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January – February 2016 | Page 1
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Understanding true magic in theatre In December, the children’s book, “Shakespeare and the Crown Jewel: A Story of The Matthews Opera House,” went on sale. The 32-page, full-color book was written by Dr. Joanna Jones and illustrated by Laurie WilliamsHayes, both of Spearfish, SD.
The collaboration took over a year and a half to complete. It all started after a Bellman Brown Bag presentation by Jones and Nancy Cartwright talking about, “Henry’s Adventure at the Franklin Hotel,” a children’s book created about the historic building in Deadwood. This gave The Matthews’ executive director, Sian Young, an idea. She thought it be wonderful to have a similar book for the opera house. As reported by the Black Hills Pioneer, “It’s so obvious to have a children’s book about the opera house. We have children that are engaged down here all the time. Families are intimately involved and have been for generations,” Young said. “It’s a magical place, as it captures their imagination.” Young took her idea to Jones, who already had several children’s book projects under her belt. Jones then asked Laurie Williams-Hayes, to be the illustrator for this new project. Laurie is an artist and teacher who has been involved with children’s, high school, and community theater in Spearfish.
Once teamed up, they started the task of researching the stage’s history. While in its draft stage, the book’s title was “The Crown Jewel.” The final title, “Shakespeare and the Crown Jewel: A Story of The Matthews Opera House,” is told from the perspective of three children who are trying out for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the opera house. One of the children, a girl who understands the true magic of theater, can see and speak to Shakespeare, an important part of The Matthews’ theater. He is painted on the ceiling of the theater. Also, in 2016, the world will be celebrating the 400th anniversary of his death. Coincidentally, 2016 is also the 110th anniversary of the opera house.
In the story, readers will not only learn its history but everything else that goes into putting on a play. Some of the lessons learned are blocking, theatrical terms, putting together costumes, and stage makeup. The book was printed by Seaton Publishing Co., Inc. of Spearfish. The retail cost of the book is $20. It is available for sale in The Matthews’ Art Gallery and online at www.matthewsopera.com.
Quilting traditions: weddings, new babies and family trees For many people, family quilting traditions have been passed down from generation to generation. Creating a quilt for a to-be married couple or an expectant mother has been in practice since the 17th century or earlier. While some may view quilts as a more “traditional” present for a bride and groom or mother-to-be, others pass the quilts down as family heirlooms through generations of family members. The keepsakes are ideal for both wall decorating or using as bed spreads and decorative pieces in bedrooms or living rooms.
Most popular family quilting traditions? For most people, creating a quilt for a newly married couple, a mother and new baby or a family tree quilt are meant to be passed down from generation to generation. Some of these quilts are finished completely or others leave squares empty to be added on by the person who receives it as a gift.
Most distinguishing features of a wedding quilt? Primarily, the most common feature on a wedding quilt is the double ring pattern. The design was first seen in Capper’s Weekly in 1928. The pattern is said to come from several places including a story of a delayed wedding during the Civil War period. It is said by some sources that this design became increasingly popular during The Great Depression as it could be made from 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 March/April 2016 issue are due February 7, 2016.
scraps and still look like it was made from expensive fabric. The double ring pattern symbolizes the bond of marriage and love, when two unite.
When is it appropriate to give a baby quilt as a gift? Typically, baby quilts are given as presents at a baby shower. When given early, the mother and father can plan a baby’s crib dressings around the quilt or use it as an accent piece in the nursery. Most baby quilts are made from pastel colors or feature animals, blocks or patterns sewn into the squares for added detail.
How does one make a family tree quilt? A family tree quilt not only makes a unique wall covering but also a great heirloom to pass down to children or grandchildren. In addition to sewing on family member’s names, you can add birth dates or important events like weddings or anniversaries to make the quilts even more special and unique to your family. If you want to add more detail to your family tree quilt, you can even add photos! Even if your family hasn’t been passing down quilts for years, it’s never too late to start a new family quilting traditions. Choose beginners books, patterns or how-to guides to get started and begin with making single squares at a time with simple patterns before moving on to larger pieces. Visit online resources for links to free, printable patterns and other ideas for creating quilts that will be cherished for generations! Jillynn Stevens, Ph.D., MSW is a writer and the Digital Marketing Content Director at Be Locally SEO where she is passionate about helping small and medium sized businesses expand their online presence and realize unprecedented success.
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January – February 2016 | Page 3
Editor’s Notes
Ringing in gratitude in 2016
The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains including North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, & Northern Idaho Dee Sleep, Publisher Erika Young, Editor Produced by Chicken Creek Communications 132 W. Hudson St. • Spearfish, SD 57783 605-722-7028 Office 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.
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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 Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, IowaCountryRegister@mchsi.com * Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, kansas@countryregister.com * Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com Maine: 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 Brown, 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): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950* Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803 New Hampshire: 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 Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com * Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950 * Pennsylvania: 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 Brown, 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 * Ontario: Harriet Ramos, Box 60, 4338 Innes Rd., Orleans, ON K4A 3W3, 343-882-5812
As I welcome the New Year, I find myself reflecting on the many events that I am thankful for instead of coming up with meaningless resolutions that I will eventually forget about or give up on. I have so many blessings in my life that it can sometimes become easy to take them for granted. But when we celebrate the new year it is a great opportunity to look back on all the good fortune we have experienced in the past year and be thankful for the lessons learned through the less than great events that have occurred. This year I am grateful for my mother in-laws cancer remaining in remission, for my brother excelling in school, my mothers new found passion in pottery, my husbands dedication to his dissertation and the Erika Young overall good health my children have experienced Editor of this year. All though there have been events that The Country Register I would wish away in a heartbeat if I could, I like of ND, SD, WY, to think that they happened for a reason, if not to MT & N. ID make us stronger, but to bring us closer together and help us appreciate the good times more. I am ready for what 2016 has in store. I look forward to another year here at The Country Register. I can’t wait to meet future advertisers, hear from readers and explore new content! I am beyond fortunate to be working with everyone on this great publication, and I hope that each and every one of you experience only the best in 2016.
The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains January – February 2016 • Volume 6 Issue 1 The Country Register of the Northern Rockies & Great Plains is published every two months. Copyright 2016. 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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Sidney, Montana
Antique mystery novel series rolls out 10th book Ornaments of Death is the tenth book in Jane K. Cleland’s critically acclaimed Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery series [St. Martin’s Minotaur]. Prescott, an antiques appraiser-turned-amateur sleuth, once blew the whistle on a price-fixing scandal that rocked the highend antiques auction houses in New York City. She then relocated to New Hampshire to start a new life, founding her own business in the coastal town of Rocky Point. In Ornaments of Death, the story opens when Josie receives an early Christmas present – she is contacted by Englishman Ian Bennington who says he is a long-lost cousin. Ian sold his business for a huge amount and, after taking up genealogy, found that he and Josie were distantly related through Arabella Churchill, mistress of King James II. He tells her he owns exquisite miniature watercolor portraits of these notable ancestors, which he has given to his daughter Becca, a marine biologist specializing in clams, who is working in Boston. Ornaments of Death is the tenth book in Jane K. Cleland’s critically acclaimed Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery series.
Ian is warmly welcomed at Josie’s annual holiday party so when he later misses a date with one of her friends, then is a no-show for a lunch with Josie herself, she reports him missing. However, there is
nothing the police can do. Once Ian’s body is found – he has been killed in a hit-and-run – Josie works with her friend Ellis, the Rocky Point police chief, to find out what happened. Shock follows shock as Josie and the police make stunning discoveries. Using her knowledge of antiques – and people – she is able to solve the crime. In addition, in doing so, she discovers the true meaning of family – and of Christmas. Often reviewed as an Antiques Roadshow for mystery fans, Jane Cleland’s series marries antiques lore seamlessly with fair-play mystery puzzles. This book, like all of the books in the series, stands alone, but for series readers, it’s fun to see the evolution of the familiar stable of characters. It is especially interesting to see how the romance with Josie’s boyfriend, Ty, is developing and how she counts on her good friend Hank, the cat, for wisdom and guidance. Ornaments of Death can be purchased from your local bookstore or online. For more information, including book club discussion questions and a free, fun antiques appraisal challenge, “What’s It Worth? You Be the Judge!”, visit www.janecleland.com.
Most popular wine, worldwide: Ginger wine recipe Ginger wine is one of the most popular wines in the world. It is a fortified wine made from a fermented blend of ground ginger root and raisins. It is often fortified by being blended with brandy, which can be enjoyed over ice (“on the rocks”), or without (either “neat” or “straight up”). Ginger wine is traditionally sold in green glass bottles. Buying this wine from store may cost you too much. Therefore, you may make it on your own to make saving on wine. This will also allow you to add some personal flavor to your wine. Ginger wine has a sweet, but spicy ginger taste. Follow the step by step instructions below to make your own ginger wine.
Ingredients
2. Add 1/4 teaspoon of fresh granular baker’s yeast through the funnel to the bottle. You can purchase it from any health food store. 3. Shake the bottle well to blend the yeast grains with the sugar granules. 4. Shred the ginger root on a “cutting” grater and turn out 1 1/2 Tablespoon of grated root.
5. Put the grated ginger in the cup measure. 6. Squeeze a lemon and collect its juice. Lemon is vital to reduce the PH level and prevent unwanted microorganisms. If you don’t prefer lemon, you may use grapefruit juice.
– 1 cup sugar
7. Pour the lemon juice into the grated ginger.
– 1 1/2-2 tablespoons of peeled ginger root. Collect only fresh ginger root.
8. Shake and blend the lemon juice and grated ginger to produce slurry.
– juice of one lemon
9. Pour the slurry of grated ginger and lemon juice into the bottle.
– fresh granular baker’s yeast (1/4 teaspoon)
10. Wash the containers that you used to make the slurry of lemon juice and grated ginger with clean water. Do not abandon or discard the water.
– cold pure water
Steps 1. Pour 1 cup of sugar into the bottle using the dry funnel. Don’t take away the funnel until all the processes are complete and you cap the bottle.
11. Then pour the rinsing water into the bottle. 12. Now Cap and wobble the bottle. 13. Reopen and add fresh and clean water up to the neck of the bottle, leaving about an inch of space above, then seal the face of the bottle with cap. Overturn the bottle frequently to carefully dissolve sugar. Also test the bottom of the bottle as the sugar usually stick there. 14. Store the ginger wine in a warm place for 1 or 2 days. 15. Check if carbonation is finished by pressing the bottle vigorously with your thumb. If it dents in, it is not complete. 16. Once you feel hard to squeeze the bottle, store it in the refrigerator for a day or two. Remove the lid of the ginger wine bottle just a little to release the pressure gradually. Matthew Hudson is a famous wine merchant in Europe and he runs Fruitwineshop.com, an online wine shop, mead and fruit wine are the special product of it.
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January – February 2016 | Page 5
Quilting plays role in early American life The practice of quilting was carried over from Europe by the early settlers. In the harsh winter months, warm quilts could mean the difference between life and death. Warmth was essential for preserving health, and limited fuel resources spurred women to constantly craft additional quilts for their families. Spinning fabric from scratch is a time-consuming task. To increase efficiency, women would salvage scraps of fine material imported from England. It was expensive to import new, highquality textiles, so women kept all pieces of cloth from torn or worn-out clothes and sewed the blocks together to create what is known as the patchwork quilt.
Quilting Bees During the 1700s and 1800s, quilting evolved from a singular goal-oriented pursuit to a communitywide social opportunity for women in settlements. All participants would gather at one home in the community and bring their quilting materials along. A frame would be set up in the communal room so a quilt could be stretched out and multiple quilters could worked on it at once. Girls as young as 5 would learn quilting techniques and patterns from the matriarch in their family or through attending a local quilting bee. Most women were expected to complete at least 12 quilts by the time they reached marrying age, starting their own family with a sufficient linen supply. Through communication with a group and exposure to new patterns and colors, women created quilts not for use in everyday life, but as a means of artistic expression and an indication of personal skill.
African-American Quilting Even though African tradition dictated men were creators of most textiles and garments, slaves in the United States were forced to conform to traditions of European origin, with women as quilters. African-American slave women were
not only responsible for creating quilts for the plantation master’s family, but also their own. Some women sold their handiwork, earning extra money. African-American quilters incorporated large shapes and bright colors, reminiscent of Africa’s weave patterns. Folklore from the 1800s indicates that their creations may have been used to send information and messages concerning the Underground Railroad and routes to freedom, though historians disagree on the existence of a “quilting code.”
Quilts and World War During World Wars I and II, quilts were crafted in abundance to be sent with traveling soldiers. They were also created in an effort to raise money for the war effort. People could pay a sum to have their name inscribed on a quilt, with the funds and the finished product transported to soldiers overseas.
Amish Quilting In the late 1800s, Amish communities began replacing their plain bedcoverings with handcrafted quilts, originally considered an extravagance in their community. Amish quilts are known even today for their high-quality, fine stitching, with an experienced Amish quilter able to fit eight to ten stitches in one inch. The earliest Amish quilts were a reflection of their simplicity – plain colors and basic shapes made up the coverlet. Over time, creative patterns and a wider color palette have developed. Since quilting was a major part of early American life and maintains continued practice among craftsmen and women of today, the history of quilting is layered and intricate, but not yet complete. Jen Stott is a writer and blogger, and works as Director of Digital Content Marketing at Be Locally SEO in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Personal downsizing requires lifestyle changes For the New Year I’m motivated by my friend’s great Before and After photo. In September, my 6-foot, 304-pound friend Mark who had high blood pressure was also diagnosed with diabetes. The prospect of a lifetime of drawing blood, managing his sugar levels, taking medication, and logging food journals, was daunting. And that wasn’t even correcting the problem. With that prognosis, he admitted, “I needed to make a serious change.” When Mark asked for two months to try to reverse the diagnosis, the doctor was optimistic. Mark read Fuhrman’s book on reversing diabetes, changed his eating patterns, and moved all the things he couldn’t eat to the garage pantry and fridge. “It really comes down to a radical departure from normal American eating.” This departure was not merely a temporary resolution. “I look at this as a lifestyle change, not a diet.” Mark also turned a little-used basement office into a workout center by investing in exercise equipment and a television. Now after work, instead of relaxing on the couch while eating an extra late-night dinner, he spends 60100 minutes watching television while exercising on his elliptical. By October, he described dramatic results. “I lost 25 pounds in as many days and was exercising once or twice a day.” By November, at Mark’s two-month appointment, he had dropped 39 pounds. Not only that, his fasting blood sugar levels were not even prediabetic, and his blood pressure and all cholesterol numbers were normal. “The nurse said she had never seen anyone’s numbers drop that fast.” But the perks of Mark’s personal downsizing extended beyond weight loss. “With healthier eating and weight loss, I have more energy to tackle projects that I had put off.” Forty less pounds meant greater mobility and easier breathing. “We are now going through the entire house and downsizing wherever we can. It feels really good.” Mark’s personal downsizing resulted in an upward swing in attitude.
“Life had felt like a depressing downward spiral.” The heavier Mark got, the more tired and unmotivated he became. The less he did, the more he ate to try to feel better. “I didn’t take on many home improvement projects because If it can wait 10 years, maybe that is all the longer I will be around. So why bother?” But thankfully, that was reversed. As soon as he gets home he tries to keep moving. Instead of sitting around and thinking about not eating, he gets busy on home improvements, claiming he’s shopped at Home Depot more in the last three months than the previous three years. “The more I lose weight, the more energy I have to tackle things; the more motivated I am from success. Seeing things get done makes me want to continue to eat healthier and lose more weight.” Mark’s negative diagnosis became a positive life changing turning point. His testimony was so inspiring that I reconsidered the results of my last bone density scan and the need to start weight-bearing exercise to keep my bones strong. I, too, have some little-used basement space currently housing an unused Ping-Pong table. With downsizing, reorganization, and the purchase of an elliptical, the basement became an inexpensive but effective workout center for the New Year. We all have some health and lifestyle choices to make. Who is your inspiration? What positive changes can you make? How will you begin? I want to start the New Year making wise choices that will benefit my future and those I love. Used by permission. No reprint without author’s permission. Look for Ann Stewart’s upcoming novel Stars in the Grass, published: November 2016
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Missoula, Montana
Allow past to settle into future Winter offers powerful lessons that it is a good time to finish up old tasks. Of course, I’ve also received the last phrase of that sentence in a fortune cookie. Whatever the inspiration, I’ll make it my own: It is a good time to finish up old tasks and to allow the past to settle into the future. I have a tangible task; it sits before me in a box, waiting patiently as it has for the last nine years. There is nothing onerous, dreary or disturbing in my box. There is no lurking regret, sweat-breaking doubt or even intense grief. There is a beautiful memory, one so heartbreakingly warm that I rarely rewind the moment. That way, it remains vibrant and alive. Now I wish to share it with you. It is mid-August, 2006. Three generations of women sit together in a resident’s room at an assisted living community. The resident, the oldest at four months shy of 100 years of age, crochets, as do her daughter and granddaughter. It is as it has ever been for as long as the daughter and granddaughter can remember. Except for the grandmother’s hands. Their efficient rhythm has lost its steady stamina. There are gentle bursts of energy and then periods of complete rest. The process repeats itself until the yarn sits still and quiet in her lap. All of them know that the desire to try remains, but as the saying goes, the flesh is weak and tired. A rare sadness and passivity creeps into the grandmother’s eyes. The granddaughter finds a pretty basket in the closet. They ask the grandmother if she would like to put the yarn there so she can pick it up when she feels more rested. The grandmother nods with a relieved acceptance, releases the skeins and the partially finished granny square into the basket. 91 years of crocheting
comes to an end. Three weeks later, the grandmother passes peacefully away at the hospital, dying of aplastic anemia, wherein her bone marrow ceased to produce blood cells and platelets. The blanket and yarn was packed up and the granddaughter placed it in her closet with the thought that she and her mother should finish it one day. She waited to finish it because what she felt from the blanket was the weakening of strength and durability. She knew, naturally, that one day her grandmother would no longer be living, but somehow it seemed like her hands would forever be steadily moving. After a time, whenever the granddaughter saw the box, she still thought of finishing it one day. But this time, somehow, she even forgot what was in the box. Which meant it was more than time to complete the blanket. So on this winter’s day, I open the box. I remove the yarn, whereupon the square appears lost. I reach out to embrace and reassure it and I find that instead it comforts me. During its long hibernation, the atrophy I feared to feel has somehow again grown into a new, deeper strength. Or, perhaps, time has the same effect on a blanket as it does on the human heart. I pick up a crochet hook and I decide to crochet one row to outline my grandmother’s work. And it is then that I know that her work never stopped at all. She is within every efficient and steady motion of my mother’s and my hands. Past settles into the future. It is a good time to finish up old tasks. Kerri Habben is a writer, photographe, and crochet instructor living in Raleigh, NC. An avid crocheter and knitter, she learned these skills from her grandmother and mother. She donates many of her yarn creations to those in need. Kerri has gathered a decade of essays she is working to publish. She can be reached at elhserenade@earthlink.net.
Winter months: peaceful contemplation, quiet moments The winter months often seem unusually long in New England. But this spectacular season can bring us the truest of blessings. Winter months often provide us with time for peaceful contemplation and quiet moments to create a warm home setting that will shelter us from the unpredictable bitter blasts that characterize a classic New England winter.
Harmony at Home Creating an environment that conveys warmth and solace is rewarding and worthwhile. After the holiday decorations are safely stored away, the backdrop for your decorating is like a clean canvas awaiting a perfectly painted scene..To achieve harmony in your room settings, begin with the larger pieces that you absolutely love. Consider positioning your seating arrangements in a new way for the winter to create cozy spaces to
gather nearer to the fire to share stories of your winter adventures..Give some of your larger pieces a new purpose.. Cupboards can be utilized to create two separate spaces to make your space look entirely different and blanket chests can be used to create distinct areas as well.
The Comfort of Color After all of your larger pieces are in place, consider some of the colorful elements you have that can add warmth and texture to a room. After a long day out in the cold, it is so inviting to come home to the beauty of color.. Early woven textiles and carefully arranged oriental rugs lend elements of texture and color that are comforting and warm. Carefully placed decorative smalls are another way to introduce new color into a room. Antiques in early paint can be artfully displayed to create a look that is fresh and inviting. New arrangements of your favorite pieces combined with bright and vivid additions can be soulfully appealing, especially in the winter when our landscape has an absence of color.
Enhancing your Environment Taking time to enliven your home environment does give your spirit a true lift. This winter venture out to some of your favorite shops and think about how you can incorporate some new pieces into your winter displays. Be on the lookout for pieces that can be used in different ways. Think about adding vibrant hues to your displays to make them more appealing to the eye. By taking time to arrange your home so that it is an inviting and warm place to be, you will be providing yourself with a perfect balance to the icy blasts of the coldest season of the year. Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com Robin Rock is the owner of Milltown Primitives. www.milltownprimitvesshop.com
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Devils Lake, North Dakota
What stories will be told?
When my husband Tray gets home from a “picking” trip, my first question is usually, “What’s your favorite find?” Earlier this year, it was Vintage Indigo Batiks from Africa. He couldn’t stop gushing about them. And they are beautiful. I’m a pragmatic person so I love items that have multiple purposes and indigo batiks are so inspirational. Of course, they make great shawls and wraps and are fantastic for throws. Some people like the lighter-weighted textiles for clothing and we like the heavier batiks for the throws. They bring tablescapes to life and make gorgeous tablecloths for all kinds of dishes, especially white ironstone and yellow or red Fiestaware. Many people are using batiks for pillows, bolsters and upholstery work—and it’s no wonder because the handwork on vintage indigo batiks is inspiring. Each batik, like a quilt, tells a story that is handed down from father to son, mother to daughter. Sections of cloth are composed of individual motifs such as fish bones, little stars or hunters and each piece has its own unique tale to tell. There are some themes, like wealth and luxury, calabash flowers (a sign of prosperity), brave and fearless, yet meanings differ depending on the individual, ethnic group or region. African Batik was originally imported in the 19th century by Dutch merchants from Indonesia where paste made from starch or mud is used as a resist instead of wax and the dye is made through a process of grinding indigo plant leaves. African batiks feature larger motifs with thicker lines and more colors than Javanese batik. The complexity of the weave, the color and the type of thread used determines the value of the fabric. I love looking at the batiks and wondering about the families who made them and what the symbols meant to them. I like to compare the weaves and feel the different textures between my fingers. It’s interesting to look at the blues next to each other and wonder how many times each piece was dipped to get it to its perfect shade of indigo. I love that each piece is unique. I love watching customers feel the fabrics between their fingers, throw a batik over their shoulders, wrapping themselves in history. And when someone brings a gorgeous indigo batik up to the register, I wonder what stories will be told about this great, one-of-a-kind find and what memories will become enmeshed with the stories already woven into the fabric. Simone Gers began her antiquing journey 35 years ago when she married Tray, an avid collector. They still have the first piece they bought together—a pegged farm table that was so decrepit it was behind the antique store—and they have been upcycling vintage finds ever since. The Gers own Gather A Vintage Market in Tucson, AZ, a monthly market. Simone has taught writing and literature at the college level for many years.
January – February 2016 | Page 7
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Sheridan, Wyoming
Homemade ranch seasoning Ingredients:
2/3 cup buttermilk powder 1/4 cup dried parsley 1 1/2 tbsp. dried minced onion 1 1/2 tbsp. garlic powder 1 1/2 tbsp. onion powder 3 tsp. dried dill 2 tsp. dried chives 2 tsp. ground black pepper 2 tsp. salt
Directions
Measure out all spices and ingredients into a canister that has a fitting lid. Once all ingredients are in, tighten lid and give it a good shake! Note: It’s a good idea to give it a good shake before each use, too. This needs to be stored in the refrigerator because of the buttermilk powder. It can be stored up to 3 months. 3 tbsp. of this mix = 1 packet of the store-bought seasoning mix.
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January – February 2016 | Page 9
Valentines Day cherry bread Ingredients ¾ C sugar ½ C milk ½ C oil 1 Egg 2 C Flour 2 tsp Baking Powder ¼ tsp Salt 2 Jars (10 oz) Maraschino Cherries
Glaze 2 C Powdered Sugar 2 tbs Melted Butter ¼ C Cherry Juice ½ tsp Almond Extract
Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, stir together the sugar, milk, oil and egg. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Drain the maraschino cherries, reserving the juice for the glaze. Coarsely chop the cherries in a food processor or with a knife. Gently fold the cherries into the batter. Pour the bread batter into a greased 9”x5” bread pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-55 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center of the bread should come out clean. Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes, then remove the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. To make the glaze, combine the powdered sugar, melted butter, cherry juice and almond extract in a small bowl. Mix until it is smooth. Once the bread is cool, spread the glaze on top of the bread. Slice and serve. This recipe is great for freezing! Make an extra loaf and save it for later!
Page 10 | January – February 2016
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Faulkton and Pierre, South Dakota
Not for Sale
“With a little help from my friends.” The Beatles suggest that is how we get by, and I must agree. Just this past year, I planned classroom parties, parade floats, and holiday celebrations. Looking back on those memories, I am relieved those late nights resulted in fun days for children, and I am filled with appreciation for my helpers. I was overwhelmed with assistance from my colleagues, friends, and fellow homeroom moms…and of course my own mother. My creative mom fills her days with hobbies that reflect her generous nature. Stamping cards to share with friends and family makes the hours fly by. When I make cards, I tend to create one design and mass produce it for everyone on my list. Not my mom. She takes the time and makes the effort to personally create each card for the receiving individual. Her attention to detail shows up in every craft she has ever completed, and that is quite a few. Mom has always been crafty. Another trait she and her friends have in common. Her ceramics phase consisted of glazing and firing throughout my childhood. Her friend Carol had her own kiln, and her two sons were like our own brothers. We played for hours while our moms cleaned and painted their latest creations. Once in a while, we were allowed to choose a project from the store too. We were always excited to join them at the table with scrapers and sponges. There is something very satisfying about sharing your interests with someone who returns your enthusiasm. Mom was met with that same enthusiasm when she stopped in a quilt store in Hannibal, Missouri on a road trip. While sightseeing, she spotted a snowman quilt hanging in the window and thought it would be a welcome addition to her snowman collection. When she inquired about purchasing it, the shop owner said it was not for sale, but they did sell all the supplies to make one. She decided right then and there, “I’m going to make a quilt!” and bought everything but the trim fabric. She has never made a quilt, but she was ready. She has embroidered and cross stitched before. She has sewn costumes, curtains, and crib bumpers. She has quilting in her blood and the quilts from her grandma to prove it. She found a project she would see through from beginning to end...literally. She held in her hands the patterns for each letter of the alphabet with correlated Christmas embroidery work. Visiting with the store owners, she received advice, helpful hints, and gathered supplies before heading home with her first quilt. While chatting with an avid quilting friend, Mom shared her plans for her new project. Something in her voice indicated that she could use some help. She said that every single quilt square is to be embroidered, and that if she could just get it started, she would probably finish one a month. Cynthia offered to embroider the individual pieces. Mom knew Cynthia would carefully stitch each square with perfection and promptly handed over her assignment. The next time they visited, the embroidery was finished, and Mom’s quilt was ready for the next step. Mom said she would make it to the fabric store soon to make her choice of material. Cynthia gave her a time and date as she continued to lead her toward completion of her first quilt. When Mom met Cynthia at the Denver store, she already had a pile of at least ten reds and greens for her to peruse. Mom gratefully acknowledged her selections but said she had her favorite color purple in mind. Cynthia said, “Oh, by all means!” They soon found the perfect border fabric, including another purple trim fabric and the backing. Cynthia suggested someone to finish the quilting and Mom agreed. Before she knew it, Mom’s first quilt was finished. She didn’t even have to thread one needle. And now Mom quilts…with a little help from her friends. ©2015 Maranda K. Jones. Author Maranda K. Jones shares her stories of faith and family through her personal experiences of growing, teaching, and parenting in a small town. She lives with her husband and their son and daughters in rural Colorado. She is an elementary school teacher as well as a prolific freelance writer. Maranda Jones’ new book Random Acts
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January – February 2016 | Page 11
Ennis and Townsend, Montana
Winter Word Scramble Unscramble the words. Key is below.
01.
asbnllow
03.
tsmnwrsoo heavy fall of snow, esp. with a high wind
02. 04. 05. 06. 07. 08. 09. 10. 11. 12.
lvoehs
naeosss ocaco
ball of packed snow
tool with a broad flat blade used for moving snow. the four divisions of the year (spring, summer, autumn, and winter)
powder made from roasted and ground cacao seed
moofrtcre warm quilt teerwsa
knitted garment, worn over the upper body
eselt
rain containing some ice
efeze
be turned into ice or another solid as a result of extreme cold.
otbso
sturdy item of footwear covering the foot, the ankle, and sometimes the leg below the knee
onwrbdaso board resembling a short, broad ski, used for sliding downhill on snow ctekja
outer garment extending either to the waist or the hips
13.
eulgnsg
15.
eienbahrt spend the winter in a dormant state
14. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.
efriclaep nruajya
settle or move into a warm, comfortable position
open recess for holding a fire at the base of a chimney winter month
agngobto
long narrow sled used for the sport of coasting downhill over snow or ice
voesgl
cover hands to protect from cold
arhwte fracs
an arrangement of flowers, leaves, or stems fastened in a ring length or square of fabric worn around the neck or head
1. snowball, 2. shovel, 3. snowstorm, 4. seasons, 5. cocoa, 6. comforter, 7. sweater, 8. sleet, 9. snowboard, 10. freeze, 11. jacket, 12. boots, 13. snuggle, 14. fireplace, 15. hibernate, 16. january, 17. toboggan, 18. wreath, 19. gloves, 20. scarf
Page 12 | January – February 2016
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Dell Rapids, South Dakota Wit ‘n Wisdom
Objects as lessons Check Out Our Website!
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The ocean fascinates me. Every year we rent a beach house on the shore in North Carolina. I love everything about it – the sand, the tides, the shells, the bird life, as well as the surprising things the ocean coughs up each night. One morning the beach was peppered in jelly fish. What a sight! Another day I watched a flock of pelicans huddled together patiently waiting for the fog to lift. Some days playful dolphins follow along as I walk the beach in search of multi-colored shells and treasured sand dollars. I once read that there are more living creatures under the sea than those living above it. With our ever-advancing technology, oceanographers recently discovered a giant squid that is 10 feet long, weighs over a ton and has eyes the size of dinner plates. There is an underworld of plains, plateaus and mountains ranges. I am awestruck by God’s creativity. As I sit in my beach chair admiring the rhythmic ebb and flow of the waves, I often meditate on God’s amazing creations. One of those is the Gulf Stream, a powerful, warm and swift current within the ocean that originates in Florida and follows the eastern coast line of the United States and Newfoundland before crossing the Atlantic Ocean towards Europe. It is 62 miles wide and its depth varies from 2600 to 3900 feet. It travels at a speed of approximately 5.6 mph. This river within an ocean dwarfs all rivers combined that empty into the Atlantic Ocean. What did God have in mind when he placed a river within an enormous ocean? As I contemplated that thought a scripture popped into my head. “I do not ask Thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” (John 17:15,16) Jesus often used object lessons to teach his disciples. Is this an object lesson for us? As God’s children, He expects us to live a moral life of integrity, not to be swallowed up and carried along by this corrupt world’s seductive pleasures. Just as the Gulf Steam remains autonomous, so must we.
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January – February 2016 | Page 13
Quilting with Barbara
One small act, far-reaching consequences We’re sixteen years into the new century. We have a new provincial premier and a new prime minister; our southern neighbors will have a new president in a few months. These changes in leadership will undoubtedly set our countries on new paths and we often feel insignificant in the grand scheme of things. Prime ministers and presidents come and go, but everyday life will continue much as it has in the past for most of us. The past year has not been a happy one. There is no need to recount the world-wide disasters and terrible events that have affected so many; we are all too aware. Some have gone so far as to suggest we’re entering a new dark age.
So I am proposing that each of us tries to lighten the gloom in some small way. This is not a new idea by any means, but what would happen if every quilter or handicrafter made some small effort to make a stranger’s life a little brighter (e.g. a lap quilt for someone who is wheelchair bound, a fidget quilt for an Alzheimer patient, a cheery pillowcase for a sick child, a crib quilt for a new mother who has little, a prayer shawl for an elderly person…) and presented it in person, not through an agency? There is always a vast outpouring of donations of gifts around Christmas to innumerable charities and the food banks which support so many people, and rightly so. These contributions are extremely important. But what about the rest of the year? Dare I suggest that we each make two personal donations throughout the year – or even monthly ones? Poverty and need are present all year. Now I do realize that a great number of quilters already far exceed
this imaginary quota year round. Our thanks and admiration go out to them. However, there are many more, myself included, who could do more. What better time to start than the new year? There is never a lack of recipients, and one small act can have far-reaching consequences. Over 30 years ago when I had ESL (English as a Second Language) students, one newly-arrived teen seemed lost and completely bewildered by her new surroundings, even though she did have family here. Her birthday is in July, when school is closed, so I sent her a card and a small gift. She was appreciative far beyond reason, I thought, but that small act resulted in a 35-year family friendship which I greatly value. (Incidentally, she became an R.N. and now has 2 sons who are university graduates – a success story indeed). Within the next year we will have more opportunities than ever as bewildered immigrants and refugees who have lost everything arrive on our shores with hardships in their recent pasts that we cannot even imagine. Some may never recover from their trauma, but perhaps we can help, even a little. Let’s work – individually and together – to make 2016 a brighter year for newcomers and those already in our midst. It has been said that it’s better to light a candle than curse the darkness, but perhaps an old song says it best. “Brighten the corner where you are!” Happy New Year! Barbara Conquest writes her column from Blue Sky Quilting in Tofield, AB. © Barbara Conquest.
Fashionable basic boot cuff crochet pattern Tools Needed
5.00mm Crochet Hook 50g 8ply {DK} Yarn Scissors Tapestry/Wool Needle –One size fits all
Make sure to evenly space your stitches all around. Slip Stitch into the top of chain 1. You should now have 44 single crochets.
✳ Top Ribbing ✳
Round 2 • Chain 2, then Half Double Crochet into the same stitch. *Chain 1, skip one stitch, then crochet a Half Double Crochet into the next stitch {Chain one space}.* Repeat from the * mark all around. Slip Stitch into the top of chain 2.
Row 1 • Taking your 5.00mm crochet hook, start of by making a Slip Knot, then crochet 9 Chains. Crochet 1 Single Crochet into the third chain from your hook. Then crochet 1 Single Crochet into every chain across. You should have 8 single crochets now.
Round 3 • Chain 3, skip one stitch, then Half Double Crochet into the following stitch. *Chain 1, skip one stitch, then crochet a Half Double Crochet into the next stitch.* Repeat from the * mark all around. Slip Stitch into the top of the second chain of chain 3.
Row 2 - 41 • Chain 1. Crochet 1 Single Crochet into every stitch all across, but only through the front loop. {Note: You can either add or take away a few extra rows depending on your upper calf size.} When you’ve completed all the rows, connect the two ends of the band together to create a circle and Slip Stitch them together. Fasten off, and weave in loose ends.
✳ Boot Cuff Body ✳ Round 1 • Rotating your work (ribbing), attach your yarn to the last stitch of Row 41. Chain 1. Crochet 1 Single Crochet into the ends of your ribbings rows, working all along the edge.
Round 4 • Chain 2, then Half Double Crochet into the next stitch {Chain one space}. *Chain 1, skip one stitch, then crochet a Half Double Crochet into the next stitch.* Repeat from the * mark all around. Slip Stitch into the top of chain 2. Round 5 • Repeat round 2. Round 6 • Repeat round 3. Round 7 • Repeat round 2. Round 8 • Repeat round 3. Round 9 - 11 • Chain 1. Crochet 1 Single Crochet into every stitch all around. Slip Stitch into the top of chain 1. Fasten off, and weave in loose ends. Repeat entire pattern once more to make a pair of scalloped boot cuffs.
Page 14 | January – February 2016
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Advertiser Directory by Name
$25 Gift Certificate Winner Ms. Barbara Langeslog– Stevensville, MT Won a $25 gift certificate to her favorite shop – Vivki’s Quilts Down Under, Missoula, MT To enter the next drawing, fill out the form on page 14 or visit www.chickencreek.net.
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
November – December 2015 Entry OR visit www.chickencreek.net, click on The Country Register to sign up online Name_________________________________________________________ Phone________________________________________________________
Always Your Design, Dell Rapids, SD............................................12 Betty’s Quiltery, Rapid City, SD...................................................16 Black Hills Visitor Center, Rapid City, SD......................................12 Creative Closet, Townsend, MT....................................................11 Dakota Quilt Company, Spearfish, SD...........................................16 Flip–Side Fabrics, Sidney, MT....................................................... 4 Heartsong Quilts, Hot Springs.....................................................15 Hill City Mercantile, Hill City, SD.................................................16 Knothole, Spearfish, SD..............................................................16 Nuts & Bolts Fabric Shop, Edgemont, SD.......................................15 Quilt Connection, Rapid City, SD.................................................16 Quilt Essential, Devils Lake, ND.................................................... 7 Quilters Corner, Faulkton, SD......................................................10 South Dakota Quilter’s Guild, SD.................................................15 Stitches that Bind, Ennis, MT......................................................11 The Fiber House, Sheridan, WY..................................................... 8 The Quilt Yard, Pierre, SD...........................................................10 The Bakery Fabrics, Belle Fourche, SD..........................................16 Vicki’s Quilts Down Under, Missoula, MT........................................ 6 Wall Drug, Wall, SD....................................................................15
Advertiser Directory by Community Sidney, Montana........................................................................ 4 Missoula, Montana..................................................................... 6 Devil’s Lake, North Dakota.......................................................... 7 Sheridan, Wyoming.................................................................... 8 Faulkton & Pierre, South Dakota.................................................10 Ennis & Townsend, Montana.......................................................11 Dell Rapids, South Dakota .........................................................12 Black Hills, South Dakota..........................................................15 Black Hills, South Dakota..................................................................16
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
Read Past Issues Online www.CountryRegister.com
n First Time Reader
What stores would like to see in The Country Register? (include town) ____________________________________________________________
Entries received by February 7, 2015, with all questions answered will qualify for the drawing. One gift certificate is given away each issue.
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January – February 2016 | Page 15
Black Hills, South Dakota
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Black Hills, South Dakota