The Country Register of Kansas

Transcription

The Country Register of Kansas
Page 2 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
The Country Register of Kansas
From My Desk...
to yours
Welcome to...
The Country Register
of Kansas
Cindy Baldwin, Publisher/Editor
988 9th Ave • McPherson, KS 67460
phone: 866-966-9815 • fax: 620-241-1909
email: [email protected]
www.countryregister.com/kansas
We’re on Facebook
Office Administrative Assistant: Lonnie Capps
Advertising Sales Representative: Beve Anderson, South Central
316-258-3416 • 316-866-2872 • [email protected]
The Country Register began in Arizona, in the fall of 1988, to provide effective,
affordable advertising for shops, shows, and other experiences enjoyed by a
kindred readership. Since then the paper has spread to many other areas, all of
which are listed below. Look for the paper in your travels.
Publishers’ Contact Numbers Across the
USA & Canada for The Country Register
Send $3 to any publisher below to obtain a paper from their area.
For live links to emails & individual websites go to
www.countryregister.com and click on PUBLISHERS.
• Indicates these editions are available to view online
The Country Register Founder: Barbara Floyd, 602-237-6008, [email protected], located in
Phoenix, AZ
USA
• Indicates the State has a web-viewable version of The Country Register.
• Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950
• Arkansas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597
• California and N. Nevada.: Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858
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Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797
Connecticut: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760
Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319
Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, 706-340-1049, 678-641-7728,
Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028
• Idaho (S) WA & E. OR: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950
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Illinois: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597
Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319
Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, 641-751-2619
Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, 866-966-9815
Kentucky:
Maine: Gail Hageman, 221 Winslow Rd, Albion, ME 04910, 207-437-2663
Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
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Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760
Michigan: Bill and Marlene Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, 48603-3143, 989-793-4211
Minnesota: Kim and Mickey Keller, 12835 Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, 763-754-1661
Missouri: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597
Montana: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028
Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ 85071, 602-942-8950
Nevada (N): Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858
Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803,
New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 330 North Road, Deerfield, NH, 03037, 603-463-3703,
New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319
New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797
New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
N. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760
North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028,
Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009 ,937-652-1157, Fax 937-484-89637
Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597
Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950
Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
Rhode Island: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760
S. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760
South Dakota:Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028
Tennessee:
Texas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597
Utah: Daniel & Stacy Tueller, 153 S 2050 W, Provo UT 84601, 801-592-8498
Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774, 443-243-1118
Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
The Country Register • Kansas
By Cindy Baldwin
If you are a regular of my column you know that I
was looking forward to October -- one of my favorite
months of the year. However, I got a little more out of
October than I bargained for.
We did finish fall harvest. My husband and I did get a
weekend getaway trip to our daughter’s home in Leavenworth with a Chiefs game as part of the activities. And
the most fun of all, the birth of our newest grandson,
Banks William Baldwin. I also had the pleasure of meeting Country Register columnist
Naomi Gaede Penner when she made
a trip to Kansas. We had a great visit.
These were all events I had eagerly
anticipated.
What I wasn’t expecting was
severely spraining my ankle at the
Chief’s game resulting in my wearing
a boot for two weeks. Or my experiencing a four-day hospital stay the
week after the boot came off and the
same week our new grandson was
born. Both events forced me to slow
Grandsons Banks, Rowan and Eli
down and appreciate the gift of good
health. It also has encouraged me to think about a plan to get back in shape. A bonus of
my hospital stay was that my daughter-in-law was just down the hall from my hospital
room. I hadn’t planned on meeting my newest grandson in a hospital-issued gown and
robe, but it did give me a lot more visit time than if I had been driving over from home.
Proves that any experience can have positive outcomes.
I’m excited to introduce a new columnist in this issue. Andrea Springer from
Hutchinson, Kan., is a blogger, avid knitter and owner of The Knitting Savant. She will
be sharing her views on knitting, creativity and life. I hope you enjoy her column.
I’m also pleased to feature another Kansas artist on our cover. You can read about
Jude Billings on page 4. If you know of a Kansas artist who would like his or her work
featured on the cover, please let me know about them.
This is also the time of year for families to gather, celebrate and enjoy each other’s
company. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day all inspire us to try new foods,
decorate our homes and give gifts. There are some great hoiday ideas in this issue and
our advertising shops are wonderful places to shop and get ideas. As you travel, find a
new-to-you shop and see what it has to offer. As always, tell our advertisers you saw
their ad in The Country Register.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the staff of The Country Register.
D12-J13
The Country Register of Kansas
Subscriptions
- $18
The Country Register is distributed as a complimentary gift from its advertisers. We encourage
you to stop by your favorite shop to pick up each new issue. However, for the convenience of those
who are not able to get to a shop, we do offer postal delivery for $18 per year to cover the cost of
postage and handling. Or if you want a certain issue mailed, send $3 & circle which issue -
Dec/Jan, Feb/Mar, Apr/May, Jun/Jul, Aug/Sep, Oct/Nov
NAME________________________________________________
ADDRESS____________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Send this form (or a copy) along with your payment of $18 to:
The Country Register 988 9th Ave McPherson KS 67460
• Washington & E. OR & S. ID : Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950
• West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217
• Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, 715-838-9426
• Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028
CANADA
• Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0,780-889-3776
• British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, B.C. V0H 1Z0, 1-800-784-6711,
• Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, 306-736-2441,
• Ontario: Laurie Holcombe, 166-B Craig Henry Drive, Nepean, Ontario K2G 4M7 613-864-8667
On Our Cover...
Poinsettias by Jude Billings. Read
more about the artist on page 4.
The Country Register of Kansas Vol. 16 No. 3 Dec. ‘12/Jan. ‘13
The Country Register is published every two months. Copyright © 2012
Reproduction or use of articles or graphic content
without permission is prohibited.
The Country Register of Kansas is licensed by The Country Register with exclusive rights to
publish in the state of Kansas using logos and graphics owned by The Country Register.
Every effort is made to have an error-free paper, however,
mistakes do occur. Please double check dates, times, and
locations with a phone call before traveling a great distance.
The Country Register • Kansas
Contents • Advertisers Map
The Country Register is FREE to you
courtesy of the advertisers!
Towns with
Information
Centers that
distribute
The Country
Register
(Each town is
Please let them know if you enjoy the paper & thank them!
marked with a p
on the map, map
coordinates also
listed)
Abilene C-7
Atchison B-9
Belle Plaine E-7
Belleville B-6
Colby B-2
Goodland B-1
Greensburg E-4
Hays C-4
Hesston D-7
Lawrence C-9
Liberal F-2
Marysville B-8
Osawatomie D-10
Oskaloosa B-9
Ottawa C-9
Topeka C-9
Wilson C-5
Where is The Country Register available?
• Advertisers’ businesses • State-owned tourist information centers
• Some locally-operated visitor centers • Most Borders bookstores
• Most Lawrence grocery stores • Other various locations
• Online www.countryregister.com/kansas
Advertisers
by
City Index
• Number to LEFT of each city is the city’s # on map below
• Coordinates AFTER city will help locate that city on map below
(accuracy not guaranteed, please check official map before traveling)
• Page numbers are that city’s ad locations in The Country Register
# on
map, City, Map coordinates, Pg #
# on
map, City, Map coordinates, Pg #
1 Abilene C-7…pg 14
2 Agenda B-7…pg 7
174 Alta Vista C-8...pg 9
171 Arma E-10...pg 17
161Atlanta F-7.. pg 17
11 Baldwin City C-9…pg 11
12 Barnes B-7…pg 8
13 Belleville B-6…pg 7
16 Blue Rapids B-7…pg 8
17 Bonner Springs C-10…pg 11
19 Burlingame C-9…pg 10
20 Burlington D-9…pg 16
22 Chapman C-7…pg 9
28 Colby B-2…pg 6
34 Concordia B-6…pg 7
35 Conway Springs E-6…pg 19
36 Copeland E-3…pg 5
38 Courtland B-6…pg 7
40Derby E-7…pg 19
42Downs B-5…pg 6
162 Edna F-9...pg 17
43 El Dorado E-7…pg 17
45 Emporia D-8…pg 16
48 Frankfort B-8…pg 8
51 Garnett D-9…pg 16
60 Hiawatha A-9…pg 8
61 Hillsboro D-7…pg 15
63 Holton B-9…pg 10
64 Home B-8…pg 8
65 Humboldt E-9…pg 17
66 Hutchinson D-6…pg 20
70 Kechi E-7…pg 19
72 Kiowa F-5…pg 21
76 Larned D-5…pg 21
77 Lawrence C-9…pg 11
78 Leavenworth B-10…pg 12
80 Leoti D-2…pg 5
82 Lincoln C-6…pg 6
87 Manhattan C-8…pg 9
88 Mankato B-6…pg 6
89 Marion D-7…pg 15
91 McPherson D-6…pg 15
172 Meade F-2...pg 5
15 Minneapolis C-6... pg 14
97 Newton D-7…pg 19
102 Osawatomie D-10…pg 16
105 Ottawa C-9…pg 16
106 Overbrook C-9…pg 11
107 Overland Park C-10…pg 11
109 Paola C-10…pg 16
173 Plains F-2...pg 5
113 Pleasantview D-6…pg 20
168 Preston E-5...pg 21
120 Salina C-6…pg 14
121 Scandia B-6…pg 7
123 Severy E-8…pg 17
169 Smith Center A-5...pg 6
129 Topeka C-9…pg 10
130Valley Center E-7…pg 19
140Valley Falls B-9…pg 24
142 Wamego C-8…pg 9
146 Westmoreland B-8…pg 9
148 Wichita E-7…pg 18
149 Winchester B-9…pg 11
150 Winfield F-7…pg 17
151 Yoder E-6…pg 20
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 3
What’s Inside?
Some of the articles in this issue are:
Other things of interest:
~~Event Calendar is on pg 23~~
Quilting Project, pg 4
• Drawing Entry Form & Last Issue Winners, pg 4
Recipes and other projects throughout
Tea With Lydia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
The Dropped Stitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Cooking With the Oldies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Prescription for Adventure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Back Porch Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Piecing Life Together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Prairie Women Sewing Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Reducing Holiday Stress With Essential Oils . . . . ..14
Quilts That Redeem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Building Harmony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
The Primitive Pantry - Home Decor . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Make Your China Cabinet a Showpiece, antiques . . 19
Knitting Savant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Quilting With Barbara . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Town & Country Cooking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Girl Friend Wisdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Needles ‘n Pins Stitchery pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Upcoming, Events Shop Hops
& Quilt Shows: advertising in this issue
Heartland Shop Hop 2013 Cabin Fever Fix pg. 7
Quilt & Stitch Expo of Pueblo pg. 22
Targeted, Effective, Affordable Advertising that works!
Ad deadline for the FEB/MARCH 2013 issue is
MARCH 6! This issue includes the Kansas Quilt Shop Directory
If you miss the deadline, contact we might be able to squeeze you in!
Map Index:
City numbers = white number in black box
Highway numbers = black in white box
p Information Centers with papers = black triangles
#
#
Page 4 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Quilt Project
The Country Register • Kansas
Kansas Compass Collection
Block 5 – Santa Is Coming Compass
Finishes at 12” square
Designed by Mary Pfeiler,
Quilting on the Square, Holton KS
The Kansas Compass
Collection will feature six
different compass blocks.
Each block will finish at
12” square. Each block
can stand on it’s own and
be made into a wall hanging. These blocks are suitable for framing. Make
several of the same block
and make a spectacular table or bed runner.
For the truly ambitious quilters out there, go ahead
and make many to create a stunning king size quilt. The
possibilities are endless.
Each block is foundation paper pieced. Copies will
need to be made of Foundation Paper Piecing templates. These can also be downloaded from The Country Register website at www.com/kansas. Click on the
Fun Stuff tab for directions to this and previous blocks
in the series. (Editor’s note: I would encourage you to
visit the website to see this block in color. The black
and white doesn’t do it justice.)
Colors in Our Block:
Background – black
Color 1 – Cream
Color 2 – Red
Color 3 – Blue
Color 4 – Green
Choose your favorite colors to make this block,
just make sure that you have good contrast between the
colors.
Foundation Paper Piece each section. Sew a left
and a right unit together to complete one quarter of the
block. You will make four of these units. Stitch these
units together 4-patch style to complete the block.
And the Winner Is . . .
In this issue of The Country Register, we will give away one $50 gift certificate. Use
it to go shopping at your favorite Country Register advertiser. Second prize winner will
receive a copy of the “8 Wonders of Kansas Guidebook.” The winners will be
announced in the next issue. Deadline for entry is January 15, 2012.
(Names are not sold, given away or used for any other purpose.)
Drawing Entry Form
Name_______________________________Phone_____________________
Address, City ST___________________________________________________________
E-mail address: ________________________________________________________________
If I win, I would like my $50 Gift Certificate from: (list a current advertiser from this paper)
_______________________________________________________________________
I enjoy visiting the above chosen shop because_____________________________________
I picked up this issue of The Country Register at____________________________________
Do you tell the shops you saw their ad in the paper?
Always
Sometimes
Never
Comments and/or Suggestions about The Country Register? Please include a note.
To enter, complete this form and mail to:
The Country Register, 988 9th Ave, McPherson, KS 67460
Want to save a stamp?
Just email the above information to: [email protected]
OR enter on the website at www.countryregister.com/kansas
The winner of the $50 gift certificate from our October/November issue drawing
is Mara Del Demars of Miltonvale. She has requested that her gift certificate come
from The Quilting Bee in Salina. Mara Del says she enjoys shopping at The Quilting
Bee because she gets lots of good ideas there and they have good fabric.
Each issue, The Country Register gives away a $50 gift certificate which can be
used at the advertising shop of the winner’s choice in that issue. Entries can be made
through the mail using the entry form on this page or online at www.counryregister.
com/kansas. Be sure you include comments about what you enjoy about the paper or
suggestions to make it better with your entry.
Cover Artist ... Jude Billings
Our cover art is “Poinsettia” by northeast Kansas artist
Jude Billings. Jude says that she has had a brush, pencil or
pen in her hand for as far back as she can remember and
that art was integral to who she was. But, she had no formal
art training – and didn’t think of herself as an artist -- until
after she started her family. She took an art class when her
two oldest children were toddlers and found herself taking
more painting classes. She learned calligraphy in a class
taught by a Hallmark artist. Before long, she was teaching
her own art and calligraphy classes at art shops, adult education and art groups in
her children’s schools. Art became part of her life.
“There was always a creative project working somewhere in the house. If it
didn’t move, I painted it,” Jude said.
A stay-at-home mom, Jude started her first cottage industry – Calligraphic –
while taking small business classes at two area colleges. She also did designing,
freelance art work and teaching. Her portfolio included calligraphy, watercolor,
acrylics and paper art. Jude returned to her art full-time after working several
years in the business world, reviving her business, now named Calligraphy and Art
Design. Her resume includes many juried art shows and featured artist moments.
She has sold her work through Kansas Original Market, art shows and galleries
and opened her own ETSY shop – Calligraphic Artisan – in 2009. More of her
work can be seen in her ETSY shop at www.CalligraphicArtisan.etsy.com.
“I’ve enjoyed sharing my skills with my children, art students and so many
lovely people and now have the joy of repeating those wonderful times with my
five grandchildren … who I proudly say are first, amazing grandchildren and
amazing artists. I am blessed, and all that I have done and do is for the glory of
God, from whom all inspiration comes.
The Country Register • Kansas
Copeland•Leoti•Meade•Plains
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 5
A Family Christmas
Four Seasons Tea
Tea is always in season, so why not host a tea that combines food and decorations
from all the seasons?
The inspiration for this came from my daughter’s bridal shower years ago. Since
her last name would become Faull (pronounced fall), her friends planned a shower
with gifts and games from summer, winter, spring and fall.
Consider these ideas as you plan a Four Seasons Tea for the Christmas holidays.
Guests—always in season
Your guest list could reflect seasons of life and include friends from several generations. As a grandmother, I could invite my kids and grandkids and host a three-generation party. Or, I could consider friends from different stages of my life: childhood,
college, motherhood and now grandparenting. Or I could invite individuals who have
stood by me through several seasons of life.
Seasonal decor
Since December ‘tis the season for decorating, our homes may already be festive.
To blend in beauty from other seasons, consider fresh flowers, blooming bulbs, and
birds for spring and summer. How about pinecones and apples for fall? To create a
welcoming atmosphere, build a crackling fire and play background music from several
seasons, but include Christmas carols.
If you host a Four Seasons Tea other than in December, you’ll have an excuse to
display Christmas items during other months. Since I love Christmas decorations, adding a few candles, tea ornaments, and Christmas teapots and tea cozies year ‘round
suits me to a TEA. After all, who doesn’t enjoy Christmas in July!
Food for all seasons
Plan your basic menu — such as scones, sandwiches, sweets and tea — and then
decide which foods could represent each season. For example, for spring, cut scones
with a flower-shaped cookie cutter. For summer, make sandwiches with fresh veggies
and cream cheese, or add a colorful bowl of fresh fruit to the menu. For fall, consider
serving pumpkin bread, or welcome guests with spiced cider. Winter is easy. Serve
traditional holiday treats you normally make.
If you serve only tea and sweets or tea and scones, why not make it a tea tasting
par-TEA? For spring, pick a flowering tea that blooms; for summer, a fruit-flavored
tea like peach or berry; for fall, a spicy tea with cinnamon; for winter, perhaps a peppermint tea or eggnog-flavored tea. Most grocery stores carry a varie-TEA, but you
may need to check the Internet for flowering tea.
Sharing seasons of life
Beforehand, list table-talk questions to discuss, such as: “What do you like about
each season of the year?” “What foods do you especially enjoy during each season?”
Or, “What have you enjoyed about different seasons of your life?” During the party,
you could read from Ecclesiastes 3 in the Bible, which begins, “For everything there
is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”
As the party ends, give each person something that’s always in season — love —
expressed with hugs, words of appreciation and a few foil-wrapped chocolate kisses.
It’s fun to kindle creativit-TEA and plan a party with a new twist. A Four Seasons
Tea includes something for everyone and can be celebrated year ‘round. If your holidays are too busy, you might save this idea for January or another month. No matter
the time of year, wrap up your party and tie it with a bow by celebrating the current
season.
For other ideas for seasonal teas, read the darling book by Susan Wheeler, Let’s
Have Tea Together (formerly Tea with Victoria Rose).
I’m always ready for tea parties, so please join me for happy tea times all year!
Lydia E. Harris, M.A., is the author of Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting.
Copyright 2012, Lydia E. Harris. No reprint without author’s permission.
From Lydia’s Recipe File: Holly Doodles
Snickerdoodles with a holiday twist. For other seasons, use the traditional recipe
at the end. When my friend made these cookies for her 8-year-old grandson, he said,
“Wow! These really smell snack-a-doodle-licious!”
1. In large mixing bowl, cream:
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shortening
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2. In another bowl, combine:
2 3/4 cups flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
3. Add dry ingredients to butter mixture; mix well.
4. Form dough into balls the size of small walnuts. Roll some cookie balls into
green sugar crystals, some into red sugar, and some into both.
5. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
6. Bake at 400 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. The cookies puff up at first and then
flatten. Remove cookies to cooling rack.
Makes about 4 dozen cookies. Variation—traditional recipe: Omit cinnamon from
recipe, and roll balls in a mixture of two tablespoons sugar and two teaspoons cinnamon.
Last year, my family was fortunate to be able to adopt a family in need at Christmas
time. We were matched (anonymously) with a family through a local agency whose job
it was to help clients who had expressed a need for help. It was a wonderful experience
for our entire family. The agency provided us with the ages and gender of the children
in our Christmas family and as a family, we chose some items we thought they would
need (diapers and formula, grocery gift cards) and some items we thought they would
like to have (toys and books).
When the day came to deliver our items to the agency, my children were very
excited to take the items we had purchased. Seeing their joy at being able to make sure
someone else’s holiday was a little brighter was worth any amount of time and resources we had put into this project. If you have a chance to do this, it is a wonderful family
activity. You can help with Toys for Tots, contact your child’s school to find out if they
have a family in need, or many churches have Angel Trees you can help with. Sharing is
a family value that keeps on giving – not just at the holidays, but all the year through. ©
Susan Tipsord 2012
Page 6 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Colby•Downs•Lincoln•Mankato•Smith Center
The Dropped Stitch . . .
The Country Register • Kansas
Cooking with the Oldies . . .
ingredients gives delicious results
SWEATERS FOR MR. ROGERS Fresh
by Barbara Floyd, Founder of The Country Register
By Sharon Greve
A lesson I learned over the summer was to throw out or use up store-bought salad
Initially ordained as a Presbyterian minister, Mr. Fred Rogers became an outstanding dressings and vow to rarely buy any more. I say rarely because ‘never’ might be unrealistic. With an abundance of fresh produce all summer in eastern Washington, my daughAmerican icon of children’s education and entertainment. His television program aired
ter Brenda and I tried sticking to the rare rule and almost never used bottled dressings.
in 1968 and ran for 895 episodes over 30 years. Even Koko the Gorilla loved him. She
We found out we saved lots of money, calories and preservatives in our diet and gained
is the Stanford-educated gorilla who could speak about 1,000 words in American Sign
some awesome new tastes. It took mere minutes to whip up a new batch and, in this day
Language and understand about 2,000 in English. Koko was an avid Mister Rogers’
neighborhood fan. When Fred Rogers visited her for his show, she not only immediately and age, salads are year around good nutrition and the ingredients are always available. Our very favorite salad dressing recipe is the Balsamic Honey Dressing: 2 cloves
wrapped her arms around him for a big hug, but also proceeded to take his shoes off
--just as she had seen him do on his daily TV show. He welcomed us into his neighbor- crushed garlic, 4 T. olive oil, 4 T. balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp. Dijon mustard, 2 tsp. honey, 2
T. minced green onion, ½ tsp. salt, ½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground. Whisk together
hood every afternoon for more than 30 years. At the beginning of each program, he
would trade his jacket for a hand-knit cardigan. He would zip it all the way up and then and toss with 12 cups mixture of fresh baby spinach, baby kale, and/or baby greens, ½
zip it down a bit, adjusting it to just the right spot. He received many awards, accomContinued on page 8... Ingredients
plishments and memorials, but the cardigan sweater lives on. He is solely responsible
for the fame of zip-up cardigans. Sadly, Fred Rogers passed away in 2003 at the age of
74.
Now we ask, who knitted 30 years worth of zip-up cardigan sweaters for Mr. Rogers? Well, there’s no greater love than a mother’s love. Nancy Rogers, Fred’s mother,
hand-knitted each of the cardigans he wore on the show, including the one in the Smithsonian collection. She hand-knitted 12 sweaters each year for family Christmas presents. As gifts were opened each year, she would ask what sort of sweater each person
wanted the next year. Before Fred Rogers could answer, she would quickly say, “I know
about you, Freddie. You want one with a zipper.” By the way, Fred was red-green color
blind, even though red appeared to be a sweater favorite. Cables and a variety of pattern
stitches were used.
“Mr. Rogers Sweater Drives” have been sponsored by PBS stations across the
country to collect warm garments for the needy. The Smithsonian Museum features one
of his red cardigans in its Museum of American History. Dwight Bowers, Smithsonian
curator in charge of the cardigan, says, “Mr. Rogers’ sweater continues to symbolize for
our visitors all that is wise and nurturing. For generations, he will always be the perfect
neighbor.” His sweaters, sneakers and digital archives can be seen at the Fred Rogers
Center for Early Learning and Children’s Media on the campus of Saint Vincent College
in Latroe, Penn., near where he grew up. A statue of Mr. Rogers sitting tying his shoe
is displayed in Pittsburgh, Penn., near Heinz Field. Internet photos don’t distinguish if
he is wearing a jacket or one of his famous hand-knit, zipper cardigans. A sweater day
to honor Fred was held March 20, 2008, in Pittsburgh. “Slide Into a Sweater Day” was
to celebrate Fred’s would-have-been 80th birthday. Even a song titled “Undone (The
Sweater Song)” by Bow Floyd was a tribute to Mr. Rogers and his accomplishments.
There have been other visitors in our homes via television who were also known
for their trademark pullover sweaters -- Perry Como, Andy Williams and Bill Cosby
quickly come to mind. However, none have ever had such elegant hand-knitted cardigans with zippers that will live forever as Mr. Fred Rogers -- our friend and neighbor.
Won’t you be my KNITTING neighbor?
© 2012 Sharon Greve. Reach her at [email protected] No reprint without
permission.
The Country Register • Kansas
Ingredients.. from page 7
Agenda•Belleville•Concordia•Courtland•Scandia
cup sliced red onion to taste, 4 T chopped roasted pecans, and ½ cup grated Parmesan.
This will serve eight. Don’t overdress your greens! The dressing keeps for several days. One Crockpot dish I tried was a Thai chicken dish that called for ginger sesame
bottled dressing. Being out of town a few miles made cooking more of a challenge, and
when something wasn’t on hand, I would substitute whenever possible. I almost gave
in and went to town, but instead Googled a recipe online. We did have olive oil, sesame
oil, soy sauce and rice vinegar on hand -- the basics needed. I made up a double batch,
poured it over the chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery and onion that had some wine on
it already. At almost serving time, peanut butter was mixed into the juices and we all
enjoyed it.
The next time, I made two Crockpots-full for company except I followed the instructions to use the bottled ginger sesame dressing. My youngest daughter, Bobbi-Jo, had
sent some home with us from her “Costco Annex storeroom.” (Of all of us, she lives
closest to a Costco and we tease her that she is its overflow storage area because she is
such a good customer.) I am not saying the bottled dressing was not good, but the recipe
turned out much better in the homemade version. Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 7
Well, that is what I learned about salad dressings and by making your own you don’t
have to keep throwing out all those outdated bottles that line your refrigerator doors.
What do you think our mothers used to make? I know mine made homemade dressings.
They did not have the commercial choices in the good old days. Now, to balance the calories in this story out a bit, I will give you something for
your sweet tooth—my new dessert recipe that came from daughter Brenda’s recipe file.
Read further if you like chocolate and peanut butter.
Her recipe card says “Brownies” and I think I will call them “Beyond Brownies.”
One batch Brownie Mix (I used 2 bags of Costco’s Triple Chocolate mix; it is awesome
even by itself.) (No I do not work for Costco, but probably should.) Mix according to
directions and bake in 9 x 13 baking dish for 20-25 minutes. Remove and top with 1 cup
of peanuts and 1 cup of Reese’s Peanut Butter cups, chopped. Return to oven and bake
4-6 more minutes. Melt 1½ cups dark chocolate chips, ½ T. butter and 1½ cups creamy
peanut butter. Stir in 1½ cups Rice Krispies. Pour over top and refrigerate 2 hours
before serving. The calories in the Beyond Brownies will more than make up for the calories you
save on your homemade dressing!
Barbara Floyd, Founder of The Country Register, has recently returned to winter
in Arizona after five delightful months in Eastern Washington with family and friends.
Since last February she has been getting the hang of retirement from active publishing
and is always happy to hear from readers of The Country Register. [email protected]
Shop Republic County for GREAT Gift Ideas!!
Agenda
Belleville
Courtland
Scandia
Page 8 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Barnes•Blue Rapids•Frankfort•Hiawatha•Home
Prescription for Adventure . . .
Let there be light!
By Naomi Gaede-Penner
We leaned toward the candle. Our elbows dug into the table top. I instructed my
four-year-old sister, “Ruth, if you do it fast, it won’t hurt.” At age five, I was wise about
sticking my finger into the liquid wax puddle around the flaming candlewick. Tentatively, she reached forward, stuck her pointer finger into the pool and jerked back. We
watched it solidify into a thick red cap. “It feels numb, doesn’t it.” She nodded. “Warm,
too.”
We didn’t regularly use candles when we lived in Central Kansas, but here in Alaska,
the dark winter nights crowded out the daytime, and there was a hunger for light.
Mom (Ruby Leppke Gaede) learned to make candles. She melted the paraffin
blocks, added a few drops of color and poured the mixture into cans with strings pulled
tautly through the middle. Once hardened, she slightly warmed the cans, cut off the
bottoms and pushed the candles through. She wasn’t finished. She whipped additional
wax and frosted the candles with frothy whiteness. Sequins and glitter completed the
light-bearers.
December 21 or 22 is
the shortest day in North
America; in Anchorage,
Alaska, that means five
hours and 28 minutes of
sun peering slightly above
the treetops. In Barrow,
Alaska, the sun vanishes
on November 18, and
a slight glow emanates
from below the horizon
until January 24, when the
orb peeks up and slowly
“The Gaede family in Tanana, Alaska, Christmas 1958”
climbs out of hibernation.
Mom had come from flat plains where the sun reluctantly slides below distant fields.
In Alaska, the sun hurries down, behind mountain ranges and tall spruce forests. How
did she brighten her world, and our lives?
Starting in November, she lit candles at the supper table. For variety, and our fascination, she tried tapers that dripped multi-colors that coated a syrup bottle.
Inside the house, she outlined our large picture window with Christmas lights. We
kids could see these through the trees when we shuffled through the snow from the bus
stop in the afternoon darkness. She left them up into January.
What do Alaskans do to battle Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Wear bright colors.
Paint and decorate the interiors of their houses with warm pastels.
Pull back window shades when there is any ray of light.
Build a crackling fire in their wood stoves.
Spend time with energetic people.
Go outside when it is light. Get fresh air. Keep the body moving.
What do I do?
Light a candle at my supper table. The friendly flickering seems alive. It keeps me company.
Listen to lively and light-hearted music.
Buy myself flowers. My favorites are carnations that stay fresh forever.
Go outdoors.
Get exercise, either indoors or out.
Have a winter project to look forward to.
What do you do to brighten your world in the winter?
For more story-contrasts between Kansas and Alaska, read From Kansas Wheat
Fields to Alaska Tundra: a Mennonite Family Finds Home. In Kansas, purchase it at
The Bookshelf (McPherson), Faith and Life Bookstore (Newton), Kansas Originals
Market (Wilson/1-70). Books autographed by Naomi can be ordered at www.prescriptionforadventure.com.
The Country Register • Kansas
Visit your local quilt shop
day
January 24, 2013, has been designated as Visit
Your Local Quilt Shop Day. Quilters and fabric lovers around the country are encouraged to show their
support for local, independent quilt shops on this
inaugural event to raise awareness for the importnace
of these businesses in their local economy and in the
creative pursuits of quilters, sewists, fabric enthusiasts and crafters everywhere.
The Country Register • Kansas
Alta Vista •Chapman•Manhattan•Wamego•Westmoreland
Countryberries
Designs
Woodland Christmas
This pattern is free for you to use. Please give the artist credit. Not for
commercial use. Cross stitch this design on your desired cross stitch
fabric. Stitch around edges, right sides together. Turn, stuff and stitch
closed. Add a ribbon hanger if desired. Have fun!
Designed by Kathy Graham
Countryberries LLC
330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037
603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 9
Page 10 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
The Country Register • Kansas
Burlingame•Holton•Topeka
You Just Have To Do It
by Susan Tipsord
The holidays are a time of peace, joy and love. . .right? We want every last detail of
that Norman Rockwell family Christmas to be in place, but the truth is that the holidays
are very difficult for some people. TV, movies, cards and music often depict an ideal
or “perfect” family holiday, and unfortunately, there are few of us who will ever fall
into that “perfect” category. Grief, past experiences, present difficulties – all of these
can come into play and wreak havoc at a time when all is supposed to be right with the
world.
Ten years ago this past September, my husband and I lost our daughter, Christine.
She was 3 ½ and she died of cancer. We, along with our 7-year-old daughter, Allison,
were in the depths of despair, and I had no idea how we would get through the holidays. Every store, every song, every holiday decoration reminded us that the previous
year had been much, much different, and sadly, things would never be the same again.
Shortly before Thanksgiving, I received a note from the mother of a dear friend; in that
note, she gave me the most wonderful gift I had ever received. She told me that she
understood this was a difficult time for us. She, too, had been through a difficult holiday
season after losing her husband the previous year. A friend of hers had given her some
advice, and she wanted to pass it on to me. Her friend had told her that she didn’t have
to do this better than anyone else had ever done it; she just needed to do it. She was so
right. That simple concept became my mantra for the holidays. I didn’t have to do it better than anyone else had ever done it – I just had to get through it.
In a way, it was liberating. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. What’s right for
you may not be what was right for your friend or family member. I remember we didn’t
put up a tree that year. None of the three of us wanted one – it was just too difficult.
Some people thought that we were robbing Allison of a monumental rite of Christmas,
but she didn’t want it. And that was okay. For the only time in our entire marriage, I
didn’t send out Christmas cards. The thought of a card without a picture of my two girls
on it was just too overwhelming.
We went to my sister’s at Thanksgiving and when I told her I hadn’t even started
shopping, she helped me make a list and we just did it, person by person, item by item.
Did I give personal thought to each and every gift that year? Absolutely not. . .and that
was okay. People understood.
Christmas came and went that year. We traveled to our parents’ homes, several states
away. The truth is, it was a horrible year for the entire family, but we survived. We did
it. I’m sure we didn’t do it better than anyone ever did it before, but we did it. Ten years
later, I can honestly say that Mrs. Ireland’s advice is still some of the best I’ve ever
heard. She will never know how much she helped us that year – angels do indeed come
in varying forms.
Susan Tipsord writes from her home in Maryland where she lives with her husband
Dan, daughter Allison and son Ryan. She can be reached at [email protected].
There are two ways to look at life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle;
the other is as though everything is.
Back Porch Break . . .
Shopping for encouragement
By Nancy Parker Brummett
Few things are more disheartening this time of year than looking at a Christmas
shopping list with no checkmarks by the names. You want to give something special to
each person on the list, but you wonder where you’ll find either the time or the money
to purchase the gifts. And after you shop, it can be even more discouraging to realize
you’ve spent money you didn’t really have on items people didn’t really need or want!
This year, why not look at your list as an encouragement list instead of a shopping list? What can you give these people that will encourage them to move closer to
meeting their goals or realizing the God-given, created design for their lives? You’ll be
amazed how far the dollars stretch when the real value of the gift is its ability to encourage.
It’s not that difficult to think of reasonably priced gifts with a “value-added” encouragement factor. For example, giving a box of paints to a child with an artistic bent, or
a new soccer ball to a child who’s proud of her athletic ability, is a way you say, “I see
who you are, and I think you’re terrific.” Obviously, it’s taking the time to see who they
are and who they are in the process of becoming that is the real gift.
A promise for free babysitting or a gift certificate for a manicure is sure to encourage
a young mother and affirm the value of her decision to make being a mom a top priority
in her life. Likewise, a young dad might appreciate tickets to a ballgame or registration
to a men’s retreat. Something that says, “You’re a good dad, and you deserve a break.”
A set of note cards with stamped envelopes, pre-addressed to family members, will
encourage an elderly grandmother to keep in touch with those she loves. It also carries
an extra-encouraging message that says, “All of us in this family value you and what
you have to offer to us. Don’t ever stop sharing your love and wisdom with us.”
Look at the names on your list again. What could you give each person that would
be an encouragement for his or her life journey this year? Therefore encourage one
another and build each other up, Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Christmas gives us a new opportunity to do this when we exchange our
shopping lists for encouragement lists.
Happy shopping!
Nancy Parker Brummett is an author and freelance writer in Colorado Springs, CO.
“Like” her author page on Facebook, or to learn more about her life and work, visit
www.nancyparkerbrummett.com.
The Country Register • Kansas
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 11
Baldwin •Bonner Springs•Lawrence•Lee’s Summit, MO•Overbrook•Overland Park• Winchester
Piecing Life Together . .
The Strokes File
by Barbara Polston
I recently attended the annual Induction Luncheon of the Arizona
Quilters Hall of Fame. I love being in the room with 200 or more
quilters and quilt lovers and hearing the inspiring stories of the inductees. Here’s a smattering of overheard responses to compliments about:
Weight loss - “Oh, I still have at least 10 pounds to go.”
Clothing - “This old thing?”
A displayed quilt - A litany of all the mistakes that, thankfully, the judges didn’t find.
Why is it SO hard to accept and acknowledge a compliment? I hear my mother’s
voice ringing in my head, saying, “Don’t ever say anything nice about yourself. Let others say nice things about you instead.” OK, Mom, but perhaps there should have been
another sentence. Something like, “And, when they do, just smile and say thank you.”
Why is it SO easy to think poorly of ourselves and concentrate on our flaws? Ask
almost any woman and she will tell you that she’s not thin enough, not pretty enough,
not smart enough and not talented enough — despite obvious evidence to the contrary.
While no one appreciates spending time with a braggart, there is such a thing as stating
and accepting the facts of your life as just that, the facts. Yes, I am a published writer.
Yes, I am an award-winning quiltmaker. Maybe there should be another sentence,
something like, “I work diligently at that; thanks for noticing my efforts.”
For me, each time a goal is achieved, a new one is set, inching the bar of life accomplishment ever higher. Maybe that’s why it’s challenging, at times, to remain positive, to
keep in mind that there have been accomplishments along the way of which I am proud.
It’s easier to think about what I haven’t done and fall into the doldrums than it is to hang
on to the positive feeling that achievement provides.
When I am at my absolute lowest point, I consult “The Strokes File.” Over the years,
I have been the grateful recipient of notes and e-mails that compliment my efforts. I’ve
saved these in a folder. Here, I find that my quilting students did appreciate the supportive, safe environment I created in class, freeing them to try new things. Here I find that
a viewer visited my quilt hanging in a show over and over, unable to tear herself away.
Here I find that I am a good friend and have helped others’ causes and careers grow.
When I’m at my very lowest, a visit to “The Strokes File” returns me to equilibrium. It
reminds me that, although I do have flaws, I have attributes as well, attributes that have
been noted and complimented.
Mark Twain had quite a lot to say about compliments. One that currently resonates,
“If you can’t get a compliment any other way, pay yourself one.” Or, visit your personal
Strokes File!
©Barbara Polston, Phoenix, AZ, October 2012. Barbara Polston is a writer by vocation
and a quilter by avocation. You can see Barbara’s quilts, join her on Facebook, or book
her class and lecture offerings at www.barbarapolston.com. She is the Editor of The
Quilting Quarterly, the Journal of The National Quilting Association, Inc. Barbara, who
has lived in Phoenix, Arizona, for over 25 years, is calmly quilting in Studio Narnia.
Page 12 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Leavenworth
The Country Register • Kansas
Quilt shop offers “journey” through
quilting roots
By Cindy Baldwin, Editor
What was it like to quilt in the 1800s? Or even the early 1900s?
It was quite a different experience from what most quilters today expect. Fabric
stores dedicated to quilt fabrics and classes teaching the latest techniques were unheard
of when our great-great grandmothers were making quilts to keep their families warm.
A group of Kansas quilters are learning about how their great-grandmothers
and grandmothers quilted, experiencing
the quilting principle of “making do” and
having a wonderful time in the process.
In September a group of nine women
began a six-month-long journey with the
Prairie Women’s Sewing Circle Club,
which is meeting at No Place Like Home
Quilt Shop in Minneapolis. The sewing
circle club is the creation of quilt designer
Pam Buda, who developed the historical
background materials used in the sewing
circle club and designed the quilt patterns
available only to members of the club
through participating quilt shops.
No Place Like Home Quilt Shop is the
only shop in Kansas to offer the Prairie
Women’s Sewing Circle Club at this time.
The sewing circle is a blend of block
of the month, quilting technique class and
historical information about quilting from Shawn Delker teaches the Prairie Women Sewing
the time when women made quilts to keep Circle class. She is showing a log cabin design
their families warm as they made the trek quilt that was the project for an upcoming class.
west and faced the struggles of settling the Members were asked to bring a red square of
Continued next page ...
fabric to exchange with another member as part of
their “make do” experience.
Class members
examine the
projects in various
stages of completion from the first
class. They also
explained where
they “made do” in
their sampler quilt,
or showed an example of a vintage
piece where the
quilter had made
do to complete the
quilt.
The Country Register • Kansas
Oklahoma City
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 13
FROM Journey, pg. 12
country. Journey One covers a time frame from 1840-1870. Buda has developed four
Journey series.
According to shop owner Karalee Austin, she looked into offering the class after being approached by Shawn Delker, Salina.
“I met Pam Buda when our quilt guild (Silver
Needles Quilt Guild in Salina) brought her to Salina and I loved her designs,” Shawn said. “I was
interested in the sewing circle class and the journeys
materials, but it is only offered through shops. When I
first contacted Ms. Buda, about joing a sewing circle,
she told me there were no shops in Kansas offering
it. I started looking for a shop owner who would be a
participating shop and was excited when Karalee said
she would offer the class.”
Shawn, an avid quilter, has taught other quilt classes and enjoys mixing her quilting knowledge with the
historical background offered through the Journey
series. The sewing circle meets monthly and members
are encouraged to bring their quilts -- each lesson
includes a pattern for a small quilt which can be made
into a larger quilt if desired -- for show and tell along
with some “homework” assignments. Patterns for
the next month’s quilt are handed out at each meeting. Class materials also include some bonus items.
Members of the Prairie Women’s Sewing Circle group at No Place Like Home Quilt Shop with the star quilts they made in the first class. Back
Participants are encouraged to share quilting tips with row from left: Shawn Delker, Lu Ann Watts, Jan Brax, Barb Short, Karalee Austin. Front row, from left: Rhonda Bacon, Sharolyn Stout, Jacki
other sewing circle members and vintage quilts from Ryba, Barbara Crosson and Rhonda Bird.
their families or that they have purchased at
sales or shops.
Each meeting of the sewing circle includes
a show and tell time, a lesson about pioneer life
and presentation of the next quilt pattern in the
series with tips on making it.
The first meeting of the series discussed the
need for pioneer quilters to “make do” when
piecing their quilts and sewing circle members
were encouraged to look at quilts to find where
the original makers had made do and to bring
their vintage quilts to the second meeting.
Examples shown included blocks where colors
didn’t match the rest of the quilt, backings were
pieced together from several different fabrics,
and one quilt in which the batting was another
old quilt.
The October meeting included information
about how women were told to prepare for the
trip west, including the suggestion that at least
four quilts be made for each family member
-- a daunting task in a time when families were
often large and, while a women might have had
a treadle sewing machine to piece a quilt top,
the quilting was all done by hand. An outline
of the footprint of a Conestoga wagon was also
taped out on the floor to illustrate the space the
women had for all the possessions they wished
to take west and a year and a half worth of
supplies -- while still leaving enough room for
their families.
“How easy do we have it?” Shawn asked.
The Pioneer Women Sewing Circle has
proven to be popular among area quilters,
Karalee Austin said, with participants coming
from Salina, Minneapolis, Gypsum, Mentor and
Bennington.
The historical aspect of the sewing circle
was a draw for many of the participants.
“I thought it sounded interesting because of
the history and because I like Civil War fabrics.
I thought it would be fun for Karalee to have
the class,” Jackie Ryba, Bennington, said.
Jan Brax, Mentor, agreed adding that several
of her friends were taking the class which led
her to join. She said she was enjoying the fellowship that went along with the lesson.
The participants all have experience with
quilting, several of them having quilted for 20plus years. Shawn said that the class was probably not for the person making their first quilt.
“The quilts (patterns) uses small, tiny pieces
and it is necessary to be very precise when cutting and sewing. Many of the patterns need a lot
of matching,” she said.
Like sewing circles of old, there is plenty of
time for fellowship along with the instruction.
Karalee also plans to have sewing time included
during most of the sessions so members can
help each other as they work on their quilts.
Karalee plans to offer the Journey II class
when Journey I is completed. She will also offer the Journey I class again if there is enough
interest.
No Place Like Home Quilt Shop is located
at 204 West Second in Minneapolis. The shop
opened in May.
Page 14 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Abilene•Minneapolis•Salina
The Country Register • Kansas
Reducing holiday stress with
essential oils
By Wanda Headricks
Do the holidays make you feel anxious? Are you stressed trying to get everything
done? Do you feel isolated or that you are alone and the only one concerned? Most of
us have had some or all of these feelings at one time or another, so I would like to share
with you some ways to use essential oils in your everyday life to help combat these
feelings and enjoy the anticipation, preparation and festivities of holiday fun with your
family and friends more.
Scent your home or environment with pure essential oils using a room diffuser,
humidifier or a pan of boiling water (remember to turn the boiling water off before
adding the essential oils). The oils must be 100% pure essential oils, not fragrance oils.
Remember that pure essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral and other properties that
can help keep our environment healthy as they lift our spirits. A nice suggestion for an
essential oil blend to diffuse into your environment is:
Cinnamon Essential Oil 4 drops
Clove Essential Oil
4 drops
Sweet Orange Essential Oil
20 drops
Ginger Essential Oil 4 drops
Blend together and enjoy. Ginger is warming, eases sore throats and runny noses,
and is cheering and stimulating to the mind. Cinnamon is considered a strong antiseptic
and excellent for combating feelings of exhaustion and depression. Clove has a positive, uplifting effect on the mind and sweet orange adds a spark of sunshine to dispel
gloomy thoughts and depression, relieve stress, tension, and encourage energy and a
positive outlook. You can always adjust the amount of each essential oil to your own
personal scent preference. Try experimenting with different essential oils by using fir
needle, peppermint, or pine essential oil in place of the cinnamon or clove essential oil.
Fir, peppermint and pine are excellent to dry up colds and coughs, are uplifting to the
emotions, and reduce stress and anxiety.
Use lemon essential oil to clean sinks, countertops and floors and sweet orange essential oils in jojoba oil to dust and polish
furniture. Both lemon and sweet orange
essential oil have antimicrobial properties
and are relaxing and uplifting.
Create your own Home Spa! This is
probably my favorite way to de-stress:
In a bath tub full of warm water, add
1/8 to ¼ cup of Dead Sea Salt. Then add
a total of 20 drops in any combination of
the following oils: lavender, sweet orange,
chamomile, bergamot, patchouli, ylang
ylang, cypress, ginger, clary sage, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemon, geranium, basil,
eedarwood, sandalwood, jasmine and rose.
These essential oils are uplifting, relaxing
and have properties to help keep down
coughs, colds, flu and combat exhaustion,
anxiety and depression.
Experiment with using pure essential
oils to relax, decrease stress and bring
greater joy your holiday celebrations with
family and friends.
For Pure Essential Oils, room diffusers, and other ways to use essential oils go
to Flinthills Aromatheapy, Inc. at www.
flinthillsaromatherapy.com or email info@
flinthillsaromatherapy.com . We can also
be reached by phone at 620.394.2250
A little love in a jar
Quart-sized mason jars are one of the best gift bags of all time. You can fill them with
small candies, notes, novelties or even make a jar mix for a friend. Fill a few of these
and have them on hand for last-minute gift-giving. You can decorate them with paint
pens (find them at a craft store) – draw scenes, candy canes or even a saying. I filled one
last year with red, green and silver foil-wrapped Hershey’s kisses and labeled it “Elf
Kisses.” It sat on my counter all season and it had to be filled more than a few times! If
you want to, you can also cut a piece of Christmas fabric and layer it on top of the seal
before you screw the band on the jar. This gives it a festive look and you can also add a
tag with raffia or curling ribbon, if you like. No matter the contents, your gift will look
festive and be welcomed with open arms! © Susan Tipsord 2012
The Country Register • Kansas
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 15
Hillsboro•Marion•McPherson
Grandma’s Thanksgiving Prayer
By Jule-Ann Lattimer
Shin-Hee Chin’s War and Peace exhibit
To say that art makes a statement is a very broad generalization. An artist works
from a particular perspective, defining and portraying it by using a particular medium or
mediums. The resulting work of art becomes their “statement.” In terms of this particular exhibit, it would be an understatement to say that Shin-Hee’s work is a statement.
Her exhibit is a collective cry of and for humanity.
Through innumerable hours and the use of many mixed textile mediums - including
quilting techniques - she portrays people all over the world who have been affected
by the tragedies of war. Seemingly inconspicuous everyday scraps of cotton fabric and
thread make up many of their portraits. Quilt “yo-yo’s” simulate pixels - like those in an
interrupted and frozen electronic image. The use of such draws one in for end-of-yournose, close-up inspection to see the intricacies of how they are manipulated. As with
electronic pixels, one is forced to stand at a distance in order for the sum of its parts to
be seen as a whole.
Having viewed the exhibit twice, two images have stayed with me. They give me
pause to consider a myriad of thoughts and emotions. This very thing qualifies her
works of art as successful. The first image is that of a woman weeping. She has just
received news that her son has been killed in the Korean war. Her grief is no doubt
compounded by the fact that she also lost a son during WWII. Her grief and vulnerability is expressed in the gesture of her face hidden in the crook of her arm.
The second image conjured up is that of a young woman. Seen from across the
room, it is hard to describe her expression. Viewing it closely and reading her story,
her own words are “melancholy” and “sorrow.” Subdued color values of fabric yo-yos
and contrasting red thread make up her portrait - fittingly so. “Nadia” was a young
Afghani woman who belonged to a sewing group along with others her age. Under the
guise of this “acceptable” activity, they studied the works of banned poets and other
forbidden topics. Nadia even wrote some of her own poetry. All of this was done at the
risk of torture or death if discovered. Nadia’s poetry exposed her plight as a married
woman in a country governed by the Taliban. She wrote: “I am caged in this corner,
full of melancholy and sorrow . . . my wings are closed and I cannot fly . . .” Her forbidden poetry was published in 2005. She was beaten to death at the age of 25 by her
husband. . . because he could.
When entering the dimly lit exhibit room, one has only to stop in the doorway and
look diagonally to the far side of the room. The fact that Nadia’s portrait hangs in the
far corner is, no doubt, not a coincidence and it does not escape notice once her words
are known.
For all that the “War” part of the exhibit is so very somber, the “peace” aspect
slowly emerges. Each of these portraits represent people whose hope was for “peace”
- if not in their lifetime; in the future. Hope and peace mirror the heart and soul of humanity. The combined uses of everyday commonplace cotton fabric, cotton and pearl
threads, quilting techniques and yo-yos offer high contrast to the subject matter portrayed. Their manipulation and use are; in the words of one person; “mind-boggling”.
These works of art cry out on behalf of humanity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“War and Peace Exhibit” video tour at www.eisenhower.archives.gov OR visit
Abilene and see the exhibit in person. Exhibit ends Jan. 6, 2013.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sherry Osland, in business and quilt ministry for 12 yrs. Owner of Praise Works
Quilting in the Quilts ‘N Such bldg; 1216 NW 3rd St; Abilene, KS, 67410 Contact at
[email protected] 785-263-4600
For exs. of work: community.webshots.com/user/sherryo114
Thanksgiving is a day set aside to thank God for His many blessings. Each family
has its own traditions that make the day special for them.
One of my fondest memories of Thanksgiving is Grandma saying the Thanksgiving prayer before dinner. Grandma was a little German lady who lived her whole life
depending on God for all things. Widowed with five young children, she struggled to
keep them together. So when it came time to give thanks for His blessings, she was
always ready.
The table was set. The serving dishes steamed with delicious, hot food. Everyone
gathered around the table with anxious appetites and watering mouths, eager to begin
the feast. But first, Grandma had to say the Thanksgiving prayer. She began calmly
and softly, praying for each and every one of us, for the beauty of nature, for answered
prayers, for the abundance of food. At that point, she worked up to a crescendo, and
then began to cry as she continued thanking Him for more and more and more . . .
I have to admit, about this time we were getting a bit impatient. However, we did
find it all quite amusing. We quietly restrained giggles as we peeked at each other
through half-closed eyelids. Finally, Grandma ended her prayer, wiped her eyes with her
apron, and we all could at last enjoy our over-abundant, warm dinner!
Grandma is gone now. But every Thanksgiving dinner we all fondly remember her
special prayers. No one else has quite her style.
As I get older, I can better understand Grandma’s over-abundant thankfulness. Who
knows, perhaps someday my grandchildren will be impatient with my Thanksgiving
prayer?
In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
(I Thess. 5:18).
Page 16 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Burlington•Emporia•Garnett•Osawatomie•Ottawa•Paola
Building Harmony . . .
The Effort
By Jeff Cappis
Well, it’s Christmas again. I love the traditions and the way it brings people together. Usually you know what to expect. Snow on the ground, a big turkey dinner,
family and friends dropping by, and the usual collection of Christmas songs playing
over and over. (And over and over...) There are presents to buy and excited children.
Inevitably some one knocks over the Christmas tree. Despite all this I find the routine
very comforting.
It is a lot of work. Every year, Cathy and I pull out the boxes marked “Christmas”
from storage and decorate the house. On this particular day we put up garnishes, set
out ornaments, stockings and wreaths. After hours of decorating and drinking eggnog
we finally got to the main event: the Christmas tree. I have to admit, by that time I just
want to sit back and watch a good horror movie, but the boss keeps me going.
We were just about done when I asked Cathy, “It’s a lot of work and we’ll only be
pulling it all down and putting it away in a couple of weeks. Why do people go to the
trouble to put up a tree in the house anyway? When you think about it, this is a very
strange tradition.” Somehow I wasn’t sure Cathy heard me. “Do you think this is all
worth the effort?”
Cathy just smiled as she pulled the very last tree ornament from the box. The
ornament appeared to be made of crystal. The lights from the tree danced sparkles all
different colors through the glass. The ornament had its own small rainbow around it.
This wasn’t any ordinary ornament and Cathy always put it on last.
You see, Cathy grew up as one of six children. Every year her mother would make
six shopping trips (one with each child) so that everyone could keep their presents
secret. Cathy loved that time with her mother. You can imagine that being one of six
children doesn’t afford you a lot of personal alone time with your mother.
When Cathy was five, her mother bundled her up with a scarf, coat, snow pants,
mittens, boots and a hat for the
trip to the department store. It
was a chilly day and the trip
would take two different busses.
Cathy could see her breath on
the bus’ glass window as she
watched the houses go by. It was
exciting!
When they got to the department store, she found it was
filled with wondrous things.
There were clothes and toys and
jewelry. They looked at it all
-- just her and her mother. Cathy
thought she was having the best
day ever. But it wasn’t over just
yet.
They finished shopping and
were heading to the door when
something caught her mother’s
eye. There was a small crystal
ornament sitting in the middle of
a bunch of other odd Christmas
items. It somehow stood out. Cathy thought it was beautiful. They both admired it.
“Can we get it for the Christmas tree, mommy?” Cathy asked with wide eyes and a
big smile. Her mother puzzled for a moment.
“Sorry sweetie. We only have enough money for the bus. If we get this, we’ll
have to walk home.” Cathy didn’t think about it, she just put on a great big smile and
hugged her mother.
So they set off. It was probably only a half-hour walk, but the air was cold. To
Cathy it felt like they were going on an expedition across the North Pole. The sun
would be going down soon. She had to keep her little legs going faster so they’d get
home in time. Their breath hung in the winter air. The snow crunched beneath their
feet. All the while Cathy clutched the bag with the ornament in it. Her mother carried
the other twelve. She still managed to hold her daughter’s hand.
“It’s O.K.,” Cathy thought. “Mom is with me.” The last ten steps were the hardest.
The sun had just gone down, it was cold, snow had blown across their front steps. That
front door couldn’t get close enough. But, they made it. Stepping into the warm house,
her mother put down all the bags then smiled at her.
She saw Cathy was still clutching the bag with the ornament. Cathy smiled back at
her proudly. They pulled it out and thoughtfully hung it on the tree.
“Was it worth the effort?” her mother asked.
“Oh yes!” Cathy replied. She stroked the ornament then she turned to look at me as
if she’d just come back from somewhere. I could tell it all from the look in her eyes.
We clinked our eggnog glasses, she curled up in my arms, and we admired the Christmas tree.
Yes, it’s all worth the effort.
Merry Christmas from Jeff and Cathy at Harmony Acres.
The Midnight Shopper
Ever feel like you need to shop in the middle of the night to avoid crowds? I’m sure
this has happened too many of us this time of year. Making your list and checking it
twice is only half the battle – you have to get out there and get the things on your list,
too! Many stores have extended hours during the busy holiday season to accommodate
busy shoppers. Some smaller shops hold special “husbands-only” or similar shopping
events to keep their shoppers from being overwhelmed by the task at hand. When planning your shopping trip, keep in mind that meal times and after children’s bedtimes are
great times to be in the stores. You may also be able to find more help if you need it.
Weekends are generally much busier than weekdays as well. By taking advantage of
off-times, you may be able to avoid some crowds and enjoy your shopping even more!
©Susan Tipsord 2012
The Country Register • Kansas
The Country Register • Kansas
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 17
Arma•Atlanta•Edna•El Dorado•Humboldt•Severy•Winfield
The Primitive Pantry
By Kristine Berg Doss
If you live in a country, colonial or primitive inspired home,
you more than likely have a pantry or butt’ry; a functional one
to store your food and one for
displaying your collectibles. This
might be as simple as a shelf in
your kitchen or as big as a large
walk in closet
A pantry was originally called
a butt’ry, which dates back as far
as the Middle Ages. They were
built in a cold north corner of
a colonial home and were used
to store butter churns, food and
milk.
You can re-create the look
of a pantry or butt’ry by addins
some of the following items to
your shelves:
Crocks
Jugs
Wooden Buckets
Firkins
Vintage Scales
Mason Jars
Wooden Bowls
Wooden Mashers
Butter Paddles
Butter Molds
Rolling Pins
Kristen Berg Doss is the owner, editor and publisher of A Primitive Place & Country
Journal magazine. A Primitive Place & Country Journal magazine is the fastest growing primitive, Colonial and country magazine on the market today. For more information visit www.aprimitiveplace.org or email [email protected].
Page 18 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Wichita
Gifts from Your Kitchen
Are you down to the last person on your list and have no
idea what to get them? How about a gift from your kitchen?
Many people are too busy to cook or perhaps just don’t like
to cook. A home-made dinner for their freezer may be just
what they’d love to have most.
When giving a frozen food item as a gift, be sure to give
your lucky recipient the directions for cooking their dinner!
Many seniors are no longer able to cook as much as they
may have in the past and this is a great gift for them as well.
Food items that are wrapped and ready for
the freezer in individual portions are great
for them. Again, written instructions are a
key ingredient in any frozen gift.
Another great way to give a gift from
your kitchen is to offer to cook a meal in the
future (at a time that is mutually acceptable).
Many moms I know would love to have dinner delivered one night. That’s definitely a
gift I would look forward to getting.
Whatever you decide to make and give,
the one who receives your gift will know
it was prepared with love! ©Susan Tipsord
2012
The Country Register • Kansas
The Country Register • Kansas
Conway Springs•Derby•Kechi•Newton•Valley Center
Make your china cabinet a show piece!
By Mary Dessoie
My china cabinet was purchased many years ago at the long-gone B. Altman and
Company department store, which was located on Fifth Avenue in New York City. I
cherish this piece of furniture for its beauty and craftsmanship. Each time I gaze upon
it, I am reminded of a more gracious era.
A china cabinet is primarily used to house a collection of fine china. China cabinets
often serve as the focal point to a room. A china cabinet can be a simple, plain pine box
or a more elaborate creation of finely carved wood and frosted glass. A china cabinet
is a great way to show off pretty dishes or other delicate curios. China cabinets can
also serve as stand-alone pieces. They can be decorated to suit the seasons or your own
personal tastes.
Some people like to change the interiors of their cabinets to fit the season and holiday. To mark Christmas, place bits of mistletoe and red ribbon inside and outside the
china cabinet. To celebrate Hanukah, show off a collection of menorahs and place blue
ribbon inside the cabinet. For Easter, place decorated eggs inside the cabinet and pink
and purple bows on the outside. For a summer look, add seashells and containers with
bits of sand.
Illuminate any items in the cabinet with lighting. Some china cabinets have built-in
lighting that can help people see the details of your best plates. For those china cabinets
that do not come with built-in lighting, place a lamp next to the cabinet or install lighting.
Place flowers inside the cabinet. Fresh flowers will look elegant against plain or
floral-patterned china. Place the flowers in small vases inside the cabinet. Silk flowers
will also work well.
Add mirrors. Some china cabinets already have built-in mirrors, and you can add
one if your china cabinet does not have a built-in mirror. Small, stand-alone mirrors can
also be placed inside the cabinet.
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 19
Mary Dessoie covers a variety of topics in the field of antiques and collectibles. She founded
the Butter Pat Patter Association for beginner and advanced collectors of butter pats. Butter
pats are miniature plates that were introduced during the mid-1800’s for individual servings of
butter. A subscription to The Patter newsletter costs $22 and includes a mint-condition Royal
Doulton butter pat. In addition, subscribers will receive ten issues of The Patter. Sample copies
of The Patter are available by sending $4.00 and a LSSAE (66 cents) to Mary Dessoie, 7950 E.
Keats Avenue, No. 178, Mesa, AZ 85209-5025. For those persons who would like to start their
subscriptions immediately and receive their pat by return mail, please send your check or money
order, in the amount of $22, payable to Mary Dessoie.
Page 20 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Hutchnson•Pleasantview•Yoder
The Knitting Savant . . .
Crafters And The People Who Love Us
By Andrea Springer
It was a party. Just a group of knitters getting together at our house to celebrate our
friend’s big day. It was probably similar to celebrations you’ve attended. We had food,
beverages and cake. We told stories and laughed a lot. Of course, since we’re knitters
we also had our current projects along.
We had a great time and ended the festivities early because of work the next day.
My blessed husband retired to “Manland” early in the evening and helped clean up after
the house cleared out. Imagine my surprise when I got on Facebook the next morning
to find that he’d posted a status update that read, “A birthday party at our home which
includes knitters and alcohol. Should I worry?” I laughed out loud at the post and the
responses. It was clear from the comments, he wasn’t alone.
We rarely create in a vacuum. More often than not, we’ve got family and friends
along for the ride. They celebrate our finished products. They live with our stashes and
our rationalizations for making them bigger. They console us when we discover and fix
our errors. In the case of knitters, they wait patiently when our response to their questions and comments is, “Just a minute, I’m counting” or “Let me finish this row.” When
we feel our creativity source has dried up or is completely out of balance, they are often
our training wheels.
I’m going to let you in on one of my secrets. My favorite items to knit are the ones
for these very patient people - my friends and family. Sure, there’s that voice inside my
head that worries my finished objects might be classified in the same category as Aunt
Clara’s pink bunny pajamas in the movie “A Christmas Story,” but I keep on knitting
them any way. I think of the individual I’m creating for when I’m choosing the pattern
and the yarn and like to think I work some of my feelings for them into every stitch.
When those I care about are out in the world clothed in something I’ve made specifically for them, I feel they’re wearing a small piece of my love and gratitude and maybe
that gives them a little bit of extra “oomph” that day. They’ve been with me during
the creative process. The least I can do is return the favor. I believe what goes around
comes around.
There’s an outside chance you could be reading this while waiting for your crafting
loved one to shop for materials for that next project. If that’s the case, just know that
you’re a good person to be waiting while we pull together what we need or simply get
inspired for another day. Thank you from all of us.
Andrea Springer blogs at www.knittingsavant.com to help folks remember that they
have everything they need to be successful in knitting and in life.
The Country Register • Kansas
The Country Register • Kansas
Kiowa•Larned•Preston
Quilting with Barbara . . .
Traditions
By Barbara Conquest
Traditions: they are so firmly embedded in our minds and lives that we often don’t
recognize them for what they are – arbitrary customs handed down through generations.
Some are widespread and common to a particular group of people. As an example,
Canadians wear red poppies on and around November 11, Remembrance Day. This
tradition is rooted in history; the armistice after World War I (1914-1918) was signed at
the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month: 11 a.m. on November 11.
The red poppies represent the blood spilled during that war “On Flanders Fields,” the
name of a poem every Canadian recognizes. The first line reads “On Flanders fields the
poppies grow…” and we wear these poppies in remembrance of sacrifice.
Traditions seem to cluster around holidays. Some are based on practicality. My father was a farmer with morning and evening outdoor chores, so my parents decided the
best time for our family to open our Christmas presents was after evening chores were
completed, and Dad was able to relax – in other words, Christmas Eve. We young ones
still had our stockings to open Christmas morning when outside chores and preparations
for Christmas dinner were occupying the adults, so this arrangement worked out well
for all of us. Somehow this tradition has been handed down in our family, and, although
it is no longer necessary, our city-raised children and grandchildren continue the tradition, probably without knowing where it originated unless we tell them.
We sometimes accept tradition without question. The story is told of a woman who
always trimmed the wings off her Christmas turkey before putting it in the oven. When
her daughter asked her why, she replied, “That’s what my mother always did.” So the
daughter continued the tradition, and so did her daughter. But one Christmas, the elderly
great-grandmother was present. When she was asked about this, her answer was, “So it
would fit in my roasting pan!” The pan in question was long gone, but the family tradition, now unnecessary, was continued.
Quilting is rooted in tradition. Consider the quilting bees of our foremothers and the
patterns they exchanged. Even today we love and perpetuate blocks like the classic log
cabin in all its variations. The skills of quilting travelled from the old world to the new
and across our continent with settlers. But traditions change. As they evolve, we tend
to keep the valuable components and discard the not-so-valuable. Do you remember,
not so long ago, when “real” quilts were always hand quilted and others were viewed
askance? There are fewer hand-quilting purists today, and we honour their work, but
machine quilters are no longer regarded as somehow outside the pale.
We still enjoy the companionship of what our grandmothers called quilting bees, but
now we call them retreats, and we use our rotary cutters and sewing machines, rather
than hand needles and thread. We still appreciate fancy quilting, but nowadays it is more
likely to be done for us by a mid-arm or long-arm quilter hired for the purpose. Some
traditional piecers – and some non-traditional ones – are experimenting with new techniques to produce what we’re now calling “modern” quilts which may have non-traditional blocks (or no blocks at all!) using innovative colour combinations and textures.
No matter where this movement goes, quilters’ enjoyment of beauty, creativity, colour
and line remain integral aspects of quilting. Long live this tradition!
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 21
Page 22 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Colorado • Internet
Town and Country Cooking . . .
Slow down for the dip
By Janette Hess
A bright yellow road sign emblazoned with the word “dip” always demands attention. Likewise, any recipe bearing the word “dip” demands attention, especially
during this busy season of televised sports and indoor tailgating.
Easy Shrimp Dip takes very little time to prepare and may be served immediately. Layered Bean Dip is a bit more complicated to assemble but definitely worth
the effort, and any leftovers may be rolled into a tortilla and served as a bean burrito.
Creamy Artichoke Dip is a hot, savory crowd pleaser that, when offered during a big
game, usually results in an unbreakable huddle around the snack table.
New Year’s Dip is somewhat healthier fare. It draws its name from its main ingredient, black-eyed peas. Although black-eyed peas traditionally are served on January
1 to assure good luck and prosperity in the New Year, this dip assures lucky eating
whenever and wherever it’s served.
Easy Shrimp Dip
The Country Register • Kansas
The Tastiest Side of Thanksgiving (or Christmas) ...
Last month, I asked my loyal readers to send me their favorite Thanksgiving side
dish recipes. Turkey is all right and pumpkin pie is good, but I LOVE side dishes.
Potatoes, vegetables, potatoes, noodles, cranberries, potatoes . . . you get the idea.
Martha Friend of Letart, WV sent in this wonderful version of scalloped sweet potatoes and I think you will love it. The sweetness of the potatoes, the tart apples and
the crunch of the pecans make this a side dish to die for. I hope you enjoy it, too! ©
Susan Tipsord 2012
Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
3-4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
3 cups miniature marshmallows
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon margarine
½ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Slice sweet potatoes 1/4 inch thick. In a large buttered baking dish, layer sweet
1 4-ounce can tiny shrimp, drained and crumbled
potatoes, apples and marshmallows. Sprinkle with mixture of sugar, cinnamon, salt
4 ounces (1 cup) cheddar cheese, finely grated
and pecans. Blend cornstarch and water in small bowl and pour over layers. Dot
1/4 cup finely diced onion
with butter and bake covered at 350 degrees for 1 hr. 10 servings.
In medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce.
Add shrimp, onion and cheese. Mix well and chill. Serve with multi-grain crackers.
Layered Bean Dip
1 16-ounce can refried beans
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into small pieces
1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled and slivered
OR ½ of a 12-ounce jar of roasted red peppers,
drained and slivered
1/4 cup diced red onion
1 4-ounce can sliced black olives, drained
½ cup salsa
2 ounces (½ cup) Monterrey Jack cheese, finely grated
1/4 cup slivered almonds
In order given, layer ingredients in 8- by 8-inch baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees
for 25 to 30 minutes, or until almonds are lightly browned. Serve with tortilla chips.
Creamy Artichoke Dip
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ medium onion, finely diced
1 14-ounce can artichoke hearts (8-10 count), drained and chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
16 ounces cream cheese
8 ounces sour cream
4 ounces (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, shredded
2 heaping tablespoons dried parsley flakes
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
Several generous dashes hot pepper sauce
In medium pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion until softened. Add artichokes and
garlic and heat through. Transfer to crock pot. Add remaining ingredients and cook
on low for at least 2 hours, stirring well after cream cheese has softened. Serve on
pita chips or crackers.
New Year’s Dip
1 15-ounce can black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed
1 11-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
½ small red onion, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 avocado, peeled and diced
1 medium tomato, chopped
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced (optional)
In medium bowl, lightly toss black-eye peas, corn, onion, garlic, avocado, tomato
and cilantro. Whisk together remaining ingredients and pour over vegetables. Add
jalapeno pepper, if desired. Cover and chill. Serve with corn chips or tortilla chips.
Also makes a great salad or relish.
A trained journalist, Janette Hess focuses her writing on interesting people and
interesting foods. She is a Master Food Volunteer with her local extension service and
enjoys collecting, testing and sharing recipes.
The Country Register • Kansas
Events Calendar • Bed & Breakfast
Events Calendar
When making a road trip,
always call ahead to confirm
times and dates. We make
every attempt to provide
accurate information, but there
are instances when things
change. Always check weather
conditions and travel safe.
November
30…Retail Christmas Open House, Larned, p. 21
December
1-30…Winfield Isle of Lights, p. 15
1…Christmas Bazaar, Caldwell
1…Christmas Parade, Craft Fair, and Other Events, Larned, p. 21
1…Chris’ Corner Quilt Shop Holiday Open House, Ottawa, p. 16
1…Quilting Bee Holiday Open House, Salina, p. 14
1…Stitches 2nd Anniversary, McPherson, p. 15
1…McPherson Holiday Movie, p. 15
1…Hillsboro Christmas Event, p. 15
1…Heavenly Kneads & Threads Open House, Humboldt, p. 17
1-2…Two Blooms & A Bud Christmas Open House, Wisner (NE)
2…Christmas Open House, Larned, p. 21
6…McPherson Holiday Light Tours, p. 15
6-9…Ft. Scott Holiday Weekend Events, Fort Scott and home tours, fun family
activities, (See O/N ‘12 Event Schedule)
8…Christmas at Fort Larned, p. 21
9… McPherson Holiday Movie, p. 15
13… McPherson Holiday Light Tours, p. 15
15…Aunt Sadie’s Quilt Shop Open House, Winchester, p. 11
15…Old Fashioned Christmas on the Oregon Trail, Westmoreland, p. 9
15… McPherson Holiday Movie, p. 15
19-22… McPherson Holiday Light Tours, p. 15
January
4-6…UFO Retreat, Quilting on the Square, Holton, p. 10
24…Visit Your Local Quilt Shop Day!
31…Heartland Shop Hop “Cabin Fever Fix,” Various, p. 7
1-2… Heartland Shop Hop “Cabin Fever Fix,” Various, p. 7
8-10…An Affair of the Heart, Oklahoma City, p. 13
5-6…Quilt & Stitch Expo of Pueblo, Colorado, p. 22
February
April
Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013 • page 21
Page 24 • Dec. 2012/Jan. 2013
Valley Falls
The Country Register • Kansas