F r e e ! - T a k e O n e March/April2014 Minnesota’sGuide ... similar to an ice ... 10. pancakes,...

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Minnesota’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Fun Events

FFrreeee!! -- TTaakkee OOnnee

WWiinn aa $$2255 GGiifftt CCeerrttiiffiiccaattee!!!!Each issue we give away a $25 Gift CertiMcate to be usedat YOUR FAVORITE shop! To register Mll out the form below.

Gift CertiMcate 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)__________________________________________________________________________________________

MA14

Months March/April 2014Volume 20 Number 2

The Country Register is published every other month. Copyright 2014. 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

NNaammee::________________________________________________________________________________

AAddddrreessss::______________________________________________________________________________

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 May/JuneEdition is April 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.

Kim Keller, Publisher12835 Kiska St. NEBlaine, MN 55449763-754-1661

[email protected]/mn

Minnesota’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Fun Events

March/April 2014Have a Happy Easter!

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 & CANADATo 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: Dana Wilburn, 301-698-2694Arizona: Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Arkansas: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597California & N. Nevada: Betty Fassett, 800-349-1858Colorado: 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): Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Illinois: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, 888-616-8319Iowa : Linda Glendy, 641-484-6220Kansas: 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, 989-793-4211Minnesota: Kim & Mickey Keller, 763-754-1661Missouri: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597Montana: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Nebraska: Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Nevada (N): Betty Fassett, 800-349-1858Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4702-523-1803

New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 603-463-3703New Jersey: Merle & Gail Taylor, 888-616-8319New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 719-749-9797New York: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217,North Carolina: Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 888-942-8950North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Ohio: Barb Moore, 937-652-1157Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597Oregon: Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 602-942-8950Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Rhode Island: Mike Dempsey, 919-661-1760South Carolina: Barbara Stillman & Lolly Konecky, 888-942-8950South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118Texas: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597Utah: Daniel & Stacy Tueller, 801-592-8498Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, 866-825-9217Washington: Barbara 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: Laurie Holcombe, 613-864-8667

MA14

�d the W� Are...Winners of the book: YYoouu CCaann DDoo TTeeaa: Jacqulin Corson of Starbuck, MN, JimMulMnger of Vandais Heights, MN, and Susan Teigen of Blaine, MN.

Rita Herbrand of Foley, MN won a $25 gift certiMcate to QQuuiillttss oonn BBrrooaaddwwaayy in Foley, MN. Rita says QQuuiillttss oonn BBrrooaaddwwaayy is her favorite shopbecause, “Barb is so helpful and has so many ideas to help with design colors.”


Aitkin.....................................................................20,21Andover........................................................................5Baxter.........................................................................20Bemidji....................................................................18Blackduck...............................................................18Brainerd.....................................................................20Cannon Falls.............................................................6Cloquet....................................................................22Cold Spring...............................................................15Crookston..................................................................18Detroit Lakes..........................................................17Duluth.................................................................22East Grand Forks.....................................................18Eden Valley................................................................14Fergus Falls............................................................17Foley.......................................................................14Grand Rapids........................................................23Hibbing.................................................................23Hinckley....................................................................21Hutchinson..............................................................15Jordan...............................................................12Kimball....................................................................14

Lake City................................................................7,13Litchfield..............................................................15Luverne...................................................................10Mankato....................................................................12McGregor.........................................................21Moorhead..................................................................17Morton.......................................................................8New Ulm.....................................................................8North Branch............................................................13Owatonna...................................................................9Park Rapids..............................................................17Sherburn.................................................................11Shoreview....................................................................4St. Peter......................................................................8Wabasha...................................................................13Waite Park..................................................................15Waseca.....................................................................9White Bear Lake.........................................................5Wilmar........................................................................15Windom....................................................................10Winona.......................................................................7

City Listing

MMaarrcchh5..............................................Milk Paint Class - Round Barn Potting Company - Andover6-8,15..............................................................Spring Sale - The Corner Peddler - Jordan6-9............Spring Show - Hidden Treasures Boutique & Occasiona Sale - North Branch13-16..............................................................................................Lake City Occasional Sales13-16.......Spring Show - Hidden Treasures Boutique & Occasiona Sale - North Branch14-15......Worldwide Quilting Day Celebration - Colorz Quilt Shop & Cheerywood Store - Baxter20-22,29............................................................Spring Sale - The Corner Peddler - Jordan20-22.................................Button Up Shop Hop - Gone To Pieces Quilt Shop - Kimball20-22......................................Button Up Shop Hop - Quilt Haven on Main - Hutchinson20-23..........................................................Spring Sale - The Peddler of Rapidian - Mankato21-22..............................Quilt Show 2014 - Prairie Piecemakers Quilt Guild - New Ulm22.........................................Milk Paint Class - Round Barn Potting Company - Andover28-30..................................................................Spring Retreat - Prairie Quilting - Windom

AApprriill1..............................................................April Fools Sale - Old Alley Quilt Shop - Sherburn2-5.............................................................................New Ulm’s Boutique Week - New Ulm3-5...................................................................Country Roads Shop Hop - See ad page 113-6............Spring Show - Hidden Treasures Boutique & Occasiona Sale - North Branch4-5................Lakeside Marketplace “Crack an Egg” - Hannah Johnson Fabrics - Duluth5,10-12................................................................Spring Sale - The Corner Peddler - Jordan10-13..........................................................Spring Sale - The Peddler of Rapidian - Mankato10-13.......Spring Show - Hidden Treasures Boutique & Occasiona Sale - North Branch11-13.........................17th Anniversary Open House - Past & Present Antiques - Waseca11-13........................................Rug Hooking Event - call 218-750-2524 for info - Soudan12................................1st Anniversary Celebration - Quilt Haven on Main - Hutchinson17-20..............................................................................................Lake City Occasional Sales19.........................................................Maud Hixon concert - Waseca Art Center - Waseca24-26................................................Valley Shop Hop - Quilter’s Eden - East Grand Forks24-26.................................................................Spring Sale - The Corner Peddler - Jordan25........................Amanda Jean Nyberg Trunk Show - Hannah Johnson Fabrics - Duluth26-May 3..............Spring Fling Crossing Borders Shop Hop - Prairie Quilting - Windom

MMaayy1-3.....................................Sew Close To Home Shop Hop - Spinning Spools - New Ulm1-18........................................................................................3 Seasonal Boutiques - Wabasha7-11.......................................................................Spring Fling Sale - Prim Barn - Lake City15-18..............................................................................................Lake City Occasional Sales17.....................................................James McGuire concert - Waseca Art Center - Waseca

JJuunnee15....................Lecuture and Trunk Show by Lisa Bongean - Sewing Seeds - New Ulm16-17............Flower Garden Crazy Class by Lisa Bongean - Sewing Seeds - New Ulm19-22..............................................................................................Lake City Occasional Sales

Special Events

•Aitkin

•Blackduck•Soudan

•AndoverCold Spring•

•Fergus Falls

•Hinckley

•Jordan

•Mankato

•North Branch

•Owatonna

•Shoreview

•Wabasha

•Wilmar

•Windom•Winona

•Bemidji

•Brainerd

•Cannon Falls

•Cloquet

•Crookston

•Detroit Lakes

•Duluth

•East Grand Forks

•Eden Valley

•Foley

•Grand Rapids

•Sherburn

•St. Peter

•Waite Park

•Waseca

•White Bear Lake

•Hibbing

•Hutchinson

•Kimball

•Lake City

•Park Rapids

•Litch/eld

•Luverne

•McGregor

•Moorhead

•Morton

•New Ulm

March/April 2014Shoreview

DDeesssseerrtt WWoorrdd SSccrraammbblleeUnscramble the words. Key is below.

1._______________iaecrl finger-shaped cream puff2._______________lmnsgupdi a rounded mass of steamed and seasoned dough3._______________rbetehs frozen fruit-flavored mixture, similar to an ice4._______________rboelbc deep-dish fruit pie with a rich biscuit crust5._______________sautdrc a baked sweetened mixture of eggs and milk6._______________smsoelas syrup remaining after sugar is crystallized out of

cane or beet juice7._______________elwffa crisp golden-brown pancake with deep indentations

on both sides8._______________ocrrhu a long, slender, deep-fried pastry resembling a

cruller9._______________klaavab near Eastern pastry made of many layers of

paper-thin dough10.______________npkceaas a thin flat cake made from batter and fried on

both sides11.______________ansedu ice cream served with syrup poured over it12.______________mnpisou Italian style of ice cream of a very fine and

smooth texture13.______________iobnrew a small, chewy, cakelike cookie14.______________ebrtos cooling drink of fruit juice and water15.______________smaoairb dessert containing primarily oranges and flaked

coconut16.______________tuanog aerated confection made by mixing nuts and

sometimes fruit pieces in a sugar paste17.______________tefofe sweet made from sugar or treacle boiled with

butter, nuts, etc18.______________flrgydsanie small, finger-shaped sponge cake19.______________mesuso savory or sweet dish with the consistency of a

dense foam20.______________aclinon tubular pastry shells stuffed with a sweetened

filling

1. éclair, 2. dumplings, 3. sherbet, 4. cobbler, 5. custard, 6. molasses, 7. waffle,8. churro, 9. baklava, 10. pancakes, 11. sundae, 12. spumoni, 13. brownie, 14. sorbet, 15. ambrosia, 16. nougat,

17. toffee, 18. ladyfingers, 19. mousse, 20. cannoli

Spicy Friendship TeaA Great Gift for Friends

by René GroomI wish we could sit down together,

And have a cup of tea,But since we can’t

When you have this one,I hope you’ll think of me.

- William Gladstone

These cool winter evenings seem incomplete without a cup or two of FriendshipTea. For years now I have made large batches, placed smaller amounts into cutejars with ribbons and left them in a basket by the front door to give to guests whocome and go from our home. In more recent years, my batches have gotten biggerto meet the “demand” of friends and families who rush to claim theirs.

While Friendship Tea is also known as Russian Tea, historians agree that this drinkprobably originated in America. One of the first references to the Friendship/RussianTea was in a 1925 cookbook. That recipe called for Black steeped tea, orange juice,orange peel, cinnamon sticks, cloves with a splash of cream. While this variety ofFriendship Tea is hard to make as pre-packaged gifts, it does make for a lovely sitdown tea party.

There are many varieties of Friendship Tea—all well worth researching to findrecipes that best suit you and your tastes and your friends. I have found the recipebelow suits my friends and me well. Perhaps it has something to do with the “spicy.”Yet, I have also made other varieties using lavender blooms, vanilla beans, lemonadeand lemon drops instead of the cinnamon.

It is pure heaven to sit on the sofa with the fire crackling in the background, acup of hot Friendship Tea in hand as you reflect on all those you have been blessedto call your friend.

SPICY FRIENDSHIP TEA1 (18 ounce) jar Tang 2 cups sugar1/2 cup red cinnamon candy (Red Hots) 1/3 cup Instant Tea Mix1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground clovesMix well and separate into gift size servings.

René Groom is a freelance writer and public speaker who loves to share her adventures, misadventures and theamazing people she meets down life’s dusty trails. She and her husband, Tom, make their home in Prosser, WA.

She is the mom of four amazing men. Her stories can be found at www.adventureswithdusty.blogspot.com.

March/April 2014Andover • White Bear Lake

RoundBarnPottingCompany

13736MarigoldSt.NWAndover,MN55304

763.427.5321

•HistoricRoundBarn filledwithvintage finds•Certifieddealerof

MissMustardSeedMilkPaint•Paintworkshops

•20minNorthofMinneapolis

www.roundbarnpottingco.com

OpenDaily!Sun - Mon 12-5Tue - Thur 10-6

Fri - Sat 10-5

F�nit�e Refr�hm�t 101by Lori Miller

As we continue to have this obsession to reinvent things from our past, furniturerefreshment will continue to be popular. New to the twin Cities, to give your furniturea stylish update, is the Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint Line. The entire line, which includes18 different colors and 4 - 5 different finishing products, along with workshops, arenow offered at the Round Barn Potting Company in Andover, Minnesota. Milk Paint isan all natural product that comes in powder form and then is mixed 1 to 1 with

warm water. You only mix the amount needed for eachindividual project!

The paint is all-natural containing basic ingredientsincluding milk protein (casein), limestone,clay and natural pigments. It is suitable forboth interior and exterior use and is naturally

mold resistant. Milk paint provides a completelybreathable coating and is ideal for painting

wood, plaster, drywall and a variety of other surfaces. Itis environmentally friendly, nontoxic and contains noVOCs. No prep work is needed for your furniture project-no sanding and no priming!! The creator, Marian aka“Miss Mustard Seed”, is one who loves to paint and re-finish old furniture. In addition to developing a line ofmilk paint and finishing products, Marian is an author,blogger and freelance writer. The paint line started as asmall idea and has exploded into a full line of productscarried by over 200 retailers in the US and abroad.

The Round Barn potting Company, located 20 minnorth of Minneapolis, is the newest certified dealer inMinnesota. Lori Miller, owner and stylist, will be onhand to answer questions, as well as her trained staff.The Barn is open daily so there will be no delay in gettingyour projects started. The entire list of products will also be available online atroundbarnpottingcompany.com, or can be shipped with just a simple phone call tothe Barn. In addition to daily service, hands-on workshops are starting soon. Theworkshops will be kept small where you and your friends will work directly with theproducts, feeling confident to use the Miss Mustard Seed’s Milk Paint when finished.Workshops will begin in March at the Round Barn Potting Company! The first twoclasses at the Barn are Wednesday, March 5th 6:30-8:00pm, and Saturday, March22nd 9:00-10:30am. See you there!

2222 Fourth StreetWhite Bear Lake MN

651.426.1885

Visit our creative boutique forsupplies and inspiration!

Hand dyed wool, 100% cotton fabric, patterns, books, and supplies.Unique kits and designs from our studio.

Classes, tours and retreats too!Now carrying paper crafting supplies for cardmaking and scrapbooking!

Located in historic downtown, two blocks from Hwy 61,On Fourth St. just past BanningAve, in the Kellerman Event Center Building.

www.rosebuds-cottage.comBlog: rosebudscottage.typepad.com

facebook.com/RBCottagepinterest.com/rosebudscottage

Thursday & Friday: 10am-4pm • Saturday: 10am - 3pm

Country Register Recipe ExchangeCircus Peanut Salad

Pa/i Lee Bock, New Ulm, MN

1 lg box orange gelatin30 circus peanuts (candy)2 C. boiling water

Dissolve gelatin in boiling water, add cut up candy and stir until the candy ismelted. Drain fruit and add enough water to the juice to make 2 cups. Add thisto the fruit mixtures. Chill until partially set, and add cool whip and fruit. Chillbefore serving.

1 can crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges1 C. cool whip

March/April 2014Cannon Falls

CF Stamps Etc.&

Scraps in my Book

Fill your Easter Baskets at CF Stamps Etc.!

• New Product Arriving Daily• Check our Website for New Classes

Hours:T-F 9-5:30 • Sat 9-4

Sun 11-4 • Closed Monday

Your Complete Rubber Stamp & Scrapbooking Store!

31668 65th AveCannon Falls, MN 55009

507-263-4220www.cfstampsetc.com

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

Do You Believe This?“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though

he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”John 11:25-26

Amy believed.Though a beautiful and happy eleven-year-old, Amy was aware she was somehow

‘different.’ Her ‘differentness’ was caused by Down’s Syndrome. Still, Amy alwaysattended Sunday School. It was the highlight of her week. Amy never missed.

Because of Amy’s ‘differentness,’ she was placed back in the second grade class.It wasn’t her choice, that was just the way it was.

The other children in the class were kind to Amy, yet she had never been totallyaccepted. She never really belonged to the group.

On Easter Sunday, the teacher gathered the children in the class together andsaid, “We’ve been studying and learning about new life for several weeks. Today, Iwant each of you to go out into the church yard and find a symbol of new life.”

The teacher then gave each child a great big plastic egg—the kind pantyhoseused to come in—and said, “When you find an example, put it in your egg andbring it back to class.”

It was a beautiful, warm and sunny Easter Sunday and the children had a grandtime on their treasure hunt.

When the children finally returned to class, they gathered around the table.In eager anticipation, the first egg was opened. In it was a flower in full bloom.“That’s beautiful! I love daisies,” said Tammy.The children were delighted when, as the second egg was opened, a Monarch

Butterfly fluttered out.“That’s cool!” exclaimed Adam. “That’s really cool!”When the third egg was opened, much to everyone’s surprise, it was empty.

There was nothing inside.“Somebody didn’t do it right,” the children grumbled to their teacher.Just then, the teacher felt Amy tugging on her sleeve. “That egg is mine,” said Amy, with a tear in her eye. “I did do it right. It’s empty

just like the tomb. Jesus’ tomb is empty.”The children became quiet and a long silence followed. In that hush, a trans-

forming miracle happened and the barrier separating Amy from her classmatescrumbled. The children learned to accept and appreciate Amy.

Reaching out to Amy, not just with their arms but also with their hearts, thechildren took her in.

Amy was released from her ‘differentness.’• • • • •

The following summer Amy died.Because she had been small and frail, her parents had known Amy wouldn’t live

out her life to adulthood. A virus her body was unable to shrug off claimed her.Her funeral, held at the church, was typical—except, right at the end, several

nine-year-old children walked down the aisle and placed a symbol of their love atthe center of the communion table.

Their token of remembrance was not flowers—to cover and mask the reality ofdeath. No. These children brought a plastic egg—an old discarded holder of pantyhose.

After placing the open, empty egg on the table, they turned to face the puzzled familyand friends who had gathered to say goodbye to Amy. Then, in a united voice, thesechildren repeated the lesson Amy had taught them—a lesson they would never forget.

“The tomb is empty.”© 2014 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

by Joyce Gregor

With an attitudeof unpredictable choice,Lady Spring flings blossoms and snow flakes as she wishes.The pine tree stands consistent.

© Joyce Gregor2013

Spring Tanka

March/April 2014Lake City • Winona

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Fine Cotton Fabrics • Hand Dyed Wools • Quality Yarns

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108 E. Lyon Ave • Lake City, MN 55041 651-345-2573 • www.pumpkinberrysupplies.etsy.com

Hours: Tues-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-5pm • Sun 12pm-4pm

Gift Certificat

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available!

20% off Oneitem

Expires 4/30/14��

Treats and Treasures112 S. Washington St.Lake City, MN 55041

www.treatsandtreasureslc.com

Open 10-5:30Every Day!

Over The Teacupby Janet Young

Introducing Your Friends To TeaLooking for a way to introduce your non-tea drinking

friends to tea? Well, why not try a tea tasting party. WithSt. Patrick’s Day and Easter on the horizon, this could bea perfect time to invite your friends in for an afternoonor evening tea tasting. There are various ways you canpresent this. For example, for St. Patrick’s Day, why nothave a variety of green teas to whet their appetites. Ifyour budget allows, perhaps you could have someonecome in and talk about the various qualities and nuances of the tea.

If that is not possible, when purchasing the teas, research a little about the varietiesand encourage your friends to indulge, as you describe more details about theprocessing of green teas, the health benefits, and the specific characteristics of thetea being served. Usually, the tin or bag will have a description of what to expectwhen you take that first sip. For a tea tasting, before tasting the tea, you shouldtake a deep breath, and inhale the aroma of the tea. This enhances the experience.

For Easter, you might want to try lighter versions such as white tea, orfruited/floral flavored tisanes. If you go for a variety of tea types such as white,green, black, be sure you start with a white tea first or the more delicate flavor teafirst. To offer a robust tea in the beginning will overpower or mask the true flavorof a delicate white or green tea.

You could have tea stations set up throughout your house so that your guestscan consume the tea at their leisure. I would suggest a small group gathering forthis type of party because you want to be able to enjoy the party, while stilloffering pots of hot tea.

You could do a Peter Rabbit- themed tea, while still offering the tea tasting. Thevarious stations could be decorated to reflect a certain segment of the story, and awritten explanation about the tea they are about to taste. Menu, again, can reflectaspects of the story, such as carrot cake, or a carrot based sandwich.

Tea offers comfort and love, so don’t be afraid to invite your friends in for a teatasting party this time of the year. Lest you be leery about inviting your non-teadrinking friends to a tea tasting party, let me recount briefly about a college classwhere I spoke on Teas around the World. The majority of the students was male,and upon learning of my coming, were rather skeptical about my presentation.

I ended my presentation by offering a sampling of various types of tea fromdifferent regions of the world. As a result, I learned later that one student actuallybecame converted to drinking tea. One was taking his girlfriend to a teahouse for tea,and a third came to class proudly announcing that he had found a course on tea.

So, don’t put it off. Lift your cup and welcome your non-tea drinking friends tothe comfort and love it brings. They will thank you for it.

Janet Young, Certified Tea and Etiquette Consultant, Founding member of Mid-Atlantic Tea BusinessAssociation. Freelance writer/National Tea Presenter. Visit her website: www.overtheteacup.com

March/April 2014Morton • New Ulm • St. Peter

Visit New Ulm’s Newest Quilting Destination!

1417 South State Street · New Ulm, MN507-354-8801

www.SewingSeedsQuiltCo.com • [email protected]

Quality Quilting Fabrics • Wool • Flannels • Reproduction Prints • Aurifil & ValdaniThreads • Kits • Gifts • Unique Class Offerings & Events • Longarm Quilting Services

Sewing Seeds is proud to bring you a Wonderful Wool Opportunity!We are privileged to host Lisa Bongean from Primitive Gatherings in June 2014!

• LLeeccttuurree && TTrruunnkk SShhooww June 15• FFlloowweerr GGaarrddeenn CCrraazzyy - two day wool tablemat class - June 16 & 17. Both events require reservations. Space is limited. Call for details!

Hours: Mon 10-7 · Tues-Fri 10-5 · Sat 10-4� Unable to visit in person? Shop on-line for your convenience! �

10 N. Minnesota St.New Ulm, MN507-354-6721

[email protected]

TheThimbleBox

Mon-Fri:10am-5pm · Sat:10am-4pm

Call shop forDetails!

New Ulm’s Boutique Week!April 2-5

Fashion Show Friday nightNew Ulm Events Center6:15pm - social hour7:00pm - start of show

St. Peter Woolen Mill101 W. Broadway • St. Peter, MN 56082507-934-3734 • www.woolenmill.com

Hours: 9am - 5pm (Mon - Fri)

• 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

MORTONSPRING GARDEN PARTY April 19

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION July 4SCARECROW FESTIVAL September 13BENEATH THE VILLAGE WREATHNovember 21, 22 and 23

MISTLETOE MADNESS December 4

Formore info, contactMorton City Hall/Chamber [email protected]

Join us fortheseSpecialEvents!

MarkYourCalendar!

Wishing You AHappy Easter!

From ...‘Every Bunny’ here at

The Country Register

Be Sure to Thank theAdvertisers ... THEY

make this paper possible!

March/April 2014Owatonna • Waseca

17thAnniversaryOpenHouse!April 11, 12,& 13

1101 N. State St.,Waseca, MN

507-835-4000

Bring in this ad for 17% off an item during Open House!

Open 7 daysa week!!M-F 10-5,

Sat. 9-5, Sun. 12-4

DoorPrizesGourmet

Food

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CountryGoods

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On the Second Day of Springby Kerri Habben

There are places inside where it is forever spring.I always value the new leaves. Every year, I

savor their arrival, their velvety texture and theirtrue greenness. This year I especially treasurethem because I have a promise to keep.

On the second full day of spring eleven yearsago, my mother and I drove to a small townabout sixty miles outside of Raleigh. In thenineteenth century, Cameron was known as thedewberry capital of the world for the fruit thatcame from the area. The railroad was the town’slifeline. As times changed, Cameron eventuallyevolved into an antique mecca.

On this second full day of spring, we walked into Miss Belle’s Tea Room andthere we found Miss Isabel. She sat in what was once her grandmother’s parlor,playing the Tennessee Waltz on the piano. Isabel welcomed us; and before long,we learned she and I had both graduated from the same women’s college—onlyabout fifty years apart. She began to tell us about her town and of her family whohad lived in the area for generations. She told us stories of her childhood, of hergrandfather who built the house we were in and of his store just down the hill.

Isabel’s husband had passed away three years before and my dad had died twoyears before on the first full day of spring. Thus, meeting Isabel on a very earlyspring day soothed the latent sadness and brought a new kind of smile.

Not just anyone could have done what Isabel did for us that day or in the yearsto come. What she gave us was the exact same gift she gave everyone she met.She gave instant and unconditional love. She gave you the feeling that you werevalued exactly as you were, without changing a single thing about yourself. Shemade you believe that you had something special to offer the world.

You could talk together endlessly, yet forever wouldn’t be long enough. Isabeldrove us through her town and environs, showing us every church and sharingstories of her friends from each one. She played the piano in her church, thePresbyterian one nestled within a grove of pine trees and flanked by the cemetery.

She wrote evocative poetry, describing years gone by and also her presentdaydreams. She showed us her husband’s grave, its marker engraved with anengine honoring his years on the railroad.

One day she asked me, “When I’m gone, will you spread leaves across my grave?”I promised her I would.This past January, we all gathered in the sanctuary of Isabel’s church. As we walked

the short distance to her grave, I clutched a cluster of pin oak leaves and pine straw.I wistfully contemplated my offering as a minister sang It Is Well With My Soul.

Isabel’s winter arrived, but thankfully it was not a long season. At least notcompared to all the other passings of time that comprised her joyous life of 90 years.Isabel never said what kind of leaves she wanted. I believe, though, that she wouldlike new, velvety ones with a fresh and genuine greenness.

This spring, Mom and I will return to Cameron. Miss Belle’s is now just a house,the piano quiet. The land will smile in a different way for it has lost one of itsbeloveds. But we will remember and our new leaves will land upon the soil.

There are places inside where it is forever spring.Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer and historian 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.A published writer for nearly twenty years, Kerri is currently gathering a decade of essays into a book.

Kerri can be reached at [email protected].

Countryberrries LLC

Countryberries Designs

This pattern is free for you to use. Please give the art-ist credit. Not for commercial use. Enlarge this pattern to your desired size. It can be appliqued in cotton or wool by hand or with fusible web. Embroider the details. If you’re a painter, create this design with acrylic paints on canvas and varnish to pro-tect. Try this pat-tern as a punch-needle design or as a hooked rug.Have fun!

200State Street North • Waseca, MN56093Kent & Diane Schultz Auditorium (not handicapped accessible)

507-835-1701 • www.wasecaartscouncil.org

Waseca Art CenterAApprriill 1199: Maud Hixon -” She Said, She Said”: Classic Women Songwriters from Flapper,

Swing and Bebop ErasCo-Sponsored by Thrivent Luthern

MMaayy 1177: James McGuire - Minnesota State University and Gustavus Adolphus Collegeinstructor will lead solo performances to include a blend of pieces from the Classical guitar

repertoire and the jazz popular music genre.

Each Concert: $15 WAC • $17 Public (reserved seating) - 7:30 pm (doors open at 6:30)

Join Us For

These Fun

Events

March/April 2014Luverne • Windom

www. .comEmail:

Welcome to Luverne We carry a beautiful variety of quilting fabrics,

plus books & supplies.We invite you to stop at the Sewing Basket

Authorized Dealer ofViking Sewing Machines and Sergers.

OPEN Monday thru Friday 9-5 p.m.Thursday 9-7 p.m. Saturday 9-Noon

www. .comEmail:

We carry a beautiful variety of quilting fabrics, plus books & supplies.

We invite you to stop at the Sewing Basket

Authorized Dealer ofViking Sewing Machines and Sergers.


AAuutthhoorriizzeedd DDeeaalleerr ooff HHuussqqvvaarrnnaa VViikkiinngg SSeewwiinngg

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Join us for the Spring Fling Crossing Borders Shop Hop!

April 28th - May 3rd

1293 Hale Place • Windom, MN 56101507-831-2740

[email protected]

Hours:M-F 9-5Sa 9-3

Call for more information all fantastic events!!

SSpprriinngg RReettrreeaatt 22001133:: March 28 - March 30CCoouunnttrryy RRooaaddss SShhoopp HHoopp:: April 3 - April 5SSpprriinngg FFlliinngg CCrroossssiinngg BBoorrddeerrss SShhoopp HHoopp:: April 26 - May 3Visit 10 great quilt shops in Minnesota and South Dakota!

✆✆

Lagenlook Is Free-Spirited FashionFinds Home in Antique Faire World

by René GroomLagenlook continues to find a home in the U.S Antique Faire

world. In large part due to the famed Robin Brown of MagnoliaPearl fashion out of Texas, who has been supplying Faire goers atRound Top in Texas for a number of years. Rarely can one attendan antique faire across the U.S anymore and not see someone,or a group of someones, dressed to the nines in this fun loving,chic, free-spirited fashion.

Coined “Lagenlook” in Europe, the word means “the layeredlook.” Usually crafted in vintage linens of cream, white and blackor vintage lace and tatting—some with clean seam lines andsome with a tatted edge—this fashion has been described as across between romantic Victorian and steampunk with a splash ofGypsy for good measure. The uber-feminine look is often timesbalanced out with chunky boots or even vintage cowgirl bootsand belts.

The ability to layer the clothing is truly an art form, which iscertainly made easier with the foundational pieces of lightweight

bloomers, long-bodied tank-top shirts and shorty jackets. Uniquelooks can be created by combining different shades of creamsand white and mix and matching lace patterns.

While Lagenlook has been around for generations in Europe,often those looks were more Victorian and confining. But,designers like Magnolia Pearl, Paris Rags, and Ivey Abitz hasfound fun and unique ways to loosen up the corset by bringingthe once undergarments out, exposing them for the beautifulcoverings that they are.

It has been said that this particular look has to have a specialperson to carry it off. But, in truth, there is so much that isprecious about this particular style anyone could adapt parts of itinto their every day wardrobe.

If one is looking to create this look for themselves, their best betis to find costume patterns for steampunk, Victorian, and Gypsywear and go from there. If you are looking to buy pieces to addto your wardrobe, you can check out MettaMarie, Ivey Abitz,Magnolia Pearl and Paris Rags on the Internet or on Facebook.

René Groom is a freelance writer and public speaker who loves to share her adventures, misadventures and theamazing people she meets down life’s dusty trails. She and her husband, Tom, make their home in Prosser, WA.

She is the mom of four amazing men. Her stories can be found at www.adventureswithdusty.blogspot.com.

Visit yourlocal Quilt

Shop to Celebrate!

March/April 2014Sherburn

OOlldd AAlllleeyy QQuuiilltt SShhoopp115 N. Main-Hwy 4 • Box 143 • Sherburn, MN 56171 • 507-764-4088

oldalleyquiltshop.com • [email protected] 2800 bolts of fabric (including great @annels!), paAerns, notions,

classes, and long arm quilting service located in a renovated bowling alley on themain street of Sherburn, MN, south of the I-90, Hwy 4 exit.

AApprriill FFoooollss SSaallee:: Tuesday, April 1st -- 25% o> storewide!!CCoouunnttrryy RRooaaddss SShhoopp HHoopp:: April 3rd, 4th, & 5th Visit 7 stores for 10% o>, a progressive paAern, door prizes, and a chancefor one of 7 - $100 gift certi?cates!!

Regular Hours M-F 10-5, Sat 9-4

Special Shop Hop Hours: Th & Fri 9am-5:30pm · Sat 9am-4pm

International Quilt Study Center & MuseumWebsite Showcases Quilts and Quiltmaking The International Quilt Study Center & Museum (IQSCM) in Lincoln is sharing

its collection with the world in a whole new way. IQSCM’s World Quilts, a websitethat offers a global perspective on quiltmaking, recently launched “The AmericanStory,” its first module.

The website showcases the museum’s collection and hallmarks scholarly perspectiveon the worldwide significance of quilts and quiltmaking. You can view “The AmericanStory” at worldquilts.quiltstudy.org/americanstory.

“We’ve created a clearinghouse of accurate and engaging information aboutAmerican quilt history by using our unparalleled collection, our more than 15 yearsof scholarly research, our existing online resources and the resources of otherimportant organizations, such as the American Quilt Study Group, the Quilt Indexand the Quilt Alliance,” said Marin Hanson, IQSCM curator of exhibitions and co-editor of the project.

With more than 4,000 quilts in its collection–too many to show in any physicalgallery–the IQSCM values sharing quilts and their historical and cultural contextswith visitors virtually.

The website moves existing quilt studies scholarship beyond disciplinary bound-aries to integrate quilts within a broader art and humanities context. It serves as anexcellent starting place for anyone who wants to learn about the role of quilts inAmerican society, past and present.

“This new website promises to be an important resource for all who desire tolearn about quilts—whether they are students, teachers, quilt makers, dealers,appraisers or conservators,” said Lynne Z. Bassett, costume and textile historian. “Iam very glad to have this resource not only for my own education, but to point outto those who come to me for information about American quilts.”

“The American Story” also offers a platform for the IQSCM to share new infor-mation as it becomes available, making it a dynamic resource. Future World Quiltsmodules are slated to cover other regions of the world.

This project was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Robert and ArdisJames Foundation and the support of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Collegeof Education and Human Sciences, Department of Textiles, Merchandising andFashion Design and the IQSCM staff.

“Whether you’re a quilt history buff like me, or know very little about Americanquilts, you’ll find riches on every page of IQSCM’s beautiful new website,” saidMarianne Fons, co-host of “Love of Quilting” on public television and co-foundingeditor of Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting magazine. “Wonderful visuals, solid,entertaining content and links to fascinating extras create a trip around thepatchwork globe every quilt enthusiast should take.”

Piecing Life Togetherby Barbara Polston

Danger! Danger!Are your daily activities dangerous? You might think not, unless you’re a first

responder or employed on the bomb squad. I’m here to tell you otherwise! Danger,it appears, is truly all around us.

I’m a writer and a quilter. Pretty safe activities, for the most part. I can’t think ofany injury I’ve sustained as a writer except for eye and muscle strain from sittingtoo long in one spot staring at the computer screen. I’ve had a few injuries quilting.I’ve nicked myself with the rotary cutter and sewn through the tip of my finger. I’vebeen pretty lucky, though. I’ve never had to phone 911 nor have anything stitchedup. I have friends who have not been so lucky.

Because quilting has moved from the realm of leisure pastime to profession, Iwanted a new hobby. I settled on cooking. I’m much better at savory recipes. I’mnot much of a baker. I watch television programs about cooking and, when the TVis on, it’s most often tuned to Food Network. I love watching professional chefscreate recipes, slicing and dicing with speed. I’ve tried to hone my knife skills,following their examples. I’ve added several kitchen accessories, including a grillpan, immersion blender, and small food processor. Love using them all.

I’ve been wanting a mandoline. Not the stringed instrument, but a manualdevice for slicing foods quickly. I’ve watched the chefs on television make quickwork of onions, tomatoes and potatoes using this device. Finally, I made mypurchase. A bit smug, the first time I tried it, I ignored the safety warnings. Theprice paid, a fairly deep slice in my thumb. The very next day, I thought I would getback up on the horse and try again. This time, I followed all the safety precautions.The price paid? I sliced the fleshy tip of my middle finger almost clean off.

Because my youngest daughter is a trained medical assistant, trips to the emergencyroom were avoided. There is no evidence of infection; the cuts are healing nicelyand it appears that, given time, all will be well. However, my writing and quiltingare much and negatively effected. My right hand is only capable of hunting andpecking on the computer keyboard. While I can sew on the machine, pinning is achallenge and hand sewing is out of the question. Yes, it could have been muchworse. I am looking for the learning and the silver lining in the experience.

Jane Austen, in Persuasion, wrote, “An interval of meditation, serious andgrateful, was the best corrective of everything dangerous.” I’ve most seriously andgratefully chucked the mandoline in the trash.

Barbara Polston an author, designer and award-winning quiltmaker. You can see Barbara’s quilts,join her on Facebook, or book her class and lecture offerings at www.barbarapolston.com. She

was inducted into Arizona Quilters Hall of Fame in September 2013. Barbara, who has lived inPhoenix, Arizona, for over 28 years, is calmly quilting in Studio Narnia. ©Barbara Polston,

Phoenix, AZ, February 2014

March/April 2014Jordan • Mankato

• Vintage • Retro • Records • Watkins • Aprons • Rugs •

Melissa

&Doug

Toys®Q

uilts•Furniture

19075RapidanAve ·Mankato,MN56001·507-278-4808·507-340-5794

• Lovely collection of handcrafted items •• Gifts • Antiques •

SpringSaleDates

!March 20-23April 10-13

Th-Sa: 9-5 • Su: 1-4Also by Chance or Appointment

• Handiwork • Enamelware • Jewelry • Cards • Antiques •

Minnesota’s Guide to Occasional Sales and Boutiques

One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Treasure

Ideas for Using Mason Jarsby Carol J. Alexander

I get a charge out of up-cycling, re-purposing, or otherwise finding a use forthings most folks send to the landfill. From old socks to appliance cords to twist ties,I can find a use for it. Even food scraps go into a soup or casserole, are fed to theanimals, or added to the compost bin. At our place, very little is left for the trash heap.

Mason jars are handy to have around, even if you don’t can food in them. I evenlike to pick them up at second-hand or antique shops—the old, blue onesespecially. Following are seven ways to use these versatile containers—or any otherjars you save.DISPLAY FLOWERS: An old blue Ball Jar makes a stunningvase for a bunch of wildflowers picked in the spring time. Orconsider greenery with berries for the holiday season. Tie aribbon or raffia around the neck, for an added touch.BAKE IN THEM: For individual servings of dessert, fill half-pintjars half full of brownie or cupcake batter and bake accordingto instructions. Serve when cool or cap and freeze for later.TAKE A DRINK: Want to drink from glass, but don’t like the price tag on a glasswater bottle? Use a jar. You can now buy silicone or stainless steel drinking lids thatfit into the ring of a Mason jar. Or, you can make your own by punching a hold inthe metal lid and inserting a straw. Make or buy a crocheted or quilted sleeve toslide over your jar to prevent breakage and absorb any condensation.

STORE BUTTONS: If you have a lot of buttons allmixed together in your sewing room, use small jarsfor sorting them by color. Then, when you arelooking for just the right color, you don’t have to gothrough a mixed-up mess of buttons to find what youwant. If you want a country touch to your décor,fill a few old blue Ball jars with an assortment ofbuttons and tie a plaid ribbon around the neck.These make great bookends on a bookshelf.CREATE A SEWING KIT: fill and cover with fabric.Bring the fabric to the underside and glue to makea pin cushion. Inside the jar, place a small pair of

scissors, spools of thread, a tape measure, and other notions to fit.BURN A CANDLE: Fill the bottom of a wide-mouthed jar with sand. Insert a pillarcandle and you have safe holders to line your sidewalk or patio for an evening party.WRAP A GIFT: For the person who has everything, you buy a gift card, right? For acreative wrapping, fill a half-pint jar with his favorite candy (M&M’s, jelly beans, etc.)and slide the card down in the middle. Tie a ribbon around the lid and you havetwo gifts in one. Just make sure to tell him there is something hiding in the candy.

OUT-REACHby Joyce Gregor

That crown of thornshas bothered me again,with its constant reminder,that I should be about my Father’s business,to clear the ashesnow that winter’s past,a task in memoryof His living.No need to light newfires now for warmth,the glow is in the world beyond,an ever present springin full bloom.Our business then at handis in the sowing. © Joyce Gregor

March/April 2014Lake City • North Branch • Wabasha

Spring Show DatesMarch 6-9 •March 13-16April 3-6 •April 10-13

Thurs thru Sat: 10am - 6pmSunday: 12pm - 5pm

Watch for more OccasionalSale Dates Every Month!

2014 DatesMarch 13-16April 17-20May 15-18June 19-22July 17-20

August 14-17September 18-21October 16-19

November 18-21December 18-21

The OOccccaassiioonnaall SShhooppss ooffLLaakkee CCiittyy,, MMiinnnneessoottaaoffer vintage finds, antiques, primitives,

home comforts, industrialq finds, fleamarket finds, specialty

items, themes andmore! Shops includebrick and mortar andpop up locations.

www.lakecityoccasionalshops.comFind us on FACEBOOK...OccasionalShopsLakeCity

28th AnnualInterfaith Quilters of Longmont

Preview Night: February 28th • Quilt Sale: March 1stInterfaith Quilters of Longmont is celebrating the 28th year of offering outstanding

hand and machine quilted quilts for sale to benefit the O.U.R. Center and the SafeShelter of St. Vrain Valley. As in years past, the show and sale will be held at theFirst Lutheran Church, 803 Third Avenue in Longmont. This very successful quiltshow and sale features Jeananne Wright, nationally known certified quilt appraiserand lecturer. Jeananne will be displaying her amazing collection of antique quiltsand providing two bed turnings (displaying and describing antique quilts).

The ladies of Interfaith have exhibited their faith and caring for others in 2013 bymaking special quilts and blankets for survivors of the September floods. At the show,you will see a photo gallery of recipients of this generosity, their kind “thank you”notes, and the sharing of love exhibited by these exceptional Interfaith members.

Sale quilts are outstanding examples of hours and hours of difficult and dedicatedwork by the ladies of Interfaith Quilters. Always on the first weekend in March, thisyear’s show and sale will open on the last day of February (Feb. 28th) for previewnight, where quilts may be viewed, but not purchased. Admission for preview nightis $5. Hours for viewing these lovely quilts are 5 to 8 p.m. Homemade cookies andcoffee will be available. Sale day begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 1st.Admission is $1 (those who attend Preview night are exempted from admission feeson Saturday). Sale ends at 4 p.m. Saturday. Again, homemade pies supplied by theladies from the church, coffee and lemonade are available all day Saturday.

You will discover that these quilts are always very reasonably priced. Quality isguaranteed to be the best there is to offer. Quilts range in size from the smallestpillow to the largest king sized bed quilt. Baby quilts and table runners are alwaysour best sellers. Please visit www.interfaithquilters.com or follow us on Facebook.

March & Maple Syrupby Florence Holmes

As the days start getting noticebly longer, and the sunrises higher in the sky, my thoughts go to spring and ofall things, maple syrup.

My husband and I moved into our home over 30years ago. I never thought about tapping the big SugarMaple in front of the house until about 5 years ago whena March wind storm tore off a large limb and the sapliterally ran out of the “wound.” I put a large pot belowand soon had it filled with a clear liquid which looked justlike water. I set the pot on the old wood cook stove in thekitchen and thus began my adventure with “sap.”

I’d been told that to make syrup, all you have to do iscollect sap, evaporate a lot of water, and strain the hotgolden liquid into appropriate containers.

Collecting the sap from one tree was not a big job but evaporating the water was.As I researched the process, I found out that it takes about 40 gallons of sap to make1 gallon of syrup. That’s a lot of sap! And a lot of steam. Luckily we heat our old farmhouse with wood and it’s pretty dry inside in the winter. The steam evaporated from thesap actually helps our inside environment, but I wouldn’t suggest doing this inside theaverage home as it could create unhealthy conditions in a tightly insulated building.

As the water evaporates, an interesting phenomenon occurs—what tastes andsmells like pure water suddenly gives off the aroma of maple and the liquid actuallytastes sweet!

The initial attempt yielded about ½ a gallon. Since that first March, we havebecome more sophisticated and now use spiels (taps) and hoses which run into a 5gallon pail. I still use my wood cook stove as the “evaporator” and produce a littlemore than a gallon of syrup—enough to keep our pancakes tasty for the year.

INTERESTING FACTS*: • The scientific name for the Sugar Maple is acer saccharum• Maple syrup is made only in North America.• Sap begins to run when days are above freezing, and nights are below freezing.• Pure maple syrup has no fat, no cholesterol, and no proteins, and is a good • source of three essential elements—calcium, iron, and thiamin.• To be sold legally, maple syrup must have 66% sugar content.• The maple syrup season lasts from three to six weeks.• As soon as the buds on the trees begin to open, the sap is no longer suitable • for making maple syrup. *http://www.sugarbushrun.com/shorthistory.html

Get On The Button TrainApril 6 & 7 • Denver Red Lion Central

by Jill GorskiButtons, buttons, glorious buttons! Perhaps you have a few—in a jar, in a box, on

a coat or on your socks. There’s no denying that buttons are a great addition to anyproject. Whether used singly or in multiples, buttons add texture, interest, bling, andeven a bit of history. Ah, but which buttons to use can be a dilemma.

Buttons are constructed using a wide variety of materials. Today’s lifestyle requiresthese overlooked workhorses be washable, take a beating and be heat tolerant. Thiswas not always the case. Buttons created as recently as the 1950’s were not madeto withstand exposure to our modern day routines. With a little research, you canidentify your buttons’ make up and your project can stand the test of time.

Information is available from the National Button Society (nationalbuttonsociety.org)and our own Colorado State Button Society (coloradobuttons.com). There are alsoblogs, websites and Facebook pages written and supported by many knowledgeablebutton enthusiasts who would be happy to answer questions. Perhaps you have beenfortunate and have inherited or adopted someone’s button jar. Are all of your buttons“healthy”? Can they be washed? Can they be cleaned or salvaged? All of these areimportant considerations, for both projects and the preservation of your collection.

The Colorado State Button Society will present its annual show Saturday, April 6(noon to 5 p.m.) and April 7 (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel,4040 Quebec Street (at I-70) in Denver. This year’s theme is ‘Get On The ButtonTrain.’ At the show you can see antique, unique and new buttons, attend educationalprograms, and select buttons to purchase from the thousands offered for sale. Formore information see the ad in this edition of The Country Register.

As a crafter, quilter and fabriholic, I learned of the “Wide World of Buttons” byattending the Colorado State Button Show some years ago. What started as aninterest in crafting with buttons has become a lifelong crusade for button educationand preservation-minded crafting. It’s a great way to learn and find a like-mindedcommunity of supporters! In addition, there are the BUTTONS! Collectable to craft-grade and everything in between can be found here from vendors who travel toour show from all over the country.

You don’t have to start a new hobby or collection to have an interest in buttons.Buttons are a crossover into so many areas of interest you may already have. Comejoin us for an eye-opening visit. Shop and attend programs. Chat and meet newfriends. We think you’ll want to stay! Button Up!

Jill Gorski is a member of the Colorado Springs and Blue Spruce Button Clubs, as well as theNational Button Society. She is also the author of “Warman’s Buttons Field Guide” and

“Busy With Buttons” and you can email your questions and comments to her at [email protected]

Become Inspired!Decorating, Entertaining & Living

Early American Styleby Annice Bradley Rockwell

SECRETLY STRETCHING DAYSAs winter comes to a close, weather can be quite

unpredictable. But as our days seem to secretly stretchinto longer periods of daylight, we begin to trust andeagerly await the promise of spring. As our landscapenaturally confirms our hopes with fresh touches of green, we begin to feel a similarawakening to this special season that never fails to energize and inspire.

SUBTLE TOUCHES OF SPRINGThe gift of a fresh start can translate into a desire to brighten your home interior

with touches of the season. Antiques like treen trenchers or early handled basketscan easily be filled with primitive grass and handcrafted rabbits to add a vibrant,seasonal touch. Spring topiaries in primitive clay pots can stand tall in yourwindows or among your favorite stoneware as an accent representative of this timeof year. Stands of forsythia in redware storage crocks bring the natural elements ofspring indoors. Pewter pieces or other antique favorites can be used to holdbeautiful blooms blended with twigs or pussy willows to brighten any room.

Entryways and porches can be given new life as well. Natural twig wreathsaccented with subtle touches of spring look fresh and revive your home’s exterior.An early barrel on the side of your door with a simple potted herb or a bird’s nestbecomes a pure proclamation of your passion for spring.

BLESSINGS OF “SPRINGTIDE”As you look ahead to the blessings of warmer, longer days your spirit will

inevitably lift as you happily plan to expand your decorating toward the out ofdoors. As we shift to this fresh and promising time, embrace the newfound livelinessthat “springtide” brings and share its blessings with those you hold dear.

For further information and inspirational photos Facebook us at Milltown Primitives. Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques.

Annice is currently working on her book, New England Girl. [email protected] Robin Rock is the owner of Milltown Primitives. www.milltownprimitvesshop.com

March/April 2014Eden Valley • Foley • Kimball

431Dewey St.FoleyMN56329320-968-9929

Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 · Sat. (April-Sept) 10-3 · Sat. (Oct-March) 10-4:30

[email protected]

Conveniently Located in Downtown Foley!WeO5er aGenerousSelection of 100%Co6onQuilting Fabrics, Pa6erns andNotions.

LongarmQuilting Services Available.

GGOONNEE TTOO PPIIEECCEESS QQUUIILLTT SSHHOOPP

www.gonetopiecesquiltshop.com • [email protected]

70 South MainKimball, MN 55353

320-398-5300

DeAnn’s Country Village · Flying Goose Quilt ShopQuilt Haven on Main · Gone to Pieces

Button Up Shop HopMarch 20-22 • 9am - 5pm

$500 worth of Gift Certificates will be given away!!

Lost and Found

Religious Books &Gifts • Antiques•UsedFurnitureHomeDecor•GardenArt

Hwy. 22 Downtown • Eden Valley, MN320-453-5678

Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:30-5:30

Minnesota’s Best Kept Secret!!

Get your First Communion and Confirmation gifts here!

Qut�g with B�b�aby Barbara Conquest

While looking out the window at bleakfields of brown grass with patches of snowand leafless trees against a cloudy sky in lateJanuary, I began to think about colors. Warmcolors! Bright colors! Any color! Contemplatingthe lack of it outside inevitably led me to thinkabout color in relation to quilts I have madeand intend to make.

Many quilters say their first and foremostquilting problem is choosing fabric, which reallymeans they have trouble choosing colors. Thatisn’t surprising, taking into account all thechoices available. First to consider is personalpreference. Even very young children have their favorite colors, often choosing thesame crayon time after time. Children who consistently choose dark somber colorsare of some concern to child psychologists. It is common for beginning quilters touse only their favorite colors, and why not? If it’s comfortable, go for it! But eventually,after realizing all their quilts are very similar, they are ready to expand their choices.

One starting point involves using as a basis for choice the color wheel we alllearned as children: pure red, yellow and blue are the primary colors, and all otherson the wheel are a mixture of those colors with black and white added in variousamounts to produce tones and tints. But even here there are choices. There is morethan one color wheel. Fabric dyers, photographers and others use the Ives colorwheel, where magenta, yellow and turquoise (cyan) are considered primary colors,and orange, violet and green are the secondaries. This change in orientation can bea little confusing, since we were so thoroughly taught the first, but the Ives colorwheel is worth a second glance; the colors are bright and clear. Your color printercartridges use the Ives system. Looking at adjacent colors (analogous colors),complementary colors and tertiary colors on either wheel can be a source of inspiration.Several excellent books on color for quilters are available.

Certain colors evoke differing moods and emotions. Blue and green, for example,are considered to be calming and relaxing. Red and orange stimulate and agitate. (Iwish I had known that when we decorated our first child’s room in bright orange andyellow)! It is no coincidence that so many fast-food places use red, orange and otherbright colors in their décor. They desire customers who eat quickly and leave - noleisurely lunches there!

Quilting is a highly-symbolic craft, and color is often used for symbolic purposes.Blues, greens and browns frequently represent nature, peace, earth or sky, for example.Red and black often symbolize blood, death or bravery, but red and pink can alsostand for love. However, color as symbolism is culturally bound. In our society, whitemay represent purity, but for some eastern cultures white represents death andmourning. Pastels are considered “baby colors,” but who among us would present ababy boy with a pink quilt?

The significance of the number of color choices mentioned above may seemdaunting to a new quilter, but making these choices soon becomes second nature.Eventually, we learn that even colors we once considered unspeakable ugly havetheir places in our quilts, even if only to contrast with or draw attention to our favorites.

So we’re back where we started: choose the colors you like, but enrich theexperience by keeping in mind some of the underlying principles of the craft. Afterall, it’s your choices that make your quilt unique to you.

Barbara Conquest writes her column from Blue Sky Quilting in Tofield, AB. ®Copyright Barbara Conquest.

Book ReviewHome Spa Escapes

by Kathy HatchEscape the expense of a formal spa.

Escape the limitation of appointments. Andescape to relaxing and energizing sparemedies that can be enjoyed in the comfortof a woman’s own home. With serene andinviting images from artist Kathy Hatch anda collection of soothing and effective spatreatments, women can nourish their minds, bodies, and souls. In just minutes, awoman can be

• refreshed with facials using ingredients gathered in a moment’s notice• inspired with words of comfort, wisdom, and serenity• restored with bath soaks that ease tensions and achesAny day is the perfect day to escape to the warmth, solace, balance, and the

pure joy of being pampered.

Hardcover • Pages: 64 • ISBN-13: 9780736923033

YOU Could WIN “Home Spa Escapes”You can register to win a copy of Home Spa Escapes. Clip and mail in this form OR writeHome Spa Escapes on the Gift Certificate Entry Form and you will be registered to win both theGift Certificate and the book. If you prefer not to cut up your paper, just send the informationbelow on any paper or note card to: The Country Register, 12835 Kiska Street NE, Blaine, MN55449. Entry deadline is April 13th. You will be notified and receive the prize by mail.

You Could Win Home Spa Escapes!You can register to win a copy of Home Spa Escapes. 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____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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CCiittyy________________________________________________ SSttaattee____________________ ZZiipp____________________________________

FFaavvoorriittee SShhoopp________________________________________________________________________________________________________

March/April 2014Cold Spring • Hutchinson • LitchMeld • Waite Park • Wilmar

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HHaannddmmaaddee WWoooodd SSiiggnnss aanndd SSooaappss •• GGuuyy SSttuuffff •• UUnniiqquueessOOppeenn EEvveerryy SSuunnddaayy 1100::0000--44::0000

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DeAnn’sCountryVillageShoppeAOne-of-a-Kind unique Gift shop and Quilt Store all in one!

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by Nancy Parker BrummettNo wonder so many people love to attend Easter sunrise services. A sunrise

represents hope, and so it is the perfect representation of the hope we find in themessage of Easter.

Few events can be counted on to occur day after day, but the rising of the sunis one of them. Even on a cloudy day, when the heat and light of the sun may beminimized, we can still see that the sun did indeed rise once again!

And how grateful we are for the blessing of the sun in our lives. Without it, wewould be in perpetual darkness. Without it, plant life on the earth, including theflowers and trees that bring us so much joy, would shrivel and die. All the beautywe look forward to this time of year when spring begins to bloom would cease toexist. In fact, all of life would eventually disappear from the earth, all because welost the sun.

Our life on earth is marked by the number of sunrises and sunsets we experience,but do we really experience them? Do we appreciate the sun and the majesty ofthe Creation that allows it to shine day after day, or do we take it for granted? Thefirst rays of a sunrise are subtle at best. Slowly the darkness begins to fade as thesun makes its way toward the horizon, but then as the giant orb of fire climbs upinto view the entire sky changes color. The sunrise can look different each andevery day, but because we can count on it to happen without fail, it’s a wonderfulsymbol for the hope we have in Jesus Christ—the hope that is an anchor for thesoul, firm and secure (Hebrews 6:19).

It was a dark, bleak day when Jesus was crucified on the cross—the worst dayHis followers had ever known. And yet when the grieving women ran to the tombearly in the morning of the third day, after the sun had risen, they were greetedwith the glorious news of the resurrection! Praise God we can be sure that thosewho believe in His Son will also know the glory of everlasting life. We can be evenmore certain of that than we are of the sunrise! For no matter what darkness ourlife holds, one day we will be bathed in the light of heaven forever.

The next time we are blessed to watch a sunrise, and especially on Eastermorning, we should bask in the hope that it represents. It’s a hope that never fades,and never disappoints.

Nancy Parker Brummett is an author and freelance writer in Colorado Springs, CO,(www.nancyparkerbrummett.com). This column is excerpted in part from her new

devotional guide for seniors, The Hope of Glory, available on Amazon.com.

Back Porch Break

Sunrise Hope at Easter

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“Is there another man?” “Yes.”

“How did you meet?” “My aunt Rita introduced us.”

“Do I know him? What is his name?” “His name is Roy. Roy G. Biv.”

I love things organized in an aesthetically pleasing way. I like things neat and tidy.I use my label maker whenever possible. I believe things should be put away wherethey belong. Yes, I am one of those people. I have convinced myself my need fororganization has grown out of necessity rather than obsessive compulsiveness.Someone once gave me a decorative block that read “Creative minds are rarelytidy,” which I may have taken a bit too personally. I believe I am both. I like a tidyspace, and my projects usually reflect that order.

Roy G. Biv has been helping me get organized. As far as I know, Roy himself hasnever stepped foot in my house, or anywhere on earth for that matter. His name isonly an acronym describing the sequence of hues in a rainbow: red, orange,yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. Rainbows are always a welcome sight, and Iwelcome rainbows throughout our home.

In our living room, on top of a black shelf, books are arranged by the color oftheir covers. Ben Franklin begins the rainbow with red, followed by Annie Oakleyand Les Miserables, and Colorado History is close to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz inviolet. I would not normally group these books together, but it seems my rebelliousstage has finally arrived. The rowdy morning rush to find the perfect outfit has beencalmed with this rainbow approach. Dresses, sweaters, pants and tops are sorted bytype and color, so I can easily find what I am looking for and, even better, put themaway where I will be able to find them again. I found a rainbow among markers,colored pencils, and crayons. A fuzzy rainbow appeared in the yarn basket next to arainbow of scrapbook paper, both ready to fulfill their purposes.

Using this color sequence as a fun guide, I have followed the rainbow to an endand found Gestalt theory, an artist’s pot of gold. In many tasks, and often withoutknowing it, we follow the six laws of perceptual organization based on Gestalt Theories.

The law of Pragnanz, or a good figure, is the first. The viewer sees the simplestpossible structure or pattern. One might see a silhouette of a skyline combining themany buildings rising from the ground as one continuous form. The Olympics ringsare another symbol that simply combines the five rings into one pattern. Quilts arean excellent example of this law, for the quilt is usually seen as a whole beforefurther examining the individual pieces.

Secondly, the law of similarity groups together similarly visual elements. In myChina cabinet, my carnival glass is placed together while my Disney collectiblesoccupy another space. When I lay out a scrapbook spread, I use photographs froma single event or place to keep those related pictures together on the page. I groupsimilar things together to add interest to the design, whether it’s a table setting or aphoto album.

Next is the law of good continuation, in which elements connected in straightor curved lines belong together. In our living room, near that black shelf with therainbow created of books, a bird cage complete with a wooden, wire leggedcanary hangs next to a metal rose vine curving over to the straight red framedtimeline of Shakespeare’s works. The eye moves from one piece to another,following a natural line rather than feeling segmented. It brings different piecestogether rather than separating them.

The law of proximity teaches us that elements near each other are groupedtogether. We put elements close together to achieve unity. Most of us see the dotson a die as one number rather than individual dots. With one roll of the die, werecognize a group of five because of the placement of the dots. The same isaccomplished with pictures hanging on a wall or beads hanging on a chain. If threeitems are placed together, we recognize them as being connected. This law isevident in many projects we create.

Common fate is another law that allows us to see elements moving in the samedirection belonging together. When I am cropping and placing photos, I arrangethem so the subjects are moving in the same direction. People facing the samedirection, or facing a common subject, is an easy way to group a variety of pictureson page. For each holiday, I tie a ribbon around pillar candles of varying heightsand place them together. Each ribbon is tied horizontally, and although differentcolors at different heights, the candles appear to belong together.

The law of familiarity allows us to see elements joined together if the group appearsmeaningful or familiar. On the top of our piano, I have a layer of dust. But on top ofthat dust, sits an aged first grade reader than I picked up at a flea market. Next to itsits a small clear glass vase filled with miniature stars, folded from pages of a book. Thestars were originally inside a Christmas ornament I found at a holiday craft fair, butthe ornament itself broke before I got it home. I salvaged the stars and put them ina new vessel. The stars filled with tiny words next to this book tells a story all its own.

The Gestalt theory of visual psychology is widely known and explains how oureyes and brains work together. Negative spaces appear organized. With proximity,repetition, continuation, and layout, any design achieves unity. We strive towardunity in all we do, and we are reminded of the everlasting covenant with everycolorful sky. I will keep searching for that pot of gold, but I have already foundreassurance in the rainbow.

© 2014 Maranda K. JonesAuthor Maranda K. Jones shares her stories of faith and family through her personal experiences of growing,

teaching, and parenting in a small town. She lives with her husband and their son and daughters in rural Colorado.She is an elementary school teacher as well as a prolific freelance writer. Reach Maranda at [email protected]

Random Actsby Maranda K. Jones

Laws of Order

“Is there another man?” “Yes.”

“How did you meet?” “My aunt Rita introduced us.”

“Do I know him? What is his name?” “His name is Roy. Roy G. Biv.”

I love things organized in an aesthetically pleasing way. I like things neat and tidy.I use my label maker whenever possible. I believe things should be put away wherethey belong. Yes, I am one of those people. I have convinced myself my need fororganization has grown out of necessity rather than obsessive compulsiveness.Someone once gave me a decorative block that read “Creative minds are rarelytidy,” which I may have taken a bit too personally. I believe I am both. I like a tidyspace, and my projects usually reflect that order.

Roy G. Biv has been helping me get organized. As far as I know, Roy himself hasnever stepped foot in my house, or anywhere on earth for that matter. His name isonly an acronym describing the sequence of hues in a rainbow: red, orange,yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. Rainbows are always a welcome sight, and Iwelcome rainbows throughout our home.

In our living room, on top of a black shelf, books are arranged by the color oftheir covers. Ben Franklin begins the rainbow with red, followed by Annie Oakleyand Les Miserables, and Colorado History is close to The Wonderful Wizard of Oz inviolet. I would not normally group these books together, but it seems my rebelliousstage has finally arrived. The rowdy morning rush to find the perfect outfit has beencalmed with this rainbow approach. Dresses, sweaters, pants and tops are sorted bytype and color, so I can easily find what I am looking for and, even better, put themaway where I will be able to find them again. I found a rainbow among markers,colored pencils, and crayons. A fuzzy rainbow appeared in the yarn basket next to arainbow of scrapbook paper, both ready to fulfill their purposes.

Using this color sequence as a fun guide, I have followed the rainbow to an endand found Gestalt theory, an artist’s pot of gold. In many tasks, and often withoutknowing it, we follow the six laws of perceptual organization based on Gestalt Theories.

The law of Pragnanz, or a good figure, is the first. The viewer sees the simplestpossible structure or pattern. One might see a silhouette of a skyline combining themany buildings rising from the ground as one continuous form. The Olympics ringsare another symbol that simply combines the five rings into one pattern. Quilts arean excellent example of this law, for the quilt is usually seen as a whole beforefurther examining the individual pieces.

Secondly, the law of similarity groups together similarly visual elements. In myChina cabinet, my carnival glass is placed together while my Disney collectiblesoccupy another space. When I lay out a scrapbook spread, I use photographs froma single event or place to keep those related pictures together on the page. I groupsimilar things together to add interest to the design, whether it’s a table setting or aphoto album.

Next is the law of good continuation, in which elements connected in straightor curved lines belong together. In our living room, near that black shelf with therainbow created of books, a bird cage complete with a wooden, wire leggedcanary hangs next to a metal rose vine curving over to the straight red framedtimeline of Shakespeare’s works. The eye moves from one piece to another,following a natural line rather than feeling segmented. It brings different piecestogether rather than separating them.

The law of proximity teaches us that elements near each other are groupedtogether. We put elements close together to achieve unity. Most of us see the dotson a die as one number rather than individual dots. With one roll of the die, werecognize a group of five because of the placement of the dots. The same isaccomplished with pictures hanging on a wall or beads hanging on a chain. If threeitems are placed together, we recognize them as being connected. This law isevident in many projects we create.

Common fate is another law that allows us to see elements moving in the samedirection belonging together. When I am cropping and placing photos, I arrangethem so the subjects are moving in the same direction. People facing the samedirection, or facing a common subject, is an easy way to group a variety of pictureson page. For each holiday, I tie a ribbon around pillar candles of varying heightsand place them together. Each ribbon is tied horizontally, and although differentcolors at different heights, the candles appear to belong together.

The law of familiarity allows us to see elements joined together if the group appearsmeaningful or familiar. On the top of our piano, I have a layer of dust. But on top ofthat dust, sits an aged first grade reader than I picked up at a flea market. Next to itsits a small clear glass vase filled with miniature stars, folded from pages of a book. Thestars were originally inside a Christmas ornament I found at a holiday craft fair, butthe ornament itself broke before I got it home. I salvaged the stars and put them ina new vessel. The stars filled with tiny words next to this book tells a story all its own.

The Gestalt theory of visual psychology is widely known and explains how oureyes and brains work together. Negative spaces appear organized. With proximity,repetition, continuation, and layout, any design achieves unity. We strive towardunity in all we do, and we are reminded of the everlasting covenant with everycolorful sky. I will keep searching for that pot of gold, but I have already foundreassurance in the rainbow.

© 2014 Maranda K. JonesAuthor Maranda K. Jones shares her stories of faith and family through her personal experiences of growing,

teaching, and parenting in a small town. She lives with her husband and their son and daughters in rural Colorado.She is an elementary school teacher as well as a prolific freelance writer. Reach Maranda at [email protected]

Random Actsby Maranda K. Jones

Laws of Order

Mom’s fight to keep Dad’s clothes in shapenear drove her to despair,

especially in the days beforewe knew of “wash-and-wear.”

She worked to keep him looking good,his clothes all neat and clean,

She battled cow manure and mud,and grease from some machine.

Clothes faded in the wash and sun;barbed wire would snag and tear.He wore the buttons off his shirtand lost them who knew where.

When Mom replaced a button, which“had been put on with spit,”

she looped strong thread through all the holesand firmly anchored it.

She never sat to rest her feet,but what she had to mend

or darn his socks, a thankless job,that never seemed to end.

Mom never would have understoodkids’ torn and ragged jeans.

She would have thought the wearers camefrom families without means.

Mom felt the way her husband lookedreflected on her care,

and “tacky” was the kind of lookmy mother couldn’t bear.

He had his job, and she had hers;it was her source of pride.

She did it almost sixty years,until the month she died.

In This Land OfLittle Rain

Cowboy Poetry

by Jane Ambrose Morton

Mom’s Job

“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.

March/April 2014Detroit Lakes • Fergus Falls • Moorhead • Park Rapids

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Quilts That Redeemby Sherry Osland

Heart ConnectionsI have taken a break from working on a ministry quilt. This one is for a friend of

mine and I’m doing it on my own. I’ve felt very “led” as I have worked through thedecisions and choices involved in making it. Everything has fallen into place sosmoothly. I’ve experienced this before, and it always affirms that God is in thedetails! My friend is a country gal, and my eyes came to rest on an assortment ofhomespuns. Check! Needing a backing, my hands instinctively reached for somedenim. Check! Check! Several prayerful thank you notes have been given as I’vebeen shown each step.

As I’ve worked, I’ve also said prayers of thanks that my friend is on the mend. Itcan stop me in my tracks to think how close to death she was recently. As aministry quilt—i.e. a “quilt Band-Aid”—I pray for it to minister to her on severallevels: aesthetically pleasing, physically warming and spiritually comforting. Sadly, Idon’t get to see her very often, so I’m hoping it will also be a renewed heartconnection with my friend.

That fact has given me pause to think about what constitutes a friendship. Fromyears of meeting new people in my studio, I know that spending a lot of timetogether isn’t necessarily a pre-requisite. One day, I spent half an hour with a ladywho ventured into my shop for a “break” from the emotional intensity of soonseeing her son off to war. My Air Force daughter had yet to deploy, but I was livingwith that possibility and easily empathized with her. Sharing and praying togetherbefore she left, we experienced a definite heart connection and bond of friendship.

Quilts can be mirrors of a person’s life. Often, they deal with specific stories ofone’s life and experiences. One such quilt of a new customer’s was her “therapy”during a bumpy stretch of life. I’ve found it sometimes takes surprisingly little to getfrom “Hi, I’m Sherry” to the other side of half an hour or more of listening andsharing. These are cherished times; sharing of our hearts and investing in oneanother...heart connections.

As for my friend who is ill, we were one year apart in high school and vaguelyknew each other from art class. Later, I remember well the day I walked into mycollege Geology Lab class and met the eyes of a room full of strangers. Then, I sawher smiling face of recognition. Whew! Someone familiar in an unfamiliarenvironment. We were surrounded by lab tables, fossil charts and posters ratherthan stretched canvases, paint tubes, brushes and the wonderful smell of turpentine!Being artistic, we were both so very totally out of our comfort zones.

Familiarity and similar artistic sentiments started our friendship. Giggles and timespent riding in her two-tone, turquoise and white car while trying to follow direc-tions sealed it. We would head out in search of unsuspecting fossils in unsuspecting(to us!) places. We would join classmates at an assigned place and time around thelake. The point made was to recognize and name the specific rock layer where westood. Then, we would drive to the next place. Much to my specific chagrin, itwould sometimes be the same layer in both places. (I hate trick questions!) Myinterest and attention was more in the colors, textures and shapes of the rocklayers, the ambiance of the lake and the colors of the sky. The 64-letter words foranything we were standing on seemed to stay agonizingly out of the grasp of mymemory. (True confessions! Oh, dear!) We didn’t know much about what we wereto do...but we sure had a good time doing it.

A friendship began all those many years ago. With the wake-up call of my friend’sillness, I’m purposing to make more heart connections with her during this year. Aphrase has been going through my mind. “Friendships are too valuable to allow tocoast.” With that thought, other friend’s names are coming to mind.

So! What constitutes a friendship? Sharing life experiences, praying with andinvesting in one another, familiarity and time together (whether short or long) allfigure into the making of a friendship. Its foundation, I believe, is the heartconnection followed by the purposed continuance of its beat. I’m looking forwardto her being well enough for a visit and to be given, hopefully, a quilt that will helpto redeem the valley she just walked through.

Written by Sherry Osland of Praise Works Quilting, Abilene. In business and ministry for 12 years. For examplesof quilting Facebook.com/PraiseWorks. For information about ordering a copy of her new book “Quilts That

Redeem” a collection of past columns, Contact Sherry at: [email protected] or 785-263-4600.

March/April 2014Bemidji • Blackduck • Crookston • East Grand Forks

Join us for the Valley Shop Hop!April 24-26

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Myst� Qu�tWinter SunshineDesigned by Ann Jones

Ann designed this quilt to be the Christmas quilt she has wanted to make for over20 years and Erica put a sunflower twist on hers when she made the quilt to test thedirections! This quilt is somewhat fat quarter friendly and I have indicated this when itworks. We both used a lot of colors. Don’t let this scare you off. If your fabrics coordinate,it will work. The quilt is approximately 62” square.

SSuupppplliieess::Fabric A: 1/8 yd or 1 Fat Quarter - medium/dark print.Fabric B: 1/8 yd or 1 Fat Quarter - medium/dark print to coordinate with Fabric A.Fabric C: 1/2 yd or 2 Fat Quarters - needs to be a focal fabric. Can be a med/large

print or even fussy cut..Fabric D: 1/2 yd or 2 Fat Quarters - needs to coordinate with Fabric C.Fabric E: 3/4 yd or 3 Fat Quarters - a dark color will work here, suggest a solid.Fabric F: 1/2 yd or 2 Fat Quarters - med/dark tonal to contrast Fabric E and

compliment C&D.Fabric G: 1 1/4 yds - this fabric can be a med/large print (I used sunflowers here) &

needs to coordinate with Fabric A&B.Fabric H: 1/2 yd or 2 Fat Quarters - needs to be a light to coordinate with Fabric G.Fabric I: 1/2 yd or 2 Fat Quarters - needs to be a med/med light to coordinate with

G&H.Fabric J: 3/4 yd - this will be in your border.

PPAARRTT 11

BBLLOOCCKK 11: This is a 16 patch and will be the center of the quilt.

From each of Fabric A&B you will cut eight (8) 3 1/2”squares. If you use a 3 1/2 strip X WOF then you canstrip piece this by sewing the 2 strips together and presstoward the darker fabric. Make four (4) four patch blocksmaking sure your fabrics alternate. Sew the 4-patches (orall 16 of your squares) together to make a 16 patch perthe diagram.

BBLLOOCCKK 22:: A modified bear paw block. This block uses 4fabrics. You will make 8 of these blocks.

Cut: Eight (8) 6 1/2” x 6 1/2” squares from Fabric C.Cut: Eight (8) 3 1/2” x 6 1/2” rectangles from Fabric D.Cut: Eight (8) 3 1/2” x 9 1/2” rectangles from Fabric D.Cut: Twenty-four (24) 4”x4” squares from Fabric E.Cut: Twenty-four (24) 4”x4” squares from Fabric F.Cut: Eight (8) 3 1/2” x 3 1/2” squares from Fabric F.

Using your 4” squares from Fabric E&F, place right sidestogether, mark on the diagonal, sew 1/4” on each side ofthe mark. Cut apart on the marked line to make 48 halfsquare triangles. Press toward the dark and square theseblocks up to 3 1/2” squares. Sew the “toe” parts together andpress toward the dark fabric. Assemble blocks per diagram.

Pattern sponsered by Nine Patch Quilt & Fabrics, 129 E. Walnut, Nevada, MO 64772www.ninepatchnevada.com; [email protected]

?


Along for the Journey . . . by Dr. Joe WheelerGrand Canyon National Park – South Rim 22nd in a series of articles featuring our National Parks

Early in the morning, snow began to slash at our NorthRim cabin windows; as the wind picked up, the snowincreased proportionally. After packing, Bob and I hauledour luggage out to the snow-covered Town Car. Then,we regretfully bade our adieus to our already belovedcabins on the rim, the rockers on the porch already fillingwith May snow. Inside the lodge, once again we break-fasted near one of the great windows, and watched thesnow descend into the abyss. All too soon, it was timeto leave, but none of us wanted to. The atmosphere inthe lodge was totally different from the day before for theunexpected snow had generated a sense of adventureamong hotel guests that had not been there before. Inthis sense of family-closed-off-from-the-rest-of-the-world,there were no strangers: everyone talked with eachother as though they were old friends.

But feeling a sense of urgency, we headed out. Wewere apprehensive because the Lincoln was anythingbut a snow car. Our hearts were in our throats whenthe snow deepened as the road climbed over 9,000feet (one of the key reasons the North rim has such ashort tourist season). The Lincoln began to slip, andthere were no snowplows. But finally we crested andheaded down, and eventually out of the snow.

This was Zane Grey country. In 1907 and 1908 Greyfaced storms much worse than this as he and legendaryplainsman Buffalo Jones and Mormon pioneer Jim Emmetlassoed mountain lions in the Buckskin Forest of thisKaibab Plateau we were traveling through. At Jacob Lake,we turned east on Highway 89a. When we’d descendedto Lee’s Ferry on the Colorado River, we walked alongthe river. For here was Emmet’s home a few miles downriver. Though we didn’t revisit it this time, we couldn’thelp but think of that tenderfoot Zane Grey eying thethen undammed Colorado River thundering down thissame gorge; it was maintained that if anyone fell intrying to get across by cable (no bridges then), no onewould ever see them again—not in flood season! Bornhere were Grey’s Last of the Plainsmen, Heritage of theDesert, and Roping Lions in the Grand Canyon.

We then turned south on Highway 89, and rightafter crossing the Painted Desert, at Cameron, weturned west on Highway 64. As we began our ascentto the South Rim, would you believe it?—once again,the snow began to fall.

It was late afternoon before we arrived at El TovarHotel, a favorite stopping place for our family downthrough the years.

We can thank TheodoreRoosevelt for saving the GrandCanyon for posterity. In 1903,after visiting the canyon, hedeclared it to be “a naturalwonder which, so far as Iknow, is in kind absolutelyunparalleled throughout therest of the world” (Barnes,102). He followed that up byestablishing the Grand CanyonNational Monument in 1906,by executive order, thenenlarging the Forest Reserveinto a National Forest.

Santa Fe Railroad officials, seeing the canyon as agolden opportunity to dramatically increase southwesttourism, determined to create a great lodge on the SouthRim. Their chosen architect: Charles Whittlesey, who wastrained in the Chicago office of Louis Sullivan. His goalwas to “meld the elegance of a European villa with theinfomality of a hunting lodge” (Barnes, 105). This grandhotel officially opened on January 14, 1905. Accordingto Barnes, “Steam heat, electric lights and indoor plumbingall made it the most expensively constructed and appointedlog house in America. Huge Douglas-firs were shipped byrail from Oregon, pushing the cost to $250,000, a grandsum, especially when compared to Old Faithful Inn,built for $140,000. One-hundred guest rooms accom-modated visitors who found comfort in ‘a quiet dignity,an unassuming luxury, and an appreciation of outingneeds at El Tovar’” (Barnes, 105). Though western instyle, it has also been considered Transylvanian, resem-bling a hunting lodge for the Romanian royal family.

Here the legendary Harvey Girls waited tables. Andhere too, in January of 1906, only one year after itopened its doors, Zane Grey and his bride Dolly arrivedhere by train on their honeymoon. But storm cloudsobscured the canyon, so it wasn’t until evening that theclouds parted and they stared into such a sunset asthey’d never even imagined. The die was cast: Thiscanyon would become the very heart of Grey’s 89novels—where the Old West began.

OUR MEMORIESAs we walked into the Rendezvous Room, and passed

the chairs flanking the crackling fire in the fireplace, wevowed to commandeer those chairs if the occupants eversurrendered them. In the center of the building is theregistration lobby, or Rotunda, where all paths intersect.Here we checked in, as we had a number of timesbefore, then moved into our rooms. We hoped to beable to show Bob and Lucy Earp “The Zane Grey Room,”where Dolly and Grey had stayed, but it was bookedsolid during our two-day stay, so weren’t able to. OurZane Grey’s West Society donated the Zane Greymemorabilia and books that make it such a specialroom. XANTERRA owns and operates the hotel today.

Later, we ate dinner in the renowned eighty -nine-foot long dining room, furnished with Arts and Crafts

style furniture, anchoredby two huge chimneys,each flanked by largepicture windows. Theservice and food were, asexpected, impeccable, asbefits one of the grandesthotels in the Great Circle.Here, Connie and I sharedan incident from our pastwith the Earps: Manyyears ago, when ourdaughter Michelle was justa tiny golden-haired angel,we’d eaten in this very

same dining room. Michelle, who’d never evenenvisioned such a grand place, was entranced. Thewaiter assigned to our table treated Michelle as thoughshe were a princess, hovering around her, filling herglass from high up each time she drank a sip from it,refilling the bread basket whenever she took a roll outof it, and grandly displaying the little broom that he’duse to whisk away every stray breadcrumb she droppedon the spotless white tablecloth. To this day, thatevening is etched in her memory as one of the mostmagical experiences in all her growing-up years.

Next day, the weather having cleared, we walkedalong the canyon rim, taking photos, along with visitorsfrom all over the world. We soon discovered that El Tovar,like Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone, is so loved to deathby hordes of tourists that hotel guests are hard-pressedto find unoccupied seats in the lobby or dining facilities.So what else should one expect from the focal center ofwell over four-million tourists every year? But we reallyexperienced the invasion when we entered the GrandCanyon Village building that houses the IMAX theatrethat shows the Grand Canyon film. Men, women, andchildren from all walks of life and from countries aroundthe world (many from Asia and Europe) flooded in, insuch numbers that we could barely move! Felt like wewere each straitjacketed. What a contrast from the NorthRim. We couldn’t even imagine what it would be like inthe summer when school is out!

But even so, each person standing by the parapet,staring into the vast reaches of the great canyon, seemsto be in a world of their own, no matter how many eddyaround them. The first sight of the canyon is invariablythe same: no advance hype can possibly fully prepareyou for the real thing! And late evening, when the crowdsebb inside El Tovar, leaving you with just the hotel guests,you can once again imagine seeing Zane and Dolly,sitting next to you by the fireplace, a pensive look intheir eyes, a hundred and six years ago.

SOURCES: Christine Barnes’ splendid Great Lodges of the West1 (Bend, Oregon: W.W.W. West, Inc, 2002); The Most ScenicDrives in America (Pleasantville, NY: Reader’s Digest, Inc., 1997).

Reprinted by permission of Joe Wheeler.Visit his blog at: http://joewheeler.wordpress.com/

March/April 2014Aitkin • Baxter • Brainerd

KKiiddss iinn tthheeKKiittcchheenn

by Austin, Morgan, andReagan Keller

No Easter basket is complete without the yumminess of apeanut butter cup! These homemade cups are the perfect answer.They are quick and easy to make. A little too much peanut butterfor our liking, but still pretty good.

WWhhaatt YYoouu’’llll NNeeeedd::• 1 (11.5 oz) package of milk chocolatechips• 1 cup peanut butter• 1/2 cup powdered sugar• 1/4 teaspoon salt• 12 foil or paper muffin cups

HHooww YYoouu MMaakkee IItt::1. You can trim the muffin cups tohalf their size if you choose. Wedidn’t - made it quicker and easier!2. Put 1/2 of the chocolate chipsinto a microwave safe bowl. Meltin the microwave (about 2 minutes).3. Spoon melted chocolate intomuffin cups.4. With a spoon smooth the chocolateout evenly bringing it up slightly onthe sides of the muffin cup.5. Cool in the refrigerator.6. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mixpeanut butter, powdered sugarand salt together.7. Spoon into the cooled, chocolate covered muffin cups evenly.

8. Melt the remainingchocolate and spoon overthe peanut butter.9. Spread chocolate out tothe edges of the cups. 10. Cool and enjoy!

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Wit N Wisdomby Judyann Grant

Patience: It’s Harder Than You Think!Due to lingering cold and snow, the traditional Easter egg hunt we host for our

seven grandchildren took place indoors last year. After filling seventy plastic eggswith chocolates, I hid them around the kitchen, living room and dining room.

Emma and Isaac arrived first and were chomping at the bit to find their eggs.They tried waiting patiently, but ended up tiptoeing around the living room.

“You’re not peeking are you?” I teased.“We can’t help it!” they said in unison.Their excitement was palpable and I was relieved when the rest of the grand-

children arrived and the hunt began.A few days later I found myself chomping at the bit…not to discover hidden eggs,

but to take a ride on the bicycle I received at Christmas. For three long months Ihad waited patiently for winter to subside. Then, on a sunny morning mid-waythrough April, the opportunity presented itself. The air was a crisp thirty-twodegrees and a few days of rain had substantially melted the snow from thedriveway, backyard and roadside. I couldn’t wait any longer!

After clipping the tags from the bike, I wheeled it through the house, out thekitchen door and down the porch steps. I didn’t tell my husband I was taking it outfor a ride because I knew he would have wanted to check it over first and he hadalready left for work. Besides, the bike was brand new, I reasoned, so what couldbe wrong?

Hopping on, I wobbled across the driveway. I hadn’t ridden a bike in severalyears and if I was going to fall off I wanted to do it in the privacy of my own backyard. Thankfully, within a few minutes I straightened out the wobbles. My intentionwas to cruise in the backyard, but I quickly succumbed to the call of the open road.With a big smile on my face, I coasted down the driveway and onto the pavement.

A few yards down the road, my smile faded. Pedaling was harder than I remem-bered. Before I was out of sight of our house, I was gasping for air.

“This is ridiculous,” I scolded myself. “I can’t be that out of shape.” While chanting,I think I can, I think I can, I struggled a quarter of a mile before pulling off the road,huffing and puffing like a steam engine. In order to save face (and not appear windedwhich I clearly was) I played with my cell phone, pretending there was an importantcall. When my breathing returned to normal, I turned around and struggled backhome. I parked the bike, went in the house and flopped, exhausted, on the couch.

So what do an egg hunt and a bike ride have in common? Patience. God’s Word instructs, “...follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love and

patience.” 1 Timothy 6:11My grandchildren needed patience to wait while everyone gathered and the egg

hunt began. As for me, when my hubby returned home, I asked him to check overmy bike. He did—and the next time I took it out for a spin was infinitely moreenjoyable—seems I needed air in my flat tires.

Judyann Grant writes and bikes from her home in northern New York. She is the author of numerous inspirational columns and devotions and the award-winning picture book, “Chicken Said, ‘Cluck’”

Maybe this is the year for me to downsize and for you to get out of the cold!

The Country Register.

Call 602-321-6511 or email [email protected] for details

Country Register Recipe ExchangeShepherd’s PieShirley Ross, Alexandria, MN

2 lbs ground hamburger2 or 3 garlic cloves3 tbls tomato paste5 tbls 8our1 1/2 tsp thyme leaves1 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 400˚. Spray 13x9” pan. In a large skillet, cook beef and garlicover medium heat, until beef is no longer pink. Stir in 3 tbls 8our, tomato paste,thyme and 1/2 tsp salt and pepper. Reserve 2 tbls broth; stir remaining brothinto skillet. Heat to simmering and cook2minutes. Spread beefmixture in bo9omof prepared dish. In the same skillet, cook mushrooms, onion, salt and broth.Spread vegetable mixture over the beef mixture. Heatmashed potatoes andspread over vegetable mixture. Bake 20-25minutes. Let stand 15minutesbefore cu9ing. Serves about 8.

1 tsp pepper1 C. beef broth8 ozmushrooms (drained & sliced)1 onion, diced21/2 C. frozen peas & carrots or mixed24 ozmashed potatoes

March/April 2014Cloquet • Duluth

Check the website for special events!

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We are the Minnesota Quilt Show collectionsite for nonjudged quilts!

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Free Motion and Computer Generated QuiltingClasses for Beginners to Advance Quilters!

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274Hwy 33NorthCloquet, MN55720218-879-3577

Tre��ed K��ak�by Patti Lee Bock

My mom recently passed away and when going through her things, this littlerecipe book was found! I made this inBrownies when I was a little girl. Thetroop leader sewed around the edges,fancy cut the edges, and punched theholes for the rings and recipe cards. Iput on the white bandage tape andcut out the picture of a casserole from

a magazine and pasted it on the front cover.Mom used this recipe book a lot! She was

an excellent cook. She never made a box ofmac & cheese or Chow Mein. It would takeher all day to make these recipes from scratch.The recipes in this little book range fromPeanut Blossoms to Popcorn Balls to Choco-Cherry Nut Drops. I’m not a cook, but rememberall these recipes fondly. I’m am grateful thatmom kept this book for me and for me to passon to my children.

March/April 2014Grand Rapids • Hibbing

QQuuiillttss AArroouunndd tthhee CCoorrnneerr12150 W. Old Highway 169 · Hibbing, MN

(Quarter Mile West of Walmart)218-263-9078 · [email protected]

Stop in and check out all we have to offer!Fabrics, Patterns, Notions, and More!

Think Spring!Visit us for all your spring fabric and notions needs!

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Closed Su &M

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CChheecckk oouutt tthhee nneeww ssttoorree iinn OOlldd CCeennttrraall SScchhooooll

This pattern is free for you to use. Not for commercial use. Enlarge orreduce to your desired size. May be used for embroidery, pillows,paintings, the uses are numerous! Please give credit to the artist.

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NEEDLES-N-PINS STITCHERIESFind more patterns at:

www.etsy.com/shop/needlesnpinssticheryColleen Bass

[email protected]

The Dropped Stitchby Sharon Greve

Hello, SchematicsMost knitting patterns provide schematics of the garments featured. So, what are

schematics?Schematics are mini-drawings which assist before, during, and after knitting. They’re

also very helpful in pattern selection. They show the exact sweater shape as well asincluding details not visible in the fashion photograph. They allow you to avoidunflattering sleeve styles. Schematics provide the shape for original designs. Justselect your own stitch pattern, change the yarn, or even change the gauge. Voila!Your project is on its way!

The drawings are positioned in the way the sections are to be knitted--knittingfrom bottom to top or printed sideways if knitted seam to seam. If a sweater isknitted in one piece, from cuff to cuff, the schematic would be shown on its side.

Schematic reading provides the knitter with the following helpful information.FRONT/BACK SCHEMATIC:

1. The width across the back or the width across the front at the bust.2. The depth of the ribbing or lower edge details. It also tells the depth of a hem

which is later turned up to the inside. The turning line will be indicated by ahorizontal broken line.

3. The length to the underarm. Incremental marks are useful to shorten orlengthen the sweater.

4. The depth of the armhole to the shoulder.5. The length from lower edge to first neck shaping.6. The depth from front neck to back neck.7. The depth from back neck to shoulder.8. Shoulder width. This is determined by the number of stitches bound off for

each shoulder divided by the stitch gauge.9. Width of the neck determined by the total number of stitches bound off for

the neck divided by the stitch gauge.SLEEVE SCHEMATIC (for 2 sleeves):

1. Width of the sleeve which is measured above the cuff ribbing.2. Depth of the cuff ribbing, measured before the stitch pattern begins.3. Sleeve length to underarm. To change the sleeve length, the schematic shows

where to add or subtract at the top of the sleeve in the straight portion just beneaththe shaping at the underarm.

4. Sleeve cap depth measurement is determined by the number of rows neededto arrive at the top of the sleeve cap shaping, and is proportionate to the depth ofthe armhole.

5. Sleeve width at upper arm. This is figured according to the final number ofstitches in the sleeve after all increases are made; sometimes referred to as “KnittedMeasurement.”

When the sweater pieces are completed, use a tape measure and the schematicfor blocking. Pin down all the pieces, using the schematic measurement—front ontop of back, and sleeve on top of sleeve or pin each piece separately. Pat or slightlystretch the pieces to shape them correctly. When dry, the pieces will reflect thelesson in schematics.

Schematics are helpful previews.©2014 Sharon Greve Reach her at [email protected] No reprint without permission

F r e e ! - T a k e O n e March/April2014 Minnesota’sGuide ... similar to an ice ... 10. pancakes,...

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