Country Reigster of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains - March/April 2013

Register Country

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March-April 2013

The

of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains

Orofino, Idaho • Bozeman, Great Falls & Townsend, Montana

Cover Artist: Betty Padden Passion for Nature & Art Started Decades Ago

For twenty-eight years Betty Padden has been honing her craft in the studio she shares with her husband in Auburn, Massachusetts. The two have formed a creative partnership over the years. With their hand-carved sign business, Wooden Apple Signmakers, businesses from all over the country seek out Betty’s skill at instilling their signs with her artistry. She and her husband Bob carefully craft each sign, imbuing it with character that will speak visually of the uniqueness of its owner.

Betty has been perfecting her skills in the fine art of wood carving since 1970, but the creative influences of family members go back even further.

In particular, her Uncle Carl made an impression upon her. He become the inspiration for a carved line of Santas known affectionately as Santa CarlsTM. The delightful Santa CarlsTM carvings are reflective of Uncle Carl’s mischievousness and love of nature. A natural extension of the collection is also found in Betty’s Santa CarlsTM Tree Company®. A community of mythical creatures that live in and around tree farms, these elves have devoted themselves to the most magical symbol of Christmas, The Christmas Tree.

Betty’s capacity for the age old tradition of storytelling, coupled with her artistic renderings, brings the magical celebration of nature alive especially during the holidays. And if you believe in your heart, as Betty believes, that we are all caretakers of the world, then if you are so very quiet, you too may be able to peek in among the boughs of your trees and see tiny faces peeking back at you!

Betty is licensed exclusively by Linda McDonald Inc., www.lindamcdonald.com, lindam@lindamcdonald.com or 704-370-0057.

Wild Hare

e h T

Tina Harper Owner

LOTS & LOTS of Fabric!

Supplies to Meet all your Crafting Needs!

Quilting plus ... yarns, notions, classes, art supplies, and beading.

Located Along Scenic Clearwater River • 222 Johnson Ave. • Orofino, Idaho Hours: M-F 9:30-5:00 & Sat. 9:30-2:00 • tmharper57@gmail.com • 208-476-3358

Happy Easter Authorized Janome & Riccar Vacuum Dealers 222 Broadway • Townsend, MT 406-266-4555 Hours: Tues, Wed & Fri. 10-5 Thurs. 12 noon-6 • Sat 10-4

Hope to see you at the

Big Sky Shop Hop April 26 - May11

Welcome to

The Quilt AWay Check out our 100% Wool & Wool Felt Selection For your Next Project!

Or Shop online 24/7 at www.montanasquiltaway.com 222 13th St. South Great Falls, MT (406) 453-2788 Store Hours: Monday - Friday 10 - 6 Saturday 10 - 5 Sunday 11 - 4 quiltaway2@bresnan.net

March-April 2013

Register Country

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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 May/June 2013 issue are due April 7, 2013.

Publisher’s Notes The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains including North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, & Northern Idaho Dee Sleep, Publisher Amy Rans, Editor Produced by Chicken Creek Communications 132 W. Hudson St. • Spearfish, SD 57783 605-722-7028 Office • 605-385-0035 Fax www.countryregisternrgp.com www.chickencreek.net 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.

Country Register Founder: Barbara Floyd, 602-237-6008, info@countryregister.com, located: Phoenix, AX USA * Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950 * Arkansas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * California: Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858 Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797 * Connecticut: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC, miked@countryregister.com * 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): Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Idaho (S): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950 * Illinois: Lenda Williams, 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: Gail Hageman, 221 Winslow Rd, Albion, ME 04910, 207-437-2663 * Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Massachusetts: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC , 27603, countryregister@bellsouth.net 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 Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Montana: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950 * Nevada (N): Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858 * Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803 New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 330 North Road, Deerfield, NH, 03037, countryregister@metrocast.net * 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: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC , 27603, miked@countryregister.com * North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, ohiocountryregister@yahoo.com * Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950 * Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com * Rhode Island: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC , 27603, miked@countryregister.com * South Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, miked@countryregister.com * South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com * Texas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Utah: Daniel & Stacy Tueller, 153 S 2050 W, Provo UT 84601, stacytueller@gmail.com * Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com * Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com * Washington: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 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: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Rd., Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net 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: Laurie Holcombe, 166-B Craig Henry Drive, Nepean, Ontario K2G 4M7, countryregisterontario@gmail.com

Fiber Issue Proves Popular

Thank you for picking up the March-April 2013 Fiber Issue of The Country Register of the Northern Rockies and Great Plains! We have tried a few other themed issue options throughout the last year, and this has been our most successful by far.

We have a lot of great advertising as well as editorial content covering the fiber arts. The Dropped Stitch on page 5 explains how to read charts for knitting patterns for those who are accustomed to written instructions only. There’s also a sidebar detailing where to find free patterns online for knitting, crocheting and weaving.

There’s a free crochet pattern published on page 7 complete with picture of a mug cozy to keep your coffee or tea hot. And there’s a profile of Terry Slagel on page 13. The Hot Springs, S.D., woman learned Dee Sleep more about fiber arts through a six month apprenEditor of ticeship at Vävstuga Weaving School, Shelburne, The Country Register Massachusetts, July through December 2012.

Even the quilt shop featured on page 4, The Quilt of ND, SD, WY, MT & N. ID A Way out of Great Falls, Mont., carries a unique selection of 100% wool and wool felt.

Plus we have our usual features including the inspirational pieces by Susan Branch and Girlfriend Wisdom, decorating and cleaning tips, more patterns, recipes and a book review. Readers can also enter to win a free book (see bottom of book review article) and a $25 gift certificate to their favorite advertiser (see page 14).

We are always open to new suggestions for advertisers and articles.

Please contact us anytime if you know of a shop, crafter or pattern that should be included in a future issue.

Visit our website at www.countryregisternrgp.com for more information. Thank you!

The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains March-April 2013 • Volume 3 Issue 2 The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is published every two months. Copyright 2013.

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.

Chicken Creek Communications produced 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.

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March-April 2013

Missoula, Montana

The Quilt A Way

Eckart Insured an Unforgettable 50th Birthday for Herself!

Toni Eckart, owner of The Quilt A Way in Great Falls, Montana, gave herself an extra special present for her 50th birthday: a quilt store.

“It’s a now or never deal,” said Eckart regarding the timing of her decision to open a quilt store.

She began with a small shop, which her husband built, in the garage of her home 17 years ago.

After two years in her garage, Eckart decided the business needed to move to town. For the past 15 years, the shop has been located in the same building. She did, however, have to expand again after her second year at the in-town location. A 3,000 square foot addition was built which provided room for a classroom, loft and additional retail space.

The Quilt A Way prides itself on being strictly a quilt store focusing on quilting needs. It carries a wide se-

lection of fabric – over 3000 bolts in fact; everything from 1930’s to batiks and everything in between. The shop also supplies a full line of patterns, kits, notions and books. Previous sample quilts and finished quilted products on display in the store are also available for purchase for a last minute gift or for those who love quilts, but haven’t taken the plunge to create one of his/her own.

The store also carries a unique selection of 100% wool and wool felt.

Eckart says it is a niche market that she took on and has been successful, because it is difficult to find and very few stores carry 100% wool and wool felt.

Eckart is proud of the time she and her staff have spent developing display tables and vinyl cases to showcase products. She enjoys hearing customers comment on “the

homey and “Being bright shopable to see, ping area touch and with neat feel all the displays.” new fabTaking rics on the the bull by market,” the horns, ultimateEckart ly is the didn’t stop best part at opening a With both an online store and a nearly 5,000 of being a quilt store on square foot facility in Great Falls, MT, everyone quilt shop her birthday can enjoy the rare finds at The Quilt A Way. owner says 17 years ago, Eckart. She she has since learned to tolerate a also enjoys meeting all the people computer, master email and create a and seeing the creative projects that website to promote her store as well everyone brings into the store. as allow customers the convenience Eckart is constantly trying to of online shopping 24/7. Everything keep the store, fabric, samples and seavailable for purchase in the store lection new and fresh. Keep checking is also available online. In addition, on Eckart and her staff at The Quilt shoppers can find a calendar of A Way or online to see all the new events and monthly newsletter online things happening as well as find out at www.montanasquiltaway.com. what they are stitchin’ up next!

Prize Winner!

Co ng ra ts!

Joan Mack, Devils Lake, ND, won a $25 gift certificate to her favorite shop – Quilt Essential in Devils Lake, ND. To enter the next drawing, fill out the form on page 14 or visit www.chickencreek.net.

March-April 2013

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Ennis, Livingston & Sidney, Montana

The Dropped Stitch - Stitch Charts Worth a Thousand Words If you learned to knit/crochet from written instructions only and now the popular use of charts are intimidating to you, fear no more.

Please read on.

Charts have several advantages as they provide a visual image of the design. They are used to show parts of a knitting pattern, such as color work motif or the repeat of a stitch pattern to be used multiple times in a project. Since each square represents a stitch, charts help you learn to read the stitches to avoid mistakes or recognize them early to avoid disasters.

They, also, make it easier to use stitches and patterns published in foreign languages. However, not every pattern needs a chart. For smaller motifs or simple stitches, written instructions suffice. Charts usually occupy less space which is important to the publishing business. To many, they are often more clear than a long written form.

The easiest charts to read are those printed in color, such as Fair Isle. Black and white instructions use symbols instead of colors to depict color work patterns. Chosen symbols often resemble the stitch they represent. Sadly, not all designers or publishers use the same symbols.

However, the lack of a uniform system of symbols is being addressed. The Craft Yarn Council of America has set up a series of guidelines and symbols to bring uniformity to knit/crochet pattern charts. Always consult the symbol legend provided and become familiar with them before beginning a project.

The numbers along the sides of charts indicate the rows. A number on the right side defines a right-side row, which is worked leftward from the number. A number on the left marks a wrongside row and is worked right-ward. Read a chart at the lower right-hand corner, proceeding across to the left. Your next row goes back the way you came, moving up one row and working from left to right. If you are working on the wrong side, follow the key’s instructions for the symbols designated for a wrong-side row. With circular knitting, every round is a right-side round so every round starts at the right-hand side of the chart, working across to the left.

Bold lines within the chart represent repeats. These set off a group of stitches that are repeated across a row. You begin at the edge of a row or where the pattern indicates for the required size, work across through to the second line, and then repeat the stitches between the lines as many times as directed, and finish the row. Black or gray squares are used when the stitch number has been reduced by decreases in a previous row. The legend lists them as a “no stitch.” Skip over them to the next symbol.

Sizes of a garment are often labeled with beginning and ending marks on the chart. This avoids having to chart each size separately, thank goodness!

Tips to avoid working the wrong row: Enlarge a copy of the chart. Use a magnetic board for the chart, moving the magnetic strip to mark your

Fabulous Fabrics & Yummy Yarns Regular Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00-5:30 • Saturday 10:00-5:00 • 1st & 3rd Wednesday 10:00-7:00

5237 U.S. Highway 89 South • Livingston, MT • 406-222-0855 Exit 333 from I-90 then 1/2 mile South • www.backporchquilter.com

place. If the pattern is repeated only once, highlight the row once it is completed or check off the row in the margin as it is worked. For a more complicated pattern, list the rows on a separate sheet of paper and check off rows as they are worked. Move a Post-It note to cover rows already worked. On that same sheet make notes and keep track of the last row worked to avoid counting rows when you begin again. Row and stitch counters available at local yarn shops belong in every knitters/crocheter’s tool bag.

Charts or written instructions?

The choice is yours.

© 2013 Sharon Greve. Reach her at castonshar@ yahoo.com No reprint without permission.

Looking for Free Patterns?

Knitting: • www.knittingpatterncentral.com • www.free-knitpatterns.com • www.vogueknitting.com/free_patterns.aspx Crocheting: • www.crochetpatterncentral.com • www.allfreecrochet.com • www.free-crochet.com Weaving: • www.weavingtoday.com/weaving-projects General: • www.freepatterns.com • www.allfiberarts.com • www.lionbrand.com Or search “free pattern” in your favorite search engine.

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March-April 2013

Gillette & Sheridan, Wyoming

Using Essential Oils for Sore Muscles

www.CountryRegisterNRGP.com or t i Vis www.ChickenCreek.net • View current and past issues • Sign up for $25 gift certificate from your favorite store • Become a subscriber

If you have ever had the misfortune to experience a motor vehicle rollover, you will understand the soreness my husband and I experienced one evening in late December following a car accident where our vehicle rolled twice. We have nothing but gratitude in our hearts, because we survived, unscratched, only sore, stiff, bruised and extremely shook up. We both believe seat belts work, and they did for us that night, as when the car stopped rolling, we were both upside down locked securely in our seat belts.

My husband insisted “you stay right where you are and lay still” as I was still in the recovery stage from open heart surgery for an aortic valve replacement and an aortic aneurysm repair two weeks earlier. I did as he requested while he unlocked his seat belt, crawled out the broken passenger window, retrieved his cell phone and called for help. At this stage of my surgery recovery, I was still riding in the backseat of any vehicle per the doctor’s orders to keep away from any danger of airbag deployment. So, I was safely laying on the roof of the upside down vehicle. Help arrived quickly, and I was soon taken by ambulance to the emergency room to be checked out.

My husband came later. Fortunately, we were both fine. We were given some Ibuprophen for the pain and sore muscles we were experiencing, and sent home with the instructions to remember “you will experience the greatest soreness on day three.” As I am a nurse, I knew increased muscle soreness is considered the “normal.”

Some of our children and grandchildren brought us safely home from the hospital and helped us get our coats off etc. I could not even lift my right arm, let alone get it out of the coat sleeve, so their help was much appreciated.

By this time it was nearly two hours after the Ibuprophen and the pain seemed as intense as before, so while getting ready for bed, I reached for my essential oils -- you guessed it, my favorite “Deep Muscle Blend” bottle was empty. I was too sore and tired to go to my aromatherapy shop and get a refill, so I made the following blend in a clean cup: n Pumpkin Seed Oil 4 teaspoons (you could use Olive, Sweet Almond, Grapeseed Oil, or any other carrier oil that you like ) n Lavender Essential Oil 4 drops n Clary Sage Essential Oil 4 drops n Basil Essential Oil 4 drops n Roman Chamomile Essential Oil 4 drops I mixed these together and applied the oil to my shoulders, upper back, neck and down my arms. Then I mixed another batch and applied it to the same areas for my husband. Off to bed we went.

The next morning, to our joy, the pain and soreness was almost completely gone. Best of all I could lift my right arm and even get clothes on without help. The next night before bed, we again applied the same oil mix, and the next morning experienced even less soreness. Again, we used the same mix at bedtime. When we woke up on day three, to our delight, the soreness was resolved instead of the expected and predicted increase. Best of all, we did not need to resort to prescription painkillers or narcotics for relief.

Next time you are experiencing pain, I would encourage you to try the essential oil blend recipe above as I know you will be happy with the results.

Wanda Headrick, is a writer and the owner of Flint Hills Aromotheryapy in Atlanta, KS. All the essential oils, essential oil blends, carrier oils and other products can be found at www.flinthillsaromatherapy.com or by calling Flinthills Aromatherapy, Inc. @ 620-394-2258 or by e-mail at info@flinthillsaromatherapy.com.

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March-April 2013

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Devils Lake, North Dakota • Casper, Wyoming

Free Crochet Pattern: Mug Cozy to Keep Tea & Coffee Hot This mug cozy that has a bottom too, so it also works as a coaster! It will fit an average size mug that is 3” in diameter and 4” tall.

Materials: • Cotton yarn • Size H8 - 5 mm crochet hook • Button that is 1” in diameter • Needle Rnd 1: 6 sc into an adjustable ring and pull the ring closed (6).

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each sc around (12).

Rnd 3: [Sc in next sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (18).

Rnd 4: [Sc in next 2 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (24).

Rnd 5: [Sc in next 3 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (30).

Rnd 6: [Sc in next 4 sc, 2 sc in next sc] 6 times (36).

Rnd 7: working in back loops only, sc in each sc around (36).

Rnd 8: sc in each sc around (36).

Now you are going to work in rows.

Row 9: ch 1, turn, sc in next 32 sc, ch 1, turn (32).

Rows 10-19: sc in each sc across, ch 1, turn (32).

Continue to sc evenly along the opening for the handle until to reach the top of Row 19 on the other side of the opening. Ch 18 (this forms the loop that goes around the button).

Row 20: Continue to sc in first sc on Row 19 and sc in each sc across (32).

Finish off and weave in ends.

Sew on button.

If your mug is a different diameter, you can easily make it smaller or larger by comparing the size of your work to the bottom of the mug after

each round. After Rnd 4, place your work against the bottom of the mug to see if you will have the right size after Rnd 5. Or if your mug is larger, you may need to make a new Rnd 7 that is six stitches more than Rnd 6 (i.e., [sc in next 5 sc, 2sc in next sc] 6 times (42)). The bottom of the mug cozy will lay flat if you continue to make each round 6 stitches more than the previous round. Then, when you start making the rows up the sides of the mug, just leave 4 open stitches for the handle. For example, in my pattern Rnd 8 was 36 stitches so Row 9 was only 32 stitches.

If your mug is shorter or taller just adjust the number of rows that you make, fitting the cozy around the mug every so often as you work.

For this and other crochet patterns visit: http://crochetnplay.blogspot.com.

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March-April 2013

Knitting Savant: “The Stash”

Crafters Treasure It, Hide It From Family & Friends Creative people are collectors by nature.

We turn carefully curated things like yarn and fabric into final products like socks and quilts. Sometimes we spend as much time and energy gathering the things we need to produce finished items as we do producing the finished item itself. There are even a few of us who get more satisfaction from planning a project than executing it. However we roll, we wind up with what appears to the outside world as “stuff.” Crafters call it by the proper term – the stash.

Stash is serious business. It’s an investment account you build up for your craft by making regular deposits. Stashes can be big or small. I consider mine to be of average size, although my husband is always a little stunned when he sees it all in one place. I once met a woman who confid-

ed that she had secretly given one of her knitting friends a key to her house. She instructed her friend, if she ever died suddenly, the friend was to go over to her house immediately and clear out half of her yarn so that her family would never know how much she actually had. That’s a good friend – and a bodacious stash.

Like most crafters, I clean things out periodically. I start with a practical purpose but always find that pulling the yarn out of the boxes is like looking through a scrap book.

I find the hand painted lace yarn from that little place I found on vacation, or the wool that was on sale at the local yarn shop two years ago and had every intention of making that sweater out of. I open the bag with the cotton yarn that was worked into a sweater I absolutely hated when finished. It’s been ripped apart, rewound and is waiting for new inspiration.

I find the odds and ends from finished projects that I hate to throw away but haven’t found a use for – yet. Beautiful raw materials live in our boxes and bags and closets just waiting to be transformed. The unlimited potential is half the fun.

A well-collected, well-used stash tells stories.

Any crafter can “read” their stash and tie moments of their creative life to the materials they find. A year ago, our local yard shop held a charity event.

We’d lost two of our own in the preceding months, and their families had delivered their stashes to the shop, unsure what to do with them. Volunteers sorted and catalogued the skeins, and we got together, brought in an auctioneer and started bidding. We raised over $1,700 that night for the local cancer support organization and added a little of our friends’ yarn to our own stashes. We continue to turn the yarn they loved into finished objects and as we create, we remember them fondly. Their stories are now knitted in with ours.

Andrea Springer blogs at www. knittingsavant.com to help folks remember that they have everything they need to be successful in knitting and in life.

Register Country

March-April 2013

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The

Heart Healthy Lean Beef Recipes

Happy St. Patrick’s Day Corned Beef & Cabbage 4 slices bacon 4 TBLS butter 1 head green cabbage, coarsely chopped

of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains

salt and pepper to taste 1 can corned beef

Cook the bacon in large pot over medium heat until almost crisp. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.

Melt the butter in the pot with the bacon grease. Add the cabbage, stirring well to coat the cabbage in fat. Add about 1/3 cup water, and salt and pepper, to taste. Cover pot with a lid, and cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the bacon into small pieces.

Remove the lid from the pot, and scatter chunks of corned beef and chopped bacon over top of the cabbage. Cover and cook until desired doneness.

Tip: Cabbage is one of those vegetables that naturally contains water in its leaves. Begin by adding just a small amount of water.

As cabbage cooks, if it needs more liquid, then add more water.

Recipe Courtesy of Paula Deen

Countryberries Designs

Quilted Egg

4” Styrofoam Egg Small cotton print fabric scraps-at least 5 different patterns Thin bladed knife or nail file

Starting with a small fabric piece in any shape or size, press about 1/8” of fabric straight down into the egg. Add the next piece, pressing into the same “ditch”. Work around the egg, cutting fabric to fit.

This pattern is free for you to use. Please give the artist credit. Not for commercial use. Have fun!

Designed by Kathy Graham

Countryberries LLC 330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037 603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com

(Family Features) These days, many people are re-evaluating their diets to lower cholesterol and fat.

They’re looking closely at foods to eliminate or cut back. One item that shouldn’t be on the chopping block is lean beef.

It may be surprising, but lean and extra lean beef are nutrient-rich sources of protein that complement a low-fat diet. In fact, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that a healthy lean diet that includes lean beef as well as fruit, whole grains, vegetables and nuts, showed similar effects on cardiovascular disease as a similar diet without lean beef.

In the study, people using either diet showed a reduction in LDL cholesterol compared to those eating the typical healthy American diet.

Mitzi Dulan, a nationally recognized nutrition and wellness expert and team sports nutritionist for the Kansas City Royals, understands that lean meat is an essential part of a healthy diet. “Lean and extra lean beef have tremendous nutritional benefits and provide more bang for your buck to healthy diets,” said Dulan. “Adding lean beef into meals is a quick and easy way to inject necessary protein in your diet, in a low-fat, heart healthy way.”

Dulan recommends several considerations for using lean beef in a healthy diet: • Look for beef that is “lean,” which by USDA definition contains less than 10g of fat, 4.5g or less of saturated fat, and less than 95mg of cholesterol per serving. “Extra lean” contains less than 5g of fat, 2g of saturated fat and 95mg of cholesterol per serving. Brands such as Laura’s Lean Beef are excellent options.

• Lean beef can be easily substituted into many favorite and time-honored meals to make versions that are delicious and lower in fat and cholesterol. Whether making chili in the cold winter months or burgers for summer grilling, lean beef is a quick fix for healthier meals.

• Lean beef is an excellent source of protein, which provides fuel for the body, helps maintain a stable blood sugar level and takes longer to digest, helping to reduce cravings. While the benefits are real, those looking to obtain a healthy diet must, as with anything, remain mindful of portion control.

Valentine Snowflake

For more tips and recipes using lean beef, visit www.laurasleanbeef.com.

Classic Beef Stew 1 TBLS oil 2 lbs Laura’s Lean Eye of Round Roast cut into 2-inch cubes 2 cups onion, sliced 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 green bell pepper, sliced 4 large celery stalks, cut into 2-inch pieces 8 medium carrots 4 large baking potatoes (about 2

pounds) cut into eighths 1 28-ounce can whole tomatoes 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup fat-free beef stock (double strength) 1 tablespoon dried basil Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat oil in skillet. On medium-high heat, sear meat cubes in skillet until browned on all sides.

In a separate bowl, combine canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock, basil, salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Pour mixture over meat and vegetables in roasting pan.

Cover and bake for 45 minutes. Reduce heat to 250°F and bake for 2 hours or until meat is very tender to the fork. Baste occasionally.

-Serves 8

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March-April 2013

Faulkton, Sioux Falls & Wall, South Dakota

Zentangle Provides Creative, Relaxing Art-Form Enjoyed by All Zentagle® is sweeping the world with silent power – a phenomenon that is both mysterious and exciting…profound yet simple.

So, what is Zentangle®? It is an easy to learn method of creating beautiful images from repetitive patterns. The visual art is often used to decorate walls or in scrapbooking. The Zentangle® art form and method was created by Rick Roversa and Maria Thomas and is copyrighted. Zentangle® is a registered trademark of Zentangle, Inc. Learn more at zentangle.com.

This fascinating new art form require only pen and paper and delivers an amazing array of benefits: • It’s easy to learn (really!)

• It’s fun and relaxing • It increases focus and creativity • It is enjoyed by all ages • You do not need to know how to draw And there is more…

• You cannot fail at Zentangle®.

It does not need to look like anything and there is no up or down.

• Zentangle® does not take batteries, wireless connection or a program. No mouse, no screen, no technology. It can be done with a stick in wet sand on the beach!

• Zentangle® can be a “mini-vacation” – a 15 minute retreat that relaxes, refocuses and re-energizes.

Lesson 1

Hello, I’m Jayme Crow, CZT (Certified Zentangle® Teacher) and I’m delighted to introduce you to the Zentangle® method of creating beautiful art.

Please collect your materials, find a peaceful and comfortable place to draw and let’s begin.

Material needed: • No. 2 pencil • Micron pen (01 black) • Tiles (good quality paper in 3 ½ inch squares • Table and chair • Soft background music (optional) The name of this Zentangle® is Knightsbridge.

With your pencil lightly draw an enclosed shape called a “string” onto your “tile.”

The lines in red show the steps. When your “tangle” is complete, add shading with your pencil.

Thank you for joining me! Continue learning Zentangle® with me in subsequent Country Register issues.

To book workshops or purchase Zentangle® supplies contact Jayme Crow at info@bellanonnaquilt.com or check out her website at www.bellanonnaquilt.com.

March-April 2013

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Dell Rapids, Groton, Huron, Pierre & Watertown, South Dakota

Publications Give Tips for Using Primitive Pieces Decorate to Make Yourself Happy

The items you collect tell a story of who you are and where you’ve been.

When you walk into your home, you should be surrounded by the things that you love. A room should make you feel comfortable and happy.

Don’t let others dictate your choices or style of decorating. One person’s idea of primitive-style decorating, for instance, may be different than another’s.

It is okay if your home is not furnished in period antiques. It is okay to have reproductions and to work authentic pieces in when your budget permits.

Don’t have a room that is so perfect and formal that you stand on edge for fear of disturbing the perfection of it. You don’t live in a magazine. You live in a real home. Make sure your home is comfortable for you and your family.

Not every room has to have the same theme – one room can be decorated in primitives with the next room being country-themed. If you want to decorate your bedroom in floral designs, then do it! That is the fun of decorating – you get to do it the way you want to!

A Primitive Place & Country Journal magazine strives to bring you a variety of unique homes in each issue decorated in their own unique way. You will find primitive, colonial, country and a mixture in between. We, as well as our homeowners, are excited to show how you how their collections are displayed.

Don’t take decorating so seriously! Have fun with what you have. When you decorate with the things you love, it’s amazing how a room can pull itself together. If you smile when you walk into a room, you are doing something right!

Kristine Berg Doss is the owner, editor, and publisher of A Primitive Place & Country Journal magazine. This magazine is the fastest growing primitive, colonial, and country magazine on the market today. For more information, visit www.aprimitiveplace.org or email info@aprimitiveplace.org.

Décor Book Review: Fragments

Fragments is a highly anticipated new primitive book by author Jill Peterson. In her new book, Jill takes a look at the elements of primitive décor. Even if you’re not a lover of the very primitive style, you can learn many decorating tips that apply to all types of decorating.

Jill divides her book into several sections such as Tabletops, Hearths and Porches. In the chapter on Doors, Jill offers a variety of unusual decorations for decorating doors throughout the year. In her Cupboards chapter, she quotes Laura Ingalls Wilder, “It is the simple things of life that make living worthwhile, the sweet fundamental things such as love and duty, work and rest, and living close to nature.” The cupboards are full of the simple elements – wood bowls, pewter, candles and treasured books. Page after page has wonderful photos of antiques in different settings accompanied by thoughtful quotations.

Jill has been buying and selling antiques since she was 16. Finding it difficult to make a full time living as a dealer, she longed to find a way to stay in an industry she loved. So about 7 years ago she decided to publish a book with photos and stories of her friend's homes.

Since then she’s published six books and started A Simple Life magazine three years ago. Jill says, ”I am blessed beyond all measure and have never worked a day in my life! The antiques business is one wonderful big family.”

On the first page of Fragments, Jill says to “Take Delight In The Simple Things.” We think you will enjoy the simple things and the simple decorating ideas that this book offers. Fragments is both a great reference book for the primitive decorator and a wonderful coffee table (or trunk, wagon or bench) book. Fragments , A Simple Life and Jill’s other books are available from many local country stores.

Book review written by Kathleen Graham, Editor, The Country Register of New Hampshire. To win a copy of this book, send an email to dee.sleep@ chickencreek.net or visit www.countryregister.com/dakotas by April 7, 2013.

Dakota Carding & Wool Co. 40053 James Road • Groton, SD 57445 dakotacarding@nrctv.com

605.228.9199

Now on Facebook!

BUY ONLINE!

Finished Product Available At: www.etsy.com/shop/biotayarns

www.dakotacardingandwool.com

CARDING & WASHING Fine Fibers • Fiber Blends Exotics • Long Fibers • Wool Dyed & Natural Colored Wool

SELLING Biota Spinner’s Web Handspun Yarn • Natural Colored Wool • Exotics • Mohair Handknit Wearable Art

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March-April 2013

Rapid City & Wall, South Dakota

Spring Cleaning Shortcuts

Must-Haves For Easier Cleaning

(Family Features) Spring brings a sense of fresh beginnings, and for many, that includes the annual ritual of spring cleaning. A survey conducted by the American Cleaning Institute found that 62 percent of people engage in spring cleaning each year, and their top three priorities are the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images This year, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a long, dreaded process. Follow these quick tips to not only get your house clean in no time, but keep it clean in the long run.

Keep these items handy to make spring cleaning – and everyday cleaning – a breeze.

• Adhesive lint roller – Great for quickly sprucing up fabric and upholstery. You can also use it to remove dust from lamp shades.

• Baking soda – Helps neutralize odors in sinks, refrigerators, upholstery and carpets.

Kitchen

As one of the busiest rooms in the house, the kitchen gets cleaned frequently, but there are some areas that may need a little more TLC. • Use steam to clean the inside of the microwave. Bring two cups of water to a boil in the microwave, keep the door closed and let the water sit for a few minutes. The steam loosens dried-on food particles, making it easier to wipe them away.

For a fresh scent, drop a slice or two of lemon in the water before boiling. Keep it clean by using food covers to prevent food splatters.

• Keeping the sink, counters and appliances clean and sanitized is fast and easy with a product such as Kitchen Windex Touch-Up Cleaner. A quick pump onto a paper towel, rag or sponge and you can wipe away messes and kill 99.9 percent of common household bacteria in no time. The cleaner works on a variety of hard, non-porous surfaces.

• When you clean the sink, make sure to get behind the faucet and around the seals using an old toothbrush.

• Don’t forget to clean the outside of the refrigerator and freezer. Clear off the clutter of notes, coupons and photos, and then clean the doors, handles and seals.

• Keep the inside of the refrigerator smelling fresh with an open box of baking soda.

Bathroom

From make-up spills and toothpaste smudges to mildew and everything in-between, the bathroom needs touching-up on a daily basis.

• To keep the counter clean of little messes and smudges, use an antibacterial product such as Windex Touch-Up Cleaner. Dab the cleaner onto a rag or tissue and wipe down the counter, faucet and any other hard, non-porous surfaces to clean and sanitize quickly.

• To get rid of soap scum, clean the tub and shower with a foaming cleanser that does most of the work for you, and simply rinse it off. Wash shower curtains and liners according to label instructions.

• To help prevent soap scum buildup in the future, try switching to a liquid shower gel. Bar soaps have binders that are a primary cause of soapy residue. You can also use a towel to quickly wipe down the tub and faucets after each shower.

• Combination mold and mildew cleaners can make fast work of those deep messes. Spray where needed, and rinse off following label instructions. Be sure the bathroom is well ventilated before spraying them on.

• To discourage mildew, use the bathroom fan during a shower and for about 30 minutes after. You can also use a dehumidifier or open the window.

• Windex Touch-Up Cleaner – A convenient solution to tackle the frequent messes that happen in the bathroom and kitchen.

• Multi-surface wipes – Make it easy to freshen up any room in the house.

• Sponges – Good for removing scuff marks and smudges from walls and furniture.

Floors

You’ll be amazed at how much cleaner a room will look when the floors are done right.

• If you have the time and money to rent and use a carpet cleaner, now’s the time to do it. If not, target stains with a carpet cleaner and give all your carpets a good vacuuming. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and rugs to absorb odors.

• Steam mops are a great way to quickly clean multiple flooring surfaces without a mop and bucket.

You can do a whole room in just a few minutes.

• A lot of the dirt and dust in a home is brought inside on the soles of your shoes. To keep carpets and flooring clean, place doormats inside and outside each entrance and always take your shoes off when entering.

• Wiping floorboards of dust and dirt is often overlooked and makes a big difference in the appearance of your home.

Get more cleaning tips and solutions at www.windex.com.

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March-April 2013

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Custer, Hot Springs & Rapid City, South Dakota

Fiber Arts Craft Popular, but Difficult Expand Knowledge Through Apprenticeship Serving as an apprentice in order to improve the depth of a fiber arts craft may seem an antiquated concept, but Terry Slagel, Hot Springs, S.D., took advantage of a six-month apprenticeship at Vävstuga Weaving School, Shelburne, Massachusetts, July through December 2012.

As an apprentice, Terry traded work for the opportunity to audit nine classes Swedish weaving classes and enrolled in another. Class size ranged from six to nine students, depending upon the technique being taught.

In exchange for studio time, she dressed looms in preparation for the next group of students, stocked inventory in the onsite store, re-organized stock after students had been selecting supplies and helped with cleanup and other tasks. She worked her own weaving around the class times, giving her opportunities to incorporate the new methods learned.

Terry was a public school teacher for 18 years in Colorado and she says teaching is her calling. “Vävstuga was a very fast paced environment with long days, allowing me to get the most I could out of the time,” said Terry.

“Ultimately my goal was and is to make myself a better weaver so I can in turn help others learn. By offering guidance and assistance in addition to quality equipment by Ashford, Kromski, Harrisville and Glimakra, it is easy to encourage artists of all levels. I want to keep fiber arts alive.”

Terry and her husband, Gary, are co-owners of Ace Hardware in Hot Springs and a portion of the store is dedicated to fiber arts. Terry is the only dealer with a variety of in-stock equipment in the area. Her selection includes many spinning wheels, floor looms, portable rigid heddle table top models that come in widths from eight to 36 inches and folding looms which have a sturdy cloth bag for ease in transporting. She can order other looms to suit

Find the Answer to Your Winter Blues • Read a book • Build a puzzle • Learn some history

From our home to yours - gifts for all your needs! www.blackhills-books.com • 112 S. Chicago Street, Hot Springs • 605-745-5545

your need.

In her Ace store Terry primarily sells natural fibers of wool, cotton and linen in both weaving and knitting lines.

She carries natural and exotic fibers for spinning and a wide selection of notions for weaving, knitting, Above, Terry starts a boat shuttle through the shed as crochet, spinning she adds fiber to the warp. and felting. Terry At left, Terry holds a kitchen towel woven with a suppleshowcases made in mentary warp which forms the loop. Behind her is a tiny the USA products section of her fiber arts wares at Fall River Fibers in Hot as much as possible Spring, SD. with many yarns supplied by the Brown Sheep Yarn Company, Mitchell, Neb. Featured books in her shop include those on Swedish weaving, a full line of books by Inter Weave Press along with wonderful children’s books on the subject of fiber arts.

Store hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Terry is generally in the store in the afternoon or you can schedule an appointment if you want to be sure to talk with her.

She has adult education classes coming up in Hot Springs crochet, knitting, spinning and weaving with a rigid heddle loom, see http://www.clccommed.org/ for details. Terry is willing to travel and present beginner level classes. Please contact her for details atfallriverfibers@yahoo.com or 605-7455173. Fall River Fibers is also on Facebook or at www.fallriverfibers.com.

Peggy Sanders writes from the ranch in southwest South Dakota. Her internet latchstring is out at peggy@peggysanders.com.

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March-April 2013

Upcoming Area Events Wall, SD

Badlands Quilter’s Weekend Getaway

March 8-9

Western SD

Sweet Liberty Shop Hop

April 5-20

Huron, SD

SD Quilter’s Guild April Retreat

April 19-21

Casper, WY

Spring Craft Fair

Montana Eastern SD Watertown, SD

April 20

Big Sky Shop Hop

April 26-May 11

Spring Fling Shop Hop

April 27-May 4

North Country Fiber Fair

Sept 20-22

Advertiser Directory by Community

Orofino, Idaho • Bozeman, Great Falls & Townsend, Montana.........................2 Missoula, Montana......................................................................................................4 Ennis, Livingston & Sidney, Montana.....................................................................5 Gillette & Sheridan, Wyoming..................................................................................6 Devils Lake, North Dakota • Casper, Wyoming....................................................7 Faulkton, Sioux Falls & Wall, South Dakota........................................................ 10 Dell Rapids, Groton, Huron, Pierre & Watertown, South Dakota.................. 11 Rapid City & Wall, South Dakota.......................................................................... 12 Custer, Hot Springs & Rapid City, South Dakota............................................... 13 Belle Fourche, Edgemont, Hot Springs, Rapid City & Spearfish, SD............. 15 Rapid City, South Dakota....................................................................................... 16

Advertiser Directory by Name

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 132 W. Hudson Street Spearfish, SD 57783

March-April 2013 Entry OR visit www.chickencreek.net, 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: n Regular Reader or

n First Time Reader

What stores would like to see in The Country Register? (include town) ____________________________________________________________ Entries received by April 7, 2013, with all questions answered will qualify for the drawing. One gift certificate is given away each issue.

Always Your Design, Dell Rapids, SD...................................................................11 Athena Fibers, Sioux Falls, SD................................................................................10 Back Porch Quilts, Livingston, MT..........................................................................5 Badlands Quilting Association, Walls, SD.............................................................10 Black Hills Books & Treasures, Hot Springs, SD................................................13 Black Hills Visitor Center, Rapid City, SD............................................................12 Creative Closet, Townsend, MT...............................................................................2 Dakota Carding & Wool, Groton, SD...................................................................11 Dakota Quilt Company, Spearfish, SD..................................................................15 Fall River Fibers, Hot Springs, SD.........................................................................15 Flip Side Fabrics, Sidney, MT....................................................................................5 Heartsong Quilts, Hot Springs ,SD........................................................................13 Hot Spring Housing, Hot Springs, SD..................................................................15 J.L. Wright’s Trading Post, Townsend, MT.............................................................2 Knothole, Spearfish, SD..........................................................................................15 North Country Fiber Fair, Watertown, SD...........................................................11 Nuts & Bolts Fabric Shop, Edgemont, SD...........................................................15 Quilt Connection, Rapid City, SD..........................................................................13 Quilt Essential, Devils Lake, ND.............................................................................7 Quilt Nook, Gillette, WY..........................................................................................6 Quilt-Tiques, Rapid City, SD...................................................................................15 Quilter’s Corner, Faulkton, SD...............................................................................10 Quilting in the Country, Bozeman, MT...................................................................2 South Dakota Quilter’s Guild, SD..........................................................................11 Stitches That Bind, Ennis, MT..................................................................................5 Sunflower Cottage, Spearfish, SD..........................................................................15 Sunrise Mall, Casper, WY..........................................................................................7 The Fiber House, Sheridan, WY..............................................................................6 The Quilt Yard, Pierre, SD......................................................................................11 The Quilt-A-Way, Great Falls, MT...........................................................................2 The Quilter’s Fix, Sheridan, WY...............................................................................6 The Quilters Nook, Custer, SD..............................................................................13 The Wild Hare, Orofino, ID.....................................................................................2 Thimble Cottage, Rapid City, SD...........................................................................16 Tri-State Bakery, Belle Fourche, SD.......................................................................15 Vicki’s Quilts Down Under, Missoula, MT.............................................................4 Wall Drug, Wall, SD..................................................................................................12 Windy Stitches Quilt Retreat, Livingston, MT.......................................................5

March-April 2013

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Belle Fourche, Edgemont, Hot Springs, Rapid City & Spearfish, South Dakota

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Rapid City, South Dakota

March-April 2013