Page 2 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Bozeman, Great Falls & Townsend, Montana
Cover Artist: Monica Sabolla Gruppo
Answered her Calling
Born and raised in Italy, artist Monica Sabolla Gruppo inherited the love for brushes and colors from her maternal Grandfather, an award-winning painter. She has spent the latest 20 years nurturing her creative soul full-time through painting, crafting and photography, always growing and evolving, experimenting and trying new techniques until she decided to answer her calling and devote herself to painting as a profession. Monica lives in England with her beloved husband and their sweet Golden Retriever, and she’s passionate about infusing creativity, beauty and inspiration in every aspect of her life. Monica is represented for licensing by Linda McDonald, Inc. in Charlotte, N.C.
Index:
See page 14 for advertiser’s index by name and by community as well as upcoming events.
Next Deadline:
Ads and articles for the July/August 2014 issue are due June 7, 2014.
Welcome to
The Quilt AWay Montana Statewide Shop Hop April 25 - May10 Lot of new arrivals for Spring & Summer Stop in and look us over! 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
May-June 2014 | Page 3
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Publisher’s Notes
I Agree With Columnist about Pros, Cons of Country Living
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.countryregister.com/nrgp 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 Alabama: Dana Wilburn, 6349 Knollwood Ct. Frederick, MD 21701, dana@countryregister.com * Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 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, 132 W. Hudson Street, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Idaho (S): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 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, 132 W. Hudson Street, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028, dee.sleep@chickencreek.net * Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 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: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950 * North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 132 W. Hudson Street, 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, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 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: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950 * South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 132 W. Hudson Street, 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 * 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: Dee Sleep, 132 W. Hudson Street, 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
I know that I enjoy reading the submissions for each issue of The Country Register as much as anyone as I review them for possible inclusion in the printed paper. We are working to include more unique, local articles and two of our local columnists – Peggy Sanders and Sierra Shea – continued to provide quality content for this issue. Sierra writes about what it’s like to finish another woman’s quilt. She is newly married and newly settled in South Dakota, and she uses the art and skill of quilting to connect with women in her area. Dee Sleep Peggy details things to consider before makEditor of ing a move to the country. I live about 15 minutes The Country Register northwest of Spearfish on part of the Sleep Famof ND, SD, WY, ily ranch, so I could completely relate to Peggy’s MT & N. ID points. In fact, I started a blog a few years back to write about what it’s like to be a country mom. Unfortunately, I haven’t added a lot of fresh content to the blog, but I have lots of ideas for posts. I could write about the benefits of not having to confine our dogs, but then I would also have to acknowledge the risk and likely consequence of our dogs possibly interfering with the neighbor’s livestock. Or I could write about the calm, quiet of the evenings and nights, even when we leave our windows open. But then I would have to admit that the wind often blows through like a freight train, and we have no siren to warn us when those winds might bring a tornado or other danger. I could also write about how exciting it is to be able to raise sheep, horses, rabbits and chicks. But then I would also need to write about our sad experiences with death regarding the animals we have lost. While I truly enjoy my life in the country, Peggy is right when she basically says there are trade offs. It’s not always as romantic and ideal as it might seem. As I say in my blog, life is just a bit different for those of us living in the country. You can read about my experiences and observations at www.countrymom.net. The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains May-June 2014 • Volume 4 Issue 3 The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is published every two months. Copyright 2014. 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.
Page 4 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Ennis & Sidney, Montana
Are You Cut Out for Stashbusting?
Have you ever felt intimidated by your ever-growing stash of fabrics? Or perhaps you face an unorganized pile of UFOs (unfinished objects)? Do you have a WOMBAT—what Stashbuster.com calls “a waste of material, batting, and time”? Lynda Burns, current president of the Washington State Quilters - Spokane Chapter (WSQ), recently commented, “We know when we’ve gotten ahead of ourselves. Especially when that pattern is too hard or we hate the color. We all would like to get these UFOs out of our sewing room!” What quilter doesn't salivate at the thought of new fabric? We drop into our favorite quilt shop to check out what is new or what catches our eye. For example, I've been collecting Japanese fabrics for several years now. I now have enough fabric for two quilts but have I started on my Japanese quilt? Not until I finish that wedding quilt due by May, that hand appliqué wall hanging from the class I took last spring, and two charity quilts. In other words, not yet. Here are some suggestions to help you manage those UFOs and that runaway stash: Shop your own stash first. You've got a wedding quilt to make or a new baby quilt. Maybe you've signed up for a class at a local quilt shop. Avoid temptation! Why not start by digging into your own stash first? Sell or swap that fabric and/or those quilting notions. Why not simply let go of fabric you may never use? WSQ also holds an annual Yard Sale on the first Saturday in April. This indoor yard sale, held in a large gym, is all about quilting fabrics, books, patterns, and notions at bargain prices. WSQ members can purchase a table for a nominal $10 to sell their quilting related goodies. At 8 a.m., the doors open and the buying frenzy begins. At the end of the day, some quilters have cut down their stash while other quilters go home with new projects. Quilters report using Craigslist, holding a fabric swap, or giving away fabrics to their own quilt group. Donate UFOs and/or fabric to charity. You can let go of some of those fabrics you know in your heart you will never use. Pick out your favorite charity, find a simple pattern and sew a charity quilt to give away. Quilts for
Stitches That Bind A traditional quilt and cross stitch shop. Montana Shop Hop April 25 - May 10, 2014 Visit your local quilt shop & celebrate your creativity
111 W Main Street Ennis MT • 406-682-3166 Store hours are Tues-Sat from 10am-5:30pm
boys, teens and veterans are always in demand. Some organizations love to receive more complicated quilts because they can then be raffled off as fund-raisers. If all else fails, why not donate fabric you won't really ever use to the Salvation Army or the Goodwill? Work with your guild to make 2014 “The Year of the UFO.” Could your guild follow the example of WSQ? Lynda Burns has challenged WSQ members to break into our carefully organized stash of quilting fabrics to complete as many UFOs as possible. At each quarterly meeting, we'll report in on how many UFOs we've finished. Our names will be entered into a drawing for a free quilting class (we'll earn an entry for each finished project). The spirit of competition can be a great motivator.
Tips to Motivate You to Break Up Your Stash:
1. Make a commitment to be a "stashbuster" this year! 2. Start with fabric. If your fabrics are organized by type (for example, all batiks together, all 1930s fabrics together), think about how your own tastes have changed in the last few years. Which fabrics could you let go of? Swap with another quilter? 3. Take an inventory. How many UFOs do you have? Are you surprised? How many of these do you really want to complete? 4. Analyze what you need to finish those UFOs. Do you need a pattern? Tools? A larger workspace? You may need more fabric or thread to get you going. 5. Recognize your time constraints. Pick out your favorite 2 or 3 unfinished projects. Ask exactly what is holding you back for this UFO. Consider dropping in at one of those sewing ‘open house help’ sessions at your local fabric shop to take you to the next level. 6. Talk to other quilters you know to find a stashbuster buddy. Set up a sewing retreat to work specifically on those unfinished projects that use up your stash. Need inspiration to get started? Check out Stashbusters online at www. stashbuster.org, an online group that shares goals and tips for using up that ever-growing collection of fabrics. Started as a Yahoo group, Stashbuster now has over 5,000 members with annual "no buy" challenges, stay-at-home retreats, and forums for members to share their goals and progress. • One spin-off group, Stashbuster Fling It All (currently with 800 members), invites quilters to swap or give away their extra fabric, but you must be a member of Stashbuster to participate. • Each year Stashbuster members may enter a UFO Challenge by sending in 2 fat quarters. Members report progress and then are entered into motivational drawings each quarter. Plan to make 2014 YOUR year of the UFO. If you select “just one thing” to work on, you may surprise yourself with a finished project that will lead to another finished project. Start small. Set a deadline. And, decide what reward you will give yourself when you meet your goals. Maybe you’ll choose a trip to your favorite quilt shop or an upcoming quilt show. Enjoying the results. Several quilters in our Thursday group contributed fabric with an African theme to member Venita Aldrich. The result is a stunning and now finished quilt! Lynda Burns, Venita Aldrich and Beth Camp are members of the Washington State Quilters - Spokane Chapter.
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Missoula, Montana & Wyoming
Perfect the Art of Grilling Juicy, Tender Pork Chops
(Family Features) A recent survey by the Heart, Patio and Barbecue Association found that seven out of 10 home grillers consider themselves to be “better than average” at grilling. With warmer weather on the horizon, there’s no better time to put your skills to the test and perfect the art of pork chops on the grill. An incredibly flavorful, juicy and tender choice, pork chops – with cuts like Porterhouse, Ribeye and New York – are perfect for casual backyard entertaining and easy family dinners alike.
Tips for Tender Chops
Mastering grilled pork chops is easy no matter your skill on the grill. It’s all about selecting the right recipe, preparing the grill correctly and grilling your pork chops like a steak using a digital thermometer to ensure the proper range of doneness – between 145°F (medium rare), followed by a three-minute rest and 160°F (medium). To prep your grill: • Arrange hot coals evenly on the fire grate of the grill or use all gas burners on medium-hot heat • Place pork directly above the heat source • Follow suggested cooking times – 3/4 inch chops should be cooked for 8-9 minutes and 1 1/2 inch chops for 12-16 minutes -turning once during cooking For a deliciously sweet and spicy recipe like Sweet Fire Pork Chops, seasoned with hot chipotle chile, zesty orange, garlic and sweet honey – choose 3/4-inch Porterhouse (bone-in loin) chops to create your new favorite masterpiece. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of mashed sweet potatoes and sauteed green beans. Visit www.PorkBeinspired.com to learn ways you can win with pork and to find more inspiring recipes that will keep your grill hot all summer long. “Sweet Fire” Porterhouse Pork Chops 4 Porterhouse (bone-in loin) pork chops, about 3/4-inch thick 2 TBLS olive oil 1 1/2 tsp ground chipotle chile 1 1/2 tsp coarse salt
Grated zest of 1 large orange 2 tsp garlic, minced 1/3 cup honey
In a small bowl, stir oil, ground chipotle, salt, orange zest and garlic together into a paste. Using a rubber spatula, spread chipotle mixture over both sides of pork. Let stand for 15 to 30 minutes. Prepare a medium-hot fire in grill. Place chops on grill and close lid. Grill over direct heat, turning once, about 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature of the pork on a meat thermometer measures between 145°F (medium rare) and 160°F (medium). During the last 2 minutes, brush chops on both sides with honey. Remove from grill and let rest for 3 minutes. Yield: 4 servings
May-June 2014 | Page 5
Page 6 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Kit ‘n Kaboodle
Things to Consider Before Moving to the Country Contemplating a move to the country? Moving is a big step, whether if it’s to another apartment, house, or to the country. Like any move, you need to consider the ramifications as much as possible before you re-locate. Why do you want to move to the country? Do you want to farm and if so, as a hobby or as a fulltime job? Do you just want to have “five acres and a horse”, like so many people do? Do you plan on just living in the country or on becoming part of the community? If you do not live alone, have you asked your family how they would feel about becoming rural residents? Would they mind the isolation? Can you make a living? Will you and/or your spouse have to work off the place? Are there good schools close by? Are your children youngsters or teenagers? First you need to answer these questions and determine if the move will unite the family or if it will be an uphill battle. The life style changes may be more simple but not necessarily easier. Yet, you will learn how to do things you never imagined you would do, if for no other reason than you have never had the opportunity to do them. Can you and your family rise to the challenges? For example, there is a vast difference in occasionally riding a friend’s horse and having full responsibility for one. There are feed bills, veterinary bills, equipment needs, perhaps riding lessons or the expense of a horse trainer. Money is pretty much the answer to these considerations. But time cannot be bought. The stalls have to be mucked out and the horse fed and ridden. These might sound like relaxing, interesting activities; you just need
Knitters, Quilters, NeedleArtists:
Download our App and GO MOBILE!
Find Your Favorite Shops When You Travel! Visit
NeedleTravel.com
To find shops online for FREE! Or order the 7th Edition of our Travel Guide for only $9.95
needletravel.com or 888-737-0847
to realize the horse represents everyday – not just weekend or when you feel like it – chores. Consider a teenager or even a younger child who is below the age of employment and perhaps has no interest in sports or other activities. The chores they have may now consist of taking out the trash once or twice per week, making a bed, and emptying the dishwasher. What does such a teenager do with the balance of his or her free time? A move to the country might awaken an interest in some aspect of nature, such as gardening, domesticated or feral animals, rock collecting, fishing, or hunting. It is the opportunities that are available in the country which create outlets of interest and open doors to unlimited possibilities. The benefits of country life may outweigh living in town – or they may not. Thinking through the opportunities and the difficulties will allow you a smoother transition if you do make the move.
Peggy Sanders is a farm wife, nationally-awarded columnist and author. Please send her comments and questions about transitioning to the country at peggy@peggysanders.com. Sanders’ internet latchstring is out at peggysanders. com or peggy@peggysanders.com.
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
May-June 2014 | Page 7
Become Inspired!
Decorating, Entertaining and Living in the Early American Style Spring’s Spectacular Splendor
Each season in New England brings with it certain blessings and spring is no exception. With warmer temperatures coupled with longer days, we are naturally drawn to the out of doors. Our decorating attention often shifts to creating appealing settings to enjoy all season long. As spring unfolds before us, the landscape comes alive with vibrant green and blooming color. This new beauty often captivates us and we find ourselves inspired to capture its splendor at our own dwelling.
Parallel Traditions to the Past
One of the days I treasure most is the first day I can happily work in my herb garden to see the perennials bursting forth. My garden of herbs contains a small, “clipping garden,” of cooking herbs just off the back step. Beyond the primitive picket fence are tall stands of red bee balm, purple anise hyssop, and silver king artemesia. Large field stone steps reach out to the back yard and nestled between the stepping stones are my plantings of thyme. After three years of having the handcrafted fence, herb garden and stone steps, it looks as if this setting was original to my 1830s home.
Symbols of Simplicity Beyond the herb garden, off the side of the house, is my vegetable garden consisting of five handcrafted raised beds tucked beyond a wall of lilacs. Using weathered boards and primitive poles for the beans, we tried to replicate the look of an early garden. To enhance the primitive setting, I put a sturdy antique wheelbarrow back to use and often find that my early garden tools make my gardening easier.
A recent addition to my gardens is a sundial that we mounted on a natural stump. It is a simple, accurate accent and it reminds me of the past. Other accents of simplicity include my woven bee skeps and a primitive feeder for the birds, crafted from weathered wood. This year we feel doubly blessed for our long-awaited New England spring. The winter months were demanding ones and our hardy spirits were indeed tested. This spring plan to venture out of doors to enjoy the beauty of the season. Enhance your outdoor spaces with time-tested antiques and creative accents. As you build and nurture your outdoor space, you will no doubt feel inspired by the intrinsic reward of hard work and the beautiful wonder of simplicity. For further information and inspirational photos Facebook us at Milltown Primitives. Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com Robin Rock is the owner of Milltown Primitives. www.milltownprimitvesshop.com
Page 8 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Cheyenne & Sheridan, Wyoming
Bringing Indoor Comfort Outside Make outdoor space an extension of your home
Beatty shares some of her stylish (Family Features) The arrival secrets to make your outdoor space of summer, along with its sunny skies and beautiful weather, beckons an elegant living space worth sharing. homeowners to create a space to Arrange away entertain guests and enjoy the great Treat your outdoor area as you outdoors. Design an outdoor living would your living room. If space room that merges style and function, is limited, use sectionals to create and incorporates elements of indoor seating in whatever arrangement fits comfort. best. If there is more room, add an Whether entertaining for two investment piece, such as the Echo or 10, the warmer weather provides Beach Dining Table from Pier 1 an abundance of opportunities to Imports. This high-quality piece is lounge in peaceful, open-air surmade from handcrafted, all-weather roundings. New offerings in decor synthetic rattan and offers plenty of and design breathe indoor inspiraspace to arrange chairs just as you tion into your outdoor spaces, crewould in your dining room. Finish ating a beautiful extension of your the look by layering your favorite achome for all to enjoy. cessories, such as handcrafted trays, “It’s easier than ever to bring the detailed lanterns and a colorful floral comfort and style of your favorite arrangement to create a cheerful indoor spaces into your porch, patio centerpiece that makes your guests and other outdoor areas,” said Aimee feel welcome. Beatty, in-house stylist with Pier 1 Imports. “From comfy throw pillows Tie it all together To let you in on a little secret — to trendy rugs, colorful artwork and outdoor rugs tie everything togethcheery curtains, new outdoor proder and really bring a space to life. ucts boast durability and so much style that your patio will be the neigh- Simply layer a rug, such as Pier 1 Imports’ chic Wavy Geo Rug, with a borhood’s go-to summer hot spot.”
beautiful seating collection, colorful cushions and pillows, and you’ve got an outdoor area that makes everyone comfortable and happy.
Embrace the bold
Some might be afraid to create a statement outside because — it’s outside. But an outdoor living space lends itself to adventures with color and pattern, providing the opportunity to be bold and to go beyond your comfort zone. When shopping for the outdoors, remember — anything goes.
Make it uniquely yours Mix and match with color and patterns, and personalize your space with accents such as outdoor artwork, planters, umbrellas and more. A smart combination of accessories really transforms an outdoor space from simple to fabulous.
Be bright, all night
The sun may still be shining when the guests arrive, but you’ll need something to light up the night and keep the party going all evening
long. Create a delightful, welcoming atmosphere with a variety of outdoor lighting options, such as string lights, paper lanterns or floating LED candles placed around the patio. Fashion an elegant glow with lanterns in various sizes, such as the Scroll Trim Lanterns from Pier 1 Imports.
Serve in style
Al fresco entertaining always focuses on food, drinks and friends. A self-service food station or bar enhances the casual tone, freeing guests to grab refreshments whenever they please. This also allows you, the host, to focus on the fun at hand. Look for serving and drink carts that maximize space, such as the Rania Serving Cart from Pier 1 Imports, which has three levels so there’s plenty of room to stash an ice bucket, drink dispenser, snacks, lawn games and more. So let the warmth of the season bring many memorable moments to your life and stylish elements into your outdoor spaces. For more great decorating ideas, visit www.pier1.com.
May-June 2014 | Page 9
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Devils Lake & Wishek, North Dakota • Story, Wyoming
Love of Junk, Walla Walla's Vintage Market by Barbara Floyd The Swenson Farm just on the outskirts of Walla Walla, complete with a big red barn, was the site of a busy Vintage Market in June of 2013. For two full days excited attendees came from all over Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Canada. Vendors were mainly from Washington, Oregon and one even came from Arizona. Family help came from as far away as Georgia and included my daughter Barbie Skalleberg and two granddaughters, Hannah (17) and Olivia (6). Hannah designed the events poster last year and is in the process of designing this years. She also had a booth with make and take visual journaling projects and she elected to have her senior portraits taken at Love of Junk towards the close of the second day. Shannon from Foto Novella (www.fotonovella.net) from Hermiston, OR was there to work her magic. So, when the rest of the crew was completely done for the day, Hannah and her cousin Lexi Swenson (16) were setting up a vintage tent in a scenic spot close to the farm and the photo shot continued. This year excitement is running even higher for this Vintage Market in one of Washington's destination cities. It is a busy time of the year in Walla Walla with all the college graduations and the wineries plus other events. Lodging best be reserved in advance and it is a great time to try a bed and
Like The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains on Facebook!
breakfast or one of the many vacation rentals that are so popular in the quaint historic city. News has spread about last years show so all of the indoor vendor spaces were filled by the middle of January, and there were more outdoor vendors, more vintage boutique trailer vendors, more campers and more food booths than last year as of March 15 with more inquires weekly. That is a lot of "mores" and we suspect a lot more attendees. There is a $5 entry fee and children 12 and under are free. Don't worry, you won't feel claustrophobic...it is a farm...with lots of level green grass and adequate parking. The Blue Mountains make a great backdrop to the setting and picnic tables with benches under large shade trees will give you a spot to enjoy the various food choices. The dates for this years show are Friday, June 13 and Saturday, June 14. Hours Friday will be 9-5 and Saturday 9-3. The barn will house on-going demos of Annie Sloan Chalk paint and the large metal building next to it will have a large array of vintage vendors. The outdoor vendors are close by. Come and spend a day or two with us on the farm. For more information go to Facebook and like and share posts from Love of Junk, Walla Walla's Vintage Market. Our web site is www.loveofjunk. com and contact is Barbara Floyd, barbara@countryregister.com.
Page 10 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Huron & Central SD, South Dakota
100 Mile Route Promises Unique Finds in June From antiques to dolls, assorted treasures to be found
Mark your calendars! Scavenger’s Journey is coming back to Central South Dakota for its third year. The 2014 Journey will be held June 20-22. Participating communities on the nearly 100 mile route along old US Hwy 16 include Plankinton, White Lake, Kimball, Pukwana, Chamberlain, Oacoma, Reliance and Presho. The towns will showcase their unique business districts, host city-wide garage sales, organized flea markets, food fairs, and farmer’s markets. Scavenger’s Journey is the perfect opportunity for people from all over the country to explore beautiful central South Dakota and spend a long
weekend shopping for unique finds old and new as well as sightseeing and sampling what the communities have to offer. In 2013 an estimated 2500 shoppers traveled the Scavenger’s Journey route in search of great deals in new and used, cherished and abused – everything from antiques and items that bring back childhood memories to historical items, garden supplies, books, coins, car parts, jewelry, furniture, architectural salvage, primitives, dolls, guns, clothing, cream cans, tractors, toys, and the list goes on and on! Many shoppers don’t know what they are looking for until they see “IT”.
A guidebook containing maps of the participating communities showing where the garage sales, flea markets and participating specialty shops and businesses are located will be available prior to the event. Mail order for the guidebooks will be available by calling Old West Trading Post at 605-734-0770. Shoppers planning ahead can also find a list of sponsoring lodging establishments and campgrounds on the website www.scavengersjourney. com. The website and the Scavenger’s Journey Facebook page contain lots of information about the event as well as pictures from previous years and updates about what will be happening in 2014. Parties interested in selling during the Scavenger’s Journey either by having a garage sale, or by setting up at an organized flea market should not delay. The deadline to appear in the guidebook is May 17. Registration forms and contact information for each community can be found on the website or by calling Greg and Melanie at 605234-4167 or Stephanie at 605-380-9486.
May-June 2014 | Page 11
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Chamberlain & Watertown, South Dakota
Finishing Another Woman’s Quilt Before her mind dissolved into dementia, Imogene had been hand-piecing the blocks for a Stars and Flowers quilt. I found the blocks in a drawer after her death. Finishing another woman’s quilt left unfinished after her death is a traditional task that many have undertaken, but pastels are not for me. I chose a midnight blue cotton. “She must have been watching over your shoulder,” said my sister when she saw the finished quilt. –Writing Her Own Life, Mary Clearman Blew
Finishing another woman’s quilt can be rewarding, but it can be troublesome. The act forces us to ponder the life and death of the woman who started it. This can be emotional, each stitch brings healing – or sometimes more questions. I am working on my first quilt of this type, but my blocks are a mystery. My grandma gave me the blocks at Thanksgiving. She bought them at an auction, but for many years she was unsure how to use the elongated hexagon shape. We presume that the woman who started them is deceased. Mary Clearman Blew worked to finish her aunt’s Stars and Flowers quilt. She knew about her aunt’s life and the blocks. Yet, I’m working to finish a nameless quilt with uncommon blocks from an unknown woman. Oh, but I’ve learned something about the quilter. She probably lived in Missouri, that’s where my grandma picked up the blocks. She pieced these blocks by machine. On a few, her tension was set far too loose. She was frugal, piecing with scraps. She lived in the era of feed sack prints and handmade clothing, or else she wouldn’t have had so many tiny, varied pieces. I’ve learned about community while working on this quilt. Already, more than 20 women have helped me finish it. My grandmother’s curiosity about the woman’s blocks was passed onto me. Next, the women of my quilt guild joined the process. They knew exactly what needed to be done to the long hexagon shape. I simply needed to add triangles in each corner to make a rectangle. One member even sent me a photo of a suggested layout. At a quilt shop, a woman helped me select a vintage color to tie together the rainbow of scraps. When I finally stepped into my sewing room, I had the blocks, one yard of cheddar yellow fabric, and a picture of a final layout. But, I wasn’t working on this quilt alone. My heart was full of gratitude. Women and their quilts can form a strong community, which transcends time, place, and trials. I’ll never worry about what blocks I leave unfinished at my death; another quilter will pick up where I leave off. Sierra Shea calls herself a “Modern Day Laura Ingalls Wilder” because of her new lifestyle in South Dakota as a farmer’s wife, quilter and writer. Read more on Sierra’s blog at www.sierrashea.com.
The woman who started the quilt must have lived in the era of feed sack prints and handmade clothing, or else she wouldn’t have had so many tiny, varied pieces.
North Country Fiber Fair September 19th - 21st, 2014 Codington Co. Expo Building, Watertown, SD 40+ Vendors*40+ Classes*Demos*Fiber Sandwhich Spinning & Fiber Circle*Fashion Show*Goat Show Spinning Wheel Raffle*Free Admission & Parking
Find us on Facebook or visit www.northcountryfiberfair.org
ze Pri er n Win Ramona LeBeau, Sturgis, SD won a $25 gift certificate to her favorite shop – Quilt Tiques, Rapid City, SD. To enter the next drawing, fill out the form on page 14 or visit www.chickencreek.net.
Page 12 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Dell Rapids, Faulkton & Pierre, South Dakota
Fiber Arts Festival Takes Place in June
‘Art in the Barn’ in Sheep Capitol
The 4th Annual Art in the Barn Fleece and Fiber Arts Festival will be held on June 20-21, 2014 at the Newell Rodeo Grounds & Ram Show Building in Newell, SD, the Sheep Capitol of the World. The Festival will feature fleece, fiber and sheep competitions, sheepdog trails, kids events and classes, art and craft booths, fiber and equipment, soaps, candles and gifts of all kinds. The festival began in 2011 as a small festival in conjunction with the Newell Ram Show and Sale as a way to connect producers and artists. In its fourth year, the festival has grown exponentially, complete with vendors, classes and competitions. The event is free to everyone. For more information about the festival or to become a vendor, contact Barb Uhrig at 605-456-2802 or PO Box 444, Newell, SD 57760. More information can be found at www.newellramsale.com/Art_in_the_Barn.html.
May-June 2014 | Page 13
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Custer, Hot Springs, Rapid City & Wall, South Dakota
Black Hills Quilt Show Coming in June Quilts of every size and description will delight visitors in the 40th Annual Black Hills Quilt Show and Sale, set for June 13, 14 and 15 in Rapid City, SD. The Black Hills Quilters Guild presents the show every June to showcase creations by its members and other quilters around the region. The show, one of the largest in the Dakotas with over 400 quilts, is a colorful feast for the eyes. Viewing each quilt on its own reveals the care, creativity and workmanship quilters put into their fabric art. It can be appreciated not only by quilters, but also by anyone who enjoys looking at beautiful things. Quilted work can be entered in both judged and non-judged categories. Art quilts, pillows, garments and other items stitched with three layers are eligible. The fee for a judged entry is $10 for BHQG members and $15 for non-members. The registration deadline is Tuesday, May 13, 2014. Registration forms are available on our website at www.bhquilters.org. King-size bed covers, intricate miniatures and everything in between will be on display at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, 444 Mt. Rushmore Road N. Along with the competition quilts, visitors will see a variety of special quilt displays. To celebrate the 40th anniversary the show will feature 28 of the 40 Best of Show quilts from past shows. “At the End of Life: Hospice Patients Teach us How to Live” is a special display of quilts
from a hospice nurse. Other displays include Friendship Quilts, Caring Heart Quilts, Thinking of You blocks, and special guild fabric challenges. Shopping and demonstrations will be part of the show. New vendors, in addition to old favorites, will offer fabrics, embellishments, patterns, books and more. A Country Store will offer guild members’ hand-made creations for sale. Project Warmth, the charity outreach division of the quilters’ guild, will sell baby quilts and larger quilts, as well as smaller items, to raise money for its work. In the past year, guild members have made more than 300 quilts for hospitalized children, the Black Hills Children’s Home, the battered women’s shelter, families who have lost their homes to fire, and more. “Black Hills Jewels,” the hand appliquéd, machine quilted raffle quilt, will be awarded on Sunday. There will also be a raffle basket featuring a wide assortment of fabrics, notions, and many other extras. Certified AQS appraiser, Jan Sears, will be available Thursday and Friday for written and verbal appraisals on old and new quilts. There is a fee for the appraisal. Drop-ins are welcome, or you can make a reservation by calling Gywnn at (605) 431-2519. Each year at the show a silent auction raises thousands of dollars for Hospice House of the Black Hills. The bidding sheets for the handmade
The 2014 raffle quilt, “Black Hills Jewels,” will be awarded on Sunday, June 15. little quilts and quilted objects, from true miniatures to table runners and some unique items, are put out on Friday with the bidding ending on Sunday. Quilt show hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $5 per day. Parking at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center is free. For more information on the quilt show, please go to www.bhquilters. org, Quilt Show page.
Page 14 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Upcoming Area Events Montana
Big Sky Shop Hop
Wyoming
WY State Shop Hop
Rapid City, SD Central SD Watertown, SD Huron, SD
April 25-May10 June 1-Aug 31
Black Hills Quilt Show
June 13-15
Scavenger’s Journey
June 20-22
North Country Fiber Fair
Sept 19-21
Fall Quilt Retreat
Sept 26-28
Advertiser Directory by Community
Bozeman, Great Falls & Townsend, Montana................................................... 2 Ennis & Sidney, Montana..................................................................................... 4 Missoula, Montana & Wyoming......................................................................... 5 Cheyenne & Sheridan, Wyoming........................................................................ 8 Devil’s Lake & Wishek, North Dakota • Story, Wyoming................................ 9 Huron & Central SD, South Dakota ...............................................................10 Chamberlain & Watertown, South Dakota......................................................11 Dell Rapids, Faulkton & Pierre, South Dakota ...............................................12 Custer, Hot Springs, Rapid City & Wall, South Dakota.................................13 Edgemont, Hot Springs & Rapid City, South Dakota.................................................15 Hill City, Spearfish & Belle Fourche, 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
May-June 2014 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............................................................... 12 Black Hills Quilt Show, Rapid City, SD............................................................ 15 Black Hills Visitor Center, Rapid City, SD....................................................... 13 Creative Closet, Townsend, MT.......................................................................... 2 Dakota Quilt Company, Spearfish, SD............................................................. 16 Fall River Fibers, Hot Springs, SD..................................................................... 15 Flip-Side Fabrics, Sidney, MT.............................................................................. 4 Heartsong Quilts, Hot Springs ,SD................................................................... 13 Hill City Mercantile, Hill City, SD..................................................................... 16 Knothole, Spearfish, SD...................................................................................... 16 North Country Fiber Fair, Watertown, SD...................................................... 11 Nuts & Bolts Fabric Shop, Edgemont, SD........................................................ 15 Oak by Amish, Chamberlain, SD...................................................................... 11 Pinewood Cottage, Story, WY............................................................................. 9 Quilt Connection, Rapid City, SD..................................................................... 15 Quilt Essential, Devils Lake, ND......................................................................... 9 Quilt-Tiques, Rapid City, SD............................................................................. 15 Quilter’s Corner, Faulkton, SD.......................................................................... 12 Quilting in the Country, Bozeman, MT............................................................. 2 Rubber Stamp Events, MN................................................................................. 10 Rumple Quiltskin, Wishek, ND........................................................................... 9 Scavenger’s Journey, SD...................................................................................... 10 South Dakota Quilter’s Guild, SD..................................................................... 10 Stitches That Bind, Ennis, MT............................................................................. 4 The Fiber House, Sheridan, WY.......................................................................... 8 The Quilt Yard, Pierre, SD.................................................................................. 12 The Quilt-A-Way, Great Falls, MT...................................................................... 2 The Quilted Corner, Cheyenne, WY................................................................... 8 The Quilter’s Fix, Sheridan, WY.......................................................................... 8 The Quilter’s Nook, Custer, SD.......................................................................... 13 Things That Rock, Hill City, SD......................................................................... 16 Tri-State Bakery, Belle Fourche, SD.................................................................. 16 Vicki’s Quilts Down Under, Missoula, MT........................................................ 5 Wall Drug, Wall, SD............................................................................................ 13 Wyoming State Shop Hop, WY........................................................................... 5
View the paper online at www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP
Edgemont, Hot Springs & Rapid City, South Dakota
May-June 2014 | Page 15
Page 16 | May-June 2014
Find us on Facebook | facebook.com/CountryRegisterNorthRockies
Hill City, Spearfish & Belle Fourche, South Dakota
www.CountryRegister.com/NRGP 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