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Pick Up a Copy For A Friend! Free! Take One! January/February 2016 Minnesota’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Fun Events Available across the U.S.A. & Canada
PPiicckk UUpp aa CCooppyy FFoorr AA FFrriieenndd!!
Free!Take One!
JJaannuuaarryy//FFeebbrruuaarryy 22001166
Minnesota’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Fun EventsAAvvaaiillaabbllee aaccrroossss tthhee UU..SS..AA.. && CCaannaaddaa
WWiinn aa $$2255 GGiifftt CCeerrttiiffiiccaattee!!!!Each issue we give away a $25 Gift CertiIcate to be usedat YOUR FAVORITE shop! To register Ill out the form below.
Gift CertiIcate Drawing FormTo enter, complete form and mail to:
The Country Register12835 Kiska St NEBlaine, MN 55449
All questions must be answered to qualify. We’d love to hearyour comments and suggestions regarding The Country Registertoo!Send in a recipe we can share in the paper. One entry perperson.Name:______________________Phone:_________________Address:__________________________________________City:_____________________State:_______Zip:__________Favorite Shop Advertised:____________________________My Favorite Shop because:_____________________________________________________________________________My Favorite Country Register Feature(s):__________________________________________________________________Found this issue at:__________________________________Regular reader?_______________1st time reader?________Do you tell the shops you saw their ad in the paper?__________What stores would you like to see in The Country Register?include town)__________________________________________________________________________________________
J/F16
Months Jan/FebVolume 22 Number 1
The Country Register is published every other month. Copyright 2016. Reproduction or use,without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Offices of TheCountry Register are located at PO Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ 85023. The Country Registerof Minnesota is licensed by The Country Register with exclusive rights to publish in the stateof Minnesota using logos and graphics owned by The Country Register. SSuubbssccrriippttiioonnss
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CCiittyy::________________________________SSTT::________________________ZZiipp__________________Send Check to The Country Register · 12835 Kiska St. NE · Blaine, MN 55449
GGeett oonnee yyeeaarrss wwoorrtthh ooff ppaappeerrss ffoorr oonnllyy $$1188
Deadline For the March/AprilEdition is January 10th!
Articles published in this newspaper, which are contributed by outside sources, express the opinionsof their authors only, and may not express the viewpoint of the management or staff of The CountryRegister. Such articles that are accepted for publication herein may be edited at the sole discretion ofthe publisher. Responsibility for products advertised in this newspaper lies with the advertisers them-selves. Though The Country Register will not knowingly publish fraudulent materials or fraudulentlyobtained materials, we are not liable for any damages arising from purchase or use of products advertisedherein. Notifications regarding any consumer complaints related to merchandise purchased from ouradvertisers would be appreciated and would assist in our publishing efforts.
Page 2 Jan/Feb 2016Happy New Year!
The Country Register Publisher Contact ListThe Country Register began in Arizona, in the Fall of 1988, to provide effective, affordable advertising forshops, shows, and other experiences enjoyed by a kindred readership. Since then the paper has flourishedand spread. Look for the paper in your travels.
Barbara Floyd, founder • [email protected] • 602-237-6008 PUBLICATIONS ALL ACROSS THE UNITED STATES & CANADA
To receive a sample paper from another area, mail $3.00 in U.S.A. or $4.00 in Canada to that area’s editor. USAAlabama: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Arizona: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Arkansas: Richard and Lenda Brown, 405-470-2597California: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 719-749-9797Connecticut: Mike Dempsey, 919-661-1760Delaware: Merle & Gail Taylor, 888-616-8319Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Georgia: Linda Parish, 706-340-1049Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Idaho (S): Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Illinois: Richard and Lenda Brown, 405-470-2597Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, 888-616-8319Iowa : Linda Glendy, 641-751-2619Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 866-966-9815Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118Maine: Gail Hageman, 207-437-2663Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Massachusetts & RI: Mike Dempsey, 919-661-1760Michigan: Bill & Marlene Howell, 989-751-8860Minnesota: Kim & Mickey Keller, 763-754-1661Missouri: Richard and Lenda Brown, 405-470-2597Montana: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Nebraska: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Nevada (N): Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950
Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4702-523-1803New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 603-463-3703New Jersey: Merle & Gail Taylor, 888-616-8319New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 719-749-9797New York: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217North Carolina: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 888-942-8950North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Ohio: Barb Moore, 937-652-1157Oklahoma: Richard and Lenda Brown, 405-470-2597Oregon: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Rhode Island: Mike Dempsey, 919-661-1760South Carolina: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 888-942-8950South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118Texas: Richard and Lenda Brown, 405-470-2597Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Washington: Barb Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Wisconsin: Scott and Jennifer Hughes, 715-838-9426Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028CANADAAlberta: Ruth Burke, 780-889-3776British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, 1-800-784 6711Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, 306-736-2441Ontario: Harriet Ramos, 613-612-8465
JF16
Kim Keller, Publisher12835 Kiska St. NEBlaine, MN 55449763-754-1661
Minnesota’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Fun Events
And the Winners Are...The winner of two “grungy” candles from Judy Condon is Shirley Ross of Alexandria, MN.
Denise Winters of Windom, MN won a $25 gift certi/cate to SSppiinnnniinngg SSppoooollss QQuuiillttSShhoopp in New Ulm, MN. Denise says SSppiinnnniinngg SSppoooollss is her favorite shop becauseshe “loves the se0ing and Val always makes it worth the trip!”
Congratulations Winners!
Page 3Happy Valentine’s Day
Jan/Feb 2016
It’s Something to Celebrate!
Aitkin..........................................................................15Bemidji....................................................................18Blue Earth..................................................................10Cannon Falls.............................................................7Canton.........................................................................4Cloquet......................................................................17Crookston..................................................................18Detroit Lakes..........................................................14Downsville, WI...........................................................4Duluth........................................................................17East Grand Forks.....................................................18Eden Valley................................................................13Ellsworth, IA..............................................................5Foley.......................................................................13Fergus Falls...............................................................14Garden City..............................................................4Grand Rapids............................................................17Hutchinson..............................................................13International Falls....................................................17Kimball....................................................................13
Lake City...................................................................6Litchfield..............................................................13Lone Rock, IA..............................................................4Luverne....................................................................10Madison, WI.................................................................7McGregor..................................................................15Morton.......................................................................9New Ulm...................................................................8Nisswa........................................................................15Rogers........................................................................11Sherburn...................................................................10St. Peter......................................................................9Tomah, WI..................................................................6Waseca....................................................................9White Bear Lake.......................................................11Willmar.......................................................................13Wilton.........................................................................18Winona......................................................................5Worthington.............................................................10
City Listing
JJaannuuaarryy10..........................................Star Medallion Quilt Walk - Old Alley Quilt Shop - Sherburn15-18.......................................................Pantie Raid - Red Pine Quilt Shop - Detroit Lakes15-23................................................Panty Raid - Spinning Spools Quilt Shop - New Ulm23.............Support Your Local Quilt Shop Day - Gone To Pieces Quilt Shop - Kimball23-24.......................................................................................................Gun Show - Morton31...............................................................................Pro Bolt Sale - Quilted Dog - Cloquet
FFeebbrruuaarryy7.......Super Bowl Sunday, Pick Your Own Discount - Gone To Pieces Quilt Shop - Kimball7..............................................Souper Sunday Sew In - Old Alley Quilt Shop - Sherburn7-10.........................Winter Get-Away Retreat - Spinning Spools Quilt Shop - New Ulm18-21.....................................................Quilt Retreat - Red Pine Quilt Shop - Detroit Lakes
MMaarrcchh3-6.........................................................Quilt Retreat - Red Pine Quilt Shop - Detroit Lakes18-19...........................................Prairie Piecemakers Quilt Guild Quilt Show - New Ulm
AApprriill18-23.........................................Paduach Quilt Show Trip - Crafty Corner - Worthington
Special Events
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don’t wear! Donate it!!
Page 4 Jan/Feb 2016Retreat Centers
...a place of peace and joy! Quilting Retreats (Professional quilting services available!) Scrapbooking Retreats Crafting Retreats Business Meetings Chip Carving Classes (www.MyChipCarving.com)
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Overnight accommodations for 10 people!• Large cu(ing table and ironing board• Spacious• Sound system• Quiet and peaceful• Large screen movie projector• Comfortable• 3 bathrooms with showers• Wireless internet
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Over the Tea Cupby Janet Young
Tea - The Healthy DrinkJanuary is National Hot Tea Month. As seen around the world in many cultures,
drinking tea has proven to be beneficial to our health and well-being. So, if one ofyour resolutions for the New Year was to develop a healthier lifestyle, then why notadd drinking tea daily to your list. Drinking hot tea contains antioxidants that help reducethe risk of cancer. Green tea, in particular, helps to reduce cholesterol, and stabilizeblood sugar level.
If you are already a tea drinker why not experiment with different types of tea.For example, instead of a black tea, try a white or green tea. Or, stay in the black teafamily, if that is your tea of choice, but try another flavor such as spicy (ginger) fruity(peach) dessert type tea (chocolate mint). Use loose leaf tea instead of teabags. Youwill be amazed by the difference in taste.
To help you get started, why not attend a tea tasting, or go to a tea shop and seeif you can sample a few varieties. The tea expert should be able to help you identifythe characteristics and notes of various teas.
Enjoy tea at a teahouse to experience the tea ceremony.Read a few books about tea, and learn the proper way to prepare it.Experiment with pairing certain foods with tea, or if you want to be even more
adventuresome try cooking with it. There are cookbooks available to assist you.Invest in a tea travel mug for tea on the run.Study after study has shown tea is beneficial to our health, so why not start the
New Year right. EDUCATE yourself about the art of tea. EXPERIMENT until you finda favorite type and brand. Then ENJOY!
Let’s Drink To Our Health!–Janet Young, Certified Tea and EtiquetteConsultant, is a founding member of Mid-Atlantic Tea Business
Association and freelance writer/national tea presenter. Visit her website at www.overtheteacup.com.
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Jan/Feb 2016 Page 5Jan/Feb 2016Ellsworth, IA • Winona
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A Tale of a Box from My Closetby Kerri Habben
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. Thereis no lurking regret, sweat-breaking doubt or even intense grief.
There is a beautiful memory, one so heartbreakingly warm that I rarely rewindthe 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 of100 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. Theprocess 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 fleshis 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 ifshe 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 thepartially finished granny square into the basket. Ninety-one years of crochetingcomes to an end.
Three weeks later, the grandmother passes peacefully away at the hospital, dyingof 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 hercloset 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 weakeningof strength and durability. She knew, naturally, that one day her grandmother wouldno longer be living, but somehow it seemed like her hands would forever besteadily moving.
After a time, whenever the granddaughter saw the box, she still thought offinishing 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 squareappears lost. I reach out to embrace and reassure it and I find instead it comforts me.
During its long hibernation, the atrophy I feared to feel has somehow again growninto a new, deeper strength. Or, perhaps, time has the same effect on a blanket asit does on the human heart.
I pick up a crochet hook and I decide tocrochet one row to outline my grandmother’swork. And it is then that I know that her worknever stopped at all. She is within every efficientand steady motion of my mother’s and my hands.
The past settles into the future.It is a good time to finish up old tasks.
Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer, and crochet instructor living in Raleigh, NC. An avid crocheter and knitter, shelearned 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 [email protected].
Fun Facts About Each StateALABAMA: The first state to have 9-1-1, started in 1968. ALASKA: One out of every 64 people has a pilot's license. ARIZONA: The only continental U.S. state that doesn't follow Daylight Savings Time. ARKANSAS: Has the only active diamond mine in the U.S. CALIFORNIA: If it were a country, its economy would rank seventh in the entire world.COLORADO: In 1976 it became the only state to turn down the Olympics. CONNECTICUT: The Frisbee was invented here at Yale University . DELAWARE: Has more scientists and engineers than any other state. FLORIDA: At 874.3 square miles, Jacksonville is the largest city in the U.S. GEORGIA: Where, in 1886, pharmacist John Pemberton first made Coca-Cola. HAWAII: Hawaiians live, on average, five years longer than residents of any other state.IDAHO: TV was invented in Rigby, Idaho, in 1922. ILLINOIS: Has a Governor in jail, one pending jail, and is the most corrupt state!INDIANA: Half a millions letters to Santa are delivered to Santa Claus, Indiana annually.IOWA: The only state name that begins with two vowels. KANSAS: There’s an exact replica of the house in The Wizard of Oz in Liberal, KS. KENTUCKY: Has more than $6 billion in gold underneath Fort Knox. LOUISIANA: Has parishes instead of counties which originally were Spanish church units.MAINE: Covers as many square miles as the other five New England states combined.MARYLAND: The Ouija board was created in Baltimore, MD in 1892. MASSACHUSETTS: The Fig Newton is named after Newton, MA.MICHIGAN: Fremont , home to Gerber, is the baby food capital of the world. MINNESOTA: Bloomington’s Mall of America has 4.3 miles of store front footage.MISSISSIPPI: President Teddy Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear here but got a nickname.MISSOURI: The birthplace of the ice cream cone. MONTANA: A sapphire from Montana is in the Crown Jewels of England. NEBRASKA: More triplets are born here than in any other state. NEW HAMPSHIRE: Birthplace of Tupperware—invented in 1938 by Earl Tupper. NEW JERSEY: Has the most shopping malls in one area in the world. NEW MEXICO: Smokey the Bear was rescued from a 1950 forest fire here. NEW YORK: Home to the nation's oldest cattle ranch, started in 1747 in Montauk. NORTH CAROLINA: Home of the first Krispy Kreme doughnut. NORTH DAKOTA: Rigby, ND is the exact geographic center of North America. OHIO: The hot dog was invented here in 1900. OKLAHOMA: The grounds of the state capital are covered by operating oil wells. OREGON: Has the most ghost towns in the country. PENNSYLVANIA: The smiley :) was first used in 1980 by computer scientists at CMU.RHODE ISLAND: The nation's oldest bar, the White Horse Tavern, opened in 1673. SOUTH CAROLINA: Sumter County is home to the world's largest gingko farm.SOUTH DAKOTA: Is the only state that has never had an earthquake. TENNESSEE: Nashville's Grand Ole Opry is the world’s longest running live radio show.TEXAS: Dr. Pepper was invented in Waco in 1885. UTAH: The first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant opened here in 1952. VERMONT: Montpelier is the only state capital without a McDonald's. VIRGINIA: Home of the world's largest office building—The Pentagon. WASHINGTON: Seattle has twice as many college graduates as any other state. WASHINGTON, DC: The first planned capital in the world. WEST VIRGINIA: World's first brick street, Summers Street, in Charleston in 1870. WISCONSIN: The ice cream sundae was invented here in 1881 to get around BlueLaws prohibiting ice cream from being sold on Sundays. WYOMING: Was the first state to allow women to vote.
Page 6 Jan/Feb 2016Lake City • Tomah, WI
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Mail BagThank you! I won the $25 gift certificate. I am so excited! I love reading The
Country Register. It’s the only paper I read front to back! I love all the stories,recipes, ad checking out each advertisement, including upcoming events. Thanksfor putting out such an interesting and fun publication.
- Cheryl Sorensen, McGregor MN
Thank you so much for the wonderful Country Register. It is such a treat whenit arrives in the mail! Keep up the fabulous work with The Country Register.
- Carol Riva, Canada
My son is a truck driver. He stopped in Blaine and picked up your paper. I triedthe soup recipes and they were awesome! I also tried the potato casserole. All therecipes are always very delicious.
- Lee Ann Mohr, Marathon WI
Country Register Recipe ExchangeCheese and Potato Casserole
from Pa3i Lee Bock, New Ulm, MN
2 pounds package frozen hashed brown potatoes (partly thawed)2 - 10oz cans cheddar cheese soup1 - 13oz can evaporatedmilk, undiluted1 can french fried onion ringssalt and pepper
Combine frozen potatos, soup, milk and half the onion rings. Pour into greasedcrock pot. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low 8-9 hours (onhigh for 4 hours). Sprinkle remaining onion rings over top before serving. Note:Recipe may be cut in half if desired. Cooking times are the same if using 2 quartcrock pot.
Jan/Feb 2016 Page 7Jan/Feb 2016Canon Falls • Madison, WI
Christmas Stamps50% off!
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Your Complete RubberStamp & Scrapbooking Store!
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SEPT. 8-10, 2016MADISON, WISCONSIN
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Back Porch Breakby Nancy Parker Brummett
Late-in-Life LoveValentine’s Day is often billed as a day for
young lovers, but what if the lovers are merelyyoung at heart? A close friend of mine, a widow,recently told me with stars in her eyes that she “met someone.” Both my friend andher new beau are in their seventies, but as she described their meeting she said itwas as if she were thirteen again—all the same butterflies flitting around inside her!
The “sweet nothings” they whisper to one another may have to be spoken a bitmore loudly at this age, she confessed. And instead of getting-acquainted questionslike “what’s your sign?” it’s more likely “are you on any medications?” But the sparklein her eyes and the giggle in her voice told me this is true love all the same.
Is it ever too late for love? I don’t think so. Years ago my mom was also in herseventies when she began a long companionship with Cecil, a dear family friend.He had lost his wife and my dad had passed away. The two couples had knownone another since junior high. Mom and Cecil kept being asked to the same socialgatherings, so eventually he said, “There’s no reason for both of us to drive. I’ll swingby and pick you up.” Thus began a 15-year relationship that nurtured them both.
“We don’t even have to tell each other entire jokes,” Mom said the day she calledto let me know what was going on with Cecil (lest I hear rumors of impropriety!).“We know all the same jokes, so one of us just remembers a punch line and wehave a good laugh!”
Many seniors would be open to late-in-life love but aren’t sure how to meetsomeone if they don’t have a lifelong connection like my mom and Cecil shared.Some actually have success with online dating sites, but more likely they connectthrough a mutual acquaintance or a shared interest. Other couples reconnect at a50th or 60th high school reunion, after both are single again, and pick up rightwhere they left off—although not as likely in the back of the pick up! Psychologistsexplain that the spark of “first love” is one that is easily rekindled, and everysummer this romantic phenomenon repeats itself around punch bowls in gymna-siums from coast to coast. It gives new meaning to the phrase “take my hand again”that I’ve been using for adults helping aging parents.
Is it ever too late for love? I think not. As for me, I’ll stick with the love I marriedwhen I was forty. A good man is hard to find at any age!
Nancy Parker Brummett is an author and freelance writer in Colorado Springs, CO. “Like” her author page onFacebook, or to learn more about her life and work, visit www.nancyparkerbrummett.com. Portions of this
column are excerpted from the author’s book, Take My Hand Again, Kregel Publications, 2015.
Remember Presidents’ Day
Monday, February 15th
Page 8 Jan/Feb 2016New Ulm
10 N. Minnesota St.New Ulm, MN507-354-6721
TheThimbleBox
Mon-Fri:10am-5pmSat:10am-4pm
Come in and See our WideVariety of
• New Fabrics• Patterns• Books
• Select Wide Back Fabrics• Our Original Patterns
PPrraaiirriiee PPiieecceemmaakkeerrss QQuuiilltt GGuuiilldd Presents:
Quilt Show 2016Friday March 18 9am - 6pm
Saturday, March 199am - 4pm
Admission: $6.00 • Students $3.00
Lots of Quiltson display!
Vendors, Demonstrations, Door Prizes, Opportunity Quilt, Refreshments & Food
Special Guest: Glad Creations
New Ulm Event Center: 301 - 20th St. S
Show Coordinator:Joleen Koch 507-276-2304
Register to Win!Simply Country Homes & Gardens
by Judy CondonThe ‘simply country book series’ consists of 32 house tour books and 4 garden
tour books. Initially the books were arranged by room but, over time, collectorsstarted asking to see the entire house. The booksare used for inspiration and decorating tips. Thestyles vary from primitive cabins to high-countrycolonial. Country is in NO way a thing of the past;it has evolved into many forms. Authenticating aCountry Dwelling is an educational tool on how tostage a period room; a step beyond merely decoratinga space. Many readers have been following JudyCondon since she published the first book, Countryon a Shoestring, in February 2005. Most books inthe series are still available for purchase. To orderany of the country decorating books contact Judyat Marsh Homestead Antiques,www.marshhomesteadantiques.com, or call 877-381-6682. You can get your copy of Simply CountryHomes & Gardens here! This book contains 145pages of country decorated homes for inspiration, and country gardens to dreamabout spring. Be sure to mail in your entry for a chance to win!
You Could Win “Simply Country Homes & Gardens”!You can register to win a copy of “Simply Country Homes & Gardens” for yourself!
Clip and mail in this form!If you prefer not to cut up your paper, write the form below on a note card and mail to:
The Country Register; 12835 Kiska St. NE; Blaine, MN 55449.You will be notified and receive your prize by mail! Good Luck!
NNaammee____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SSttrreeeett AAddddrreessss______________________________________________________________________________________________________
CCiittyy________________________________________________ SSttaattee____________________ ZZiipp____________________________________
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There are far better things aheadthan any we leave behind.
CS Lewis
Visit New Ulm’s Newest Quilting Destination!
1417 South State Street · New Ulm, MN · 507-354-8801www.SewingSeedsQuiltCo.com • [email protected]
Quality Quilting Fabrics • Wool • Flannels • Reproduction PrintsAurifil & Valdani Threads • Kits • GiftsUnique Class Offerings & Events
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Jan/Feb 2016 Page 9Jan/Feb 2016Morton • St. Peter • Waseca
St. Peter Woolen Mill101 W. Broadway • St. Peter, MN 56082507-934-3734 • www.woolenmill.com
Hours:Mon - Fri9am - 5pm
• Custom Wool Processing• Turn your wool into finished or semi-finished wool bedding• Wool filled matress pads, comforters, and pillows• Nature’s Comfort Wool Products• Online Catalog• Refurbish an heirloom
Highest Quality Green Products and Services
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Entertaining! Always changing!Antiques • Collectibles
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Formore info, contactMorton City Hall/Chamber507-697-6912 •[email protected]
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I asked my dad what games he playedwhen he was just a kid.
He thought a moment, then replied,I played what others did.
I tried to pin him down on that,but nothing came to mind.
I sensed his childhood memorieswere hard for him to find.
He had no childhood to recall.We worked while others played.He worked as if he were a manby time he reached sixth grade.
He plowed, he harrowed, planted crops,oh, he could do it all.
He helped out with beet harvests onthe family farm in fall.
When he had hitched the horsesto a V-shaped pulling tool,
he had to pull six rows of beetsbefore he went to school.
He never learned to ride a bike,play ball, or swim, or skate,
but he could harness up a teamand plow a furrow straight.
He took no part in high school sports,although he wanted to,
for chores awaited him at home,and daylight hours were few.
My father didn’t tell me this,but Mom made sure I knew—
because he had no time to play,he never learned how to.
However, Dad did play with uswhen Bill and I were small.
He’d be the horse who gave us rides.We loved it, I recall.
He got down on his hands and knees,and we climbed on his back.
Mom probably couldn’t stand the noise,but she cut us some slack.
Then he reared up and bucked us off.He whinnied, and he neighed,
and grabbed us by our ankles aswe both called out for aid.
We yelled and screamed, but we had funa-wrassling on the floor.
We had all his attention inthis nightly tug-if-war,
As soon as he let go of us,we scurried back for more.
We played till it was time for bed,and we had fun galore.
At that time, Dad taught high school kids,coached basketball and track.
He hadn’t played, but he could teach;he somehow had the knack.
I don’t know how he learned enough,but teams he coached did well.
It seems he found the right techniquesto help the boys excel.
We moved into a bigger townwhere Bill joined Little League.
Dad practiced with him eveningstill done in with fatigue.
Dad missed a childhood of his own,but did fulfill his dreams,
vicariously, through his son, Bill,who made the high school teams.
In This Land OfLittle Rain
Cowboy Poetry
by Jane Ambrose Morton
Chi ldhoods
“IN THIS LAND OF LITTLE RAIN”Tales of a family and a ranch—toldthrough poetry of the West.TO ORDER: contact Jane Morton, 12710 Abert Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80908
719-495-9304 • [email protected]
©2012 Jane Morton. All rights reserved.
Used with permission.
COUNTRY REGISTER RECIPE EXCHANGE
Red Velvet CookiesFrom the kitchen of Sharon Anderson, Colorado Springs, CO
2015 Elbert County Fair Winner3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons cocoa powder1/2 teaspoon baking powder* 1/2 teaspoon soda*1/4 teaspoon kosher salt 3/4 cup unsalted butter1/4 cup dark brown sugar* 1 cup granulated sugar*1 large egg 1 Tablespoon olive oil2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar 2 Tablespoons whole milk2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 2 teaspoons red food coloring* Make Altitude adjustmentsHeat oven to 350° and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, soda and salt. With electric mixer beat the butter (at room temperature) and sugars in a large bowl until light andfluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg, then add olive oil, vinegar, milk, vanillaand food coloring and combine with butter mixture. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the flour mixture in two additions, mixing just until combined. Spoon the batter (abut 1/4 cup per cookie or desired amount) onto the preparedbaking sheets, spacing them accordingly. Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until set. Transfer parchment and cookies to a wire rack to cool. (Women’s Day, April 2015)
Page 10 Jan/Feb 2016Blue Earth • Luverne • Sherburn • Worthington
Local JJAANNOOMMEE Sales & ServiceWe also repair & service all makes & models of sewing machines & sergers
120 N. Main St.Blue Earth MN 56013Phone: 507-526-3295
Quality Quilt Fabrics - Janome Sewing Machines - Pa"ernsNo!ons - DMC Floss - Classes
We have Gi Cer�ficatesavailable!
Hrs: 9am-5:30pm M-F9am-7pm Thur9am-2pm Sat
OOlldd AAlllleeyy QQuuiilltt SShhoopp115 N. Main-Hwy 4 · Box 143
Sherburn, MN 56171507-764-4088
oldalleyquiltshop.com · [email protected]
Over 2800 bolts of fabric (including batiks & Fannels!), paGerns, notions, classes, andlong arm quilting services. Located in a renovated bowling alley on the main street of
Sherburn, MN, south of the I-90, Hwy 4 exit!!
Check out our 108” back section of the store - Over 80 bolts of coGon, Fannel and batik 108” fabric!!
Sunday, January 10th 1- 4 pm “Star Medallion” Quilt Walk Sherburn Community Hall(Across from the quilt shop in the basement of the theater)
Public invited to view 30+ quilts from the 2015 Block of the Month class AAllssoo 2200%% ooEE ssttoorreewwiiddee ffrroomm 11PPMM –– 44 PPMM..
Sunday, February 7th 12-5 pm “Souper Sunday Sew In” Join us for some quality sewing time on Super Bowl Sunday from Noon until 5pm.
The soup is on us! If you don’t want to sew, check out our ““SSoouuppeerr”” SSaallee –– 2200%% ooEE ssttoorreewwiiddee!!
Hours: Mon - Fri 10-5 • Sat 9-4
Crafty Corner Quilt& Sewing Shoppe
1820 Oxford St. • Worthington, MN 56187(800) SEW-MORE • [email protected]
Reserve your seatsNow!ATTENTIONQUILTERS
Ken is planning Crafty Corner’s 22nd annual trip to thePaduach Quilt ShowApril 18-23!
He has secured rooms at the Drury Inn in Paducah during the quilt show, in Colombia,Missouri on departure, and St. Joe, Missouri on the return trip. Drury Inns are known
for their free evening snack and super-hot breakfasts!We will be stopping in Hamilton Missouri on our return trip to tour the
Missouri Star Quilt Company!
204 East Main • Luverne, MN
507-283-9769 •507-283-9769 • ww
w.www.luvsewingbasket
Email:
Email: [email protected]
We carry a beautifulWe carry a beautiful variety of quiltingvariety of quilting
fabrics, plus books &fabrics, plus books & supplies.supplies.
Authorized Dealer ofAuthorized Dealer ofViking Sewing MachinesViking Sewing Machines
and Sergers.and Sergers.
Welcome toWelcome to LuverneLuverne
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We invite you to stop
We invite you to stop at theat the Sewing BasketSewing Basket
OPENMonday thru Friday 9-5 p.m.
Thursday 9-7 p.m. Saturday 9-Noon
New Year loseweight
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back to school enjoy lifesimplify life
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runamarathon
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take a trip pray
get fit Resolutions
Jan/Feb 2016 Page 11Jan/Feb 2016Rogers • White Bear Lake
Book ReviewOrnaments of Death: A JosiePrescott Antiques Mystery
by Jane K. ClelandOrnaments of Death is the tenth book in
Jane K. Cleland’s critically acclaimed JosiePrescott Antiques Mystery series [St. Martin’sMinotaur]. Prescott, an antiques appraiser-turned-amateur sleuth, once blew the whistleon a price-fixing scandal that rocked the high-endantiques auction houses in New York City. Shethen relocated to New Hampshire to start anew life, founding her own business in thecoastal town of Rocky Point.
Cleland’s fictional debut, the IMBA bestselling and multiple-award nominatedConsigned to Death, introduced her resourceful protagonist and was selected by LibraryJournal as a “core title” for librarians looking to build a cozy collection.
In Ornaments of Death, the story opens when Josie receives an early Christmaspresent—she is contacted by Englishman Ian Bennington who says he is a long-lostcousin. 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 ofKing James II. He tells her he owns exquisite miniature watercolor portraits of thesenotable ancestors, which he has given to his daughter Becca, a marine biologistspecializing in clams, who is working in Boston.
Ian is warmly welcomed at Josie’s annual holiday party so when he later misses adate with one of her friends, then is a no-show for a lunch with Josie herself, she reportshim missing. However, there is nothing the police can do. Once Ian’s body isfound—he has been killed in a hit-and-run—Josie works with her friend Ellis, theRocky Point police chief, to find out what happened.
Shock follows shock as Josie and the police make stunning discoveries. Using herknowledge of antiques—and people—, she is able to solve the crime. In addition, indoing so, she discovers the true meaning of family—and of Christmas.
Publishers Weekly says, “Fascinating tidbits about collectibles, along with evocativedescriptions of New Hampshire in winter, elevate Cleland’s 10th Josie Prescott Antiquesmystery. Distinctive characters, including Josie’s Maine coon cat, Hank, help makethis holiday cozy a winner.”
Often reviewed as an Antiques Roadshow for mystery fans, Jane Cleland’s seriesmarries antiques lore seamlessly with fair-play mystery puzzles. This book, like all ofthe books in the series, stands alone, but for series readers, it’s fun to see the evolutionof the familiar stable of characters. It is especially interesting to see how the romancewith Josie’s boyfriend, Ty, is developing and how she counts on her good friendHank, the cat, for wisdom and guidance.
Ornaments of Death can be purchased from your local bookstore or online. Formore information, including book club discussion questions and a free, fun antiquesappraisal challenge, “What’s It Worth? You Be the Judge!”, visit www.janecleland.com.
You Could Win “Ornaments of Death”!You can register to win a copy of “Ornaments of Death” for yourself! Clip and mail in this form!If you prefer not to cut up your paper, write the form below on a note card and mail to:
The Country Register; 12835 Kiska St. NE; Blaine, MN 55449.You will be notified and receive your prize by mail! Good Luck!
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The Country Register of MinnesotaPPhhoonnee:: 776633--775544--11666611 •• EEmmaaiill:: mmiinnnneessoottaa@@ccoouunnttrryyrreeggiisstteerr..ccoomm
WWHHYY NNOOTT CCOONNTTAACCTT UUSS TTOODDAAYY??
Your Shop or Event WouldYour Shop or Event WouldFit Right In!Fit Right In!
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Our readers loveto discover an eeeecccclllleeeeccccttttiiiicc cc mmmmiiiixxxx ofinteresting shops and events . . .andthey’ve been looking for they’ve been looking for YOUYOU!!
Minnesota’s ‘Town & Country’ GuideTo Premier Shopping & Events
Minnesota’s ‘Town & Country’ GuideTo Premier Shopping & Events
Page 12 Jan/Feb 2016Happy New Year!
Myst� Qu�tCats In My Garden
Designed by Ann Jones
Pattern sponsered by Nine Patch Quilt & Fabrics, 129 E. Walnut, Nevada, MO 64772www.ninepatchnevada.com; [email protected]
? Decorating, Entertaining and Livingin the Early American Style
by Annice Bradley RockwellPPlleennttiiffuull PPeeaaccee
The winter months often seem unusuallylong. But this spectacular season can bringus the truest of blessings. Winter monthsoften provide us with time for peacefulcontemplation and quiet moments to createa warm home setting that will shelter usfrom the unpredictable bitter blasts thatcharacterize a classic winter.HHaarrmmoonnyy aatt HHoommee
Creating an environment that conveyswarmth and solace is rewarding and worth-while. After the holiday decorations are safely stored away, the backdrop for yourdecorating is like a clean canvas awaiting a perfectly painted scene. To achieve harmonyin your room settings, begin with the larger pieces that you absolutely love. Considerpositioning your seating arrangements in a new way for the winter to create cozyspaces to gather nearer to the fire to share stories of your winter adventures. Givesome of your larger pieces a new purpose. Cupboards can be utilized to create twoseparate spaces to make your space look entirely different and blanket chests can beused to create distinct areas as well. TThhee CCoommffoorrtt ooff CCoolloorr
After all of your larger pieces are in place, consider some of the colorful elementsyou have that can add warmth and texture to a room. After a long day out in thecold, it is so inviting to come home to the beauty of color. Early woven textiles andcarefully arranged oriental rugs lend elements of texture and color that are comfortingand warm. Carefully placed decorative smalls are another way to introduce newcolor into a room. Antiques in early paint can be artfully displayed to create a lookthat is fresh and inviting. New arrangements of your favorite pieces combined withbright and vivid additions can be soulfully appealing, especially in the winter whenour landscape has an absence of color.EEnnhhaanncciinngg yyoouurr EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt
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 canincorporate some new pieces into your winter displays. Be on the lookout for piecesthat can be used in different ways. Think about adding vibrant hues to your displaysto make them more appealing to the eye. By taking time to arrange your home sothat it is an inviting and warm place to be, you will be providing yourself with a perfectbalance 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. [email protected] Robin Rock is the owner of Milltown Primitives. www.milltownprimitvesshop.com
A leap year is a year containing one additional dayadded to keep the calendar year synchronized withthe seasonal year. Because seasons and astronomicalevents do not repeat in a whole number of days,calendars that have the same number of days in eachyear, drift over time with respect to the event that theyear is supposed to track. By inserting an additionalday into the year, the drift can be corrected. Eachleap year has 366 days instead of the usual 365, byextending February to 29 days rather than the common
28. Since the Earth does not precisely orbit around the sun in 365 days this keepsthe calendar from drifting through the seasons. The name "leap year" comes fromthe fact that while a fixed date in the calendar normally advances one day of theweek from one year to the next, the day of the week in a leap year will advance twodays (from March onwards) due to the extra day added at the end of February. Forexample, Christmas fell on Thursday in 2014, Friday in 2015, but will “leap” overSaturday and be on Sunday in 2016!
Info from wikapedia.com
Country Register Recipe ExchangeVenison Jerky
from Peggy Sta6ord, McGregor, MN
3/4 cup soy sauce3/4 cup worchestershire1/2 bo7le liquid smoke2 tsp seasoned salt2 tsp accent
Cutmeat 1/8” thick. Mix all ingredients. Marinate meat over night. Lay meatstrips over oven racks with cookie sheets underneath. Bake 125˚-140˚ for4-6 hours, turning half way through. Be sure both sides are dry!
2 tsp onion powder2/3 tsp garlic powder2/3 black powderTabasco
Jan/Feb 2016 Page13Jan/Feb 2016Eden Valley • Foley • Hutchinson • Kimball • LitchIeld • Willmar
Lost and Found
Religious Books &Gifts • Antiques• HomeDecor•Jewelry•SilkFlorals•NewScarves
•Accessories•Kitchen Items•RepurposedandUpcycled Items
Hwy. 22 Downtown • Eden Valley, MN320-453-5678
Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:30-5:30
Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret!!
320Dewey St.FoleyMN56329320-968-9929
Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6Sat. (April-Sept) 10-3
Sat. (Oct-March) 10-4:30
Conveniently Located in Downtown Foley!WeO9er aGenerousSelection of 100%Co:onQuilting Fabrics, Pa:erns andNotions.
LongarmQuilting Services Available.WWee wwiillll bbee cclloosseedd DDeecceemmbbeerr 2244tthh -- JJaannuuaarryy 33rrdd..
WWee wwiillll rreeooppeenn JJaannuuaarryy 44,, 22001166 iinn oouurr nneeww llooccaattiioonn aatt 332200 DDeewweeyy SSttrreeeett!!
Wit N Wisdomby Jule Ann Lattimer
In the World — Not of the WorldThe 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 birdlife, as well as the surprising things the ocean coughs up each night. One morningthe beach was peppered in jelly fish. What a sight! Another day I watched a flock ofpelicans huddled together patiently waiting for the fog to lift. Some days playfuldolphins follow along as I walk the beach in search of multi-colored shells andtreasured sand dollars.
I once read that there are more living creatures under the sea than those livingabove it. With our ever-advancing technology, oceanographers recently discovereda giant squid that is 10 feet long, weighs over a ton and has eyes the size of dinnerplates. There is an underworld of plains, plateaus and mountains ranges. I amawestruck by God’s creativity. As I sit in my beach chair admiring the rhythmic ebband 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 theocean that originates in Florida and follows the eastern coast line of the UnitedStates and Newfoundland before crossing the Atlantic Ocean towards Europe. It is62 miles wide and its depth varies from 2600 to 3900 feet. It travels at a speed ofapproximately 5.6 mph. This river within an ocean dwarfs all rivers combined thatempty 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 Theeto take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one. They are not ofthe world, even as I am not of the world.” (John 17:15,16) Jesus often used objectlessons 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 beswallowed up and carried along by this corrupt world’s seductive pleasures. Just asthe Gulf Steam remains autonomous, so must we.
warehouseand TEXTILE
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70 South MainKimball, MN 55353
320-398-5300
Saturday, January 23rd:Support your local Quilt shop day! We will have specials!!
Super Bowl Sunday, February 7th:Pick your own disount day
Block of the month:“Gemstone” Starts Jan. 11th
DeAnn’sCountryVillageShoppeAOne-of-a-Kind unique Gift shop and Quilt Store all in one!
Open 7Days aWeek!
• Gifts •HomeDecor•Womens Casual &Accessories• Childrens • Baby •Kitchen
Annual CrazyWinter Days!January
Inventory Clearance SalesFebruary
Fabric Days!· Sale fabric as low as $2 a yard
· “Sample sale”Full Service Quilt Shop
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Downtown Litchfield - 115N Sibley Ave • 320-693-9113
7NorthMain St. • Hutchinson, MN55350320-587-8341
Stop in and see what’s new!
Formore information checkourwebsite:www.quilthavenonmain.com
Hours:Mon10am-7pm•Tues-Sat10am-5pm
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• Tu>et Class: Two sessions January 17 & 31• Beginners Quilt Making: Four sessions January 19 & 26, and February 2 & 9• Wool Embroidery: January 23
• Cheaper by the Dozen: January 30• One Leaf Table Runner: February 27
Call the shop for more details on all these classes!
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Page 14 Jan/Feb 2016Detroit Lakes • Fergus Falls
ALONG THE PRESIDENTIAL TRAILAndrew Johnson – 17th President of the United States
Part of a seriesby Jan Keller
Andrew Johnson, arguably regarded to have beenamong the worst of all of our past presidents, assumedthe office following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.It was a tumultuous time in our country’s history. AlthoughLincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation, thematter of slavery hadn’t been thoroughly resolved.
When the Civil War began, Johnson remained inWashington where he served as Senator from Tennessee.In fact, he was the only southern legislator to continueserving after Tennessee and other Confederate statesbegan seceding. As a result, Lincoln named Johnsonmilitary governor of Tennessee.
When Lincoln, a republican, was running for hissecond term as president, he hand-picked Johnson, ademocrat, as his vice presidential running mate. Thismixed ticket, though unusual, was calculated to showsupport for southern states and unification.
Many regarded Johnson as an embarrassment at the1865 Inauguration because he was obviously drunkand his speech rambled. Allegedly he had beendrinking to “fortify” himself due to recent illness.
Six weeks after winning the election, on the eveningof April 14, 1865, Lincoln was assassinated. The followingday Andrew Johnson was sworn in as the seventeenthpresident—making him one of only five presidents whonever ran for the office but became president by default.
Andrew Johnson was born December 29, 1808 inRaleigh, NC to Jacob and Mary “Polly” (McDonough)Johnson. In December of 1812, Jacob saved two men fromtheir capsized boat in a pond near their home, the coldwater took a toll on Jacob and the next month he diedat the age of 33. The family had always been poor, butnow it was even more challenging for Andrew’s motherto get by and provide for him and his brother and sister.
When Johnson was a youth, his mother apprenticedhim to James Selby to become a tailor. When he was 17he arrived in Greeneville, TN and set up his own tailorshop. There he met Eliza McCardle and the couple
married the next year,when he was 18 andEliza was 16. It wasEliza who taughtAndrew how to readand write. The couplehad three sons and twodaughters.
When we visited theAndrew JohnsonNational Historic Site inGreeneville, we touredtheir home as well as
Johnson’s original Tailor Shop. The shop has beenrestored and is preserved by a brick building that wasbuilt to protect it. The shop was known to be a popularplace where Andrew and the men of the area couldgather to discuss community news and politics.
Through the years, Johnson served at every level ofelected office—local, state and federal. He was knownto be a great stump speaker as well as a fine debater.
During Johnson’s term as president, his primary focuswas the restoration of the country following the CivilWar. Unfortunately, Johnson found himself crosswisewith Congress and ultimately, in 1868 the House votedto impeach him, while he was acquitted by the Senate.Johnson hoped he might be nominated for presidentbut that was not to be. General U. S. Grant waselected to be the next president, while Johnson awaitedthe end of his troubled term.
Johnson returned to cheering crowds in Tennesseebut he quickly became restless and attempted anunsuccessful run for the U.S. Senate in 1869.Undaunted, three years later he lost an election for aU.S. representative seat. Persevering on, in 1874 heran for a U.S. Senate seat and emerged victorious.“Thank God for vindication,” was his response.
At the end of his Senate term, Andrew Johnson
returned to Greeneville. Just four months later, Johnsonsuffered a stroke and died on July 31, 1875. Wrappedin an American flag with his head resting on a copy ofthe Constitution, he was buried in Greeneville.
Yes, Andrew Johnson owned several slaves and theevidence indicates that he treated them quite well.
In 1842, when Johnson was a state senator hebought a 12-year-old girl named Dolly. Some accountsindicate that Dolly approached Johnson and asked himto buy her. Soon he also bought Dolly’s brother Sam sothey could stay together.
In 1857 Johnson bought a third slave, 13-year-oldHenry, who accompanied Johnson to the White House.Johnson reportedly never sold any of his slaves andactually paid some of them for a portion of their work.
In 1867, Johnson donated land for a school specificallyfor the education of colored children in Greeneville.
Ultimately, after the slaves were freed, Johnson toldhis slaves that they could go wherever they wanted orthey could stay and work for pay. Sam, now older, witha wife and five children and Dolly with three children,decided to continue on, working for Andrew and Eliza.
President1865-1869
Andrew Johnson National Historic Site, Greenville, TN
Store Hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00AM-5:00PM Saturday from 10:00AM-4:00PM 915 Washington Avenue, Detroit Lakes, MN 218-844- www.redpinequiltshop.com
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The Dropped Stitchby Sharon Greve
A Patriotic SymbolThe American tradition of knitting for a cause can be traced back to wartime
knitting. Martha Washington (wife of General and President George Washington)spearheaded knitting efforts for the soldiers of the Revolutionary War for utilitarianand political purposes. Colonists didn’t want to buy British cloth, so they spun,wove, and knitted their own clothing. During the Civil War, knitting became animportant symbol of patriotism.
In 1898, during the Spanish American War, Mrs. E. A. Gardner “conceived theidea of supplying our warships with “just what they needed.” Friends, The New YorkHerald, and the Associated Press joined in. Thus, the seeds of the current “Christmas-at-Sea Program were planted, establishing the Seamen’s Benefit Society, a ladies’auxiliary of the Seamen’s Church Institute of New York and New Jersey. One of thefunctions was to provide knitted pieces to seafarers who visited the Institute. By1941 about 2,000 volunteers, including many from churches of all denominationsthroughout the United States provided about 5,000 gift boxes containing hand knitsweaters, socks, hats, mittens, and scarves. These warm gifts were distributed to thecrew of freighters and tankers who spent Christmas Day at sea. In 1996, 17,000garments, including 6,000 scarves, were knit by some 3,000 volunteer knitters andgiven to merchant mariners at sea on Christmas Day. Knitters can be a part of thisprogram today. Free easy patterns are provided for knitting scarves, watch caps,sweaters, and socks on the Seamen’s Church Institute website.
In World Wars I and II, the American Red Cross received millions of caps, scarves,socks, and mitts as knitters across the country answered the poster plea: “Our boysneed SOX—Knit Your Bit.” The organization even printed free directions for militarysocks. Minerva Yarn Co. printed (Vol. 62) Hand Knits for Men in the Service whichsold for 35 cents. With women in the war-working force in factories, the Red Crosspublished Knitting Instructions for Wear Work and Knitted Comforts for Women. Thewell-known “watch cap” of 1940 is found on knitting needles around the world today.An untold number of convalescing servicemen were taught knitting as physical andmental therapy. Upon discharge, my own family’s Navy friend continued knittingbeautiful sweaters for his wife.
Now it is our turn to express our appreciation and patriotism to today’s servicemenand servicewomen. Today knitting continues for warm fiber articles for active andwounded military personnel regardless of political considerations. Knitted caps, neckgaiters, socks, and mitts are welcome donations by so many military programs. Checkthem out on the internet and join in. Want to knit for a military family? Baby blanketsand layettes are needed for many young military families who are struggling to makeends meet while they await their loved one.
The common goal of knitting for world peace has become a tradition in support ofour country’s valiant military men and women. Let’s keep knitting a patriotic symbol.
It’s our turn now!© 2015 Sharon Greve Contact: [email protected] No reprint without permission.
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Red RiceEliza McCardle Johnson, wife ofPresident Andrew Johnson was
known for many recipes. This is oneof the family's favorites of rice,onions, tomatoes and bacon.
Ingredients: bacon, onions, garlic, tomatoes canned, tomato paste and rice.
Fry 6 strips of bacon until lightly crisped. Set aside. Use the bacon fat to sauté2 sliced onions and 1 clove garlic, minced. Slowly add 1 can of tomatoes, with the juice. Stir well.
Add 1 can tomato paste. Simmer 5 to 8 minutes over low heat, then sprinkle 1 cup rice and 6 slices cooked bacon. Cover until the rice is tender.
In Johnson’s day, Red Rice was a meal in itself for humble folks. Serves 6.President's Cook Book by Poppy Cannon and Patricia Brooks, 1968
COUNTRY REGISTER RECIPE EXCHANGE
Huntington ChickenSubmitted by Lenda Clark, Broomfield, CO
1 stewing chicken 1 cup macaroni1 lb. Velveeta cheese 1 can mushroom soup2 cups thickened chicken broth 1/2 cup canned evaporated milkStew and bone chicken. Cook macaroni and add remaining ingredients and heat through. Top with 1 cup margarine and 1 cup bread crumbs. Bake until heated through.
Aitkin • McGregor • Nisswa
Page 16 Jan/Feb 2016Happy Valentine’s Day!
AfootWhen our youngest son Mickey was about to graduate from high school, I
experienced a bit of a midlife crisis. Up until then, from my naive perspective, I heldthe arbitrary belief that folks who had school-age children were young; but oncetheir children were out of school, they automatically became old.
I expressed my quandary to my friend Julie, who, after patiently listening to myplight, laughed and responded, saying, “Oh Jan, you’re not old, you’ve just beenwrong!” Realizing how wonderful it could be to be wrong, through the years I’veappreciated being able to reflect on Julie’s wisdom.
Over the past two years, I’ve had a series of surgeries. To date it’s been threesurgeries on my right foot, one on my right wrist and one on my left foot—withoutboring you with the details it will suffice to share that all of the procedures were totreat arthritis and pain.
The wrist surgery was a snap, but foot surgeries are challenging and debilitating.Compiling my downtime, I’ve spent well over a year of the past two toting one orthe other of my feet around on a wheeled kart rather than being able to walk.
Last winter, John and I flew into Cancun, Mexico, where we spent a few daysexploring Playa del Carmen and Tulum. I was just getting back on my feet followingone of my foot surgeries and getting around was still a major challenge so weplanned our activities accordingly.
One day we decided to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to the island ofCozumel. When we got off the ferry in Cozumel, it was a very long walk from thedock out to the street so we hailed a bicycle taxi to transport us. After shopping alittle in two or three shops, I knew I had reached my limit. John, recognizing myfatigue, suggested we go into the closest restaurant and have some lunch.
Right after we ordered, John was stunned to look up and see me crying. Reallycrying. Tears and everything. It’s one of those hard to explain situations—but I’ll tryto convey it. As we were ordering, an ‘older’ woman came into the restaurant. Ihonestly don’t mean to be judgmental or critical because I know she was doing herbest, just like I was, but she was wearing a really ugly dress accented by totallyunbecoming sneakers as she worked to make her way to a table. She obviouslyhadn’t been able to wear cute shoes, sandals or flip flops for many years—asituation I can totally relate to. In this unknown woman I saw an older version ofmyself—the self I’m trying so hard to avoid becoming by enduring numerousconsecutive foot surgeries.
In the back of my mind, I could also hear the wise words of our elderly friendEnid, admonishing, “You guys better travel while you can. You never know howlong it will be until you can’t.”
As I write this column, I’m anticipating one more surgery on my leftfoot, which should be completed sometime between December and theend of February. Before that final surgery we have a trip to Cabo sanLucas, Mexico planned—and, from my present vantage point, I knowJulie and Enid were right. Getting old is a state of mind and I canalready sense the benefits I’ll derive from the surgeries that willhelp me remain active and able to enjoy travelling.
My plan is to remain afoot for years to come!© 2016 Jan Keller. No reprint of this article without permission. Jan shares other pieces of her life in her books,
Pieces From My Crazy Quilt, and The Tie That Binds. These books can be ordered by calling 719-749-9797, or writing: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831
E n j o y M o r e o f J a n ’ s C o l u m n sO R D E R H E R B O O K S TO DAY
Life is like a quilt, pieced together from aunique patchwork of memories, friendships,joys, and challenges. In each of these books,
syndicated columnist Jan Keller is down toearth and refreshingly transparent as sheopens the door to life’s dreams, triumphs
and struggles in a heart-warmingway that will touch you forever. You’ll
love the way she spins ‘yarns’ thatweave the pieces of a treasured tapestry into a vivid depiction of life and love.
SPECIAL OFFER! Order both books for just $25 and SAVE Shipping & Handling!
Mail your order to: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831.
Pieces From My Heartby Jan Keller
AfootWhen our youngest son Mickey was about to graduate from high school, I
experienced a bit of a midlife crisis. Up until then, from my naive perspective, I heldthe arbitrary belief that folks who had school-age children were young; but oncetheir children were out of school, they automatically became old.
I expressed my quandary to my friend Julie, who, after patiently listening to myplight, laughed and responded, saying, “Oh Jan, you’re not old, you’ve just beenwrong!” Realizing how wonderful it could be to be wrong, through the years I’veappreciated being able to reflect on Julie’s wisdom.
Over the past two years, I’ve had a series of surgeries. To date it’s been threesurgeries on my right foot, one on my right wrist and one on my left foot—withoutboring you with the details it will suffice to share that all of the procedures were totreat arthritis and pain.
The wrist surgery was a snap, but foot surgeries are challenging and debilitating.Compiling my downtime, I’ve spent well over a year of the past two toting one orthe other of my feet around on a wheeled kart rather than being able to walk.
Last winter, John and I flew into Cancun, Mexico, where we spent a few daysexploring Playa del Carmen and Tulum. I was just getting back on my feet followingone of my foot surgeries and getting around was still a major challenge so weplanned our activities accordingly.
One day we decided to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to the island ofCozumel. When we got off the ferry in Cozumel, it was a very long walk from thedock out to the street so we hailed a bicycle taxi to transport us. After shopping alittle in two or three shops, I knew I had reached my limit. John, recognizing myfatigue, suggested we go into the closest restaurant and have some lunch.
Right after we ordered, John was stunned to look up and see me crying. Reallycrying. Tears and everything. It’s one of those hard to explain situations—but I’ll tryto convey it. As we were ordering, an ‘older’ woman came into the restaurant. Ihonestly don’t mean to be judgmental or critical because I know she was doing herbest, just like I was, but she was wearing a really ugly dress accented by totallyunbecoming sneakers as she worked to make her way to a table. She obviouslyhadn’t been able to wear cute shoes, sandals or flip flops for many years—asituation I can totally relate to. In this unknown woman I saw an older version ofmyself—the self I’m trying so hard to avoid becoming by enduring numerousconsecutive foot surgeries.
In the back of my mind, I could also hear the wise words of our elderly friendEnid, admonishing, “You guys better travel while you can. You never know howlong it will be until you can’t.”
As I write this column, I’m anticipating one more surgery on my leftfoot, which should be completed sometime between December and theend of February. Before that final surgery we have a trip to Cabo sanLucas, Mexico planned—and, from my present vantage point, I knowJulie and Enid were right. Getting old is a state of mind and I canalready sense the benefits I’ll derive from the surgeries that willhelp me remain active and able to enjoy travelling.
My plan is to remain afoot for years to come!© 2016 Jan Keller. No reprint of this article without permission. Jan shares other pieces of her life in her books,
Pieces From My Crazy Quilt, and The Tie That Binds. These books can be ordered by calling 719-749-9797, or writing: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831
E n j o y M o r e o f J a n ’ s C o l u m n sO R D E R H E R B O O K S TO DAY
Life is like a quilt, pieced together from aunique patchwork of memories, friendships,joys, and challenges. In each of these books,
syndicated columnist Jan Keller is down toearth and refreshingly transparent as sheopens the door to life’s dreams, triumphs
and struggles in a heart-warmingway that will touch you forever. You’ll
love the way she spins ‘yarns’ thatweave the pieces of a treasured tapestry into a vivid depiction of life and love.
SPECIAL OFFER! Order both books for just $25 and SAVE Shipping & Handling!
Mail your order to: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831.
Pieces From My Heartby Jan Keller
Jan/Feb 2016 Page 17Jan/Feb 2016Cloquet • Duluth • Grand Rapids • International Falls
Full Service Quilt ShopBeautiful Fabrics • Great Pa9erns & Books
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National Park Service Centennialby Marlene Oddie
Have you found your National Park yet? 2016 is the National Park Service (NPS)Centennial. I grew up visiting Yosemite National Park several times a year. AlthoughI lived on the California coast, our frequent visits to Yosemite are great memoriesfrom my childhood. I now live at the Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area, whichis created by the water backup of the Columbia River behind the Grand Coulee Dam.The National Park areas have always had a soft spot in my heart and I regularly tryto get more cancellations in my Passport to Your National Parks® Program.
A little background, my group leader at Jinny Beyer’s last Hilton Head Seminar in2009 was Ricki Selva. Little did I know what an important connection that wouldbecome. In January 2015, I was attending the Washington State Quilter’s GuildMeeting and Ricki was the guest speaker. As part of her presentation, she talkedabout being one of the 148 artists in an upcoming curated exhibit of 177 piecescelebrating the NPS Centennial. Theartists represent the United States, Canadaand Germany. Some artists are interna-tionally known, others made their first artquilt for this project; the common threadthroughout is that all were inspired by thetimeless beauty of the National Parks.
Although there are hundreds of nationalpark areas, a flora, fauna and landscapequilt has been created for each of the 59National Parks.
After contacting NPS Centennial ExhibitCurator Donna Marcinkowski DeSoto, Ilearned she had recently curated anexhibit of quilts for each of 150 Beatles songs. How fun! We discussed the possibilityof hosting the entire exhibit in our area as part of the NPS Centennial celebrations.
The entire collection will be shared with enthusiastsduring our Festival of America—4th of Julyweekend when fireworks are set off from the topof Grand Coulee Dam. We are honored to bringthese pieces of art to our area and hope to seemany from our region as well as visitors. Theseexhibits have a coffee table style book that canbe purchased and which includes photos of allthe quilts along with personal narratives byrangers and personnel of the National Parks.
You are invited to create a quilt inspired byyour own National Park experiences and share itwith us as part of the show in the Grand CouleeDam area. I’ve been working on a quilt thatdepicts a scene looking out a window from theAhwahnee Hotel in Yosemite. For the latest infor-mation on the show and how you can participate,
visit www.grandcouleedam.org or www.nps.gov/laro.A portion of the exhibit debuted at International Quilt Festival, Houston, in
October 2015. Check http://www.npscentennialquilts.com/ for a current exhibitschedule of the collection.
Marlene Oddie is an engineer by education, project manager by profession and now a quilter by passion inGrand Coulee, WA. She enjoys long-arm quilting on her Gammill Optimum Plus, but especially enjoys designing
quilts and assisting in the creation of a meaningful treasure for the recipient. Follow Marlene’s adventures viaher blog at http://kissedquilts.blogspot.com or on http://www.facebook.com/kissedquilts
Text for bookmarks used in North Pacific editions: Landscape is by Barb Hollinger created to honor RockyMountain National Park. The accompanying image shows the art quilts created to honor Rocky Mountain NationalPark: the landscape is by Barb Hollinger, the aspen is by Nancy Evans, and Catherine Kane depicted a mountain lion.
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Page 18 Jan/Feb 2016Bemidji • Crookston • East Grand Forks • Wilton
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The Fabric of LifeVintage African Indigo Batiks
by Simone GersWhen 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 Batiksfrom Africa. He couldn’t stop gushing about them. And they are beautiful.
I’m a pragmatic person so I loveitems that have multiple purposes andindigo batiks are so inspirational. Ofcourse, they make great shawls andwraps and are fantastic for throws.Some people like the lighter-weightedtextiles for clothing and we like theheavier batiks for the throws. Theybring tablescapes to life and makegorgeous tablecloths for all kinds ofdishes, especially white ironstone andyellow or red Fiestaware. Manypeople are using batiks for pillows,bolsters and upholstery work—and it’sno wonder because the handwork onvintage indigo batiks is inspiring.
Each batik, like a quilt, tells a storythat is handed down from father toson, mother to daughter. Sections ofcloth are composed of individual
motifs such as fish bones, little stars or hunters and each piece has its own uniquetale to tell. There are some themes, like wealth and luxury, calabash flowers (a signof 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 merchantsfrom Indonesia where paste made from starch or mud is used as a resist instead ofwax and the dye is made through a process of grinding indigo plant leaves. Africanbatiks 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 thevalue of the fabric.
I love looking at the batiks andwondering about the families who madethem and what the symbols meant to them.I like to compare the weaves and feel thedifferent textures between my fingers. It’sinteresting to look at the blues next to eachother and wonder how many times eachpiece was dipped to get it to its perfect shade of indigo. I love that each piece isunique. I love watching customers feel the fabrics between their fingers, throw abatik over their shoulders, wrapping themselves in history. And when someonebrings a gorgeous indigo batik up to the register, I wonder what stories will be toldabout this great, one-of-a-kind find and what memories will become enmeshed withthe 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 inTucson, AZ, a monthly market. Simone has taught writing and literature at the college level for many years.
001251323r1
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218-44-2387 - sadieraesquiltshop.comOpen: Wed-Sat 10-5pm Sun 12-4pm
Jan/Feb 2016 Page 19Jan/Feb 2016Happy New Year!
Random Actsby Maranda K. Jones
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, andholiday celebrations. Looking back on those memories, I am relieved those latenights resulted in fun days for children, and I am filled with appreciation for myhelpers. I was overwhelmed with assistance from my colleagues, friends, and fellowhomeroom moms…and of course my own mother. My creative mom fills her dayswith hobbies that reflect her generous nature.
Stamping cards to share with friends and family makes the hours fly by. When Imake cards, I tend to create one design and mass produce it for everyone on mylist. Not my mom. She takes the time and makes the effort to personally create eachcard for the receiving individual. Her attention to detail shows up in every craft shehas 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. Herfriend Carol had her own kiln, and her two sons were like our own brothers. Weplayed for hours while our moms cleaned and painted their latest creations. Once ina while, we were allowed to choose a project from the store too. We were alwaysexcited to join them at the table with scrapers and sponges. There is something verysatisfying about sharing your interests with someone who returns your enthusiasm.
Mom was met with that same enthusiasm when she stopped in a quilt store inHannibal, Missouri on a road trip. While sightseeing, she spotted a snowman quilthanging in the window and thought it would be a welcome addition to her snowmancollection. When she inquired about purchasing it, the shop owner said it was notfor sale, but they did sell all the supplies to make one. She decided right then andthere, “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 crossstitched before. She has sewn costumes, curtains, and crib bumpers. She has quiltingin her blood and the quilts from her grandma to prove it. She found a project shewould see through from beginning to end...literally. She held in her hands thepatterns for each letter of the alphabet with correlated Christmas embroidery work.Visiting with the store owners, she received advice, helpful hints, and gatheredsupplies before heading home with her first quilt.
While chatting with an avid quilting friend, Mom shared her plans for her newproject. Something in her voice indicated that she could use some help. She saidthat every single quilt square is to be embroidered, and that if she could just get itstarted, she would probably finish one a month. Cynthia offered to embroider theindividual pieces. Mom knew Cynthia would carefully stitch each square withperfection and promptly handed over her assignment.
The next time they visited, the embroidery was finished, and Mom’s quilt wasready for the next step. Mom said she would make it to the fabric store soon tomake her choice of material. Cynthia gave her a time and date as she continued tolead her toward completion of her first quilt. When Mom met Cynthia at the Denverstore, she already had a pile of at least ten reds and greens for her to peruse. Momgratefully acknowledged her selections but said she had her favorite color purple inmind. Cynthia said, “Oh, by all means!” They soon found the perfect border fabric,including another purple trim fabric and the backing. Cynthia suggested someoneto finish the quilting and Mom agreed.
Before she knew it, Mom’s first quilt was finished. She didn’t even have to threadone 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 personalexperiences 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 Actsis now available at amazon.com.
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Mom & Me
Winter Word Scramble
Country Register Recipe ExchangeCowboy Caviar
from Kathy Bangsund, Lincoln. NE
3 celery stalks2 green peppers1 lg onion1-2 jalapenos (or more if desired)1 can black olives sliced1 can black beans
Chop celery, green peppers, onion and jalapenos. Put all together and chill overnight. May use for dip with chips or salad!
1 can pinto beans1 can black eye peas1 can whole kernel corn3/4 cup oil3/4 cup vinegar
Page 20 Jan/Feb 2016Happy New Year!
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