®
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
Editors’ Corner
No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn. –Hal Borland
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o f NJ an d D E and DE Gail & Merle Taylor, Editors & Publishers P. O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 Phone: 888-616-8319 • Fax: 800-609-0278 email@CountryRegisterOnline.com • www.countryregisteronline.com
The Country Register of NJ & DE • March & April 2018 • Vol. 18 No. 6
The Country Register is published every other month. Copyright © 1998. The Country Register of New Jersey, Inc. is one of a national network of independently owned and published specialty newspapers licensed by The Country Register with exclusive rights to publish in the states of New Jersey & Delaware using logos and graphics owned by The Country Register. Page header, footer, and icons accompanying regular features in this edition are copyright © 2006 by Tracey Miller and this publication and may not be reprinted. Reproduction or use, without obtaining permission, of editorial or graphic content by anyone in any manner is strictly prohibited. Articles published in this newspaper, which are contributed by outside sources, express the opinions of their authors only, and may not express the viewpoint(s) of the management or staff of The Country Register. Such articles that are accepted for publication herein may be edited at the sole discretion of the publisher. Responsibility for products advertised in this newspaper lies with the advertisers themselves. Though The Country Register will not knowingly publish fraudulent materials or fraudulently obtained materials, we are not liable for any damages arising from purchase or use of products advertised herein. Notification regarding any consumer complaints related to merchandise purchased from our advertisers would be appreciated and would assist in our publishing efforts.
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The Country Register Publisher Contact List
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 flourished and spread. Look for the paper in your travels. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.COUNTRYREGISTER.COM
The Country Register Founder: Barbara Floyd 602-237-6008, Phoenix, AZ
Publications All Across The United States & Canada USA Alabama: Beverly Bainbridge, 304-723-8934 Arizona: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Arkansas: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597 California & N. Nevada: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 719-749-9797 Connecticut: Amy Carter, 866-825-9217 Delaware: Merle & Gail Taylor, 888-616-8319 Florida: Amy & David Carter, 866-825-9217 Georgia: Linda Parish, 706-340-1049 Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 Idaho (S): Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Illinois: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597 Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, 888-616-8319 Iowa : Linda Glendy, 641-751-2619 Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 866-966-9815 Maine: Deborah Daney, 207-608-9102 Maryland: Amy & David Carter, 866-825-9217 Mass. & RI: Amy Carter, 866-825-9217 Michigan: Bill & Marlene Howell, 989-793-4211 Minnesota: Kim & Mick Keller, 763-754-1661 Missouri: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597 Montana: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 Nebraska: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Nevada (N): Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 702-523-1803
New Hampshire: Michelle Hatch, 603-571-1822 New Jersey: Merle & Gail Taylor, 888-616-8319 New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 719-749-9797 New York: Dave Carter, 866-825-9217, North Carolina: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 Ohio: Barb Moore, 937-652-1157 Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597 Oregon: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 Pennsylvania: Amy Carter, 866-825-9217 Rhode Island: Dave Carter, 866-825-9217, South Carolina: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 Texas: Lenda Williams, 405-470-2597 Utah: Glena Dunn, 702-523-1803 Virginia: Amy Carter, 866-825-9217 Washington & E. OR: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 West Virginia: Amy Carter, 866-825-9217 Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, 715-838-9426 Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 CANADA Alberta: Ruth Burke, 780-889-3776 British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, 800-784-6711 Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott Kearns, 306-736-2441 Ontario: Harriet Ramos, 343-882-5812
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I’ll bet you thought it would never get here! But, as Mr. Borland stated: No spring ever skips its turn. With the snow melting away (mostly) and the sun warmer, we all feel a little bit of excitement about what is to come. Who doesn’t find spring one of the best seasons of the year? This is the perfect time of year to explore! Tuck your copy of The Country Register under your arm and head out for a day of local-business retail therapy. The shops and events advertising within our publication can certainly help you find that special item that will make your home scream S-P-R-I-N-G! How about a Shop Hop? Check the Events Listing and ads in this edition and call your girlfriends. We’ve included lots of shops that offer quilting, needlework, sewing, fabric, cross stitch, rug hooking,
The Memory Box When I was a little girl, my grandmother kept a big box of pictures in her sewing room. Being the curious child that I was, I loved looking through it and seeing family and friends and how they had changed over the years. However, it was the people I didn’t know and had never met who intrigued me the most. Fortunately for me, Grandma Helen never minded when I interrupted her sewing (or crocheting, knitting, baking, or cooking – yup, she could do it all) to ask her who those people were. Some of the pictures were really old, and although the details weren’t very clear, I remember loving them the most. I especially liked the ones with the fancy scalloped borders around them. Why did they ever stop doing that? Anyway, my grandmother would sit down with me and patiently explain who everyone was and where and what they were doing. I got to know relatives whom I had never met, like my great grandmother who died when my grandma was only thirteen, along with others I had only heard about. These times we spent together were not only special for me, but I believe for Grandma Helen as well. She got to relive her special memories as she was passing them on to me and my siblings. These photos were a gateway into the past, and reminded us how everyday events such as birthdays, weddings and baptisms helped form our family’s history. I also loved that these pictures were all jumbled together in a big box, rather than arranged neatly and orderly in photo albums. That’s nice too, of course, but for a kid who liked to explore, being able to dig down into the very bottom to find one that I hadn’t seen before made it much more fun. Today, due to the proliferation of online photo albums, there seem to be fewer and fewer printed pictures to keep in a box or
etc. You’ll find projects in this issue and many articles about the great time of year that is spring. Are you ready for a redecorating project this winter? Then head out to our advertising shops and events to get redecorating ideas and new home décor. Within these pages, you’ll find furniture, curtains, linens, wallpaper, collectibles, and everything else you need for any redecorating project. Plan your shopping trip and be sure to check the ads for their new spring hours or call ahead to verify. Don’t forget to visit our facebook page for updates on our advertisers too. .
Let’s Go ShoppingAND THE GRANDKIDS!
by Susan Baldani
put into an album. Sure, online digital pictures are great. The clarity cannot be beat, plus you can pick and choose which ones to keep. Still, there’s something about those old black and white pictures in your hand that make you feel as if you’re holding pieces of the past. My mother and uncle now have these pictures, and just recently my mom and I sat in her bedroom going through them. This time my mother got to relive her own special memories with me. Although, when some of them were taken, my mother was not even born yet. But I could see when she looked at her ancestors how special they were to her, even though she never got to meet them all. This, in turn, made them special to me. Why not make your kids or grandchildren a picture box so they too can hold a tangible part of your family’s history? Be sure to pass on stories about the people and places to make them come alive in their hearts and minds. You could even write a little story on the back of each one. I know I will never forget the times spent looking through that old box of memories. –Susan Baldani has an MA in Education and a BA in Psychology. She enjoys writing and in addition to writing articles about small town life, is currently working on her second book. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at www.mywritingwall.com
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March & April, 2018
Events Listing
Advertiser Index
Shops are listed alphabetically by location. Cities & Shops
P age # Page
Cape May............................. 13 Fiber Arts Yarn Shop Historic Cold Spring Village Stitch by Stitch Edison ................................. 11 Quilt & Sewing Fest of NJ Elmer ................................... 12 Peggy’s Country Gifts/Antiques Marmora .............................. 16 Dollard Baker Sew & Vac Mount Holly .......................... 7 The Village Quilter Morristown .......................... 10 Acorn Hall Mullica Hill ........................... 4 Craftsmen & Home Show Creamy Acres Farm Needles & Pins The Parsonage Antiques & More Pedricktown .......................... 6 Heart Felt Designs Pitman ................................... 5 Bella Home Interiors Olde Pear Primitives The Scarecrow Factory
Cities & Shops
See shop & show ads for complete details. P age # Page
Red Bank ............................. 10 Antique Center of Red Bank Salem ..................................... 6 Cawman’s Antique Mall Suse-E-Q’s Cottage Tuckahoe ............................. 16 Craftsmen & Home Event Vineland .............................. 12 The Pin Cushion West Creek ......................... 8, 9 KC Creations Delaware Dagsboro ............................. 15 Serendipity Bethany Beach .................... 15 Sea Needles Newark ................................ 15 The Blue Hen Bed & Breakfast The Blue Hen Quilt Shop
March
Day
Event
10 10 10, 11 17
St Patricks & Easter Open House - Heart Felt, Pedricktown ....................... 6 Opening Day - Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill ........................................... 4 Easter Open House - Olde Pear & Scarecrow, Pitman .................................. 5 24, 30, 31 Hayrides, Easter Bunny - Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill....... 4
Day
Event
14 14-22 21 21, 22 26-29
Spring Fling Open House - Olde Pear & Scarecrow, Pitman ....................... 5 NJ Shop Hop, Various Towns ............................................................................ 7 Antique Street Fair, Mullica Hill ........................................................................ 4 Craftsmen & Home Event, Tuckahoe ............................................................ 16 Quilt & Sewing Fest of NJ, Edison ................................................................ 11
Day
Event
5 5
Craftsmen & Home Show, Mullica Hill ............................................................ 4 Harrison Township Day, Mullica Hill ............................................................... 4
April
May
Page #
Page #
Page #
Out of State ......................... 14 Shop Hop .............................. 7
Are you organizing a local arts, crafts or antique show? Do you want to increase attendance? Need exhibitors/crafters?
This is Your spot!
Advertise right here with The Country Register. Reach your audience.
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
MULLICA HILL
T H E PA R S O N A G E FEATURING EVERYTHING FROM SMALL KITCHEN ITEMS TO PIECES OF LARGER FURNITURE!
533 Mullica Hill Road Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 • (856) 218-7467 NeedlesNPinsNJ@gmail.com
Antiq ue ique uess & M Moore
The Parsonage is the NEW Antique Shop located in the original Parsonage of the Trinity United Church with 8 rooms in a 2 story building The Parsonage has something for all antique enthusiasts! Upcoming Events: • April 21 – Antique Street Fair (rain or shine) • May 5 – Harrison Township Day
NOW Offering 2 Night Retreats
• Large selection of all Quilting Fabrics • Variety of Classes Offered Daily • QOV Shop • Books and Supplies Hour s:
www.needles-pins-nj.com
Hours: Hour s: Mon - Fri 10-5; Sat & Sun 10-4
20% OFF One Day’s Full Purchase
Machines, Classes & BOM’s Excluded • MUST Present Coupon In Store
@ParsonageAntiques
31 S. Main Street, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
856-534-1963 O pe n 11-5pm W nd pen Weednesd sdaay – Su Sund ndaay
Visit www.harrisonhistorical.com
Cr cr es FFaarm is one Creeamy A Acr cres of the ffew ew w orking D air working Dair airyy farms sstititilll in the aarrea…. Open: March 10th Mon - Fri 10-6, Sat 9 - 5 (Closed Sundays)
March 10th is Opening Day!
Visit our Greenhouse featuring…. Hyacinths, Tulips, Daffodils, Grape hyacinths, Hydrangeas. Come see our beautiful spring baskets too! We also have spring perennials, herbs and annuals along with original designed flower combo pots, urban container vegetable and herb pots and patio tomatoes. Buy local. Eat Fresh. Birthday parties now available for Spring & Summer. Please call for details of “A Fun on the Farm” Birthday Party Educational tours for the greenhouse, pre-k and up. Dairy tours available for all ages.
Lil’ Peeps Hayride & Easter Egg Hunt Hop on over to Creamy Acres for a fun filled day and see what spring has to offer! Kids can take a hayride down the bunny trail to the Egg Hunt, hop back onto the wagon and go to bunny land. In bunny land, your Lil’ Peeps will meet the Easter Bunny and exchange the eggs (empty eggs) for a special prize! Take pictures, play a game, visit the barnyard petting area or browse around our Garden Center! Be sure to bring your Easter Basket for Gathering of Eggs!
Cost $7.00– per egg hunter (10 and under – Non egg hunter $2.00 includes hayride.) Hayrides and Easter Bunny will be available from 10am to 4pm on Sat., March 17 & 24 and Good Friday March 30 & Sat. 31 CLOSED SUNDAYS Shop our Country Store filled with… country – vintage and urban home and garden décor – beautiful irons and slate inserts, jams, dressing, grillin sauces, mustards, candies, nuts, and other goodies, along with local honey, fresh eggs and our own “local” raised beef sold packaged in our store. Present Coupon or For Upcoming Events in April, May & June, Mention this ad please visit our website.
www .Cr e amyA c rres.com es.com w.Cr .Cre amyAc
for 25% OFF TCR-M/A ‘18
From Lydia’s Recipe File Spring Chicks
A cute version of deviled eggs.
Ingredients: 6 hard-boiled eggs, shells removed 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoons prepared mustard 1/2 teaspoon sweet pickle relish salt and pepper to taste 2 black olives, cut into small bits for eyes 1 carrot, cut into small triangles for beaks
Directions: Cut off the top one-fourth of each egg and save to replace later. Cut a thin slice from the bottom of each egg so it sits flat. Carefully remove yolk from eggs with a small spoon; place yolks in a small bowl, and mash with fork. Add mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and seasonings to egg mixture. Spoon yolk mixture into the hollowed eggs, heaping mixture on top for chick’s head. Place reserved egg piece at an angle on top of the filled egg, leaving yolk mixture showing. On the yolk mixture, add bits of olives for eyes. Cut a thin carrot circle and cut out small, pointed triangles from the carrot for beaks. Refrigerate in a covered container until ready to serve.
TCR-M/A
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March & April, 2018
PITMAN Where can you shop for Quality One-of-a-Kind Handmades?
Olde Pear Primitives and The Scarecrow Factory of course! EASTER OPEN HOUSE
Sat, March 10 (10-6) & Sun, March 11 (11-5) Pick an Egg for a discount!
We Ship!
Spring Fling Open House Sat, April 14th (10-6)
Check us out on FACEBOOK for updates
Hrs: Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10-5; Thur 10-7; Call for Sunday Hours
11 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071 • (856) 269-4730
8th annual Gloucester County Craftsmen & Home Show by Kathy Wright The Gloucester County Craftsmen & Home Show is coming to the Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds 275 Bridgeton Pike (Rte. 77) NOW on May 5th, from 10am to Offering 2 Night 4pm. Retreats This 8th annual booking event now is designedfor fall for everything inside and outside the home. As a visitor, you and your family will be able to stroll leisurely through aisles and aisle of handmade crafts from over 100 craftsmen, enjoy home style cooking, live music, kids’ free craft making, pony rides, spring flower sale and picnic style dining. Craftsmen have been working all winter to create amazing art just in time for spring. Home Show companies representing hundreds of products and services will be on hand to help you with all your spring home improvements projects. Remodeling, floors, windows, doors, sunrooms, decking, guttering, landscaping, gardening, solar energy and more. You will be able to shop, talk to experts and compare prices- all in one easy location at this one-of- a- kind marketplace. Visitors to the event can
enter to win a $500 Home Depot Gift Card and other home remodeling products. Drawing on the main stage at 3:00pm. The Little Miss & Mister Springtime Pageant for girls/ boys 4-8 years old will be held at 2pm on the main stage. One queen & king and Queen’s court will be chosen from the top ten contestants. This is a pet friendly event and families can enter the All Breed Dog Parade & Show at 12:00pm. Entry fee is a can of donated pet food for animal shelters. All dogs get a goody bag and ribbon for participating. Top twelve dogs will be chosen from the smallest to the tallest. This event offer free parking and admission free. Artists, Craftsmen, Food, Home Show vendors are being sought and can contact Kathy Wright for show details at (856) 765-0118. Visit the event website at www.gloucestercraftfair.com for vendor contracts, driving directions, pageant entry form and general show information. Rain date is Sunday, May 6th, 10-4pm.
Send your recipes, comments and suggested shops who should be in our paper to us at the address on top of page 2 or info@countryregisteronline.com We love hearing from you!
Spruce Up for Spring
by Susan Baldani
Quick and Easy Ideas to Update Your Décor Most people wait for spring to do their major cleaning. However, instead of just throwing things out and giving your home a thorough scrubbing, why not also do some simple redecorating? I’m not talking about taking down walls or buying all new furniture, which may not be in your budget right now, but doing some small things that can make a big difference. Let’s say your couch and love seat have seen better days and look a little drab. A quick and easy solution to update these pieces would be upholstery covers. Many of these are machine washable, so they can be laundered and kept looking new and clean for many years. Toss on some new throw pillows and it will almost be like having an entirely new living room set. In the bedroom, find a pretty floral duvet cover or bedspread to celebrate the new season, and again, add some new pillows to create a cheerful, homey look. If you do enjoy “the hunt” shop the Antique malls and multi-dealer shops you will find here in The County Register for that unusal sleigh bed you have been dreaming about. Lie down on the bed with a good book and relax in your “new” space. New towels and shower curtains are inexpensive ways to change the feel of any bathroom. Add some floral soaps or a pretty soap dispenser and you’re all set. Light a candle, pour a glass of wine, and soak in the tub while admiring your surroundings. Once the weather is warm enough, open those windows and let all that stale winter air out. Placing fresh flowers, potted tulips and other blooming plants
around the house is another way to bring the spring indoors and have the extra bonus of making it smell great. And the fresh clean air will rejuvenate your senses and help you appreciate the milder weather. You’ll also be better able to hear the sounds of nature right outside your door. If you want to take it to another level, how about getting rid of those faded dusty drapes and curtains? Search your favorite advertiser on these pages to find that good quality you’re looking for at a reasonable cost. Or visit one of the quilt and fabic shops in this paper, buy some fabric and make them yourself. Of course, a fresh coat of paint never hurts and can introduce an updated color scheme. And if you need help, you can always hire an interior decorator to assist you with your new look. You can easily find these items and more in many of the businesses advertised in this issue of The Country Register. The owners would be happy to assist you and the friendly service of local shops cannot be beat. Replacing just a few items in each room can make your house look fresh and feel inviting. Plus, all of these changes can be done in a short amount of time without breaking the bank. –Susan Baldani has an MA in Education and a BA in Psychology. She enjoys writing and in addition to writing articles about small town life, is currently working on her second book. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at www.mywritingwall.com
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
PEDRICKTOWN - SALEM
Cawman’s Antique Mall Antiques & Things on Consignment
Ov er 40 Vendors in 12,000 sq ft Over
Spring is around the corner... Come take a peek! www.CawmansMall.com
529 SSalem alem Q uinton R oad Quinton Road Salem, NJ 08079 856-935-0423 Hrs: Wed-S un 10am-5pm ed-Sun
Suse-E-Q ’s Cottage 107 A West Broadway, (Rt 49) (across from Historic Salem Oak)
856-935-0669 Primitiv Primitivee • Country • Cottag Cottagee Furnishing Furnishingss and Decor
S ee us on Facebook
Major Credit Cards Welcome
Old dresser drawers painted a color you like make great storage containers.
Wed to Sat 10 - 5; Sun Noon - 4 Closed Mon & Tues
Life In Skunk Hollow
by Julie A. Druck
Capturing Beauty
St. Patrick’s Day and Easter Open House Sat., Mar. 10th: 10 AM – 5 PM “Pick a Shamrock or Egg – Get a Discount” Door Prizes & Refreshments • Come See What’s New! Photos & More – Check Us Out on Facebook Minutes from Commodore Barry & Delaware Memorial Bridges Hrs: Mon.-Sat.: 10-5, Sun.: Call First 24 S. Railroad Ave., Pedricktown, NJ PHONE: (856) 299-2133 • www.heartfeltdesigns.com
March is still very much a part of winter here in Pennsylvania. Some of our biggest blizzards have roared in at the beginning of this month. At this time of year, it’s hard to be patient for the coming of springtime, but I remind myself that every part of the year holds its particular beauties and not to rush through them to get to the next. I was recently reading through some old journal entries. I wrote the following excerpt the day after a blizzard blew across the farm: From the window, I see Eli (our then 18year-old son) wading through thigh-deep snow with his camera, not long after the sun is up. I know what he’s off to do: capture beauty. Sure enough, I see him stop and bend, pressing the trigger to secure his prize. Move, stop, press. Move, stop, press. A dozen times – trying to catch sunlight on snow, sparkling like diamonds. A wintry desert with lines like sand. He comes in exasperated. “Having the eye of a photographer can be a curse,” he says. “You want to capture it all, and you can’t just stop and take it all in and enjoy it.” I understand my son’s desire to capture beauty. It stems from a recognition of the purpose that beauty holds in our lives. Beauty – particularly of that in nature – really does play a significant role. It reminds us to look beyond ourselves and remember that we are part of a much larger picture. Beauty is a tool that God uses to remind us of His presence in the
world. It’s easy to forget that in the hustle and bustle of life that we humans have designed. But taking time to notice the glories of each season is a way to capture beauty. And that capturing creates an awareness of the amazing reality of a Creator – a Creator Who delights in His handiwork of trees and brooks and you and me. I never stop being awed by the glories of each season. Each one holds its own special blend of delights. Winter with its bold silhouettes – the contrast of stark white against cold, black night. Spring holds a gentle and growing beauty – pussy willows popping, tree blossoms waking up with their petticoats of color beginning to show, the babbling brook outside our door increasing in volume. Summer is bright and intense – colorful zinnias in my daughter-in-law’s garden and shimmery rays of sunlight bouncing off the pond. And autumn? Rich hues seeping out of leaves, round pumpkin globes, and red, crisp apples hanging full on the trees. All of creation - every day of the year sings to us of a world that was designed by the hand of Love. Look for it, delight in it and give thanks for it. –Julie Druck is from York, Pennsylvania, and writes from her farm in Skunk Hollow. She’d welcome your comments at thedrucks@netzero.com.
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March & April, 2018
MOUNT HOLLY - VARIOUS SHOP HOP TOWNS
The Village Quilter Quilting Cottons Cottons,, Supplies and Classes
Please join us for the New J ersey Shop Hop Jersey April 14th through the 22nd 10 Charles Str eet Street Historic Mount Holly Holly,, NJ 08060 609-265-0011 ~ Joyce D oenges Doenges Open Ev ery D ay Every Day ues 10-4, W ed-Thu-F ri-S at 10-6, Sun 12-4 Mon-Tues Wed-Thu-F ed-Thu-Fri-S ri-Sat Mon-T
Shop Online At www .thevillagequilter .com www.thevillagequilter .thevillagequilter.com
by Kerri Habben
Remembrance and Renewal
Somehow it is again time to pick the violets. I should tell you that what we call a lawn is actually an abundance of weeds with some smatterings of blades of grass. Over two decades ago, we used to have the yard sprayed until we realized that we no longer had birds visit, no rabbits munching on greens. The clover, violet leaves and wild strawberries are a veritable feast. My Dad never quite reconciled with the invasive presence of the violet leaves. Back when we had mostly real grass growing, I would get off the school bus and, some days, there he would be, walking and perusing, bending and digging. It only occurred to me years later that perhaps he was also waiting for me. Being some years older than my Mom, Dad was retired during my school years. One blessing of this was traveling during summer vacations. One year we drove to my aunt and family in California via the Canadian Rockies. Dad was an accomplished woodworker and could fix anything. Anything from a broken object to a daughter’s weary heart. His pocket knife yet lives on his workbench. His tools are still his, even though he died on March 21st seventeen years ago. We humans are ironic beings sometimes. We create milestones that we hold upon a pedestal, these things of import we perceive to define us. And yet, when someone we love passes on, we do not long for a particular holiday or birthday. Time eases the grief but it does not remove the sudden longing for a shadow of yesterday. Instead, we sometimes ache for the everyday and the ordinary. Like a man with a pocketknife digging weeds. We all agreed that when the violets are in bloom, their delicate flowers create a delightful purple carpet across the backyard. Mom and I have continued to
April 14th through 22nd 9 Shops and a Mystery!
This year’s theme is a Mystery Quilt Shop Hop! Each shop will have a different piece of the Puzzle You definately won't want to miss a stop at each of the shops on this year's hop! • Free project pattern section at every shop • Daily drawings • Finishing prizes!
for more information and prize details visit:
www.njshophop.org
Mount Holly and the Mill Race Village www .millr aceshops .com www.millr .millraceshops aceshops.com
A Springtime Ritual...
2018 NJ Shop Hop
welcome them each spring and we happened to read that the flowers are edible. The article provided a recipe for violet syrup, using the petals, sugar and water. The syrup turns out to be delicious on a piece of pound cake and a good sweetener for tea. So now each spring I have a ritual. I sit down in a patch of purple, yellow dust of pollen or not, and gently pick one violet flower at a time, placing each one in a small glass bowl. Gradually something happens. I become acutely aware of how my body fits into the soil, how solid the ground is, and I connect with those who tended this land before me. I slow down, studying the tiny petals and their centers with a touch of yellow. No two blossoms are exactly alike. I begin to feel tiny myself. Close to the ground and, yet, as I pick flower after flower, I think immense thoughts. By the time the bowl is full, quiet tears stand in my eyes. Not because I feel any emotion intensely and not merely because I am deeply grateful. The tears emerge because I am once again in awe of God’s amazing design. How ironic that something is both utterly simple and intricately complex.I always hesitate before I stand because I know that when I do, the moment will pass. But if I hear the squeal of school bus brakes over the hill, all I have to do is look across driveway to yesterday. A time long ago and yet so close. There I will see my Daddy, patiently cutting out weeds, waiting for me to come home. –Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer, and crochet instructor living in Raleigh, NC. An avid crocheter and knitter, she learned these skills from her grandmother and mother. She donates many of her yarn creations to those in need. Kerry has gathered a decade of essays she is working to publish and can be reached at 913jeeves@gmail.com.
Participating Shops: • Mouse Creek Quilts - Howell, NJ 07731 www.mousecreekquilts.com • Needles & Pins - Mullica Hill, NJ 08074 www.needles-pins-nj.com • Pennington Quilt Works - Pennington, NJ 07182 www.penningtonquilts.com • The Pin Cushion - Vineland, NJ 08360 www.thepincushionfabrics.net • The Quilt Spot - Midland Park, NJ 07432 www.thequiltspotnj.com • The Quilted Nest - Collingswood, NJ 08108 www.thequiltednest.com • Quilting Possibilities - Forked River, NJ 08731 www.quiltingpossibilities.net • Sew Jersey - East Hanover, NJ 07936 www.sewjersey.com • The Village Quilter - Mt. Holly, NJ 08060 www.thevillagequilter.com HOP HOURS: Mon, Tue, Wed & Sat ~ 10am - 6pm; Thur & Fri~ 10am - 8pm; Sun ~ Noon - 4pm
Quilting with Barbara Many years ago my great-uncle kept a flock of domesticated Canada geese, a novelty in those times. These geese had minds of their own; they much preferred to live on my father’s farm, where something – perhaps the water or food availability – was more to their liking. So my great-uncle clipped their wings so they would stay home where they belonged. They were resourceful creatures, however. The following morning a parade of geese with clipped wings passed through our yard on their way to their preferred swimming and nesting site. These birds had walked over a mile cross-country, over plowed fields and pastures to get where they wanted to be. They stayed with us until harvest, at which time they returned home for the winter, wing feathers regrown, honking all the way in triumph. (They may have been honking “I did It My Way,” in goose language, I suppose). Recently I‘ve been thinking of these geese, envying their ability to overcome obstacles. After knee-replacement surgery in December, I felt like my wings had been clipped. My work spaces are down a flight of stairs, and while it was possible to ascend and descend stairs with
by Barbara Conquest
my new knee, it was slow and painful. Downstairs more frustration awaited. Standing at my longarm machine, for even a short time, was out of the question. Piecing long-delayed quilt tops involved periods of sitting with my knee bent, which was equally painful. Cutting was worse. Quilting and all quiltingrelated activities came to a crashing halt. It must be said, however, that the experience was not all bad. I had excellent care both in hospital and at home, thanks to my caring husband who cancelled or postponed most of his n o r m a l activities to look after me.And, living in Canada, the price was right! There are worse ways to spend six weeks of an Alberta winter than lounging around indoors reading, napping and planning future quilting ventures. However my wings, er knee, usable once again, is beginning to allow me free flight and by the time this is printed I’ll be back at work, knee rejuvenated and enthusiasm regained. I probably won’t be honking, though. –Barbara Conquest writes her column from Blue Sky Quilting in Tofield, AB. © Barbara Conquest.
Page 8
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
WEST CREEK
Page 9
March & April, 2018
WEST CREEK
Page 10
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
MORRISTOWN - RED BANK
Morris County Historical Society at Acorn Hall
Est. 1964
The Antique Center of Red Bank Daily 11-5pm
Sundays 12-5pm
100 DEALERS – ALL SPECIALTIES 195 West Front St. (732) 842-3393
226 West Front St. (732) 842-4336
Red Bank, New Jersey 07701, Exit 109 Garden State Parkway
Take a special day trip and visit Acorn Hall, a beautiful 1853 mansion, which was remodeled in 1860 in the Italianate Villa-style. Donated to the Society by Mary Crane Hone, Acorn Hall is known for its authenticity, historic house and exhibit tours, lush Victorian gardens, and charming Gallery Gift Shop, which is open to fulfill all of your gift-giving needs. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m
Ann’s Lovin’ Ewe
by Ann Stewart
Souper Hospitality What’s for dinner? How about a big pot of soup? When is a good night to share it? Who’s the first person who comes to mind to invite? Why not ask them to bring a salad and you’ve got a meal! Think about it. What would happen if in the next fifteen minutes someone called you and said they were ordering out Chinese. Or Pizza. Or _____ fill in the blank. Would you want to join them? In a heartbeat. I’d venture even for leftovers. Why? Because it means no cooking and you’ll have conversation with friends. Face to face instead of on Facebook. So what stops us from inviting others over? Excuses are endless: • My house is a mess. • I’m not a great cook. • I’m too busy. • They’re too busy. • I don’t know what they like. • It’s too short of notice. • I have too much work. Consider a different list: What would our family gain by sharing a meal? • Conversation skills • Etiquette skills • Hospitality • Spontaneity • Culinary Skills • Growing friendships Our house feels homey when everyone is around the table sharing food and friendship. I love it when the conversations linger. I hesitate to clear the dishes because I’m afraid I’ll interrupt the atmosphere. Warm up with two soups I’ve recently enjoyed: Taco Soup and Sausage Kale Bean Soup. (See recipes below or
elsewhere in this edition.) Each recipe would feed eight. Invite your neighbors, your friends, or family. Have a potluck. Or perhaps ask guests to bring the toppings for this taco soup. Simply enjoy the evening. If your hospitality is too grand, your guests may feel uncomfortable about reciprocating. It’s lambing season at Skye Moor Farm, and so it’s busy. There may be baby lambs in the barn to show off, baby bottles and lamb formula on my kitchen counter, and my husband may just have come in from the barn with a newborn to warm by the fire! But it all adds to an opportunity to share with others. Share your home, hearth and your heart soon with somebody who could use fellowship and a warm meal. If dessert sounds good – then pick up some ice cream, scoop it into pretty bowls and top with fudge sauce, a cookie, or fresh fruit. Prepare, share, and enjoy time with friends. You may even find this becomes a weekly event. Perhaps your specialty is spaghetti and you serve that every Friday for lucky friends. Or maybe a taco topping party! Whatever you serve, your house will be a home where you invest into friendships that will last a lifetime. –©2017 Ann Marie Stewart, who lives on Skye Moor Farm, in Virginia, recently released is her first novel, Stars in the Grass which can be found on Amazon and bookstores. No reprint.
Recipes from Skye Moor Farm
Sausage Kale Bean Soup
½ pound Jimmy Dean sausage 3 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed ½ medium sweet onion, chopped 1 bunch kale, coarsely chopped 3 garlic cloves, chopped 2 cups heavy cream (I use 2% milk or half and half) 32 oz. chicken broth 2 - 14 ounce can white beans 1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the sausage, onion and garlic until the sausage is browned and onion is softened. Remove any excess fat drippings. 2. Add the chicken broth, cream, beans and sweet potatoes. Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer 15 minutes. 3. Stir in the kale and cook for 5 more minutes, covered.
Exhibit: "The Cutting Edge: Medicine in Morris County, 1876-1976" On view through June 3, 2018, The Cutting Edge honors the 125th Anniversary of Morristown Medical Center, includes photos and stories of Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital never before exhibited, and commemorates the 100th Anniversary of the burning of the original All Souls' Hospital.
See website for more details - www.MorrisCountyHistory.org Find us on FaceBook, Twitter and Instagram 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960 (973)267-3465
Salvage Style
Farmhouse Buffet
The farmhouse look is so popular right now, so I decided to make a furniture piece to fit in with that décor. I am calling it a buffet, but it could be used in a kitchen, bathroom, entry, mud room, or dining room. It would also make a cute crafting table. I found an old work bench that was being used in a garage, so it had grease stains and other questionable marks on it. It obviously had been made with whatever was available at the time and was very primitive. I loved it! I started by cleaning it, removing any unwanted nails and giving it two coats of a good stain killing primer. I had a door from a cupboard that was just the right size for the back. It was made of bead board and I thought it would mix well with the work table. I painted the bench and door with a semi-gloss paint and stenciled the farm motif across the top. It is put together with some rusty brackets that were sprayed with clear acrylic to seal them. This keeps the rust from getting on other things. I added the door handle because I like the look, but it would also work as a hand or kitchen towel holder. Some wire bins or baskets would make a
by Marla Wilson great addition to the bottom shelf and serve as storage.
–Marla Wilson is the owner of The Rusty Wheel, a gift boutique in Scandia, KS. The shop features her floral designs and repurposed "junk," as well as home decor . Follow The Rusty Wheel on Facebook, or www.therustywheel.vpweb.comor contact her at stumpy1954@hotmail.com
Recipes from Skye Moor Farm
Taco Soup 1 lb. Hamburger 1 4oz. Can green chilies 1 packet Ranch dressing (powder) 1 can Corn (not creamed) 1 can Hominy 1 can Pinto beans or black beans
1 can Kidney beans 1 large can Stewed tomatoes 1 packet Taco seasoning 1 yellow onion *Cilantro (optional) *Sour Cream (optional)
Brown hamburger and add taco-seasoning packet In stew pot, add remaining ingredients (do not drain any of the cans) and add browned hamburger. Simmer for 35 minutes –Serve cilantro, sour cream, chips and cheese on the side. You can even have noodles or rice and top with the taco soup.
Page 11
March & April, 2018
EDISON
Short Stories by a Mystery Book Author Crazed for Crazy Quilts I don’t own a crazy quilt. Though I admire them a great deal. So far, quilts that interest me also exceed my spending limit. I justify NOT buying them by asking myself pithy questions, like: • How much craziness is too much in a house with an overabundance of fancy teacups and saucers and feminine frills? • Should I purchase this expensive crazy quilt that doesn’t mix with my décor? Or give the money to missions? (That would be a smashing alternative, no?) There’s simply something charming about crazy quilts. Consider their antiquity: Think 1876 - the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition - and an exhibit in the Japanese Pavilion that stunned the Victorians. It featured crazed ceramics and asymmetrical art, unseen before. It wasn’t long before society seamstresses mimiced the design with their crazy quilt technique. Every house displayed one (or more) as a status symbol. The quilts continued in popularity until about 1910. A perfect opportunity for ladies to show off their expensive, luxury fabrics and needlework skills. The exquisite designs were only limited by the fabric stashes and ability of their makers. Some years ago, my dear friend, Nancy Boyd, made a heritage project for each of her granddaughters – to be given on their wedding days. Instead of a full-size quilt, she made “crazy” shadow boxes. Artwork with a crazy quilt piece made out of fabrics that meant something to their family: a button from a wedding dress, a part of grandpa’s tie, and so on. She included other precious mementos for each piece. The one pictured above shows some military service medals. I loved the idea so much, I “sewed” similar memorabilia into the crazy quilt in my cozy mystery, A Stitch in Crime. In addition, a lovely crazy design by Angela McInnis was chosen for the book’s cover. After my precise
by Cathy Elliott
descriptions of how I saw the legacy quilt inside, I never expected the publishing house to search and find Angela’s framed crazy square, and travel miles across the nation to photograph it. But they did! The colors were exactly right, the “bling” pushed the stitching up a notch, and she’d even added a spider web for interest. I’d mentioned a spider to Abingdon Press and how they were considered good luck in the Victorian age. And…it was there! Perfect. I loved looking at A Stitch in Crime’s beautiful cover decorated with Angela’s crazy quilt. Made me want a real quilt of my own. Soon, I saw a gorgeous crazy quilt pillow on eBay and bid hard to win it. The cost was higher than I wanted to pay, but the embroidery – flawless. I had to have it. My rationale? To use it as a prop at book signings and draw curious readers to my table. The colorful, crazy part is made from an antique quilt, while the backing is black velveteen cut from an ancient opera cloak. Isn't that romantic? I can almost see a story when I look at that pillow. Since then, I’ve managed to restrain my crazy quilt lust. To a point. While I’ve decided a quilt will not work for me, some crazy hearts have found their way into my welcoming hands. One was gifted to me. The rest arrived after a little eBay excursion. I only need another twenty or so to deck out a Victorian (crazy heart) Christmas tree! In my world, that’s a shopping opportunity. And, when opportunity knocks? Well, you know! –Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer living in northern California whose mysteries reflect her personal interests of crafting and collecting. She also leads music at church and cherishes time with her grandchildren. In addition to various articles and anthology contributions, Cathy’s written ten children’s books for classroom use. Her plot-twisting works include A Vase of Mistaken Identity, Medals in the Attic, and A Stitch in Crime. Website www.cathyelliottbooks.com
The Quilt& Sewing Fest of New Jersey
New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center
Mancuso Show Management is excited to announce thatThe Quilt & Sewing Fest of New Jerseyis moving to a wonderful new venue with late April show dates.The New Jersey Convention & Exposition Centerin Edison, NJ is the new host venue for this always popular event to be held April 26-29, 2018. Serving New Jersey, Pennsylvania, the New York metropolitan and southern New England areas, this remarkable event provides the stage for a unique collection of quilt, wearable and textile art, along with a fabulous Merchants Mall featuring merchandise for all your quilt making and sewing needs! Also available on the Quilt & Sewing Fest agenda are inspiring workshops. Join us for another year of amazingquilting, wonderful shopping and exceptional learning! The Quilt Fest of New Jersey features fifteen special exhibits plus the entries to the juried and judged Tri-State Quilt Competitionshowcasing an array of quilts created by residents of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. These talented regional quilt artists will display a superb collection of artwork while competing forprizes. In addition, visitors to the Quilt Fest will not want to miss the special
exhibit starring the beautiful awardwinning quilts of the 2018 Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXIX. Enjoy the beauty created by some of your fellow quilt artists; you’ll leave inspired to create your own masterpiece. A wide range of workshops and lectures for beginners as well as for the more advanced quilt artist will be offered throughout the festival. Any quilt or textile art enthusiast who is interested in learning new techniques can learn from an exceptional faculty including Sarah Bond, Joyce Hughes, Jessica Skultety, David Sirota, Bobbie Bergquist, Debora Konchinsky, Lisa White Reber, Erin Underwood and longarm instructors Lisa Calle and Judy Engime.In addition, Certified Appraiser Phyllis Twigg Hatcher will be on-site to provide appraisals of traditional, modern and non-traditional quilts as well as woven coverlets. For complete Quilt Fest details, please visit www.quiltfest.com. Photograph information: Yes, this is a quilt! From the 2017 Tri-State Competition at The Quilt & Sewing Fest of New Jersey, “Tuscany” by Donald Gough
Page 12
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
ELMER - VINELAND
Aunt Sue’s Recipe Collection by Susan Baldani
Rt. 55 Exit 32
MACHINE EMBROIDERY, QUILTING & SEWING KNITTING & CROCHETING CLASSES AVAILABLE
Planning a Wedding? We also feature Bridal Fabric, Appliques, Ribbons & Silk Flowers! Fabrics: Quilts & Dress • Notions Yarns • Upholstery Fabrics Vinyls • Foams • Patterns 657 N Delsea Drive, Vineland, NJ 08360 (856) 692-5460 OPEN: Mon, Tues, Wed, & Fri 9:30-6, Thurs 9:30-8, Sat 9:30-5:30
20% OFFAny One Item
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off. But if you don’t want to buy these, you can always just punch holes in the pages and pop them right into the binder. Even better than being able to find all the recipesis being able to one day pass these on to my family, who are frequent recipients of my cooking. So often I wish I had my grandmother’s apple turnover recipe or my aunt’s meatball recipe. Who knows what became of them? The really special parts of these binders are the pages with handwritten recipes from all different relatives. These are truly family keepsakes. The next time you are searching all over for that special recipe, think about putting them in order. It does take a good amount of hours initially, but once it’s done it will make life so much easier. And each time you print or tear or cut out another recipe, be sure to put it in a binder right away, or else you’ll be on the hunt once again. Below is a recipe I make over and over again, and maybe one that you can include in your new recipe binder. Bon appétit! –Susan Baldani has an MA in Education and a BA in Psychology. She enjoys writing and in addition to writing articles about small town life, is currently working on her second book. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at www.mywritingwall.com
Like many people who like to cook and bake, I am constantly tearing recipes out of magazines and newspapers or printing them out from the Internet. Because of this, I used to have recipes all over the house, and had a hard time finding them when needed. After hunting around again and again, I decided something had to be done. So I put my organizational skills to work, and came up with a perfect solution, at least for me. I bought two big binders and a few packages of plastic sleeve inserts, along with subject tab dividers, all of which can be found at any office supply or department store. First, I collected the recipes from all over the house; then I separated the meals from the desserts to go into the binders. Once that was done, I then divided each pile into different sections. For example, for the meal binder, I labeled the tabs as Breakfasts, Soups, Breads, Pastas, Meats, and Vegetables dishes; for the dessert binder, I had Pies, Cookies, Cakes, Candies, and Bars. You can do it however you prefer and whatever way makes sense to you. There’s no one right way. The nice thing about having them all in the plastic sleeves is that the recipes stay clean. If something spills on one while you’re assembling the ingredients, all you have to do is wipe it
With coupon only. Not valid with other offers. Expires April 30, 2018 - TCR
P e g g y ’’ss Country Gifts & Antiques ○
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Established ○ 1987
203 E Ellm er St & Park Av Avee • E Ellm er, N J 08318 • 856 856--358 -2310 Old Sleds • Handmade-All Natrual “Cherokee Pride Soap Company” Kitchen Kettle Jams, Jellies and more! Old Shutters • Flexible Flyer Wagons LIGHTED PICTURES • DECORATED OLD CHAIRS Candles & Homespun Material Potpourri • Legacy greeting cards Lots of Seasonal Items • 3 w. Bulbs, also Brown wire lights Decorated trees & tree decorations • Bella Taylor Handbags Crossroads Candles • Thompson Tarts ANTIQUES: Crocks, Jugs, Butter Churns, Coffee Grinders, Kitchenware, Yelloware, Wood Advertising Boxes, Benches, Buckets, Water Cans, Old Sleds, Cupboards - late 1800-1900’s, Enamel top tables, Milk Bottles - New Jersey, Old Quilts, Cookie Jars, Vintage Doilies, & More! Hours by appointment only until the weather is warmer. Call if coming from distance.
NOW OPEN! ilding Military Bu items. WII Military W d sell! We buy an ing This build at S open Fri &only if shop is.
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March & April, 2018
CAPE MAY
Stitch By Stitch we’ll We’ll get you excited about yarn NEW WINTER OFFERINGS: YARNS from Hand Dyed • Cashmere • Silk • Kid Mohair and Merino to Wool Blends Knit or Crochet - Shawls, Socks Cowls, Kids, Afghans & Accessories
Knitting Class Suns - 1pm and Thurs - 6pm Beginner to Advanced - Drop in with your project or choose one of ours
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Washington Commons • 315 Ocean St., Unit 9 Cape May, NJ 08204 < Cross Stitch & all the “goodies” < Needlepoint & Patanayan Wool < Custom Framing < Nancy Spruance Trunk Show We will be having classes. Please call for information.
• Exceptional Yarns • Patterns • Buttons • Knitting Machines
OPEN EVERY DAY 10AM - 5PM (Please Call First:1-800-868-3215)
I f we don don’’t hav avee it , we will oorrder it. We sship hip aan ny wh wheere re..
E • Come in to see what is new! V We have lots of ideas, FREE instruction and Yarns to choose from. E • Mondays: Knit with our Cape May Group at 1pm N T • Guilds: Schedule a “Holiday at the Shop” - with a Workshop, S Lunch in Cape May and store-wide discounts!
315 Ocean St., Cape May, NJ
An Early American Living History Museum
www.FiberArtsYarnShop.com
720 Route 9, Cape May, NJ
609-898-8080 • FREE Parking
(3 MiLES North of Cape May City)
Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for children 3 to 12. Children under 3 admitted free. Free Parking
The Dropped Stitch Yea For Crochet!
Timeless and versatile crochet has become one of the best-loved handcrafts. For that reason, National Crochet Week was declared in 1998 by the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA). In 2000 the week declaration became National Crochet Month for March. Crochet’s widespread appeal is because it is easy to do and is adaptable to endless pleasing interpretations. Novices are attracted to the simplicity and challenge this art offers in choices of fiber, texture, stitches, color, and unending designs for all skill levels. With hook and thread/ yarn, agile fingers are capable of producing an endless variety of beautiful traditional and modern designs. Once stitches are learned, creative designs are quickly created for numerous uses. One of the most beautiful designs is Irish Crochet, famous since 1743 when the royal Dublin Society awarded prizes for outstanding art examples. During the famine of 1846, it became more generally popular when rare patterns of old lace were so skillfully copied by Irish girls. The word crochet is derived from the French croche, meaning hook. Originally, the crochet hook was only one of many tools used in the intricate process of lace making. As time moved on, a repertoire of stitches and designs evolved. Crocheting graduated into a separate and pleasurable art. In the beginning, it was almost entirely a convent art, classified with other types of handiwork under the general heading of “man’s work.” At the
Call for more information 609-898-2300 or visit website:
www.hcsv.org
by Sharon Greve
time, nuns taught it to their pupils and the proceeds from sales of crocheted articles helped alleviate much poverty. It was then that crochet became one of the graceful accomplishments of well-born young ladies. Shepherd’s Knitting is actually crocheting in slip stitches. Crocheting offers a variety of project choices: (1) Laces as delicate as cobwebs for tablecloths, doilies, and shawls as well as others more suitable for curtains and bedspreads. (2) Rugs and afghans in glowing colors in which texture and design are artfully blended which spell beauty and utility for every home. (3) Crochet knows fashion, too. A crocheted hat and bag can “dress up” an outfit for any occasion. A lacy cocktail sweater can “make” an evening. Fashion and crochet have united to design some of the most sought after accessories. Machines have brought us many comforts and luxuries, but when it comes to a touch of beauty, nothing will ever replace the loveliness of the “handmade.” There is a joy in wearing it—a subtle magic that the machine cannot copy or equal. That is the secret of the charm of crochet, as knitters have also discovered, whether done for profit, a hobby, or a means to brighten a wardrobe or a home. It is an art that grows on you. Celebrate Crochet! © 2018 Sharon Greve Contactcastonshar@charter.net No reprint without permission.
Village buildings reopen on June 23rd Grounds are open for exploration at your own pace. UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS
May 1st – Save the Date for Feasting on History The 18th Annual Restaurant Gala at the NASW Aviation Museum. Featuring over 40 area restaurants, wineries, breweries, bakeries and more! Advance ticket sales only.
A Recipe to Start Your Collection
Stuffed Peppers
A favorite that you will make over and over again.
6 cups tomato sauce 6 large green peppers, tops cut off 1 cup cooked white rice and seeds rinsed out 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 pound ground turkey or beef Salt and pepper to taste ½ chopped onion 1 chopped garlic clove Put rice on to cook. While rice is cooking, cut off tops of peppers and rinse out seeds inside. Then cover peppers with water in a big pot and boil for 5 minutes; drain. Place each pepper upright in a baking dish. Sauté onions and garlic in skillet and add ground meat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once lightly browned, add 1.5 cups of tomato sauce and rice and cook until heated. Then add in 1/2 cup of cheese and stir together. Add a little sauce to the bottom of each pepper, and then spoon in meat, rice and cheese mixture. Once all the peppers are filled, add the rest of the sauce to the baking dish, spooning some over the peppers as well. Bake covered at 350° for 45 minutes, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top of each pepper, and bake without lid for another 15 minutes. (If prepared beforehand, and dish is cold, bake for 1.5 hours.)
Page 14
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
OUT OF STATE & WEB-BASED
Stories of a Farm Wife
THE COCOA EXCHANGEâ&#x201E;˘ brings you exclusive and innovative ways to explore your passions through our cocoa experiences!
by Tammy Page
Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House
Earn SWEET Cash for your organization! A delicious fundraiser everyone will love with free shipping! Exclusive products including giftables, culinary line and sweet treats - with a percentage of sales donated to your school or group.
Online Shopping! Enjoy shopping at your convenience from our extensive variety of products: www.myTCEsite.com/amycarter
Gifting Made Easy! Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal gifts or business gifts for customers or employees, we have the perfect giftable sets to meet your needs!
Start your own The Cocoa Exchange Business! Share rewarding experiences with 3 brands of products featuring chocolate and cocoa.
Amy Carter, Independent Curator #6579
www.mytcesite.com/amycarter Â&#x2021; FKRFRODWHIURPDP\#JPDLO FRP The Cocoa ExchangeTM is a registered trademark and is used under license.
Tired of the Cold & Snow? Sew & Vac Business For Sale Retail sewing machine and vacuums store. Located on the warm southeast coast in a major growth area. Well established with great customer base. Owners would like to retire after years in the industry. Will train new owner.
For info send name & number to:
sewingstoreforsale@gmail.com
Going to grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; holds a very special place in my heart and memories. My grandma lived in a small town on the banks of the Ohio River of Bethlehem, Indiana. My dad grew up in this closeknit community where there was one general store with the post office inside and people grew tobacco on their small farms. My grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house was a big two-story home where the only heat in the home was a huge gas heater in the living room. In the winter months, if you had to go to the bathroom you better make it snappy because it was cold on the other end of the house. She had a small, little heater in the kitchen where we spent lots of time at her metal turquoise topped table. There was no heat upstairs where we grandkids would sleep three to a bed sometimes on the soft feather mattress. I remember the smell of bacon and coffee as we ran down the stairs on cold mornings. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ever remember my grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house having carpet in any of the rooms. Her floors were covered in linoleum with scatter rugs throughout. It was so much fun to get a running start and slide our way across the floor on the linoleum floors! Like most grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s homes, it had a distinct smell. Not a bad smell but a smell that is associated with old things, cooking and starched table linens. Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen housed a Hoosier Cabinet where she kept white iced danish, her cookie jar and homemade cream pies with 3-inch meringues. Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old Frigidaire refrigerator had a metal drinking glass holder sitting atop it and every time someone would walk by, the glasses would clink in that holder. That memory is one of the dearests I have of my grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house and today, I have one like it that I bought at an auction. Grandma was a short, round grandma with just the right lap to cuddle in. I remember sitting in her lap, when she
finally sat down at the end of the day, and smelling the starch in her apron and the talcum powder she used from the little round cardboard box. I would rub her soft skin and felt I was in the best place in the world. She was kind and loving to all the grandchildren and showed it with her affection of lots of hugs and kisses. I loved spending time there with my family who visited at least once a month and each summer for two weeks all by myself. Grandma and I would pick green beans out of her big garden and break them while watching the litter of kittens playing under the garden shed. I would help her hang clothes on the line and fix supper each evening for Grandpa and me. Grandma and I would walk to Jacks, the only store in the town and she would let me pick out my favorite ice cream and cereal. Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s was the typical store you see in old movies where they had a butcher counter, soda pop machine, post office and benches out front where the men would meet to talk about the weather. Everyone knew everyone and if not, they knew your name before you left. I always thought it was the neatest thing to walk to the store all by myself and get grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mail. The mailboxes had combination locks on them and until I was old enough to work the combination, I would have to ask for the mail from the postmaster. If I was going to get the mail by myself, I was always given a nickel to buy myself a treat while there. Those were the days when a child could walk across the school commons to the store and not worry about getting there safely. I think I was about 8 or so before I was allowed to go by myself and boy did I think I was big stuff! My grandma passed many years ago, but I still think of her often, especially when I hear the clanking of glasses. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Tammy lives on a working farm with her family .
Farm Recipes from Tammy Page Grandmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Favorite Cookies
I grew up eating these cookies. Now they are my kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite.
Recipe Exchange
Pudding Cookies
My Favorite go to Cookies, Quick, Easy, Chewy*
2 cups flour 1 cup sugar 3/4 cup shortening or butter
2 Pkg. (3 3/4 0z.) Instant Pudding 3 eggs slightly beaten 3/4 t soda & salt
Directions: Use pudding flavor of your choice: Pistachio, chocolate, lemon vanilla, butterscotch, banana, etc. Oven 375. 10 -12 min. Sift flour, soda, salt. Then cream shortening, add sugar & pudding mix. Cream until light & fluffy. Add eggs...mix. Add flour, salt & soda. Beat. Drop on a greased cookie sheet 2 1/2 inches apart. Parchment paper is better than grease, but silicone mats are the best! * submitted by Ann McMullen
1 cup shortening 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup white sugar 2 eggs well beaten 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 Tablespoon cinnamon 3 cups Quaker oats 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 1 cup raisins (optional)
1 Beat together the shortening and sugars. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and beat well. 2 Whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda and cinnamon. Add to sugar and egg mixture and mix well. Add a tablespoon of water. Add raisins (if using) and nuts. Add oats last. 3 Spoon out by heaping tablespoonfuls on to greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350°F. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove to wire rack. Cool completely. *Submitted by Tammy Page, whose â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stories of a Farm Wifeâ&#x20AC;? appears in this edition.
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March & April, 2018
DELAWARE
Town and Country Cooking
by Janette Hess
Dessert Inspiration To Go Need an exceptional dessert to impress friends or family? Look no further than your favorite eatery for inspiration. We all have been dazzled by restaurant desserts but, for one reason or another, have not indulged. Or perhaps weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve indulged but still want more! The solution is to take the idea, not the dessert, home. Then mimic the dessert on your own time and serve it on an occasion when you and your dinner guests can afford the extra calories. The ideas for this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipes originated in boutique restaurants. All started as basic recipes, but then the chefinspired additions, wrappings and sauces took them over the top. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;A trained journalist, Janette Hess focuses her writing on interesting foods. She is a Master Food Volunteer with her local Extension service and enjoys collecting, testing and sharing recipes.
Phyllo-Wrapped Brownies 1 package brownie mix, prepared according to package instructions Fudge sauce (homemade or purchased) 1 16-ounce package phyllo dough, thawed according to package instructions ½ cup melted butter, plus more as needed Vanilla ice cream for garnish Bake brownies in greased, 8- by 8inch, parchment-lined baking dish. When slightly cool, invert onto large cutting board. Cut in half, and then cut each half into 6, 7 or 8 oblong pieces, depending on size of brownie desired. To assemble, carefully place 2 sheets of dough on flat surface. Brush top layer with melted butter. Place one brownie lengthwise near narrow end of dough and spread top of brownie with fudge sauce. (Two generous teaspoons is an appropriate amount.) Roll and wrap brownie in dough, ending fudge-side-up. Brush exposed surfaces of dough with butter and carefully tuck open ends underneath, using butter as adhesive. Quickly repeat process until all brownies have been wrapped in dough. Keep dough covered with plastic wrap until all brownies have been wrapped. Place brownies on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, or until browned. Serve with ice cream and additional warm fudge sauce. Note: Depending on the number of brownies used, you may have some leftover phyllo dough. Most packages contain two sleeves of dough. One sleeve is enough to wrap approximately 10 oblong brownies.
Welcome to
Serendipity
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta 2 cups heavy cream 1 vanilla bean ½ cup sugar 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin ½ cup milk 1 5.3-ounce container (approximately ½ cup) plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Sweetened berries of choice for serving Split vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape seeds into small bowl. Add small amount of cream; stir to separate seeds. Combine with remaining cream and sugar in medium saucepan. Bring to simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not boil. While cream mixture is heating, measure milk into separate dish and sprinkle with gelatin. Allow gelatin to soften for 5 minutes. Thoroughly combine hot cream mixture with milk/gelatin mixture, yogurt and vanilla extract. Divide among eight 4-ounce ramekins. Cover and chill overnight. Panna Cotta may be ser ved in ramekins or unmolded onto individual plates. To unmold, loosen edges with thin knife and briefly dip each ramekin into shallow dish of very hot water, taking care not to allow water into ramekin. Invert onto plate. Top with sweetened berries.
Blondies with Butterscotch Cream Sauce Blondies: Ÿ cup unsalted butter, melted 1 cup brown sugar 1 egg 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 3/4 cup flour ½ cup oatmeal, lightly processed 1 teaspoon baking powder Ÿ teaspoon salt ½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts Ice cream for serving In mixing bowl, combine melted butter with sugar. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and combine thoroughly. Stir in nuts. Spread batter in greased 8- by 8-inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Cut into bars while warm. To serve, top with ice cream and warm Butterscotch Cream Sauce.
Quilt Shop
31821 Cannon St. Dagsboro, DE 19939 (302) 732-6304 â&#x20AC;˘ Open Mon-Fri 9-5; Sat 9-4 â&#x20AC;˘ Over 3500 Bolts of premium cotton fabrics â&#x20AC;˘ Flannel â&#x20AC;˘ Wool â&#x20AC;˘ Stitchery Like us on â&#x20AC;˘ Quilting and Sewing Classes FACEBOOK â&#x20AC;˘ Books, Patterns and Notions
www.serendipityquiltshop.com
*DUĂ&#x20AC; HOG 3DUNZD\ Bethany Beach, DE 19930
Hours: Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sat 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm
On Rt 26 West, 1/2 mile IURP 7RWHP 3ROH
302-539-0574 www.seaneedles.com
Sea Needles Â&#x2021; Bethany Beach
Largest complete needlework store on Delmarva, serving our customers for 28 years. Â&#x2021; Specializing in knitting, crocheting, cross stitch & needlepoint. Â&#x2021; Large yarn selection including needles, accessories, patterns, buttons, kits & supplies. Â&#x2021; Award-winning custom framing department for all types of framing.
The Blue Hen Bed & Breakfast is located on
1202 Nottingham Rd. Newark, DE 19711 302-218-8713 www.bluehenbnb.com
A must stop during Quilts around the Bay Shop Hop!
Butterscotch Cream Sauce: 1 cup butterscotch topping (homemade or purchased) ½ cup soft cream cheese Lightly heat butterscotch topping in microwave oven. Add cream cheese and stir to combine. Serve warm over blondies and ice cream.
Rt 273, 1.7 miles west of Downtown Newark, Delaware. Originally built in 1692, this historic B&B is easily accessible to the University of Delaware. The Blue Hen offers 3 main guestrooms, all with private baths. We are pet friendly. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect venue for guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s special occasions. |rÂ?sÂĽWÂŁ8Â&#x203A;ÂĽÂŁyWÂ?Â? |Â?ÂŁC¹£ WÂ&#x203A;ÂĽscÂŁWPÂŁ CÂŁ* Â?Â?ÂŁ |Â?ÂĽÂ&#x203A;ŠHÂĽ Â&#x203A;OÂŁ Don Eschenbrenner, CRI www.bnbarts.com
March 2-11
Blue Hen
Quilt Shop In Tax-Free Delaware!
! abric
Patterns!
F
Clas
ses!
SALES - SERVICE
Notions!
Kits!
Precuts!
Thread!
OFFICIAL RETAILER
73 Marrows Road, Newark, DE 19713 Â&#x152; 302-533-5215 www.bluehenquiltshop.com Visit us on Facebook!
Page 16
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
MARMORA - TUCKAHOE
How Many Businesses Have Been Open for 96 Years?
Dollard-Baker Sew & Vac in Marmora Has!
EXPERT SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS We Also Sell Babylock & Janome Sewing Machines
Dollard Baker Sew-Vac
609-390-0343
232 S. US Route 9, Marmora NJ Exit 25 (Garden State Parkway) Open Tuesday - Friday from 10AM to 5PM
www .DBSe wV ac .com www.DBSe .DBSewV wVac ac.com
Dollard-Baker Sew & Vac has been serving happy customers in southern New Jersey for 96 years! Original owner, the late Thomas Dollard, operated his sewing machine and vacuum shop in Atlantic City in the early 1920s. Thomas Dollard, the grandfather of current owner, John Dollard, and his uncle, Philip Dollard are pictured here at the original shop. The two started with treadle sewing machines which they delivered in a model T pickup truck. John's father, Edward T. Dollard, got into the business in Atlantic City and continued to run the business in Atlantic City at various locations until his death in 1975. John got into the business in 1970 after serving in the United States Army. He became an Atlantic City police officer in 1980 and was able to continue running the shop throughout his 25 year police career. John's work schedule allowed him to stop at the shop to check on things occasionally and he would park his police car in front of the shop after his shift. John moved his business to Marmora in 2002 when he combined with "Baker Sew Vac", a successful company run by the Bakers since 1970. Thus the current name of DollardBaker Sew & Vac. Currently, 4th generation greatgranddaughter of the founder, Christina Dollard, joins her father, John Dollard, in helping customers learn about the latest sewing machines and vacuums; and how maintenance and service will keep your machines in great
condition. Christina is the store's manager. You can see early photos of John and Christina at the shop below. Christina said: " We are proud to serve the Upper T o w n s h i p community at our shop located at South Shore Plaza, 232 So. Shore Road, (Route 9) in Marmora, New Jersey." The shop is conveniently located off the Garden State Parkway at Exit 25. Dollard-Baker not only sells and services sewing machines and vacuum cleaners, but they also offer classes. They have classes for everyone from kids to adults. "We are fortunate to have a sewing educator, Merry May, who is a professional quilt maker, designer, instructor and historian. (See photo of Merry May and John here.) Longar m classes are also available or they will machine quilt your design on their Babylock Crown Jewel. The shop boasts two full-time mechanics, Tom Kane, who does vacuum repairs and Carlos (aka The Sewing Machine Whisperer) does the sewing machine repairs. DollardBaker also sells parts, supplies, patterns, and notions, as well as vacuum cleaner bags and belts. Fabric is also sold at the shop. They offer machine embroidery service on-site. DollardBaker is an authorized dealer for both Babylock and Janome sewing machines. Stop in DollardBaker soon and find out for yourself why the shop motto is: "Business sucks but it's picking up."
Tak e your copy of The Countr yR egister ake Country Register along when you go â&#x20AC;&#x153;hunting.â&#x20AC;?