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2 Arizona
DisclaimerArticles published in this newspaper, which are contributed from an outside source, express the
opinions of their authors only and may not express the viewpoint(s) of the management or staff of The Country Register. Such articles that are accepted for publication herein may be edited at the sole discretion of the publisher.
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THE COUNTRY REGISTER, Months of Dec 17- Jan 18.THE COUNTRY REGISTER is published every other month. Copyright 2017-18.Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited by law. 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085. Subscription price: 1 Year, 6 Issues, $18.00. Single copies: $3.00. The paper is furnished free to the customers at each advertiser.THE COUNTRY REGISTER is registered as a business trade name and also a trademark in the State of Arizona.
The Deadline for the Feb-March Issue is Jan 2nd for Ads & Articles.
Our feature articles will focus onQuilting, Sewing & Needlework
Index for Dec-Jan 2018Special Events .......................................................... 3-4, 7, 10-11Scrapbooking, Paper Arts, Jewelry & Beading ...........................5Pine & Payson • Camp Verde • Tucson • Globe & Miami .............6Farmers Market .........................................................................7 Cave Creek ...............................................................................7Plain Country Ads .....................................................................8Phoenix .............................................................................8, 9 12Scottsdale ............................................................................8, 12Mesa ..............................................................................8 , 13-14Glendale ...................................................................................8Historic Downtown Glendale & Catlin Court ...................... 10-11Goodyear ................................................................................ 12Chandler ................................................................................. 13Fiber Arts, Yarn, Knitting & Needlework .................................. 15Quilting, Sewing & Needlework Special Events .............16-19, 28Quilting, Sewing & Needlework .......................................... 20-27
Adrieanna GastonOffice Assistant
Barb [email protected]
Lolly KoneckyPublisher/Art [email protected]
Patty DuncanSales/Office Assistant
The Arizona Country Register is published by:
Phyllis CypertSales/Office Assistant
The Country Register of Arizona515 E Carefree Hwy #1128 • Phoenix, AZ 85085
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USA Alabama: Beverly Bainbridge, 218 Kingsview Drive, Weirton, WV 26062, 304-723-8934 * Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950 * Arkansas: Lenda & Richard Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone/fax 405-470-2597 * California and N. Nevada: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950 Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797* Connecticut: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL, 888-616-8319* Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, 706-340-1049* Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028* Idaho (S) WA & E. OR: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* Illinois: Lenda & Richard Brown,, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone/fax 405-470-2597 * Indiana: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL, 888-616-8319 Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA 52339, 641-751-2619* Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, 866-966-9815* Kentucky: Brandie Ledford, PO Box 458, Marion KY 420645, 712-660-2569* Maine: Gail Hageman, 221 Winslow Rd, Albion, ME 04910, 207-437-2663* Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Massachusetts-RI: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217 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, 763-754-1661* Missouri: Lenda & Richard Brown,, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone/fax 405-470-2597 * Montana: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028 * Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* Nevada (N): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 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, 603-463-3703* New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL, 888-616-8319 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, 866-825-9217* N. Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028 * Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, 937-652-1157* Oklahoma: Lenda & Richard Brown,, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone/fax 405-470-2597 * Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Rhode Island: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217 * S. Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028* Tennessee: Brandie Ledford, PO Box 458, Marion KY 420645, 712-660-2569* Texas: Lenda & Richard Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, phone/fax 405-470-2597 Utah: Call 602-237-6008* Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Washington & E. OR & S. ID: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ, 85085, 602-942-8950* West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217* Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, 715-838-9426 * Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028
CANADA* Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0, (780) 889-3776 British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, BC, V0H 1Z0, 800-784-6711* Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, 306-736-2441* Ontario: Harriet Ramos, 115-1803 St. Joseph Blvd. Orleans, ON K1C 6E7, 613-424-6420
Cover Art“Red Bow Snowman”
by Monica Sabolla GruppoCover artist Monica Sabolla Gruppo was born and raised in Italy, where she
inherited the love for brushes and colors from her maternal grandfather, an award-winning painter. Monica has spent 20+ years nurturing her creative soul through painting, crafting and photography. Always growing and evolving, experimenting and trying new techniques, she eventually decided to “answer her calling” and devote herself to painting as a full time profession.
Monica lives in Italy with her beloved husband and their sweet Golden Retriever. She is passionate about infusing creativity, beauty and inspiration in every aspect of her life.
Monica’s artwork is licensed by Linda McDonald, Inc., Charlotte, NC, 704-370-0057.
Dec-Jan 18 3Special Events
AZ Renaissance Festival Celebrates30 Years in 2018 at Merriest of Events
Hear Ye! Hear Ye! The Arizona Renaissance Festival will celebrate 30 years of cheers in 2018 and merriment will abound! Get ready to be transported back to the 16th century as one of the largest and most picturesque Renaissance Festivals in the nation presents raucous revelry in Gold Canyon below the foothills of the Superstition Mountains. The unique trip back in time takes place every Saturday and Sunday from February 10 through April 1, including Presidents’ Day on February 19. Hours are 10
a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine. Not even in her wildest dreams
would Queen Elizabeth have imagined a celebration such as this! The Festival is a place to revel in the atmosphere of a 16th century European village featuring whimsical castles, cottages and pubs! The thirty acres are filled with thirteen stages of nonstop entertainment: music, comedy, falconry, dance, mermaids and acrobatics. Prepare for new shows and returning favorites.
Foolish pleasures mix with artisan treasures as you shop, eat and mingle with a cast of nearly 2,000 colorfully costumed characters. Explore the village marketplace with over 200 storybook shops, studios and galleries filled with unique arts and crafts, handmade wares, kitchens and pubs, games and people-powered rides.
Kids love the interactive games and people-powered rides: Da Vinci’s Flying Machine, The Slider Joust, Piccolo Pony—a rocking horse bigger than an elephant, the Dragon Climbing Tower, Castle Siege, the Maze, Archery Range and much more!
The live jousting tournaments are one of the Festival’s most popular attractions. Armored knights on charging steeds take up their lances and battle for the queen’s honor. Cheer on your favorite lancer at one of the three daily jousting tournaments in the 5,000-seat arena.
In addition to the revelry, the Festival offers food fit for a king. You’ll want to reserve your seat at the Pleasure Feast—the most exclusive event within the Festival with a five-course dinner and variety show. Be treated like a true Royal while you savor fine food, ample drynk and enjoy an hour and a half of raucous Renaissance entertainment at its best! The Pleasure Feast, held twice daily, includes admission to the Festival and a special edition Pleasure Feast goblet. Advance reservations are recommended.
Food is plentiful and available throughout the village. The menu is diverse with such offerings as steak-on-a-stake, vegetable and meat pies, pastas, and bread bowls filled with hearty stews and more. And who can forget the smoked turkey legs?! The desserts are decadent; try the crepes or a variety of other sweet treat surprises!
Advance tickets: save time when tickets are purchased on-line at RenFestInfo.com, or save with discount tickets purchased at Fry’s Food stores statewide. Discount ticket prices are Adults $24.00, children 5-12 $14.00 when purchased at Fry’s Food stores, children under 5 are always FREE. Tickets purchased at the Festival are two dollars more. Senior discount tickets are $23.00 for those 60 and older, available only on Festival days at the front gate ticket booth.
The Arizona Renaissance Festival site is located at 12601 East US Hwy 60 just past Gold Canyon Golf Resort. From Tucson, the Festival is west of Florence Junction on US Hwy 60. Parking is Free courtesy of Fry’s Food Stores. There are many ways to SAVE on admission. Visit http://arizona.renfestinfo.com and Like or Follow on Facebook for special offers, information and contests or call 520-463-2700.
Free Ticket GiveawayThe Country Register is giving away free tickets to the 2018 Arizona Renaissance
Festival to a few lucky readers. Just email your name and mailing address to [email protected]. Put Arizona Renaissance Festival in the subject line. The drawing will be held February 1 and the winners will receive their tickets in the mail.
We will also be giving away tickets on our Facebook page to some lucky readers. Go to The Country Register of Arizona and “Like” us, watch for the announcement and leave a comment to become a winner.
4 ArizonaSpecial Events
Building Harmony
Christmas 2017 - A Christmas Turkeyby Jeff Cappis
My neighbor Renee came over last Christmas with an unusual offer. He wanted to know if I was interested in a free turkey. Now, a free turkey at Christmas isn’t that unusual, in fact, it can make for a nice gift. No, this turkey was different. Renee took me over to his car and we peered through the windows.
It was a live turkey. A big live turkey. Live and animated. He was going berserk and tearing up Renee’s upholstery. He pecked at the buttons on the dash. Feathers were flying everywhere inside. The car was rocking and then the bird discovered the horn.
“His name is Clyde,” said Renee with a wince. The horn went off again and Renee banged hard on the car. “Give it a rest you bird
from hell!” Then he regained his composure. “Clyde likes going for rides. It gets him excited”Yup, Clyde was a full-grown living turkey. “What are you doing with a live turkey?” I asked. Renee had never struck me as the
livestock type. “Well, it’s a long story,” he replied. Then Clyde locked the doors. “Guess I have
time.” As the headlights began flashing on and off, Renee began it tell me the story of Clyde...
Mr. Andolini down the road decided that the family was going to have the best turkey of their lives for Christmas later that year. The traditional Christmas dinner with everybody around the table was his favorite time of year and being Italian, he fancied himself a great cook.
He started by going to a local turkey farm and bought a chick. Not very old, the chick fit into a small cage and Andolini placed him in the front seat for the ride back to the acreage. The bird chirped and jumped around as he looked out the window. Andolini thought it was cute. The bird loves to ride in cars.
He didn’t have any kind of a coop and he was concerned about wild animals, so he decided to raise the turkey in his garage. It was a two-car garage. Kind of free range. Lots of room for a turkey. He was sure that Mrs. Andolini wouldn’t mind and the turkey didn’t look like it would take up much room. It would only be until Christmas.
Clyde took to the garage right away. He had his own comfortable bed and lots of feed. He started to grow. Over the following months he ate everything Andolini brought out to him and more. He produced a lot of, uh, fertilizer, too.
This would get harder to clean up as he got bigger because Clyde also became grossly territorial. At first he would nip at anyone who entered the garage. He got Mrs. Andolini cornered once as he flapped up a storm and made hideous gobbling noises at her. She was really afraid of him.
One time she had to go grocery shopping. She quietly entered the garage and gently got into her car. No Clyde, no problem. She figured Clyde must have been sleeping and she was right. Ten minutes later he woke up. In the back seat.
Continued on next page...
Dec-Jan 18 5Gems, Beading & Jewelry • Scrapbooking, Stamps & Paper Arts
Locals reported seeing a car swerving down the road with the lights flashing and feathers flying out the windows. It would take Mrs. Andolini four months before she would drive again.
Sometimes he would grab Andolini’s broom as he tried to clean up the scat, other times he would follow Andolini around and nip at his butt. The place began to stink and nobody would go in the garage. They parked the cars outside and still checked the back seat before they got in. Clyde made a racket all night long and kept the Andolinis up.
One morning, at the breakfast table, a very frazzled Mrs. Andolini gently explained to Mr. Andolini that if he didn’t go in the garage and kill that bird, no one would get Christmas dinner because Clyde would be full of buckshot! Then she took a breath, sipped her tea and gave her husband the eye.
Now Andolini was faced with something he hadn’t given much thought to. He would have to kill Clyde, and he’d never killed anything in his life. If he was going to keep his dream of a fantastic family Christmas dinner, he would have to do something brutal. So he did.
He called Renee and offered him a free Christmas turkey.As ornery and mean (and plump) as Clyde had become, Andolini had raised him. To
kill a kind of family member like that at Christmas didn’t feel right. Better to let Renee do it.
The Andolinis did have a great family Christmas dinner in the end and the store bought turkey was delicious. All is well that ends well and a very Christmas.
“So why did you take the turkey?” I asked Renee.“Being French, I fancied myself a great cook.” Then he smiled a little bit. “Problem is, over the last few weeks I’ve gotten to know
him. Besides, it’s Christmas.” We had a sentimental pause, then the radio in the car began blaring different radio
stations and the trunk popped open. “I’ll eat him in January.”Copyright 2017 by Jeff Cappis Email: [email protected].
Christmas Turkey, continued from previous page...
6 Arizona
plate 6Pine & Payson • Camp Verde • Tucson • Globe & Miami
Marie, Friendship & Sugar Cookiesby Renee Groom
There are many moments during this time of year that I think of my elderly friend, Marie. Marie has been gone for a couple of years now. Our friendship was somewhat not the norm—she was some 30 years older than I and never a mom.
When we moved into our home, Marie and her husband Chuck lived next door with their two cats. We must have seemed like a storm that blew in with my husband and I, our four very busy boys and our dogs. In the early days, while we unpacked and got settled, we saw them watching from the distance. And, we always said hi. It wasn’t long before we were all fast friends.
Marie and Chuck adopted our boys and our boys treated them as grandparents, doing little chores like mowing their lawn, taking the garbage to the curb and so on. Marie always commented that she didn’t know how I did it, running here and there trying my hardest to keep up with my little herd. She seemed to be more reflective after the bustle of the holiday season. The invites to come for tea and cookies came more often as the grey days of winter came in endless streams. Her favorites were German Chamomile tea and Sugar Cookies.
Marie was of German descent and loved to share that her beloved Sugar Cookies originated from Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and can be traced back to the 1700s. Originally they were an unleavened cookie the German Protestant settlers called “jumbles,” which was more of a biscuit that could be stored for many months, similar to the English crumpet. When researching her account, I discovered that the sugar cookie was actually adopted as the Pennsylvania Nazareth Sugar Cookie by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
I can think of no better way to pass away those grey days than with a pot of tea, fresh baked Sugar Cookies and memories of a sweet friend.
Renee Groom lives in Washington State with her husband, Tom, and describes herself as a wife, mom, mother-in-law, granny, friend, speaker, writer, accidental photographer, woman of faith and cowgirl interrupted. Follow her on Facebook at Stories From The Back Road and on her blog – A Cowgirl Called at https://renegroom.com/.
Drop Sugar CookiesCourtesy Cooksrecipes.com
Old-fashioned sugar cookies that are rolled into balls and then pressed flat to bake.4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 cup butter, softened1 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar1 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon almond extractSugar for rolling (plain or colored)Cooking Directions: Preheat oven 375°F (190°C).Combine flour, baking soda and cream of tartar, mixing well; set aside.With electric mixer, cream sugars, oil and butter. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until
lightened in color. Stir in flour mixture just until mixed.Roll into 1-inch balls. Roll in sugar place on non-stick baking sheets about 2-inches
apart and flatten with fork in criss-cross pattern.Bake for approximately 10 minutes. Transfer to wire
racks to cool completely. Store in tightly sealed container.Makes 6 dozen cookies.
Dec-Jan 18 7
plate 7
Farmer’s Markets • Cave Creek
Arizona Winter EventsDecember/January 2017-2018
Peoria’s Old Town Holiday FestivalDecember 1st, 5:00-10:00pmOld Town Peoria (Peoria & Grand Avenues)Free admission & parkingFor more information: call 623-773-7137Or visit peoriaaz.gov/specialevents
Desert Club presents the 60th AnnualChristmas Idea HouseDec 1st & 2nd, Fri 3-9pm, Sat 9am-5pm20464 E Riggs Rd, Queen CreekLuxury Home Tour & Holiday Shopping EventAdmission $12 or $10 with canned food donationFor more information visit www.christmasideahouse.org
Holiday Craft FairDecember 2nd, 9:00am – 3:00pmScottsdale United Methodist Church4140 N Miller Rd, ScottsdaleFor information email – [email protected]
33rd Annual F.Q. StoryHome Tour & Holiday Street Fair MarketplaceDecember 2nd & 3rd, Sat 6:00-9:00pm, Sun 11:00am-4:00pmFrom 7th to 17th Avenues on Willetta Street$15 admission – Tickets sold - Corner of 9th Ave & Willetta StVisit Facebook page – FQ Story Historic Home Tour
Yuma Potpourri Artists Arts & Crafts ShowDecember 8-10, Fri & Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 10am-3pmThe Yuma County Fairgrounds – Theatre Bldg2520 E 32nd St, YumaFor more information visit www.yumapotpourriartists.orgOr call Timothy at 928-329-8634
Christmas in the Park - City of Litchfield ParkDecember 9th, 9:00am-4:00pmWigwam Blvd & Old Litchfield RdFree admission & parkingFor more information: 623-935-9040 or www.litchfield-park.org
Rustic Cloud BoutiqueDecember 9th, 10:00am-4:00pm22394 E. Cloud Rd, Queen CreekFree admissionSanta Claus. Campfire. Pony RidesVisit the Facebook page for more information
26th Annual Greenway HS Band & Orchestra Craft FairDecember 9th & 10th, Sat 9:00am-3:00pm, Sun 9:00am-2:00pmGreenway High School3930 W. Greenway Rd (Entrance on 41st Ave.)Car Show Sunday, 12/10Free Admission
Upscale Singers’ 12th Annual Holiday Concert, “Songs of the Season”December 10th & 17th, Concerts begin at 5:00pmDesert Hills Presbyterian Church 34605 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdaleat Scottsdale Road & Carefree HighwayRekindle and create Christmas memories with a medley of popular, lighthearted and sacred music of the seasonUnder the artistic direction of Margaret WatsonAdults-$20, Students-$10, Children-$7, 12 & underFor more information: go to www.upscalesingers.com or call 480-575-0811
Doll Show & Sale presented by Dolls & Friends Doll ClubJanuary 20, 2018 – 10am-3pmSt. Katherine’s Greek Orthodox Center2716 N Dobson Rd, ChandlerAdmission - $5, Children 12 & under – FreeFree ParkingVisit the Facebook page for more information
Yuma Potpourri Artists Arts & Crafts ShowJanuary 26-28, 2018 - Fri & Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 10am-3pmThe Yuma County Fairgrounds – Theatre Bldg2520 E 32nd St, YumaFor more information visit www.yumapotpourriartists.orgOr call Timothy at 928-329-8634
8 Arizona
plate 8
Phoenix • Scottsdale • Mesa • Glendale • Plain Country Ads
Kids’ Cooking Classes AvailableAt EG Market Café in North Phoenix
by Nancy WilliamsLes Petit Cuisine Kids’ Cooking Classes are available at the EG Market Café at
Everything Goes in North Phoenix. Geared to ages 8 to 16, the Saturday morning classes feature new themes each week and the current series is timed perfectly for the upcoming holidays.
Current dates and menus are: Swedish-ish on November 25, Snow Day Food on December 2, Holiday Party on December 9, and Holiday Treats on December 16. Classes are held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and class size is limited. The cost is $40 per class per child or $35 per class per child when signed up for two or more classes. The fee includes instruction, food to sample and food to take home. Payment is due prior to the start of class.
Stephanie Williams is the cooking instructor. Stephanie loves to cook and bake and enjoys sharing that love with others. Teaching kids how to cook began as a fun activity in her home with her son Parker, now 14, and her daughter Lily, now 11. As their friends began to join in and more kids were interested, it was time to move out of her kitchen into a bigger space and offer classes to even more youngsters. And that is how Les Petit Cuisine began.
Stephanie says, “My goal is to teach kids to make delicious homemade recipes from scratch just like my grandma taught me, using tried and true techniques. Ultimately I want them to be able to put ingredients together without a recipe, creating dishes by taste and trial. The feeling of accomplishment the kids get from creating these recipes by hand is priceless.”
In addition to kids’ classes at EG Market Café, Stephanie hopes to offer adult cooking classes soon.
She is also available for in-house cooking parties for both kids and adults and is finalizing specialized dietary menus to offer at these events as needed.
The Kids’ Cooking Classes are ongoing and each six-week series, including dates and menus, is posted in advance on Instagram @ lespetitcuisineaz. To learn more, email Stephanie at lespetitcuisine@gmail or call her at 602-617-8107.
EG Market Café is located in Everything Goes at the Original Shops on Cave Creek Road, 11649 N. Cave Creek Road. The Café serves delicious food, locally made baked goods and snacks, hot or iced coffee or tea and products you might recognize from local farmers markets that you can enjoy in a great atmosphere or take them home. To learn more visit www.everythinggoesaz.com.
ReadeRs: Yes, you can advertise in our “Plain Country Ads”. The 2” x 2” space to reach 30,000 readers is $35.00 Mail your ad &
check to: The Country Register 515 E Carefree Hwy #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085 (602) 942-8950
Next deadline is Jan 1, 2018Not for shops or shows. Great place to find crafters.
Plain Country Ads
Find It, Buy It, Sell It , Tell It, Trade It.
Cranberry BreadCourtesy Cooksrecipes.com
Recipe Ingredients:2 cups whole wheat flour 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter 1 tablespoon grated orange rind 1 1/2 cups orange juice 2 large eggs 2 cups fresh cranberries, coarsely chopped 1 cup nuts, chopped 2/3 cup raisinsCooking Directions:Sift dry ingredients. Cut in butter until coarse meal. Combine rind, orange juice and
eggs; add to dry ingredients and mix to moisten. Fold in berries, nuts and raisins. Turn into greased and floured 9 x 5-inch bread pans.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 60 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then turn out on rack to finish cooling.
Makes 1 loaf.
Dec-Jan 18 9Phoenix
10 Arizona
plate 5
Historic Downtown Glendale & Catlin Court
The Day I Learned the Truth about Santa Claus
by Kerri HabbenWhen the little things of the world catch up with us, we cease to sense our truest
dreams. Therein lies the tragedy of relinquishing our best selves without any real resistance.
Which is when Santa Claus, Father Christmas or St. Nicholas becomes a healer of sorts. Absurdly, it is easier to write a letter to an imaginary man in a red suit with elves and flying reindeer than it is to confess that we have lost part of ourselves in the details of our lives.
I understand that Santa Claus is a secular part of Christmas. Yet Santa’s story has a universal quality to it. He gives to every child, everywhere. All he asks is if you’ve been a good girl or boy this year. Which means that a sincere heart and kind actions matter most to him. His philosophy brings the Golden Rule to life before our very eyes.
Pure joy is an affirming emotion to witness in someone of any age. In a child there is precious and refreshing innocence to it. When someone more immersed in the light and dark of our world retains that particular essence and it shines from within them, it is achingly, enduringly beautiful. It doesn’t necessarily mean that life was always kind to them; instead the exact opposite could be true. It simply means that they found a way to hold onto what many others gradually lose. Perhaps joy becomes an even greater treasure when we’ve experienced or imagined how empty life would be without it.
If we can extend our imagination as we did when we were children, in taking that leap of faith we remember how to dream with a youthful spirit. We may also yet find our better selves through giving and sharing with each other. In that essence I offer the following poem, originally published in an anthology entitled Looking For Santa.
I hope that whatever holiday your heart embraces, this poem adds joy to this season and a smile to your face.
To Dance With Santa‘Twas some time before Christmas,late in Oktoberfest to be exact,when as the strains of a waltz swirled,I waited wistful and wearybeside a river journeying on its way.Suddenly inside, the song shifted-the simmering sound of Patsy Cline’s Crazyshimmered through the doorway,showering me with its unabridged lament.Who should appear, as I pondered imponderables,but Santa Claus, dressed all in redfrom head to toe like a true Father Christmas.“Perhaps you would dance with me,”offered he, gently and quietly.From around myself, I unwrapped my arms,stepped away from the night and the chilltoward the light and Santa himself.I let the water carry my doubt away as accepted Santa’s white-gloved hand.As we danced, I remembered how to dream.The next evening I saw Santa once more.He, kindly helping to clean tables,was dressed from head to toein cap and overalls.And the truth-after all I’d heard speculation over the years-washed over me. Now I knew. Even Santa has to take his suit to the cleanersevery once in awhile.Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer 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 [email protected].
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12 ArizonaScottsdale • Phoenix • Goodyear
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Countdown to Christmasby Lydia E. Harris
One of the traditions our family enjoys during December is counting down to Christmas using Advent calendars. When our children were young, we purchased colorful paper calendars with 25 windows that opened to reveal festive scenes. Now, for our younger grandchildren, we buy calendars with chocolate candy behind each window. Occasionally I’ve made personalized calendars with treats each person will enjoy.
Although I’m usually the one giving Advent calendars, last year I received one in the mail from my friend Barbara. I was so pleased with her TEA-lightful Advent gift that I wanted to share the idea with you.Countdown with Tea
Barbara knows I love tea, so she made my Advent calendar with teabags, nuts and candy. She used dark-blue cotton fabric with snowflakes for the calendar, added a wooden dowel across the top, and made a hanger of twine. (Further directions follow.) Then she stapled on a few treats wrapped in cellophane or placed in small clear bags. Mostly she added delicious, individually packaged tea blends in colorful wrappings. She included some with a Disney theme, which delighted my young granddaughter.
Each day I selected a gift—usually a teabag to enjoy with my husband at a meal or teatime. But on days when my grandkids came over, they chose their favorite tea or treat.
Do you know a tea enthusiast who would like a tea-themed Advent calendar? If so, you’ll find festive teas in grocery stores and online. (See holiday teas listed with instructions to make an Advent calendar.)
If individuals on your list would prefer something besides tea, attach small treats and gifts or add encouraging and affirming notes on their calendars. This makes every day special as they count down to Christmas.Countdown with Prayer
To keep our extended family connected across the miles, we count down to Christmas with prayer. Each of the first 25 days in December includes names of family members
along with requests to pray for them. I gather each person’s requests around Thanksgiving and e-mail the list to everyone. Families with young children sometimes make a red and green paper chain with family names to pray for. Then they tear off a loop each day to help their children see how many days remain until Christmas. We believe prayer is the best gift we can give each other. You might say we decorate our family tree with prayer. Countdown with Simplici-TEA
I recall Decembers when I felt panic instead of experiencing the Prince of Peace. I realized it was time to cut back on holiday preparations to reduce stress. So when our kids were preteens, we held a Christmas planning night and talked about what was most important to our family. What traditions
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Dec-Jan 18 13Chandler • Mesa
should we continue or eliminate? We couldn’t make every kind of Christmas cookie, so each selected a favorite to bake. We couldn’t decorate every room in our home, so they shared which decorations meant the most to them and helped decorate.
If you feel stressed, list your Christmas activities and traditions and consider which ones you could omit. During the busy holiday season, less is often more.
This year, as I count down to December 25 and pray for family members, I want to relax with a cup of holiday tea and bask in the true meaning of Christmas.* Won’t you join me?
*An excellent resource for the Christmas season is Preparing My Heart for Advent by Ann Marie Stewart.
Lydia E. Harris holds a master’s degree in home economics and wrote the book Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting (AMG Publishers). Her grandchildren call her “Grandma Tea.”
From Lydia’s Idea File: How to Make a TEA-lightful Advent CalendarSupplies for each calendar: 12 x 18-inch piece of fabric 14-inch piece of dowel (about 1/3-inch thick) 20-in piece of string for hanger (twine, ribbon, or yarn) 25 colorful teabags Small bags of candy and nuts, optionalDirections: 1. Select festive fabric for the calendar. A darker color displays the teabags well. 2. Cut fabric into a rectangle about 12 x 18 inches. Leave sides unfinished or hem
with narrow seams.3. Fold fabric down 1 1/2 inches across the top to make a casing for the dowel. Stitch
by hand or sewing machine.4. Sew a narrow hem across the bottom. 5. Select a verse or saying to display across the top. Mine from Barbara included the
words of Zephaniah 3:17 typed on white paper and glued at the top of the calendar.6. Add a cord of your choice for hanging, attached to each end of the inserted dowel.7. Select 25 tea bags and staple or tape them on in rows. It’s fine to include several
of the same kind. For loose tea or teabags not individually wrapped, place in a clear plastic bag and label. You can add numbers from 1 to 25 on the bags, but I prefer to let individuals select their own blend each day.
8. If desired, prepare small bags with treats to replace some of the tea bags. For example, fill bags with 2 or 3 candy kisses or a few nuts. Or add a small candy cane or individual candies that come wrapped in cellophane. To make your own bags, use snack-sized baggies that reseal. Cut them in half vertically. Seal the cut sides with clear tape. The tops will still zip shut. You can also purchase small bags at craft stores.
9. Mail your TEA-lightful Advent calendar before Thanksgiving to make certain it arrives before December.
10. Simple variations: 1. Make your Advent calendar on tag board instead of fabric. 2. Cut about a yard of 4-inch-wide ribbon. Staple the top around a craft ring for hanging. Fasten 25 teabags or other items onto the ribbon.
Holiday teas are available in stores and online. Here are some I found:• White Christmas, Holiday Tea (Harney & Sons)• Christmas Tea, Winter Spice (Twinings)• Christmas Morning, Christmas Eve, Christmas Chai, Holiday Mint (Stash)• Candy Cane Lane, Cranberry Vanilla Wonderland, Nutcracker Sweet, Sugar Cookie
Sleigh Ride, Gingerbread Spice, Sugar Plum Spice (Celestial Seasonings)• Comfort and Joy, Cranberry Spice Hibiscus: Merry and Bright Herb Tea, Downton
Abbey: Downton Christmas Tea (Republic of Tea)• Eggnogg’n, Ginger Snappish, Peppermint Bark (Bigelow)
Find Lydia’s recipe for Candy Cane Crispies on page 22.
Countdown to Christmas, continued from previous page...
14 ArizonaMesa
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Dec-Jan 18 15Fiber Arts, Yarn, Knitting & Needlework
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THE FIBER FACTORYThe Southwest’s Most Complete Yarn Shop
Yarn, accessories, equipment & classes for: Knitting, Weaving, Spinning, Crochet, Tatting, Basketry, Navajo weaving & Bobbin Lace
216 W. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 85201www.fi berfactory.com
email: yarn@fi berfactory.com
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Ann’s Lovin’ Ewe
Presents and Presenceby Ann Stewart
“No gifts please. Your presents is all we request.”We knew what the invitation meant, but the spelling error made us chuckle at the
oxymoron.As a kid, I couldn’t fathom why grownups said, “No presents.” What? That was a part
of what made Christmas so fun! The anticipation, the mad scramble of ripping paper, then diving into a box to find hidden treasure. As I grew older, the quantity of presents decreased as their monetary value increased. Still, what became even more significant was time spent with friends and family.
Especially after I married and moved to Virginia, reuniting with Seattle friends was my favorite gift. One Christmas when my dad was diagnosed with cancer, we joined together not knowing if his next Christmas would be in heaven. It was. That Christmas no present could compare with the presence of Dad. What I would give for one more Christmas with him.
Of course, having two little girls meant we enjoyed watching them tear into gifts and squeal in surprise at their treasures. But later they, too, preferred the presence of family. “Don’t give us gifts this year, it’s present enough to fly to Seattle.” Now that they are both in college, we all look forward to their coming home for the holidays more than anything else.
So what do I give my precious friends and relatives? Here are a few simple ideas to make presents the gift of presence.
Mason Jar Memories To Make: Two friends gave me a mason jar and as many slips of paper as my age. We wrote one thing we’d like to do together on each slip of paper. That lunch hour was spent creating a bucket list of sorts!
Coupon For Event: Another time, my two daughters gave me a coupon for our trio to get a pedicure. Unfortunately, I broke my toe, one daughter bruised hers and the other had to have surgery so our salon visit is on hold! Perhaps the idea came from the coupon booklets they would receive at Christmas with twelve seasonal activities to do over the next year. Now the sisters no longer exchange gifts but purchase an event they can do together. They value presence more than a gift. This Christmas, their cousins are reuniting in Seattle and, instead of exchanging gifts, they are opting for an evening out together. These young adults are going to have a great time making memories together.
Calendar of Memories: Each Christmas I give my mom a calendar made from pictures taken of her grandchildren and her. It’s not expensive to have these made, but it’s her favorite gift, proudly displayed on her kitchen wall for all to see and for her to brag about.
Coupon Care Package: When my youngest was still at home, she’d give her college-aged sister a coupon For Care Packages To Be Mailed Throughout The Year, Spreading Christmas Cheer All Year Long.
Stockings of Consumables: My mom, two sisters-in-law, and I sit by the fire on Christmas morning and exchange stockings filled with consumables: soap, chocolate, lotion, lip gloss and, sometimes, used items we treasure but know someone else would appreciate more. Spending Christmas morning together sharing little gifts, our lives and love is probably one of my favorite traditions.
What do you do at Christmas that shows you appreciate the presence of others? I’d love to hear about it. Respond on my website www.AnnMarieStewart.com or Facebook: Stars in the Grass.
This September, my favorite birthday gift was the announcement that Stars in the Grass is one of three finalists for the Christy Award for First Novel. In November, I fly to Nashville to enjoy the Gala Awards. Stay tuned for further updates! And if you are looking to purchase a simple Christmas gift, Stars in the Grass makes a GREAT Christmas present. C 2017
Editor’s Note: Congratulations to Ann Stewart for her debut novel being chosen as a finalist for this prestigious award!
16 ArizonaQuilting, Sewing & Needlework Special Events
Tucson Quilters Guild Presents 2018 Quilt Fiesta! February 16, 17 & 18
by Nancy WilliamsThe Tucson Quilters Guild presents its 2018 Quilt Fiesta! on February 16, 17 and 18
at the Tucson Convention Center, 260 South Church Street. The theme is “Ruby Jubilee” in honor of the Guild’s 40th Annual Quilt Show and a focus on red and white colors will add to the festivities of the event.
Nearly 400 quilts plus other quilted items displaying a variety of techniques will be featured including more than 100 red and white quilts. Some items will be for sale. Over 200 quilts will be judged by nationally noted quilters Judy Taylor and Lynn Kough. There will also be Viewer’s Choice awards presented on Sunday after voting on Friday and Saturday.
The three-day event will feature demonstrations, vendors, speakers and a variety of activities, all of which are free with admission to the show. Door prizes will be given out throughout the show and all paid admissions get a drawing ticket—you must be present to win.
Hours for the show are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 for all day or $20 for a three-day pass; children under 14 are admitted free. The Show has Halls B & C at the Convention Center and tickets will be sold inside near the entrance doors next to the escalators on the entry level. Food and beverages will be provided by several different food trucks.
“Star Light, Star Bright” is the beautiful award-winning red and white reversible 2018 Show raffle quilt. It received an Honorable Mention at the 2017 Quilt Fiesta! and 2nd Place at the Arizona Quilters Guild 2017 show. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and the drawing will be held at the end of the show on Sunday. The winner does not need to be present.
Dixie McBride, a well-known award winning quilter who teaches at guilds, regional and national events, is the show’s guest speaker. Dixie’s topics are “Garage Sale Heirlooms” and the “Quilt Judges and Jurors, Who Are They?”
Chosen by Guild members, the featured quilters—one featured each day—are Dr. Susan Franklin, Paulette Worman and Cathy Dargel
A Small Quilt Auction will take place throughout the Show with donated 100” overall or smaller sized quilts being sold either at Buy Me Now prices or through a silent auction ending on Sunday afternoon. Proceeds will be donated to two charities—Literacy Connect and its subsidiary, Reading Seed.
A Vintage Quilt Turning will be on display with twenty antique red and white quilts, all made prior to 1950. A special Kids Row will be held again this year showing about a dozen quilts made by children, some of which are their first attempt at quilting.
Certified Quilt Appraiser Bobbie Aug will be at Quilt Fiesta 2018 to do quilt appraisals. Information, pricing and forms are available on the Guild’s website: www.tucsonquiltersguild.com.
Tucson Quilt Guild is a 501 C7 non-profit and all money raised at the Show goes to support Guild activities and community service. It is the Guild’s only moneymaking activity. The Guild’s purpose is to perpetuate the art of quilting and to encourage and stimulate interest in this art form. Every member is asked to learn, teach, share skills, and participate with fellow members to the fullest extent possible.
To learn more about 2018 Quilt Fiesta! and the Guild, go to www.tucsonquiltersguild.com or Like or Follow the group on Facebook.
Dec-Jan 18 17Quilting, Sewing & Needlework Special Events
AZ Quilters Hall of Fame
Hall of Fame Quilt Show Ribbonsby Mary Lucille
With the New Year, we have so many opportunities to enjoy quilt shows throughout Arizona—particularly in the warmer areas of our state. At most of these shows, you will find a quilt with a beautiful ribbon from the Arizona Quilters Hall of Fame (AQHOF). In 2017 24 Hall of Fame award ribbons were presented. These special recognitions have been given for several years and we thought you might like to know how it works.
Jan Pederson is the AQHOF board member who currently oversees the program. She keeps in contact with continuing shows and is always on the lookout for any new shows. About two weeks before a show’s opening date, Jan will send a packet of information to the show committee. Inside are the ribbon and a letter explaining that the award is completely up to the show committee. They may make the decision themselves or ask a longtime guild member or show judge to handle the honor—it’s totally up to them! All we ask is that the recipient’s quilt exemplify quilting in Arizona.
Also in the packet is an information form regarding the winner and a request for a photo to feature on our website and newsletter. The ribbon winner also is given a free one year Friend Membership to the AQHOF (which includes the privilege of voting on new inductees!) and she or he is invited to attend the Annual Induction Luncheon in the fall and receive compliments as their quilt is displayed in the room.
This is a great—and growing—program that recognizes the creativity and skill of our Arizona Quilters If your show does not yet participate, please contact Jan via our website: arizonaquiltershalloffame.org. See you at the show!
Mary Lucille is an Arizona Quilter’s Hall of Fame board member. Her shop, Zoe’s Trunk in Chandler served quilters of all ages and levels for 14 years. Now, in her “retirement,” Mary travels the four-corners states and Las Vegan area selling fabric for several manufacturers to quilt shops. We thank her for letting us know about quilting in Arizona!
AZ Quilting Events – January 2018Annual Quilting at the Lake Hosted by The Havasu StitchersJanuary 3-9, 2018The London Bridge ResortSpace limited so register now!Visit www.havasustitchers.com orEmail – [email protected]
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Dec-Jan 18 19Quilting, Sewing & Needlework Special Events
Start Your New Year with theStitchery Adventure of a Lifetime!
How would you like to start the New Year with a fantastic textile, fabric and stitchery adventure—including spending two days at the largest quilt event in the world? Japan Deluxe Tours is offering a ten-day, nine-night special tour designed for all quilt fans and it is a lifetime opportunity that you’ll talk about for years to come! Japan Quilt Festival Tour will take you from Tokyo to Kyoto with plenty of awesome stops in between.
The excitement begins on January 24 as you prepare to spend opening day at the 17th Annual Tokyo International Great Quilt Festival being held at the magnificent Tokyo Dome convention center. At Festival 2018 you will be able to surround yourself with impressive collections of quilts, patchworks, workshops, and exchange tricks and advice with fellow quilters. Additionally, there are many side shops specializing in sewing arts. Day 2 will also be enjoyed at the Festival.
The tour will continue on to Tokyo for sightseeing, shopping in Nippori Textile town, a visit to a large Yuzawaya craft store that is popular among craft lovers, Amuse Museum and Lake Kawaguchi then travel to Kyoto. It is a wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy the traditional side of Japan.
Some of the Tour highlights include: Tokyo—Quilt Festival, Asakusa Temple, Nippori Textile Town, Amuse Museum,
Shibuya Tokyu Hands, and the Sashiko Museum. Sashiko, “little stabs,” is a Japanese traditional form of decorative reinforcement and the Sashiko Museum is dedicated to modern sashiko artist Akie Sakamoto. The museum itself is very valuable to see—it is an old house built over 200 years ago and moved to its present location and remodeled.
Yamanashi/Nagoya—Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, Arimatsu Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum, Bullet Train Experience. At the Kubota Itchiku Museum, located near Lake Kawaguchi, you will enjoy the work of the Japanese textile artist who devoted his life to recreating Tsujigahana, a fabric dyeing technique from the 15th Century. Many of his beautifully crafted kimonos are exhibited in the museum overlooking a stunning Japanese garden and a panoramic view of Itchiku’s beloved Mount Fuji.
Kyoto—Kyoto Shibori Workshop and Museum, Gion Geisha District, Kyoto Museum of Traditional Craft-Fureaikan, Aizenkobo, Golden Pavilion, Nishijin Textile Center – Kimono Show, Yuzawaya Kyoto Handicraft Center, Nishijinori Kobo-Orinasukan. One of Japan’s ancient capitals, Kyoto has a rich historical culture and tradition in its 1,200-year history. Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts exhibits about 500 artifacts, all created by traditional craftsmen. Visitors will enjoy art kimonos, obi sashes, lacquer ware and ceramics. The Kyoto Shibori Museum will demonstrate this Japanese manual resist dyeing technique that produces patterns on fabric. Enjoy the exhibits and even make your own Shibori art.
The price of the fully escorted land tour package is $3,980 per person, based on double occupancy. The single supplement is $900. It includes: ten days and nine night accommodations, 18 meals, all ground transportation, tax and gratuities, round-trip airport transfers, English speaking tour guide and all admission fees listed.
To learn more, visit: https://japandeluxetours.com/japan/group/quilt-festival-tours#quilt or https://japandeluxetours.com. You can also email [email protected] or call Japan Deluxe Tours at 310-327-1111. Current airfare information from your departure city can be found on the website.
Road to California Quilters Conference & Showcase in Ontario from January 18 to 21
This year marks 23 wonderful years of Road to California! The best-kept secret in quilting is no longer just a gem of Southern California, but is a premier textile art show west of the Rockies. Attendees at the Quilters’ Conference & Showcase from January 18 to 21 at the Ontario Convention Center will experience perhaps the West Coast’s largest quilt and textile shopping mall featuring over 200 unique vendors selling their goods from all over the world. Vendors hail from the US, Spain, Brazil, France, Australia and New Zealand—making Road to California a truly international affair.
In addition to vendors, Road will also be featuring seventeen additional exhibits including: HERstory: A Celebration of Strong Women; Red & White, an Iconic Tradition; “Van Gogh” Cherry wood Challenge as well as from the Co-Founder of the Modern Quilt Guild – Latifah Saafir. Quilts in the Arcade exhibit featuring quilts from the Long Beach Modern Quilt Guild will greet you upon your arrival at the Ontario Convention Center.
Road’s mission to educate and grow the quilting community is furthered by its $5 Lecture Series. Held Thursday, Friday and Saturday during the show, these affordable lectures offer attendees a unique perspective on education. Learn from experts in the field, the vendors, as they discuss fields varying from Thread to Batting and everything in between. These lectures almost always have space available during the show so bring your $5 Bill and enjoy an hour of education.
This year’s conference will be a patchwork medley of personalized creations to be seen. With over 1,000 quilts on display, there truly is something for everyone. Road to California looks forward to seeing you in January.
Show hours are Thursday, January 18, to Saturday, January 21, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, January 22, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Unlimited admission is $16. It is $10 for Sunday only (Available on Sunday at the ticket booth only.) Children under 12 are free. Rolling carts are not permitted on the vendor floor. Strollers are permitted on Sunday only.
To learn more about all the exciting opportunities available at Road to California, go to www.road2ca.com.
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Giveaways and WinnersWe have one giveaway winner from our last issue:• Jackie Madden from Tucson will be sent a $25 Gift Certificate to be spent at her
favorite Country Register advertiser, Cactus Quilt Shop, also in Tucson. Jackie wrote that the shop has a great selection of fabrics and classes. Also, a very helpful staff!
In this issue, there is another $25 Gift Certificate drawing plus Arizona Renaissance ticket giveaways so be sure to enter and tell us which Country Register advertiser is your favorite. Also, please let us know how you use The Country Register in your travels and shopping trips.
We love hearing from our readers and so do our advertisers so tell them how much you appreciate their shops and that they bring you The Country Register each issue.
The Country Register, Inc., is celebrating its 30th year in 2018! Newspapers are published in 46 states across the U.S. and in five provinces in Canada. Going out of state? Call ahead to the state(s) you will visit and get a copy of that area’s The Country Register and take it with you as you travel this holiday season.
Enter to Win a $25 Gift Certificate
The Country Register is ringing in the New Year with a Gift for one of our lucky readers! We are giving away one $25 gift certificate to be spent at a local advertising shop. Use it to go shopping at your favorite Country Register advertiser.
The drawing will be held on January 2nd and the winner will be announced in our February - March issue. The gift certificate will be mailed to the winner.
Entry Deadline is January 2, 2018(Names are not sold, given away or used for any other purpose.)
Drawing Entry Form
Name ________________________________________ Phone_________________________________________Address __________________________________________________________City, State & Zip ___________________________________________________E-mail address: ____________________________________________________Name of my favorite Country Register advertiser is: _________________________________________________________________
Tell us what makes this advertiser your favorite: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
To enter, complete this form and mail to:The Country Register, 515 E. Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085
(Photocopy of form is fine. Be sure to answer all questions.)
Or email the information to: [email protected] and put “Gift Certificate” in the subject line.
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Please tell us about a local Arizona quilt shop, antique store, gift shop, etc that you would like to see advertising in The Country Register:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
We welcome your comments and/or suggestions about The Country Register. Include a note with your drawing entry, send us an email or give us a call at 1-888-942-8950. We enjoy hearing from our readers!
Dec-Jan 18 21Quilting, Sewing & Needlework
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Holiday Anticipationby Deb Heatherly
Isn’t it funny how our outlook on things changes as we age? Looking back over the years I can see a huge difference in my wishes and expectations for the holiday season. Perhaps you can, too.
As a child, I could not wait to put up the tree, go shopping, wrap presents, make cookies and, yes, even make the dreaded fruitcake. Getting to “goosh” (my grandmother’s word) the ingredients together with my hands and lick my fingers afterwards was part of the annual excitement. I did not like the fruitcake once it was cooked so my mom always set aside a large spoonful of the raw dough in a small cup for me to enjoy. I thought it was pure heaven.
Yes, I’ve read the information where the experts now tell us that eating raw dough is bad for us. But somehow I survived and I have to admit that when I make a cake, a spoonful of the batter still goes in a little cup for me to enjoy.
Then there were the presents. I can clearly remember dog-earing the pages in the JC Penney or Sears catalogs and inserting notes so that there was no mistake about my wish list. Craft items and Nancy Drew books always topped my list and I don’t ever remember being disappointed when that wish list became a reality on Christmas morning. I never asked for much and there were always unexpected surprises as well as the things I hoped for.
As children, I think our seasonal holiday anticipation revolves around what we hope to receive but that changes as we get older.
When I became a mother, I tried to make sure that my daughter had her own wonderful memories each holiday. Of course, there was a tree and shopping and wrapping, but we also made new traditions. There were things like sweatshirt crafting and ornament making parties with her friends, nut cake with cherries and chocolate instead of the dreaded fruitcake, sugared pecans, and my own addition—the hide and seek present.
Each year on Christmas morning, after the presents and stockings were opened, my daughter Tarrah knew that there was still one present to find. Clues to its whereabouts could be found in a hinged box ornament on the tree. Typically, that clue in the ornament led to another and then to another until 6 or 8 clues finally led to the final present. These presents were just ways to prolong the fun. They were never anything extravagant (except for the year that they led to a key and a car sitting outside). I’m not even sure where I got the idea but they were a much-anticipated part of her Christmas morning.
Thinking back, it was during these times, that I realized that presents for myself no
KISSed Quilts
Alpine Winters and Fireside Chatsby Marlene Oddie
If you live in alpine regions or go to alpine elevations during the winter, it is cold and white and sometimes just grey!
I can remember going skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains as a child. We’d ski until the very last possible bit of light, but the sun goes down so early during the winter. It was often dark by the time we arrived back to our lodging each night. From the light beams of the car it was a sea of black and white, sometimes mostly white. This was all long before I began designing quilts, but this lap size treasure would make a fireside chat cozy.
Island Batik has come out with two new Alpine lines of fabric—Alpine Ice (white/grey/blue) and Alpine Jingle (red/gold/green). I’ve chosen the white and grey colorways of Alpine Ice to create this row quilt, “Alpine Nights,” that would make a great five session Block of the Month learning opportunity. It includes using a couple of unique prints from the fabric collection to give special effects between each row of blocks and in the border. Various techniques are used, including diagonal stitching, paper piecing, applique and fussy cutting. Start looking for these fabrics in the new year!
The snow-ball block is a great simple start with sewing diagonally across a square of fabric. I’ve chosen to use several values of this fabric for depth. The half square triangles also use several values and are placed to give more of an illusion of a mountain. You might consider other placement options in your own creation. The diamonds and six pointed stars are paper pieced and the top row of trees is appliquéd. These block shapes were chosen to mimic the motifs printed in the batik fabrics.
Want the pattern? Would you like to take a class on-line? Please write to me if you’d like to be notified when it is available. I’ll take you through the making of each block and fussy cutting details. Warm wishes during this typically cold time of the year.
Marlene Oddie ([email protected]) is an engineer by education, project manager by profession and now a quilter by passion in Grand Coulee, WA, at her quilt shop, KISSed Quilts. 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. Patterns and kits are available at http://www.kissedquilts.com/shop.html. Follow Marlene’s adventures via http://www.facebook.com/kissedquilts, http://kissedquilts.blogspot.com, instagram marlene.kissedquilts, twitter @kissedquilts, pinterest marleneoddie.
longer really mattered. Watching her anticipation and excitement was all the present I needed. I found my holiday joy by watching the season unveil itself through her eyes and I am seeing that same thing happen now that she is a mom. She worries and frets about getting my grandson just the right things as she tries to provide that excitement she herself felt. Now, my greatest holiday joy comes from watching and listening to the two of them.
Perhaps that’s what we learn as we age and “grow up.” Although the decorations, the shopping and the presents will always be a part of the season, it’s time spent with the ones we love that matters the most. It’s the memories and the laughter that will be cherished in our hearts for years to come. We realize that time spent doing things together, in a world that has become so electronically minded, is a precious commodity.
Last year my grandson and I took his mom, dad and his Poppy (my husband) to the movies the day after Christmas. I had asked him if he wanted just the two of us to go or if he wanted to include everyone. He decided it should be the family and I let him invite each of them. (How do you say no to an 8-year-old who just wants to spend time with you?)
Did we all want to see Star Wars? Probably not, but it was the fact that we were Continued on page 23...
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Quilting With Barbara
Using Panels Creativelyby Barbara Conquest
Who can resist all the panels on display at quilt shops these days? As the little red hen said, “Not I!” So now I have quite a stack. Seasonal (Christmas), topical (Tree of Life), child-oriented (Hungry Caterpillar) art (Van Gogh’s Iris) are just a few. They are still as delightful as they were when they were bought, but they’re serving no purpose hidden in a cupboard. True, every so often I take them out to fondle, admire and then re-shelve, but that isn’t really productive. So, lately, I have been accumulating some ideas for using panels in projects so others can share these treasures.
A few panels, of course, can stand alone. All they need is some low-loft batting, a little judicious quilting to emphasize a few features, and a binding. Unfortunately, these panels are rare; most benefit from a little work and creativity from their owners.
A common treatment is adding a border or two. Most of us can manage that with no problem. Another common treatment is adding one or more pieced borders to the intact panel, but in the past, I could never find a border pattern that “fit” the panel so back it went into the cupboard. After this happened several times, I finally realized that panels need not necessarily be left intact. They could be cut! What a breakthrough! A whole new world opened up! The panel could be made to fit the border, instead of the border fitting the panel. Piano key, flying geese and prairie points borders all lend themselves to this approach. A tulip panel could be framed by a windmill block border; a flower panel could be set off with a trellis border. Endless possibilities.
As well as their obvious use for wall hangings or centre medallions for quilts, square or rectangular panels can be incorporated into cushion covers with the addition of low-loft batting, backing and a cushion form. Four square panels combined with a central fabric and setting triangles can make an octagonal table topper. Three or four square panels with or without sashing can be turned into a fast table runner or place mats. Panels of any shape can be slashed vertically and the slashes filled in with contrasting fabric. Remember Ricky Tims’ convergence technique? Scenic panels can act as a background overlaid with a filigree or window frame design in a dark—usually black—fabric (Susan Purney-Mark and Daphne Grieg’s “too-easy appliqué”).
If panels are small, say 3-5 inches square, cut them apart and consider choosing some co-ordinating fabrics to make square-in-a-square, log cabin or courthouse steps blocks using the individual panels as centres. Two advantages here: speed and the possibility of using up some scraps to surround the small panels.
Using medium size (6”- 8”) panels, cut squares the same size as the panels from a co-ordinating fabric and alternating them with the panel blocks for a fast and easy project makes maximum use of the panel blocks in minimum time. Consider using coping strips to standardize different-sized medium panels. Life is so much easier when all blocks are the same size! Other possible uses for medium panels include pot-holders and trivets.
Commercial resources on the topic of panel use are becoming more commonly available. Recently, some fabric manufacturers have made patterns to accompany their panels and several quilting magazines have featured directions for finishing panels. Two books to inspire creativity and help with details are Panel Play (Barbara Becker, www.fourpawsquilting.com) and Learn to Quilt With Panels (Carolyn S. Vagts, Annie’s Quilting). What can you produce, given a beautiful panel, a little time and creativity? Try it and see!
Barbara Conquest writes her column from Blue Sky Quilting in Tofield, AB. © Barbara Conquest.
From Lydia’s Recipe File: Candy Cane CrispiesCrisp and buttery cookies that melt in your mouth.
Ingredients:1 cup butter, softened1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, divided1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla1 1/3 cups flour1 cup rolled oats1/2 teaspoon salt3/4 cup coarsely crushed peppermint candy canes, dividedred and green sugar crystals, optional
1. In large mixing bowl, mix together butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and vanilla.2. In another bowl, stir together flour, oats, and salt. Add to butter mixture and blend.3. Mix in 1/4 cup crushed candy canes.4. Shape dough into one-inch balls. Roll balls into remaining 1/2 cup powdered sugar.
Place two inches apart on greased baking sheet (or use parchment paper).5. Flatten cookies with fork, making a crisscross pattern. Sprinkle with additional
crushed candy canes and sugar crystals.6. Bake at 325 degrees for 18 to 20 minutes, until edges are lightly browned.7. Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes. Use spatula to transfer to cooling rack. Store
in airtight container.Makes about 30 cookies.
Find Lydia’s article on page 12.
Dec-Jan 18 23Quilting, Sewing & Needlework
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spending time as a family that mattered. I think my 8-year-old grandson was feeling the same thing because, as we left the theatre, he smiled up at me, grabbed my hand and asked if going to the movies as a family could be a tradition every year. I wholehearted responded YES! Even at his young age he got it! Spending time with family was the best present ever and I can’t wait to see a movie with him next year!
Deb Heatherly is a designer for Creative Grids® rulers and tools. When not in her studio, she is on the road doing Creative Grids® lectures and workshops for guilds and shops across the country. She is the designer of the Creative Grids Cat’s Cradle tool, Strippy Stars tool, Turbo 4 Patch and the Ultimate Flying Geese tool, and the author of the books ‘Cat’itude, Strippy Stars, and 4-Patch Panache. Visit her website: www.Debscatsnquilts.com and her Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/Debscatsnquilts.www.Debscatsnquilts.com. Creative Grids® fans are invited to join her new Facebook group — Grids Girls.
Holiday Anticipation, continued from page 21...
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Dec-Jan 18 25Quilting, Sewing & Needlework
Baked Oatmeal with Sautéed ApplesCourtesy Cooksrecipes.com
A delicious oatmeal breakfast casserole served with spiced sautéed apple slices.3 cups old fashioned oats 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 2 cups milk 1 cup butter, melted and slightly cooled2 large eggs, beatenSautéed Apples: 2 to 3 tart green apples, peeled and thinly sliced 2 tablespoons butter 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves Pinch of saltCooking Directions:Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; set aside.In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, sugar, baking powder and salt.In another bowl combine milk, melted butter and eggs; mix well. Pour into oat mixture
and stir until just mixed. Spread in prepared baking pan.Bake for 25 minutes. Serve topped with Sautéed Apples.For Sautéed Apples: Sauté apples in a heavy skillet in butter. Add brown sugar,
nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Cover skillet and cook over low heat about 20 minutes or until apples are tender. Makes about 2 cups.
Makes 6 servings.
26 ArizonaQuilting, Sewing & Needlework
Phoenix Quilt, Craft & Sewing FestivalOn January 25, 26 & 27 at Fairgrounds
The 24th Annual Phoenix Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival—one of Arizona’s biggest and best creative shows—will be held on January 25, 26 and 27 at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix. Whether you might be a “first timer” or you’ve been a loyal attendee over the years, you won’t want to miss this amazing event! This is a show for everyone, with three huge buildings and nearly 350 beautiful booths.
The Festival features a wide variety of supplies, notions, patterns and techniques in the areas of quilting, sewing, needle-arts, stenciling, embossing, crystals, fabric crafts and more. Many booths will feature cutting edge products that are brand new to the market. Show sponsor, Mulqueen Sewing Center, will be doing multiple daily give-aways at their block of booths, so plan to stop by and say hello and enter to win. Mulqueen will also be giving away a free $1,000 sewing machine that will be announced at 3 p.m. on Saturday before closing.
Please make sure to check out the very popular free classes and exciting make and take workshops for all skill levels and interests. Vendors will also demonstrate a variety of creative products as well. Not only is the show incredibly fun and exciting, it is also highly educational.
In addition to presenting a premier show, its promoters also like to think it is the most fun and the easiest to attend. The Arizona State Fairgrounds are located at 19th Avenue and McDowell Road. Onsite parking is a reasonable $8 per car and is located right next to the show’s buildings for ease, convenience and safety.
The admission price is the same as the last few years—only $9 when you use your $1 off coupon located on the back page of this paper. (One coupon per person and photocopies are accepted.) Tickets are valid all three days. Festival hours are Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For additional show information, show program, printable $1 off coupons, updates or directions, please visit online at www.quiltcraftsew.com.
See ad on page 28.
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