.
2. Choose Simple Projects: When you’re first starting out with mindful quilting, it can be helpful to choose simple, repetitive projects that allow you to settle into a meditative rhythm. A straight-forward patchwork quilt or simple block pattern can be a great starting point.
3. Breathe: Breathing exercises can be a helpful way to relax and center yourself before and during your quilting practice. Start with a few deep, slow breaths before you begin to center your thoughts and continue to focus on your breath throughout the process. This takes practice so be forgiving and understanding with yourself when you lose focus.
4. Take Breaks: While quilting can be a soothing and meditative practice, it’s also important to take breaks when you need them. If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, step away from your project for a few minutes and do something else. Take a walk, read a book, or simply sit quietly and breathe. Returning to your quilting project with a fresh mind can help you to feel more engaged and energized.
Quilting is a wonderful way to promote mindfulness and relaxation but like all new skills, it takes practice. Give yourself grace during the process. It doesn’t matter if you’re a long-time quilter or a beginner, adding mindfulness to your quilting practice can help you to achieve greater emotional balance and wellbeing.
Steve Baker is the Director of Marketing at SewEndipitous located at 1093A Albright Road in Rock Hill, South Carolina. For more information visit the website www.SewEndipitous.com
My First Quilt
By Sheila Tinkham
I sewed And sewed
Stich by stitch
Each stitch by hand
The first third all wrong
No rhyme nor reason
Then the second third carefully planned
After listening to Richard, my husband
And seeing the first quilts of Karen, my dear friend
So measured and perpendicular fine
The last third I just had fun
Weaving a kaleidoscope of color and form
Like my life messy, but strong in faith and love of family
I see the result
And like my life
I am well pleased
It is like this quilt, well sewn.
Sheila Tinkham lives in Lincoln, NE. She started quilting when she sprained her ankle and fell in love with the process of sewing and the focused peacefulness of making and designing quilts. Writing is her passion and she has self-published three poetry books. You can follow her on Twitter at SheilaTinkham.
Lavender Lemonade
LAVENDER SYRUP
1/2 c. granulated sugar
4 tsp. dried culinary lavender
3 sprigs fresh lavender, plus more for garnish
LAVENDER LEMONADE
2 c. freshly squeezed lemon juice
4 sprigs mint
1 c. lavender syrup
Lemon slices, for garnish
For the lavender syrup: Combine the sugar, 1/2 cup water and the dried and fresh lavender in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a low simmer and stir well until all of the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat, cover and set aside for 1 hour. Strain the lavender and chill the syrup in the refrigerator until ready to use (it can be stored for up to 1 week).
For the lavender lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, 4 cups water, fresh mint and lavender syrup. Stir well to combine. Serve in glasses over ice, with lemon slices and additional sprigs of fresh lavender.
Surviving Any Road Trip with Young Kids (or Grandkids!)
By Sarah Grassel
Let’s face it. Driving anywhere outside an hour with young kids can become quite a task. Both parents and grandparents end up facing the unknown on the road. Will they sleep? Will they scream or cry the whole time? What if this ruins their routine or they end up with a sore neck from doing the “chicken bob” while sleeping?
No one can predict what to expect, but there are a few tips and tricks for surviving any trip you’re planning in the future!
To start, pack snacks and drinks. Easy snacks like goldfish, teddy grahams, animal crackers, etc. are typically less messy and easy to pack into individual snack cups or bags when you need to pull something out of the diaper bag quickly.
For toddlers or young children, pack their favorite water bottle and fill it with their favorite drink! Or if you are worried about the mess, stick with water. For newborns or babies weaning from nursing or a bottle can be navigated differently with each unique situation. Talk to your pediatrician for the best advice!
Another thing to keep in mind is boredom. The average attention span of a two-year-old is only between four to six minutes. Even five year olds only typically average between 12 and 18 minutes.
If your younglings are not napping, think about the things they enjoy doing. Can you spare a passenger to sit in the back to read books with the littles? If not, pack busy boards, toys that they’re attached to, and sometimes even a small new toy can go a long way. Or a toy they haven’t seen in a while!
Other things to help kill time include playing their favorite musical tunes that are easy to sing along to. Some parent favorites include Super Simple Songs, Kidz Bop, and Disney. If the music starts to drive you a little up a wall, you can switch to simple car games like the classic license plate game, I spy, or create a scavenger hunt ahead of time.
Navigating the potty? Depending on where your little is at, there are a few options:
- Put a pull-up on under the underwear to prevent any car seat messes.
- Plan more frequent gas or travel station stops along the way.
- Pack a training potty.
If you choose the third, be sure to bring plenty of grocery bags. Place them in the seat for easy clean-up after each use!
1. Listen to podcasts
Playlists by Generation
BABY BOOMER GENERATION (1946-1964)
Jailhouse Rock by Elvis Rock (1957)
I want to hold your hand by the Beatles (1964)
At the hop by Danny and the Juniors (1957)
The Twist by Chubby Checker (1960)
Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash (1963)
GENERATION X (1965-1980)
Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys (1966)
Respect by Aretha Franklin (1967)
I will survive by Gloria Gaynor (1978)
Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel (1970)
Take Me Home Country Road by John Denver (1971)
MILLENNIAL GENERATION (1981-1996)
Smells like Teen Spirit by Nirvana (1991)
Standing Outside the Fire (1993)
Love Shack by the B-52’s (1989)
Sweet Child O’mine by Guns and Roses (1987)
Beat it by Michael Jackson (1982)
GENERATION Z (1997-2010)
Love Story by Taylor Swift (2008)
Hey Soul Sister by Train by Train (2009)
Toxic by Brittney Spears (2003)
Bye Bye Bye by the BackStreet Boys (2000)
All American Girl by Carrie Underwood (2007)
www.countryregister.com/nrgp
Things to do on road trips
2. Play the “20 questions” game
3. Meditate
4. Play a travel game
5. Listen to an audiobook
6. Play the state license plate game
7. Learn a language
8. Learn about different cultures
9. Stop for a rest
10. Keep a travel journal
11. Look for fun attractions
12. Take videos and photos
13. Post about your trip on social media
14. Crack your favorite jokes
15. Eat at local establishments
16. Go camping
17. Get some exercise
18. Go stargazing
19. Try car camping
20. Make a scavenger hunt
Summer Sun Hat
Well Summer is upon us! I am more than happy to welcome the heat. This project takes a summer sun bonnet and makes a lovely welcome sign.
You will Need:
You will need a sun hat, ribbon, floral stems, wooden letters, acrylic paint and brush, hot glue gun and glue, scissors and wire cutters.
Step One
Paint the letters, I chose black, but you can do any color. Let them dry. You can say want you want also, I chose HELLO.
Step THREE
Glue the letters on to the brim of the hat. Space them evenly within the brim.
Step Four
Cut the flowers and greens from the stems. I cut them almost off, so I can glue them on easier.
Step SIX
Cut a length of ribbon for the hanger. Double it over (I used a 30-inch piece doubled to 15 inches) and glue it to the underside of the hat. I glued the edge and into the crown.
Step seven
So darn cute!!
Sidenote: I added a little bumblebee because I did not like how I got the letters centered! Live and Learn!!
Step Two
Cut ribbon to go around the “crown of the hat”. Glue it on. I had to glue the top and bottom of the strip of ribbon to the crown.
Step FIVE
Arrange the flowers and greens as you want them and hot glue them on.
FINISHED!
I Sew
By Sheila Tinkham
Lost in time and space
Refined and elegant
A fine lady at my embroidery
Richard creates a puzzle piece by piece I inhale
A kindred spirit to all those who wielded their needle I sew
My heart at peace
My spirit sublime I sew
And yearn for nothing more
Than my needle taut in my hand
Ready to sail into another world I sew
Sheila Tinkham lives in Lincoln, NE. She started quilting when she sprained her ankle and fell in love with the process of sewing and the focused peacefulness of making and designing quilts. Writing is her passion and she has self-published three poetry books. You can follow her on Twitter at SheilaTinkham.
Plant a Garden in your Sewing Room!
By Deb Heatherly
My mother has a green thumb. Every year in spring and summer, her yard is a gorgeous display of vibrant, colorful flowers. Cars slow down to enjoy the sight, and if they are like me, wonder what secrets she possesses. Bees, birds, dragonflies and one stray bunny, all flock to her yard to enjoy them too.
I somehow did not inherit this gene. Each year I buy seeds,new pots and the very best potting soil. Each year I hope that this will be my year and each year I am wrong. Either the seeds do not come up, or they come up and quickly die. Not enough sun, not enough water, too much sun, too much water. Each year my grand vision is nothing but a dream.
Last year, determined as ever, I decided no more seeds.“This year I’ll buy plants”, I told my husband. I bought pansies and marigolds and numerous others flora variety of color. I planted them and smiled. Wow, that was easy! I should have been doing this all along. Feeling confident, I was already planning to buy more plants for a different part of the yard.
That was until the next morning. Gazing out my window, expecting to pat my self on the back, I stood speechless. Something had eaten my beautiful flowers down to the stems. Only one stray marigold remained.
Only momentarily deterred, back to the store I went. This time I planted and then sprinkled critter deternt all around the plants. For three days I enjoyed my efforts until a torential rain washed the deterrent away and the culpritt struck again. Nothing survived my unseen late night visitor.
That was it. I gave up and bought some very convincing artificial flowers. (Don’t tell my mom) ,and those artificial flowers looked great all summer long. Yeah me! People slowed to look at my yard too. Little did they know.
This year I’ll add to my articifial flower collection and by pass all that other grief. I’ll also expand my new gardening talents and“plant” a few flowers in my sewing room. These cute little flowers will never let me down and I can “grow” them in any color I want. Take that mother nature! I may not have mymom’s green thumb but I’ll still have plenty of flowers to enjoy.
For a flower mini quilt like the one shown, grab some scraps and start stitching. Paper piecing is quick and easy. If you’ve never tried it, do a google search and I’m sure you can find a tutorial online. Print off one copy for every flower you want to make and increase or decrease the size as needed. I made my paper pieced flowers 6 ½”, then
added a 1 ½” border.Once the border is added, layer with batting and backingand quilt in the ditch, or as desired. Cut (1) 2 ½” strip for binding and bind just like you do a quilt. Add twine or a metal hanger and enjoy.
Deb Heatherly is a designer for Creative Grids® rulers and the author of eight popular pattern books. Creative Grids® fans are invited to join her Facebook group, “GridsGirls,” for tips and inspiration. https://www.facebook.com/groups/770429649800457/. The annual Grids Girls summer mystery begins in June and lasts for 8 weeks.
Shop Owners are invited to join her group just for you, “Grids Girls for Quilt Shop Owners Only” https://www.facebook.com/groups/273593657256524. Visit Deb’s website at www.Debscatsnquilts.com.
How To Find A Quilting Retreat Right For You
By Steve Baker
Quilting is a hobby enjoyed by many people. For some, the joy and relaxation from quilting can be enhanced by attending a quilting retreat. A quilting retreat is a gathering of like-minded individuals who come together to share their love of quilting and learn new skills from each other. However, with so many retreats available, finding the right one can take time and effort. In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to find a quilting retreat that is right for you.
Step 1: Determine Your Goals
Before you start your search for a quilting retreat, it is crucial to determine your goals. Do you want to learn a new quilting technique, or do you want to spend time with other quilters? Do you want to focus solely on quilting, or do you want to incorporate other activities into your retreat, such as hiking or yoga? Understanding what you hope to gain from a quilting retreat will help you narrow your search.
Step 2: Research Retreats
Once you have determined your goals, it is time to research quilting retreats. A quick online search will bring up hundreds of options, but not all retreats are created equal. Look for retreats that offer the things that are important to you, such as specific quilting techniques, ample free time and comfortable lodging accommodations. Be sure to look at the retreat's website and read reviews from past participants.
Step 3: Consider Location and Travel
Location is an essential factor when choosing a quilting retreat. Do you want to attend a retreat close to home, or are you willing to travel across the country or even overseas? Consider how far you are ready to travel and any additional costs associated with travel. If you are attending a retreat in a new location, consider whether you need a rental car or transportation to and from the airport.
Step 4: Determine the Costs
Attending a quilting retreat can be expensive, so it is crucial to consider the costs before deciding. Most retreats will have a registration fee ranging from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. In addition to the registration fee, consider the cost of lodging, meals, and travel. Some retreats will include meals and accommodation in the registration fee. In contrast, others will require you to make your own arrangements. Make a budget and consider any additional costs.
Step 5: Contact the Retreat Organizer
Once you have narrowed down your search to a few retreats, it is time to contact the organizer. Inquire about the availability of spots, any special requirements or recommendations and the logistics of the retreat. You may also ask about the qualifications of the instructors and if they are experienced in the techniques you are interested in learning.
Step 6: Make Your Decision
Remember that each retreat is unique and will offer different experiences, so choose one that best aligns with your goals.
So, whether you're going it alone or traveling with a friend, you're sure to make wonderful memories. Grab an adventure as those are the things that keep life interesting!
Steve Baker is the Director of Marketing at SewEndipitous located at 1093A Albright Road in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Visit www.SewEndipitous.com for more information.
Introducing Quilting to Our Younger Generation
By Patty Legg Duncan
I recently had the opportunity to take my nine-year-old granddaughter, Peyton, to one of the many quilts shows happening this Spring in Arizona. Although attending a quilt show was not on top of Peyton’s list of things to do that Saturday, she agreed and off we headed to the show. At the checkin desk, she was given a ballot to vote for her favorite quilt of the show.
I was so proud of her as she took her voting duty very seriously. As we walked down the aisles looking at all the different quilts, I asked Peyton to write notes for me on the ones I liked. She did the same for the quilts she liked. This particular show had a great variety of quilts with many different techniques that I appreciated. Surprisingly, Peyton seemed interested in the different techniques as I explained them and why I liked each one.
As we were walking down row 5 or 6, Peyton ran down the aisle and said, very enthusiastically, “This is my favorite!” As she pointed at her “favorite,” I realized why she liked it so much. It was a perfect artist interpretation of her dog, an American Bullie named Trout. This quilted wall hanging is a fabric collage made by Barbara Green, Palo Verde Patchers in Sun City West. The pattern is “Dazzling Dogs” by Jane Haworth.
We continued to enjoy the show while she made notes for me and each time, we saw a different quilt that stood out to me, she would ask, “Is this the one you’re going to vote for?” Finally, I selected my favorite and we took our ballots to the desk to put our votes in the ballot box.
As we were driving home, Peyton said “I had fun. Can I go with you to another show?” I was probably smiling ear to ear as I loved hearing she wanted to go again.
15 Great Road Trip Snacks
1. Chex Mix
2. Trail Mix
3. No Bake Cookies
4. Puppy Chow
5. Celery and Peanut Butter
6. Sandwich Roll Ups
7. Ham and Cheese Croissants
8. Portable Fruit (oranges, bananas, apples, grapes)
9. Homemade Granola Bars
10. Protein Bites (page 6)
11. Pizza Croissants
12. Individual Drink Bottles
13. Meat and Cheese Snack Kabobs
14. Individual Chips Bags (avoid cheetos, they are not your friend!)
15.Popcorn
Peyton has always been very artistic and interested in all forms of crafts. Often when she is spending time at my house, she will ask if we can work on a craft. I would be so thrilled if someday she asked me if she could try quilting. If she did that would mean, we would have four generations of quilters on my maternal side of the family. You see, even though I do not quilt now, I did quilt when Peyton’s mom was her age and even served as the President of the Cabin Branch Quilters in Burke, Virginia. My mom quilted and crafted most of her adult life. Her expertise was applique and hand quilting. The last quilt she made is a beautiful Baltimore Album styled applique using “Hawaiian” quilt block patterns. I proudly display it in my home. Her mom, my grandmother, quilted more for utilitarian purposes rather than a creative project. One of my grandmother’s scrap quilts is displayed in the fall as it matches my décor at that time of the year.
So, remember, the next time you are headed off to a quilt show, or perhaps even a quilt shop, think about inviting someone of the younger generation to accompany you. You never know, you might be introducing a young person to the treasured art form of quilting.
Patty Duncan enjoys family history and genealogy as a hobby. She also enjoys small town history, photography and is an avid scrapbooker, digital storybook maker and quilter on hiatus. She lives in Glendale, Arizona, where she spends a lot of time spoiling her grandchildren. Patty works in the sales department of The Country Registers of Arizona, California, Carolinas, Tennessee, Nebraska, Oregon, Washington and Idaho.
Countryberries Designs
Oh My Stars!
This design has so many possibilities! Make a wool or cotton appliqued wall hanging or mini quilt. Create a punchneedle or hooked rug piece. If you’re a painter, create this little quilt on paper, wood or canvas. Enlarge this pattern to your desired size. Whatever craft you choose, have fun! Not for commercial use. Please give the artist credit.
Order from countryberries.com 24/7 and follow Countryberries on Facebook. Countryberries LLC
Whimsies and necessaries for your country home and garden 330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037 603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com Like us on Facebook Please call for current hours
South Dakota
Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
Things to do in ...
Get Salt Water Taffy in Keystone, South Dakota
Play top golf in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
National Music Museum in Vermillion, South Dakota
Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
Reptile Gardens in Rapid City, South Dakota
Butterfly House and Aquarium in Sioux Falls, South Dakota Days of ‘76 in Lead-Deadwood, South Dakota
Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Festival
Visit Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park
North Dakota
Medora Musical in Medora North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Scandinavian Heritage Park in Minot, North Dakota
Roosevelt Zoo in Minot, North Dakota
Drive down the Enchanted Highway in Regent, North Dakota
Spend a day at Devils Lake in Devils Lake, North Dakota
Montana
Visit Glacier National Park
Go see a show at Playmill Theater in Yellowstone, MT
Go to a natural hot springs one is mammothhot springs in Yellowstone National Park
Mac & Cheese Festival in Mandan North Dakota on May 11
Wheel of Fortune LIVE in Fargo ND on May 17 and 18
Art Fest in Grand Forks ND on June 9
Greater Grand Forks in Grand Forks ND June 25-30
Go see the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, MT
Drive the HI-line (Highway 2) in Glacier National Park
Pick your own fruit in Bozeman’s Rocky Creek Farm
Huckleberry Festival in August at Trout Creek, MT
Lewis and Clark Festival in June at Great Falls, MT
Visit Garnet Ghost Town in Garnet, MT
Go to Earthquake Lake in Cameron, MT
Visit Virginia City MT
Idaho
Go to Bear Lake State Park in St. Charles Idaho
Go Horseback riding in Western Pleasure Guest Ranch
Craters of the Moon National Park it is about an hour outside of Boise
Visit the old Idaho Penitentiary in Boise Idaho
Silverwood Theme Park in Athol Idaho
Aquarium of Boise in Boise Idaho
Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg Idaho
Mountain Home Country Music Festival, July 28-30
Lake Coeur d’Alene Cruise in Coeur d’Alene Idaho
Idaho Potato Museum in Black Foot Idaho
