What’s Inside?
• Cup of Tea with Lydia - Page 4
• Bunco - 5
• Markets, Spice & Everything Nice - Page 6
• Girlfriends Wisdom - Page 7
• Become Inspired - Page 7
• Our Mothers' Sewing Machines - Page 8
• Holiday Traditions - Page 10
• Homemade Christmas Gifts - Page 11
• Holiday Bucket List - Page 11
• Holiday Traditions Around the World - Page 11
• Gift Certificate Winner - Page 13
• Liberty House - Page 13
• Annual Vine Chirstmas Market - Page 13
• Susan Branch - Page 14
• Christmas Stockings - Page 14
• Country Berries - Page 15
• Writing from Life - Page 15
• Holiday Songs to Love - Page 16
• By the Yard Comic - Page 17
• Christmas Memories - Page 17
• Ad Directory by Name & Community - Page 18
Editor’s Notes - “Grit & Grace”
www.MoxieMarketingMW.com
• 605-568-0181 • Kelsey Ruzicka • Publisher of this Country Register!
This issue is one for holiday traditions. And like many of you, I learned these from my grandparents. Recently I lost my grandmas. All at once and only 6 days apart. It was a lot on my parents (and all of us) with each of them losing their moms. All the funeral tasks, cleaning out apartments, etc… times two!
We got through that whirlwind together and were able to honor both their lives customized to each one, and with the celebration they deserved.
One thing I’m not looking forward to is the holiday season without them. Though it is a special time of year, it sure drudges up grief and loss when losing a loved one is fresh.
But I reflect on the two of them, and I can’t help but think of Grit and Grace.
One was the epitome of the farm wife. Strong, tough on rules, soft around the edges, and stubborn enough to make it through anything life tossed at you. Grit.
The other the kindest soul you could meet. Quiet strength and 60 years as a nurse. Compassion and kindness and service poured out of her. True grace that most of us rarely see in a human. She was grace.
All of our holiday traditions like Yahtzee, church service, card playing, oyster stuffing and more will be missing one very special seat. But the love and traditions and character traits they passed on will live far beyond. And that is what traditions are for right? To pass from one generation to the next to ensure the special people and memories continue in our families.
I hope you can take time for family traditions this year. Make new ones, honor old ones and make memories that fill the cup of cheer the season brings.
May this holiday find you with grit, grace and so much joy of the season.
With gratitude, Kelsey countryregisternebraska@gmail.com kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com Office: 605-568-0181
Kelsey Ruzicka Publisher of The Country Register of Nebraska
The Country Register of Nebraska Kelsey (Snyder) Ruzicka, Publisher Produced by Moxie Marketing of the Midwest, LLC PO BOX 2015 • Belle Fourche, SD 57717 605-568-0181 Office
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* Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950
* Arkansas: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, 405-470-2597, lenda@countryregister.com
* California: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950
* Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797
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* Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com
* Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, florida@countryregisteronline.com
* Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, tcrga@windstream.net
* Idaho: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Illinois: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com
* Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com
* Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, IowaCountryRegister@mchsi.com
* Kansas: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com
* Maine: Deborah Daney, 660 Country Club Road, Sanford, ME 04073, 207-324-7482
* Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* Massachusetts: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* Michigan: Bill and Marlene Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, 48603-3143, 989-793-4211
* Minnesota: Kim & Mickey Keller, 12835 Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, minnesota@countryregister.com
* Missouri: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com
* Montana: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Nebraska: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Nevada (N): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 602-942-8950*
* Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803
* New Hampshire: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester Street, Chester, NH 03036, 603-571-1822
* New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, info@countryregisteronline.com
* New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797
* New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* North Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950
* North Dakota: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, ohiocountryregister@yahoo.com
* Oklahoma: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com
* Oregon: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Pennsylvania: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, 888-616-8319, Fax 800-609-0278
* Rhode Island: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* South Carolina: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, 515 E Carefree Hwy, #1128, Phoenix, AZ 85085, 888-942-8950
* South Dakota: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243, cowprintdesigns@gmail.com
* Texas: Lenda Brown, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK, 73123, lenda@countryregister.com
* Utah: Available
* Vermont: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester Street, Chester, NH 03036, 603-571-1822
* Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* Washington: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
* West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, ads@countryregisteronline.com
* Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, jennifer@countryregisterofwisconsin.com
* Wyoming: Kelsey Ruzicka, P.O. Box 2015, Belle Fourche, SD 57717, 605-568-0181, kelsey@moxiemarketingmw.com
CANADA
* Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0,780-889-3776, countryregab@yahoo.com
* British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, BC, V0H 1Z0, 800-784-6711
* Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, countryregister@sasket.net
* Ontario: Harriet Ramos, Box 60, 4338 Innes Rd., Orleans, ON K4A 3W3, 343-882-5812
The Country Register of the Nebraska November/December • Volume 15 Issue 6
The Country Register of Nebraska is published every two months. Copyright 2024.
Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited by law. The Country Register is a registered business trade name. Moxie Marketing of the Midwest, LLC produces The Country Register of Nebraska.
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Deadline: Ads and articles for the January/February issue are December 7, 2024.
Three Kings Tea
By Lydia E. Harris
When our grandchildren were younger, they loved to play dress-up yearround. It didn’t need to be December for them to put on Christmas costumes and become Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds or kings. Often the glitzy robes and crowns were their favorites. They draped themselves with glittery fabrics, donned shiny crowns and became wise men from the East. Perhaps being “wise guys” and bearing gifts from afar was what appealed to them.
In the spirit of children and the Magi, who followed the star, let’s celebrate the season with a Three Kings Tea.
Royal Guests
This tea would be fun for children, adults or families. Send invitations to three or three times three— any number that suits you. Pick a date, make your guest list and get ready for a festive teatime. If December seems too busy, host your Three Kings Tea on Epiphany, January 6.
Royal Decorations
In December, your home is probably already decorated for the holidays. Nativity sets with wise men may sit in prominent places and gold garlands, twinkling lights and colorful balls may adorn your Christmas tree. All that’s left are table decorations.
For a regal touch, consider gold lamé fabric, golden candleholders and gold napkin rings. A glass bowl filled with purple and gold Christmas balls could add a royal touch, along with crowns or stars to represent the Magi and the star of the East they followed.
Festive Foods
Select one or more recipes you love to serve during the holidays. If sugar-cookie cutouts are your favorite, cut them into stars, crowns and wise men. If children are invited, they could frost and decorate their cookies. To make golden star or crown cookies buy edible glitter at candy or cakedecorating stores to sprinkle on top of the frosting.
If you serve cake add a royal look with a crown cut from a gold or silver doily. Place it on top of the cake along with candies that look like jewels. For a warm glow add three candles, one for each wise man.
Our neighbors often made an angel food cake, frosted it with whipped cream and decorated it with crushed candy canes. I have a recipe to make this Peppermint Angel Cake along with a candy cane poem in my cookbook, In the Kitchen with Grandma (pages 135–136). A mint or chocolate tea goes well with this cake.
Three Kings Bread also seems perfect for this teatime. It’s a sweet Mexican Christmas bread that reminds me of my mother’s tea ring served at our family gatherings. Made with yeast dough and candied fruit it’s formed into a circle so I call it a crown.
Every tea party needs a pot of tea. Choose your favorites and include a decaffeinated blend for those who can’t have caffeine. For a merry sound tie jingle bells onto your teapot’s handle.
Festive Favors and Extras
For a welcoming ambiance play Christmas carols including “We Three Kings.” Perhaps someone could read the story of the Magi from Matthew chapter 2, or a few people could act out the story.
Since the wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh you could suggest guests bring an inexpensive wrapped gift to exchange. Or buy small favors for guests to take home—something spicy to remind them of frankincense or something shiny and bright to remind them of gold.
No matter what you give your guests the real gift of the party will be the warm memories of the time shared.
Lydia E. Harris is a tea enthusiast and the author of three books for grandparents: GRAND Moments: Devotions Inspired by Grandkids, In the Kitchen with Grandma: Stirring Up Tasty Memories Together, and Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting all available at amazon.com.
From Lydia’s Recipe File: Three Kings Bread
Ingredients
Your favorite yeast roll dough or 2 loaves of ready-made frozen bread, thawed 1 package candied fruitcake mix or Red and green candied cherries and pineapple 2 beaten eggs
Powdered sugar glaze or 3 tablespoons melted butter ¼ cup sugar
Directions
1. On a greased cookie sheet form the two loaves of bread into a ring. Moisten the ends to make them stick together.
2. Press candied fruit into the top of the ring.
3. Let it rise according to the package directions.
4. Before baking brush, the top with beaten eggs.
5. After baking brush, the top with butter and sprinkle with sugar.
6. Return the bread to the oven for 5 minutes.
7. Cool on a cooling rack.
Optional: Omit steps 5 and 6 and frost the warm bread with a powdered sugar glaze.
Bunco!!
By Wayne M. Bosman
If I had designed the world, every family would have an Aunt Tootie, or someone like her. My Aunt Tootie was my Dad’s sister, who married my Uncle Jack too late to have children. To compensate, and as an outlet for her overabundance of love, my brothers, sister and I became her “children.”
Aunt Tootie and Uncle Jack visited every Monday evening, bringing along fruit and other staples, but more importantly for us boys, a selection of Mars bars that contained each of our favorites. The Monday night ritual of waiting for their arrival began right after supper while we looked out the window waiting for them to appear with “The BAG.” Aunt Tootie is worthy of a whole book, or at least a much longer story, but that is not for now.
They were with us for every major holiday, whether they came to our house or we went to their apartment in town. Thanksgiving feasts were memorable and usually at our house outside of town, where we had plenty of room to run around. Right after the meal ended, we boys sprawled out around the living room, watching the football game that was the main event. Dad would fall asleep in his chair usually, and Uncle Jack had his regular seat at the end of the couch. It was the Packers against the Lions back then and as important as the NFL Championship game. The game would end and we would wander back to the table for pies and desserts.
Wisconsin weather does not set its schedule by holiday plans, however, and whether it was because of rain or snow there were times when we were all stuck inside. That was when Aunt Tootie taught us Bunco.
She loved games, and things would usually start with one or two of us sitting talking to her at the corner of the dining room table. She would get out a deck of cards maybe and we would play War or Crazy Eights. Authors was another favorite, but things got too noisy for my dad when we played Pit or Slap Jack. Aunt Tootie’s favorite game was a dice game called Bunco or Airplane Bunco. We got out a pad of paper and the oldest usually kept score. We laughed and played until the scorekeeper got tired of keeping score and passed the pad to the next oldest. By the time I was old enough to go to school, I had painlessly learned addition and subtraction, often while looking over my brother’s shoulder to make sure that he didn’t cheat while keeping score. When Yahtzee came along, I got good at multiplication. Aunt Tootie taught us Poker too, with betting taking place from the penny jar, or if it were too empty from Mom’s button box, which was always full.
Over the years I forgot the rules to Bunco. I had always assumed that it was a game that Aunt Tootie made up. I had not heard of the game again until about a month ago when my daughter mentioned going to a Bunco party with some friends. The internet says that Bunco parties are all the rage. I got a refresher on the rules, which were much as I remembered them. I wouldn’t be surprised if someone markets a Bunco computer now, since that is the way the world has evolved. But not for me.
For me, Bunco will always be Aunt Tootie’s game, bringing back memories of who she was to me. How she laughed. How she still used words like “dasn’t” when she admonished us. How she always kept some peppermint candies in her pocketbook or coat pocket to hand out quietly as she was leaving, as if it were just our little secret. How she loved!
Wayne M. Bosman is a retired auto mechanic living in Cape Carteret, NC. He has the good fortune to be married to Kerri Habben Bosman, who is a regular contributor. His email is wbosman1@gmail.com.
Markets, Spice and Everything Nice!
By Julie Pirtel
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The scents of cinnamon and peppermint waft through the air. Pumpkin spice is abundant. But…the most abundant thing about this year is the wonderful number of Holiday Markets around every corner!
Those of us who are “artsy” (and if you are reading this, you are!) love markets. It’s so satisfying to walk through the aisles and discover the treasures presented by so many talented makers and collectors.
Are you a closet creator? Do you enjoy doing your craft /hobby but never know what to do with the end result? Perhaps you should consider that YOU could be sharing your passion at those same markets AND be making money at it as well!
Participating in a market is not a difficult process. With a bit of planning and research, you could be up and running in no time. Here are a few tips to get you started!
Social media is one of the easiest ways to find a list of upcoming markets and bazaars in your area. With that list in hand, start contacting the event coordinators. You’ll want to ask the space size, are tables and chairs provided and how many vendors have already signed up. If it’s a month before the event and there are only 8 spaces of 30 filled, it probably will not bring the attendance you need to be successful.
Most importantly, you will need to find out what the fee is for participating. If you have big ticket items, you can justify the larger events that charge upwards of $100 for the weekend. However, if you have lower priced items, a smaller event is best for you. Churches, Senior Centers and Fraternity Groups put on great events that have less vendors but usually charge $20-30 to participate.
To apply, you may be asked to provide details as well as pictures of your wares. Be sure to take appealing shots of your items as you are being vetted for quality as well as determining if you will fit in with the vendors already signed up.
When preparing for your event, provide yourself with enough time to create and gather what you plan to sell. Make sure your items are customer proof. Bag up items that will not withstand being handled (example: greeting cards should be in protective sleeves).
Pricing is important. Consider both your time and materials when determining the cost of your wares and don’t sell yourself short. Refrain from pricing items that are not rounded to the nearest dollar. You will not want to be dealing with coins!
Keep in mind that there will always be that one person that will comment that your prices are too high. Chances are, they have never created a thing in their life and have no idea what it takes. Be thick skinned and believe in your creativity. Other crafters who see your items will appreciate your skill!
If the event does not provide tables and chairs, make sure to bring your own. Other items to consider are table covers, a money belt (filled with bills to give change), various bags to put purchases in, business cards, a tablet/pen and a candy dish to help draw people to your table. Marketing is important. Blast your social media with news of your upcoming event. Notify customers that have purchased from you before.
Marketing the day of the event is just as important. I worked in sales most of my life. The best tip I was ever given was to “not give without taking.” That sounds terrible, but it simply means that if you give a business card or a brochure to someone, get their contact information in return! This allows you to follow up after the event.
Having a clipboard with a customer sign-up sheet is imperative. You will be able to utilize the information you collect to create a contact list that can be used to announce new products or other events you will take part in. It’s ok to get it “started” by adding a few names and emails of friends and family.
People are more likely to add their info to a sheet that is not blank. I hope this has you thinking that it’s time to take the next step with your craft! Be brave. Put it all out there and see what happens. You’ve got this. I know you do!
Julie Pirtle lives in Eagle Point, Oregon. She is a Professional Organizer and owner/operator of Clutter Happens. She also works with clients nationally through video consultations. The Clutter Challenged can reach her at clutterhappens@gmail.com, on Facebook:/clutterhappens or her website www.clutterhappens.com
Become Inspired
By Annice Bradley Rockwell
Splendor of the Season
As the month of November approaches, our thoughts begin to happily shift to the advancing holiday season. Our homes become the ideal backdrop for the unique expression of our decorating creativity. With our imagination in full swing, we can envision transforming our indoor spaces into a magical retreat that can be shared with those we love.
With our lengthening evening hours, the addition of twinkling taper candles in each window of our snug home creates warmth both within our home and from the road view. Petite evergreen trees with twinkling lights placed in our best crocks or early kegs add an element of country charm and joyful tradition to our rooms. Another way to add ambiance to a corner of a room is to create a tavern scene using a pub table decorated for a festive Christmas toast. Antique pewter and redware blended with tin lighting and live greens make a perfect holiday vignette. An antique slant-top desk can be transformed with a black antique beaver top hat, pewter tankard, and a stoneware inkwell with a turkey feather alongside a copy of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Handsome antique decoys or dappled gray early wooden horses can be utilized as prominent centerpieces by simply adding elements of nature such as cedar boughs, rose hips and bayberries. Our antique oil portraits and mirrors can be enhanced by nature’s bounty as well. Handcrafted gingerbread men and dried orange slices not only provide the welcoming scents of Christmas but look bountiful in a pewter charger enhancing our Christmas settings. And our mantels filled with some of our favorite treasures can be dressed with greens and the beautiful deep cranberry color of dried pomegranates to complete our scene of good cheer.
Simple Pleasures
As country shoppers, we often become inspired by the country shops that work so hard to showcase the splendor of Christmas. Ducking into a candlelit general store filled with eye candy for our country souls, we are greeted with the scent of a new seasonal candle, Christmas Clove and our senses are instantly delighted. The latest issue of a country magazine filled with homes decorated for the season of Christmas can be brought home to enjoy over our morning coffee. And an ideal gift for a best friend or teacher will most likely find its way into our shopping basket to be given as a token of appreciation and love.
This season embrace the joy of creating your own Christmas wonder. Make time to enjoy the local shops you have always loved. In doing so we are often reminded that it is often the simple pleasures in life that yield the greatest return. And when we can share these moments of magic, we forge memories that have the power to delight and sustain us.
--Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com
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Mason Jar Snow Globe
Materials
Bernarding 500 ml jar
Glue gun and hot glue stick
Small ornament with flat base
Clear glue
Warm water
White and/or silver glitter
Spoon
Optional: ribbon to wrap around the lid
Directions
Gather all your supplies and heat up the glue gun.
With the hot glue gun, glue your ornament to the mason jar lid. I used a miniature tree.
Mix 2 oz clear glue and 2 cups of warm water inside the mason jar.
Stir in 2 teaspoons of silver and/or white glitter. I used 1 teaspoon of each.
Place the lid on the mason jar with the ornament face down and seal tightly.
Optionally, you can add a ribbon bow around the lid.
Shake twice to see the shimmering snow swirl around!
Our Mothers' Sewing Machines
By Kerri Habben Bosman
In 1960, my mom purchased a Singer Slant-o-Matic sewing machine. She was 22 years old, and she had learned to sew from our Aunt Wilma. My mom used that machine for the rest of her life, and it served her well. Until recently, that Singer was the only machine I had sewn on, except for when I took sewing in school.
Whenever I use it, I see so much more than metal and dials. My mom is sitting at the dining room table sewing Santa hats for my entire first grade class because we were singing Christmas carols at McDonalds. There was the lined red cape when I was Little Red Riding Hood for Halloween, and the cat costume with the tail that took forever to stuff. There were sundresses with fabric I got to choose myself, ruffled pillows made for my bed, and pleated skirt for dress wear as young teenager.
Watching my mother sew inspired me to do the same thing. Teaching me, she was patient and supportive enough to make me love to sew. She was always honest, telling me what I had done correctly and what needed fixing. She’d guide me through a repair, but I had to do it myself. This didn’t always make sense to me when I was young. Sometimes I grumbled, “It would be so much easier if you did this.” And she would answer, “But if I did, you’d never learn.” Thus, I learned.
During our summer visit with my mother-in-law in Wisconsin, we talked about sewing. Her original sewing machine, a motorized treadle, is still up in her attic. Mom’s 103 year old eyes lit up as she remembered how her mother had patterns and fabric spread out across the table. And my husband, Wayne, recalled how Mom used to do the exact same thing. It has been some time now since Mom has sewn. She quite happily gave us her 1972 Kenmore sewing machine because she knew that it would hum and create once again. We call that machine Mom’s and now the Singer is mine.
Over the years, I have made dresses, aprons, pillowcases, and tablecloths. Since Wayne’s family became my family, every Christmas they all receive a handmade gift. That means about 18 presents, and I start them in mid-August. Usually I hand-sew simply because I like putting the extra love into them. But with Mom’s machine newly ours, I was inspired. I wanted to get to know her sewing machine.
It now lives at one end of our kitchen table. I also pulled out the Singer, which we set up in the living room. Between the two of them, all of my sewn holiday gifts were completed by the end of September. It helped that a local fabric store was having a major clearance sale with a wonderful selection. I took it as a sign that it was time to sew a lot. I figured out which machine I preferred for specific parts of a project.
The best part was telling Mom that presents for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were all made on her sewing machine.
Our mothers made themselves lined suits and dresses, decorated their homes, and sewed special things for their children. Where my mom made me a Little Red Riding Hood cape, Mom made Wayne and his brothers cowboy shirts. There were doll clothes for my sister-inlaw that Mom sewed at night so Linda would be surprised.
Our mothers may have sewn partially because it was relaxing and resourceful. It was a skill most women learned in their generations. But it was also far more than that. They sewed for the same reason I do. Because it says “I love you,” without ever saying a word.
Kerri Habben Bosman is a writer in Cape Carteret, NC. She can be reached at 913jeeves@ gmail.com
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Holiday Traditions
By Sarah Grassel, Wondering Wild Media, Contributing Writer
Rocking Around the Christmas Tree
Did you know that Christmas trees and vegetation all have symbolic and traditional meanings? Brightening up our homes and hearts, mistletoe, poinsettias, and holly or ivy aren’t just to help bring a touch of vibrancy and color to the home. Let’s dive in to explore a brief history and symbolism behind these beloved plants.
The Christmas Tree
Live trees are easier to catch fire and harder to maintain, but they sure do smell lovely. And the experience of selecting the perfect fit for your home or office space brings enough holiday cheer to make anyone smile. The tradition of the tree dates back centuries before the celebrations of Christmas as we know them today.
Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, revered evergreens for their ability to stay green throughout winter, seeing them as symbols of life, rebirth, and perseverance.
It wasn’t until around the 16th century in Europe that Christmas trees were being adorned and decorated to celebrate as part of the Christian holiday. The first decorations were candles, apples, nuts, and other home-made or found items.
Today, Christmas trees are adorned with everything from lights and tinsel to personalized ornaments and family heirlooms. The star or angel on top often represents the Star of Bethlehem or the angels that announced Jesus’ birth.
Poinsettias
Not even local to the states, poinsettias are known as La Flor de Nochebuena (The Flower of Christmas Eve) in Mexico.
According to a popular Mexican legend, a young girl named Pepita, who couldn’t afford a traditional gift for baby Jesus, picked a handful of weeds and placed them at the church altar. Miraculously, the weeds bloomed into beautiful poinsettias, symbolizing that the most humble gift, given with love, is valuable.
Holly + Ivy
While less prominent than Christmas trees or poinsettias, holly and ivy are also key plants in Christmas traditions. Holly, with its spiny leaves and bright red berries, has long been associated with protection.
Early pagans believed holly could ward off evil spirits, and Christians later adopted the plant to symbolize Jesus’ crown of thorns, with the red berries representing his blood.
Ivy, which clings to trees and buildings, has come to symbolize eternal life, given its ability to stay green even during winter. Together, holly and ivy have inspired carols and songs, contributing to the rich tapestry of Christmas folklore.
Mistletoe
This parasitic plant, which grows on trees, was considered sacred by the druids, who believed it had healing properties. They also believed mistletoe possessed power to ward off evil spirits. Mistletoe also played a significant role in Norse mythology, where it was used in the tale of the god Balder’s death and resurrection, representing love and peace.
The modern tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is believed to have begun some time in the 18th century. uring the holiday celebrations, young couples would exchange kisses beneath a sprig of mistletoe.
Popular belief was that the shared kiss under the plant would bring good luck and strengthen relationships. Today, hanging mistletoe over doorways or in rooms is a fun continuation of the kissing tradition, symbolizing love, goodwill, and festive cheer.
Holiday Bucket List
Have a Christmas cookie party
Drink a peppermint mocha
Drink hot apple cider
Go ice skating
Send Christmas cards
Make DIY holiday Decor
Holiday movie marathon
Holiday Traditions Around the World
Decorate your home for Christmas
Make a Christmas song playlist
Visit a Christmas tree farm
Gingerbread house competition
Do a Random Act of Kindness
Make a Christmas Ornament
Help at a toy drive donation
Make a hot chocolate bar
Visit a live nativity
Roast chestnuts
Eat Candy Canes
Do a Holiday Puzzle
Build a snowman
Wear Christmas pajamas
Make a Homemade Soup
Wrap Christmas presents
Go to a Christmas parade
Read a Christmas Book
To mark the start of winter South Korea has a festival called Kimjang. During this festival everyone comes together to make kimchi.
On December 28 Costa Rica has a holiday called Dia de los Inocentes or the Day of the Holy Innocents. During this holiday people will walk around from door to door collecting candy or cookies.
In Italy they will burn a special kind of Christmas wood called a yule log. The yule log must stay alight through the twelve days of Christmas, and ends on new years day.
In Thailand they have the festival of lights called Loi Krathong. During the festival of lights people place various items in small baskets decorated with candles and float them down the river.
In Oaxaca, Mexico they have La Noche de Rabanos (The Night of the Radishes) which takes place on December 23. It is a festival where merchants sell different radishes cut in the shape of different nativity scenes, and they are sold to buyers as their Christmas centerpieces.
On Christmas day in Caracas, Venezuela they have a tradition to roller skate to early morning mass. In some parts of the city some streets are closed until 8 am so the skaters can make it safely to mass.
In Australia on Christmas people will have all day beach parties. It is not too uncommon to see surfing Santas on Christmas.
In Japan it is very popular for people to eat KFC chicken for christmas dinner. Although many people are not christian and do not recognize Christmas as a holiday, many people will still enjoy KFC chicken.
In Iceland children will leave their shoes outside every night during the 13 nights leading up to Christmas. There are 13 trolls that will come and leave gifts if they have been good, or coal if they have been bad.
The Sweden tradition has a goat called the Gavle Goat (Yule Goat). The legend says that Christmas elves would ride the goats delivering presents. To this day people will put up a Yule Goat on the first Sunday in Advent.
30 Ideas for Homemade Christmas Gifts
Decorated Candles
Christmas Quilt
Sugar Scrub
Gingerbread Syrup (pg. 13)
Lip balm
Hot Chocolate Kit
Beeswax Candles
Shrinky Dinky Keychains
Mason Jar Snow Globe (pg. 7)
Homemade Soap
Painted Dishes
DIY Ornaments
Knitted Sweater
Homemade Dog treats
Tea Cup Candle (pg. 16)
Lip Gloss
Simmer Pot Kit
Salted Caramels
Holiday Cookie Mix in a Jar
Decorated Christmas Stockings
Coasters
Knitted Hat
Air Fresheners
Cookie Cutter Wreath
Embroidered Pillow
Photo Collage
Crocheted Tote bags
Recipe Box
Homemade Jams
Bath Bombs
Annual Christmas Market on Dec. 6 & 7, Vine Congregational UCC, Lincoln
Have you ever seen a program about the Christmas Markets in Germany, Austria or Switzerland in a travel show? Did you want to surround yourself with the sights and sounds of the foreign Markets? You can have the experience close to home. The Vine Congregational United Church of Christ in Lincoln will host the traditional Christmas Market on December 6th and 7th inside the Church Social Hall and premises. This event is more than a craft fair—it is two days of fun, festivities and fellowship celebrating the spirit of Christmas!
Vendors will offer unique handcrafted wares and gifts in a charming Old World Christmas Market atmosphere. A vast array of inviting items will be displayed in inviting colorful booths with their twinkling light décor.
Shoppers will find wooden toys, home décor, ornaments, local honey, fiber arts, holiday greens and arrangements —and more!
A visitor’s favorite is the sweet shoppe and bakery where the church offers a variety of homemade candy and baked goods including German Christmas Stollen. Delicious food items are available for purchase in the Café area which include seasonal soups and freshly baked apple dumplings that you can enjoy right there. The Marketplace will be filled with all the wonderful aroma of the baked goods and ready to be purchased items.
Musical performances will entertain visitors throughout both days plus there will be a special children's area to keep the little guests entertained.
Christmas Market hours on Friday are 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Vine Congregational UCC is located at 1800 Twin Ridge Road in Lincoln. Parking is also free.
Learn more about Vine Congregational United Church of Christ at www.vineucc.org, on Facebook or email vinechurch.ucc@gmail.com or call 402-483-4781.
Liberty House Bed & Breakfast and Antiques & Gifts
Owner Pat Coldiron bought Liberty House Bed & Breakfast and Antiques & Gifts, a historic 1899 house, twenty-two years ago and has filled it with the antiques, collectibles and gifts that she sells from the first floor Antiques & Gifts shop—in addition to making guests from all over the world feel welcome in the Bed & Breakfast.
The B& B offers overnight accommodations for up to 8 guests and each day serves an incredible breakfast featuring everything from pancakes to scrambled eggs every morning.
In the cozy gift shop, you will find a multitude of unique gifts for someone special or for yourself! From candles to calendars, jewelry to jam – we have a unique assortment of gifts. Many of the vendors are also local!
Each year in November, the Liberty House kicks off the holiday season with three special and fun open houses. Pat invites you to come join the Merry Christmas fun. It’s a magical time that’s sure to put you and your family in the holiday spirit. Mark your calendar now (see dates in her ad on page 12) and plan to attend.
The house was originally built by the Goehner family who immigrated from Germany to Nebraska. The family played a role in building a number of downtown Seward buildings, and the town of Goehner is named after them.
Pat also offers the New Little Brown Box Tour! It’s the Self-Guided Tour of Downtown Seward! You can sit on a bench on the courthouse lawn or at one of our great coffee shops and open the box and start the story! This little box is just full of good stuff! We created it to be within the new Seward Creative District! Get your Little Brown Box at Liberty House.
Liberty House is located at 441 N. 5th Street, just four blocks from downtown Seward. For more information, go to www.libertyhouse.biz, follow Liberty House Bed & Breakfast, Antiques & Gifts on Facebook, email patcoldiron@hotmail.com or call 402-643-2555.
Gingerbread Syrup
Ingredients
1 (2-in.) piece of fresh ginger
1/4 c. molasses
3/4 c. light brown sugar
3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp. whole cloves
Directions
1 tsp. whole allspice
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1. Peel the ginger and slice it into 1/8-inch thick coins.
2. To a small saucepan, add the molasses, brown sugar, 1 cup of water, ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer. Transfer to a jar and let cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Christmas Stockings
By Tammy Page
I remember as a child digging through my sock drawer on Christmas Eve to find the biggest sock I could find. I searched for the largest one that would be filled with a banana, oranges, nuts and candy. No other goodies, like what children receive now days. This is what my parents had found in their stockings and the tradition was passed down through them.
Christmas was not as "showy" back then. We marked the JCPenney Christmas Wish Book with our wants and wishes in hopes of Santa bringing at least one of the items and possibly our parents would chip in for another. My parents were not rich and with three girls in the family it was often just a couple gifts each that were under the tree come Christmas morning. Most years we got a new baby doll with an extra outfit for her and always one of the those disappearing milk bottles. As we got older, our dolls were ones that accomplished something such a talking or wetting their diaper. We always received a new board game or two. Our family was big on playing games. Such games were, Feely Meely, Hi Ho Cherry Oh, Twister and Sorry. We also played a lot of card games and often got a new deck of playing cards or Crazy Eights. Instead of sitting in front of a television all night, we played games before going to bed. As we got older the games advanced to Monopoly and card games such as Uno and Skip Bo. My mom was a pro at Skip Bo and we rarely beat her. But, when we did, we bragged on it for days. I'm not sure if Santa wrapped your gifts but, in our house, he did not.
Our gifts were sitting under or around the tree with our stocking nearby. We had one or two gifts from mom and dad that were wrapped and they consisted of clothing and other needed items. Not too exciting for a child but nonetheless, needed. And, of course we were not allowed to sneak into the living room and see what Santa had left but had to wait for mom and dad to get up out of bed. Most of the time we headed into their bedroom and pleaded with them to "get up". After some minutes of leading they finally drug out of bed.
After growing up and getting married and having children of my own, Christmas morning had changed a little bit. Yes, we still heard pleas of "get up, get up, Santa has been here" but the biggest change has been that the stockings are no longer socks from our drawers but homemade for each child. They are not filled with fruit and nuts but with their favorite candy, trinkets, sports cards and jewelry. I've carried this tradition on with my grandchildren and now fill 14 stockings. They say this is their very favorite part of the morning and look forward to seeing all the goodies in their stockings. I shop all year looking for just the right prize for each child and grandchild. I can usually find some bargains if I shop after holiday sales and put them back for Christmas. I've already got a nice stash of gifts stored away for this coming Christmas and am looking forward to seeing their faces on Christmas morning. It's so much fun to look for things that matches each child's and grandchild's personality. Although it is also one of my favorite parts of the holiday, my greatest pleasure is that we are celebrating the birth of Jesus together. Isn't that what it's really all about?
-© Tammy Page writes from her family farm in Indiana.
Countryberries Designs
Cowgirl Poet, Quilter, Entertainer
Christmas Angel
Make a wool or cotton appliqued wall hanging. Create a punchneedle or hooked rug piece. Paint the angel on paper, wood or canvas. Enlarge this pattern to your desired size. Whatever craft you choose, have fun! Not for commercial use. Please give the artist credit.
Designed By Kathy Graham
Yvonne Hollenbeck
Writing From Life
by Jeanette Lukowski
Quilting Lessons
Her Feet Would Rock a Cradle
Her days were long and lonely when they settled on the range on a new and virgin homestead out where everything was strange.
She’d left her home in Iowa to come with him out West and she had to do without so much, but did her level best.
the only view she had was of the rolling prairie ground. But while her man would toil as the barns and sheds were built, her feet would rock a cradle while her hands would piece a quilt.
She claimed it was her sanity and pleasing to create the pretty blocks of patchwork during hours she would wait for him to ride the ranges, and would watch ‘till he’d come home from a window of their cabin that was built from blocks of loam.
Then in evening after supper, by a lantern burning low, he would read her favorite stories from the Bible she loved so.
She would piece a “Jacobs Ladder” or a “Star” by oil lights and would sew them into blankets for the cold Dakota nights.
Now the quilts are worn and faded and are packed in her old chest, along with other trinkets . . . she has put them all to rest.
There’s photographs of loved ones and of friends she used to know, the little shoes her babies wore, and the Bible she loved so.
Countryberries LLC
Once more her days are lonely with the children grown and gone and it’s been so many years now since her husband has passed on.
Her mind goes back to days gone by; she wanders without guilt, when her feet would rock a cradle while her hands would piece a quilt.
Whimsies and necessaries for your country home and garden 330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037 603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com Like us on Facebook
Order Yvonne’s new book, “A Stitch in Rhyme” at www.yvonnehollenbeck.com just $15 + $3.50 postage.
Please check our website or Facebook page for current hours and more information
© Yvonne Hollenbeck; 2023 Yvonne Hollenbeck, from Clearfield, SD, performs her original poetry throughout the United States, captivating audiences in her wake. She is one of the most published cowgirl poets in the West and is not only a popular banquet and civic entertainer, but also co-writes songs with many western entertainers. Yvonne also pens a weekly column in the “Farmer-Rancher Exchange” and writes articles about life in rural America in various publications throughout the West. For more information, visit https://www.yvonnehollenbeck.com
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I have been doing a lot of mental comparisons lately: Quilting Lessons vs. Life Lessons, for lack of a better way of phrasing it. If you don’t mind, I would like to share these musings with you.
1) No two are ever alike. I remember seeing a twin to one of my quilted wall hangings in someone else’s house. Turns out we had both purchased a kit in the 1990s but not from the same supplier—so our background fabrics were different.
This past spring, I went to a quilt show where several members of the guild used the same pattern with different fabrics. The dramatic difference created by simply selecting their personal favorites left me in awe.
2) Things take time. Have you ever watched programs where someone talks about making an entire quilt in a day? Good for them! I can’t do it. I can’t even make a table runner in a day.
Then again, quilting is my hobby, working around many other activities which fill my days (and nights).
The one quilter whose videos I enjoy watching wears several outfits during the fifteen-minute video. It took me a while, but I finally realized the video is recorded over the course of several days, then edited down for content.
3) Not everyone does it the same way. Historically a “rule follower,” I was surprised to discover there are nearly as many ways of creating a quilt as there are quilters who make them! For instance, which method do you follow when you create a flying geese unit? Or, half square triangles? Depending on who taught you, and the decade within which you learned, I can bet there are a variety of answers to these questions among the readership. Now there are even trim-tools to help quilters achieve that perfect, uniform size, if that is of great personal concern.
4) Doing what brings me joy can be so mentally healthy! I don’t aim for perfection in my quilting. Perhaps that’s why I never sell my work? What began as a way to bring art into my family’s bedrooms has evolved over the years. These days, I make quilted items for gifts, to brighten a plain wall, keep someone cozy, or donate to a variety of organizations.
I’m excited when corners match up perfectly, or my points remain intact—but I don’t fret when they don’t. I quilt to relieve stress, not create more.
5) There’s always another new pattern, idea, tool—or job—coming. For those readers who might be wondering about how I ended my previous article, no, I didn’t get / take that job. Ironically, though, the space got filled by two other part-time job! Jobs I hadn’t known about, but appeared in my email box as queries from employers wondering if I were available—and interested.
Reminds me of emails I get from quilt shops, sharing their new arrivals. Happy inspiration for tomorrow’s sewing time break! The ideas are flowing; the excitement to sew builds.
© Jeanette Lukowski 2024. Jeanette is a mother, grandmother, teacher, and author who lives in Mankato, MN. She is inspired by the lives of strong women. Her email address is: writingfromlife@yahoo.com
20 Holiday Songs to Love
Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas I'll have Blue Christmas
Oh Christmas Tree
Last Christmas
All I want for Christmas is you
Silver and Gold
Joy to World
Silent Night
Jingle Bell Rock
White Christmas
The First Noel
Twelve Days of Christmas
The Christmas Song
Rockin Around the Christmas Tree
Deck the Halls
Let it Snow
Don’t Save it All for Christmas Day
Feliz Navidad
* Over 5,000 bolts of fabric
* Longarm quilting services
* Stitching supplies
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Mon to Sat: 9:30 to 4:30 Sun: Noon-4
* Quilt kits & more Cross stitch supplies 14513 W Center, Omaha countrysampleronline.com
Baby it’s Cold Outside
Santa Clause is Coming to Town
Tea Cup Candles
Materials
Tea Cups (I see cute ones at thrift stores all the time)
Candle Wax
Candle Wicks
Scent (optional)
Old Crayola Crayons (if you want to color the wax) or Candle Dye
Instructions
Use a bit of hot glue to secure the metal circle on the wick to the bottom center of the tea cup. Wrap the top of the wick around a pencil to keep it centered. Melt wax in a cooking pan over medium heat, until the wax is no longer opaque. The bag of wax will have specific instructions depending on the type of wax.
An easy and inexpensive way to color wax is to add an old chunk of colored crayon when melting. If you have kids at home, chances are you probably have some stubby old crayons around somewhere. You can also buy wax dyes, but why not use whatcha got?!
Remove wax from heat, then add scent, if desired. This is also available in the candle-making section at the craft store.
Let the wax cool just a bit, then carefully pour it into each tea cup. You want to let the wax cool a little so that it doesn’t “undo” the hot glue that’s holding your wick in place. I used a funnel to pour the wax in so that I didn’t splash it all over and make a mess.
Let the wax harden completely, then trim the wick.
Christmas Memories
By Nancy Nash
“Daddy, is Santa Claus real?” I was a small child when I asked my father that allimportant question. I believe his reply included something about using our imaginations to make a story for children and their parents to enjoy together. The news was somewhat disappointing, but I rallied and asked, “Will I still get my presents?” Dad assured me that he and Mom would continue that part of the tradition. I was satisfied.
Over the years, I could count on at least three gifts: a needed piece of clothing, a book (I was a bookworm), and a doll. I outgrew the clothing long ago, but even now I take pleasure from my childhood books and in displaying my doll collection. I soon learned the joy of giving to others. I was still quite small when my older brother and I decided to buy presents for my parents. With a few dollars donated by our grandparents, we walked to the corner store. It wasn’t like a corner store on a city block, with everything from watches to embroidered handkerchiefs to imported chocolates. It was in the country, and the corner was simply a place where a side street joined a bend in the main road. This establishment sold bread, milk, and popsicles, the latter being of great interest in the summertime.
We scurried down the aisles searching for holiday gifts. There was nothing seasonal on display. The proprietor, taking note of our disappointment, asked about our mission and informed us that the store sold razor blades. We decided they would be perfect for Dad, who shaved away his face whiskers each morning, lest he come to resemble Santa Claus! And lo and behold - a travel kit for Mom, complete with a nail file? What exciting discoveries these were!
We purchased the articles, wrapped them loosely and placed them at the bottom of a cardboard box big enough to have held much more. In a sense, it did hold much more –our love for Mom and Dad and our joy in having a surprise to give to them. Christmas evolved over the years. As my mother grew older and found shopping and wrapping more laborious, my brother and I enjoyed finding presents for Dad and Mom to exchange with each other. Such memories of our rituals of gift-giving open window after window into the past.
Material goods are not an end in themselves. At best, they simply reflect a glint of light from afar - from that night when the stars spread their glow over a town called Bethlehem and over the birth of a very special Child. May your holidays be filled with gifts of many kinds, especially those of the spirit that still spring forth from that perfect Love.
2024 Nancy J. Nash - Nancy J. Nash is the author of Mama’s Books: An Oregon Trail Story. and Little Rooster’s Christmas Eve, each available on amazon.com. She has a B.A. in English composition from Mount Holyoke College and an M.F.A. in Writing for Children from Simmons College. She can be reached at nancynash341@gmail.com
Advertiser Directory by Name
Journey into Christmas .
Bess Streeter Aldrich House 8
204 East F Street 8 Elmwood, Nebraska 8
Christmas Inspired by Mother, Honoring Bess Streeter Aldrich’s Book
Mother Mason with 12 Beautifully Decorated Rooms
Admission $5.00; Available for Group Tours and Christmas Parties 8
Save the Dates: Nov. 30 (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Dec. 1; Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, and 28-29 (1-4 p.m.)
Funded in Part by Cass County Tourism, visitcasscounty.com
