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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
Editors’ Corner “Spring is the time of plans and projects.” ®
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 2017 • Vol. 17 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.
~ Leo Tolstoy March weather can still be iffy, but we can sure get ready for spring. It is never too early to start decorating for spring. The shops advertised here are displaying everything you will need to help you celebrate the new season. They all enjoy making this publication available to you free of charge as their gift to you for shopping with them. Please remember to let them know you appreciate it when you visit them. Many of them have been advertising since we started publishing and they do so because The Country Register works! You pick it up and read it, then you visit the shops who advertise with us when you need a gift for Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation, a wedding, or want to decorate for the season. It is thanks to your response to their ads that the shop owners realize their
investment is paying off. Letting them know by saying “Hey, I saw your ad in The Country Register...” verifies for them that they are spending their money wisely. Please check the events listing on the following page, taking note of the shop open houses and spring events. Mark your calendar or simply place a copy of The Country Register in your car so that you have it along should you find yourself in a shopping mood. Let us know what you think! Drop us a note or send us an email. All of our contact info is always on the top left of Page 2 to make it easy for you to find. We’d love to hear from you! Now....
Let’s Go ShoppingAND THE GR ANDKIDS! GRANDKIDS!
Subscribe to The Country Register! Send your name and complete mailing address, along with a check or money order to:
THE COUNTRY REGISTER OF NEW JERSEY & DELAWARE P. O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763 Subscriptions: 1 Year (6 issues): $18 ~ Single copies: $3 for postage & handling
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. To receive a sample paper from another area, please mail $3.00 in U.S.A. or $4.00 in Canada to that area’s editor. 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 Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118 Maine: Gail Hagerman, 207-437-2663 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: Kathleen Graham, 603-463-3703 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: Amy & David Carter, 866-825-9217 South Carolina: Barb Stillman, 602-942-8950 South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 605-722-7028 Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 443-243-1118 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
www.countryregisteronline.com
Meet Our Cover Artist...
Dawn Rosengren, Watercolor Artist Dawn Rosengren is a watercolor artist and homemaker. She lives on the family farm in Huntsville, AL with husband, Scott, where she home schools their two precious children. Dawn says: “I am truly thankful for all the ways the Lord has blessed me. There are so many little beautiful things each day that are gifts from His hands. We live on a five acre hobby farm filled with many little animals that we call family. I love to paint and photograph with my children of life on the farm and I love capturing those precious moments or the tiny surprise gifts like a birds nest or the color of a
newly opening flower. I want to live my life always looking for these gifts from the Father's hands and always finding something to be thankful for. “Each day is a gift, so live life beautiful.” Each of Dawn’s original work of art is watercolor on canvas. She sells prints of all her artwork on watercolor paper. Any painting she has created can also be ordered as a gallery wrapped canvas. Additionally, she sells selected artwork on greeting cards, necklaces, bookmarks, gift tags, and journals. She is looking forward to selling her artwork on pottery in the near future. See more of Dawn's work at: LittleLoveFarm.com (where you can see image galleries of her artworks organized by subject), or www.facebook.com/LittleLoveFarm plus see her at www.facebook.com/ Dawn.T.Rosengren. You can also reach her via email to LittleLoveFarm@gmail.com.
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March & April 2017
Advertiser Index
Shops are listed alphabetically by location. Cities & Shops
P age # Page
Cape May ............................. 12 Historic Cold Spring Village Stitch by Stitch Elmer ................................... 10 Peggy’s Country Gifts/Antiques Glassboro ............................... 6 Gingerbread Primitives Mount Holly .......................... 5 The Village Quilter Morristown .......................... 13 Acorn Hall Mullica Hill ........................... 7 Amelia’s Teas & Holly Creamy Acres Farm Gloucester Cnty Craftsmen Show Needles & Pins Pedricktown .......................... 4 Heart Felt Designs Pitman ................................... 6 Olde Pear Primitives The Scarecrow Factory Red Bank ............................. 13 Antique Center of Red Bank
Cities & Shops
P age # Page
Salem ..................................... 4 Cawman’s Antique Mall Suse-E-Q’s Cottage Somerset .............................. 13 Quilt & Sewing Fest of NJ Vineland .............................. 11 The Pin Cushion West Creek ......................... 8, 9 KC Creations Woodstown .......................... 16 Country Swan Gift Shoppe Delaware Bethany Beach .................... 14 Sea Needles Dagsboro ............................. 15 Serendipity Newark ................................ 14 The Blue Hen Bed & Breakfast The Blue Hen Quilt Shop Classified ............................. 10 Out of State ......................... 14 Shop Hop ............................ 15
Events Listing
See shop & show ads for complete details.
March
Day
Event
1 2-5 3-12 11 11
Grand Re-Opening - Country Swan Gift Shoppe, Woodstown .............. 16 Quilt & Sewing Fest of NJ, Somerset .......................................................... 13 Quilts Around the Bay Shop Hop, Various Towns ................................... 15 Open House - Heart Felt Designs, Pedricktown .......................................... 4 Opening Day - Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill ......................................... 7
Day
Event
1-30 1, 8
Anniversary Celebration - The “New” Village Quilter, Mount Holly ......... 5 14, 15 Hayrides/Easter Bunny - Creamy Acres Farm, Mullica Hill ............. 7
Day
Event
April May
Page #
Page #
Page #
2 Feasting on History - Cold Spring Village, Cape May .................................. 12 6 Gloucester County Craftsmen & Home Show, Mullica Hill ......................... 7 27, 28 Spring Arts & Crafts Show, Ocean City, MD ................................................ 14
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
PEDRICK TOWN - SSALEM ALEM PEDRICKTOWN
856-935-0423
Cawman’s Antique Mall Antiques & Things on Consignment
Ov er 40 Vendors in 12,000 sq ft Over
Voted Salem County’s Best Country Shop in 2016
www.CawmansMall.com 529 SSalem alem Q uinton R oad Quinton Road Salem, NJ 08079 (Located in Q uinton Township) Quinton
Thank You for Your Support! - 32 Years in Business -
St. Patrick’s Day & Easter Open House
Hours: un ed-Sun Wed-S 10am-5pm
S ee us on FFacebook acebook
Sat., Mar. 11th: 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.(Call First)-Sat.: 10-5, Sun.: 12:30-5 (Call First) 24 S. Railroad Ave., Pedricktown, NJ PHONE: (856) 299-2133 • www.heartfeltdesigns.com
Gather – A Vintage Market
By Simone Gers
Gotta Love a 'Gimmie!'
Suse-E-Q ’s Cottage
Primitiv e • Country • Cottag e Primitive Cottage Furnishing s and Decor Furnishings 107 A West Broadway, (Rt 49) (across from Historic Salem Oak) 856-935-0669 Major Credit Cards Welcome
Wed to Sat 10 - 5; Sun Noon - 4 Closed Mon & Tues
I’ve been to two meetings in the last week at which there were giveaways—or, as I call them, 'gimmies.' In one, I got a little plastic device that I can sit my cell phone in so it is standing up on my desk. I liked it so much, I asked if I could have a second one for my home office. At another meeting, I got a canvas messenger bag. It is really a great size—my laptop fits in it—and I’ve used it a lot. The last time I received a canvas bag giveaway was when I started my job—it was one of the on-boarding items. I still have that one after 18 years and it is great. My husband Tray hijacked it along the way and still loves it, using it every day. Tray was at a conference in January and he got a couple of little cotton bags that I’ve added to my grocery bag collection. I love a useful giveaway. When I was a young girl, my dad would bring me various pins—hatpins, lapel pins, stickpins and advertising pins. For me, growing up in south Louisiana, giveaways were a part of the culture since many merchants always had a lagniappe—a little something extra—to throw in the bag. My favorite was the baker’s dozen, or 13 Pistolettes, from Poupart’s bakery. However, we had a variety of rulers, shoehorns, calendars, ink pens, pencils, small diaries, note pads and other gimmies stuffed in drawers and closets. A former giveaway that is popular among collectors today is Depression-Era Sandwich glass that was very often used as promotional premiums at grocers, gas
stations, movie theaters, with magazine subscriptions—and more. On our last Christmas road trip, Tray found his first piece of Sandwich glass. He had left me at my folks’ home in Louisiana and was heading back to Arizona. On a back road in the middle of Louisiana as he was heading toward Texas, he saw this little store and decided to stop. He saw this piece and was intrigued by the cut of the glass and had no idea what it was. The lady told him that it was Sandwich glass, a Tiara pattern. He bought it all. When he put it in the store, it flew out the door. And ever since then, he has been on the hunt for it. Sandwich glass comes in various sizes shapes and colors. Tray recently found a set of six ovalshaped, teal luncheon plates that had never been out of the box. He got so excited that he called me from the road to report his find. When I asked him what he likes so much about Sandwich glass, he said, “It sparkles in the light and I love the beautiful cut designs.“ Well, y’all know from past articles, I am all about sparkles and shine, so I decided to find out more—and there is so much to know. Anchor Hocking produced many of the freebie pieces that are still readily available today and that are distinguished by the scroll and flower designs, which were similar to the original Sandwich glass pieces made in Boston and Sandwich. Buyers can tell Anchor Hocking pieces
Continued... bottom right column of facing page
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March & April 2017
MOUNT HOLL Y HOLLY
Quilting with Barbara Geese have been on my mind lately. The noble Canada goose (branta Canadensis) with its distinctive call and Vshaped flight pattern is one of our longed-for harbingers of spring. Living on the North American flyway as we do, we are familiar with hearing the swoosh of their huge wings as they fly just above the roof of our house on their way north in the spring – sometimes we can almost touch them. For the last several years a pair has decided to stay here; they nest on our neighbours’ dugout, and we have been privileged to watch them raise their goslings. However, interesting as Canada geese may be, quilters pursue quite a different bird – the flying goose. On the surface this block seems simple; a few cuts, two short seams, and it’s done – “fun and done,” one might say. If it were only that simple! For several years I have searched for a technique – thinking there must be one – to produce the perfect, accurate, completed goose. Apparently I was in good company: I’ve found numerous techniques and rulers from various sources, which must mean that other people have had problems with geese too. There is a formula that works every time for quilters who don’t mind tossing numbers and fractions around, assured that their calculations are correct every time. Unfortunately I’m not one of those people, so I’ve spent some time looking for alternate methods that wouldn’t tax my math-challenged brain. One of the simplest methods to be sure your geese are the right size is to cut the background pieces (“sky”) 1/8"larger than the pattern requires, sew, and then trim to the desired size. Another nonruler method, resulting in four geese in one operation, is found in many contemporary quilting magazines, particularly ones with the Fons and Porter imprint. Surprisingly, I found several purposedesigned rulers that made the job much easier; I wish I had looked sooner. Following, in no particular order, is a list of some rulers I have used and found to be helpful. The list is by no means exhaustive, but you might wish to check some of these rulers out at a quilt store. Flying Geese x 4 No Math Ruler by Lazy Girl Designs, true to its name, takes any guesswork or math out of the “cutfour-at-once” method above. Flying geese with finished dimensions from ¾”x1 “ to those 31/2”x7" are made possible by this ruler – and you get four geese at once.
by Barbara Conquest
E-Z Flying Geese Ruler by Kimberly Einmo (E-Z Quilting) is a triangle. The quilter uses the pink line printed on the ruler to size and cut the centre triangle (the goose), then rotates the ruler and uses the green printed lines to cut the side triangles (sky). Both components are cut from pre-cut strips of the width desired. One flattened point on the ruler lets you eliminate dog ears as you cut. With this ruler, finished geese range from 1 ½”x3" to 6"x12". Calling All Geese by Eleanor Burns of Quilt in a Day fame is somewhat larger than the first two rulers, and it is different in that cutting notches and paths which guide the rotary cutter are cut into the ruler itself, so the final cuts will be extremely accurate. Written directions (included) illustrate a novel method of sewing the geese first, and then cutting them to size, using the ruler and its slots for accuracy. A seam is clipped which allows the seam allowance to be pressed in opposite directions for a smoother finish. This method produces two geese at once, which can range in size from 1"x2" to 5"x10" finished. Square In A Square Ruler (Jodi Barrows) can be used effectively for flying geese (Jodi’s Option 3). Since this method requires a book, Jodi’s ruler and personalized instruction in uses of the ruler – preferably from Jodi or people she has trained – I will not go into detail except to say I have used these materials and methods and they work. And for something completely different and very useful… Bloc-Loc Flying Geese Rulers. They come in sets of three, and are used to size geese that are sewn but not yet trimmed. Recessed channels on the back of each ruler fit snugly over the seams of the goose, letting the quilter centre and trim very accurately and very easily. The set I use has rulers for three sizes of geese: 1 ½” x3"finished, 2"x4"finished, and 3"x 6"finished. Other sizes are available in other sets. Recently I taught a flying goose class, and my Bloc-Locs were very popular. (A similar ruler for half-square triangles is also available). Disclaimer: I have no connection with this company. Whether you hear the call of the goose from the sky or your sewing room, if you are less than satisfied with your present geese or methods of making them, think about trying one of the above. It’s always great to learn something new. –©Barbara Conquest, Blue Sky Quilting
The Village Quilter Cotton Fabrics • Supplies • Classes Join us throughout April to celebrate the
First Anniversary of The “new” Village Quilter Drawings, specials, free demos and open studio time on The Porch
www.the villagequilter.com 10 Charles St, Historic Mount Holly, NJ 609-265-0011 • www.millraceshops.com Open Every Day And now it’s a one year-old tradition!
A Few Of Our Favorite Things including the Customer Quilt Exhibit
WORLD WIDE QUILTING DAY MARCH 18
Call or just email details NOW to have your shop or event featured in the Summer edition of The Country Register 1-888-616-8319 info@countryregisteronline.com
Gather – A Vintage Market Continued from... second column of facing page from other companies' because of the company’s scroll pattern resembles a V in the middle of a piece. Tray reports that Sandwich glass plates sell for $6 to 8 a plate and some of the rare colors and shapes sell for about $12. I wonder if any of the gimmies around today will make it 40, 50 or more years? How much will our canvas bags or that little plastic cell phone holder be worth then and, if someone finds the holder in a drawer someday, will they even know what it is. Will gimmies still be around 50 years from now and, if yes, what will they be like?
Whether gimmies are a part of future life or not, I am pretty sure the quality giveaways of the past, like Sandwich glass, will still be around. And you have got to love that. -Simone Gers began her antiquing journey 35 years ago when she married Tray, an avid collector. They still have the first piece they bought together and they have been upcycling vintage finds ever since. The Gers own Gather A Vintage Market in Tucson, AZ, a monthly market. Simone has taught writing and literature at the college level for many years.
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
GL AS SB ORO - PITMAN GLAS ASSB SBORO
Olde Pear Primitives and
The Scarecrow Factory Country Store Come Visit our NEW Location! 11 S Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071 (856) 269-4730 • Call for hours Country & Primitive Furniture, Gifts, Home Decor and More! follow us on: FACEBOOK for New Arrivals & Special Sales
www.facebook.com/oldepearprimitivesllc and www.facebook.com/ ScarecrowFactoryCountryStore Gift Certificates Available
Useful Adapter Lids for Mason Jars
by Jo Branham
Mason jars have taken on various configurations since being patented by John Landis Mason in 1858. The containers were originally used to preser ve food, but with the invention of adapter tops, Mason jars now have applications all across the board, from lighting fixtures to cocktail shakers. These simple canning jars have might be an American icon, for good reason, but are becoming popular again as home decor. Mason jars are very pretty and, with now with adapter lids, can function in countless ways. KC Creations has a huge variety of Mason jars and various useful adapter tops which create a variety of uses for the mason jars. These lids will work with any standard sized mason jar. (See page 8 for photos.) Here’s a list of the lids. 1. Drink Lid: A cute lid with tear drop shaped designs and a hole for your straw 2. Sugar Dispenser Lid: This would be neat in your country kitchen. It has a spout to pour you sugar or whatever you decide to place inside. 3. Dispenser Lid: The spout is larger than the sugar dispenser and would be perfect for oatmeal, corn meal or pancake mix. 4. Screened Dome Lid: Works perfectly with battery operated candles and has a
handle so you can hang it. 5. String Dispenser Lid: Great place to store your jute string. Easily dispenses through a hole in the middle of the lid. 6. Soap Dispenser: Contains a pump to dispense your hand soap or dish soap. You choose! 7. Coin Bank Lid: Slit in the lid allows you to save your change for a rainy day. 8. Chicken Wire Flower Lid (two sizes/styles): Perfect for displaying flower arrangements 9. Flower Frog Lid: Another choice for displaying flowers. The lid has a large mesh screen to hold your flowers. 10. Hanging Lid: Large wire hanger with a star cutout makes this perfect for holding candles. 11. Oil Lamp Lid: A long wick extends from above the top of the lid down into the oil. 12. Candle Holder Lid: Recessed area in lid holds taper candles. Fill the jar with decorations. 13. Lid Light: A solar option. This would look great outside on your porch or patio. Find an adapter lid that suits your needs and make good use of those mason jars which most of you can find in your cupboards, pantry or basement.
An Awakening Springs Forth
By Kerri Habben
I offer you a story of renewal as spring blossoms upon us. When my grandmother was in her nineties, she enjoyed crocheting lap robes for a local hospital. At her passing at almost 100 in 2006 she had achieved 6500 hours of volunteer hours in 13 years of giving. As she worked on these blankets sometimes she’d say, “These colors are so nice together. Would you like it if I made it a little bigger and you can keep it?” Her talent in blending and matching tones and hues truly was a natural gift, so given that and our love for her and her work, Mom and I always answered with an enthusiastic response in the affirmative. We brought each one home and over the years, especially during the last decade, we’ve developed a system of which blankets we use each season. We also always travel with one of them, carrying a little bit of my grandmother with us. Recently we decided that it was indeed time to donate some of the blankets. We could not in good conscience keep many of them stored when their intention had been to keep others warm. So there we were, me in the attic at the head of the pull-down stairs and Mom waiting at the bottom. I opened one plastic tote, tossed some blankets down and went to another tote. Then I peeked in a few other boxes and down went more. Suddenly we were in the living room with 40 blankets. 40 in addition to the ones we already use regularly. We’d thought perhaps there were about 20, but like a mother and grandmother’s love, there is always more. We chose some for family, some for dear friends like family, and ,yes, we found some that we just want to keep “for now.” After that there were still 25 blankets, and we decided to carry them to the Salvation Army Community Center as on the news there had been a segment about
extra need after Hurricane Matthew’s devastation in early October. Now winter was almost upon us. So into boxes went the remaining 25. A gentleman came right out to assist me as Mom stopped the car by the curb. We each held a box, me telling him about my grandmother, her good work, how long she crocheted, etc. It is entirely possible I prattled on some, but the man was kind and simply listened. We emptied the boxes onto a long table, and the man suddenly gazed upon me with wide, soul-filled eyes. “You ain’t keeping nothing your grandma made?” He sounded quite aghast, bordering on appalled. I hastened to reassure him that we were indeed surrounded by her life’s work (91 years worth) in many forms, including a multitude of blankets. When he sighed with relief, I was affirmed we’d made the proper decision. However, something else affected me along with the man’s sincerity. As we’d emptied the boxes, the blankets spilled forth in a sea of color and a burst of pure energy. Like a garden in spring-time, they came to life after a long dormancy. Before me was part of a long-beloved soul, one I suddenly saw for the first time all over again. My grandmother’s love breathed, and her exquisite blankets were prepared to serve. As Mom and I drove away I studied the Salvation Army sign, offering a meal and a message. I knew that wherever my grandmother’s blankets would call home, it was me who’d been saved the most. -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. Many of her yarn creations she donates to those in need. Kerri has gathered a decade of essays she is working to publish. She can be reached at 913jeeves@gmail.com
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March & April 2017
MULLIC A HILL MULLICA
nded Expa New ea! Ar
533 Mullica Hill Rd, Mullica Hill NJ 08062 • (856) 218-7467
Shop Hour s: Mon - Fri 10-5; Sat & Sun 10-4 Hours: Large selection of all Quilting Fabrics Classes Offered • Row by Row Participant
www.needles-pins-nj.com
TEA ROOM AND CHRISTMAS SHOP
Antique Elegance in a Relaxed Atmosphere Full Lunch Menu ~ Sweet Treats ~ Afternoon Tea Served Daily! Large Selection of Loose Teas Available Tea Gift Sets Including Tea Forte and Davidson’s Organic Teas, Tea Accessories, Books, Tea Sets, Children’s Tea Sets Authorized Byers Choice Dealer Jim Shore Figurines ~ Unique Ornaments
www.ameliasteasandholly.com 26 South Main St., Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (856) 223-0404 Reservations Recommended Parking in Rear of Building
Gloucester Craftsmen & Home Show
7th Annual Opens on May 6
Springtime has arrived at the Gloucester County 4-H Fairgrounds, 275 Bridgeton Pike, just in time for Mother’s Day weekend. The 7th annual Gloucester Craftsmen & Home Show opens on May 6, from 10am to 4pm and will showcase some of the finest artists and craftsmen from New Jersey. Families visiting the Craft Show can shop from over 100 artists & craftsmen, enjoy delicious food, watch a horse show and get ideas for home decorating. You’ll find wreaths, baskets, quilts, ceramics, jewelry, candles, lotions, glassware, wood working, bird houses, country flags, stepping stones, flowers, baked goods, paintings, and more. Home Show c o m p a n i e s representing hundreds of products and services will be on hand to help you make your spring home renovation ideas come to life! You’ll find everything you need for inside and outside the home from kitchens to backyard patios, to complete basement remodeling services. Come out and talk to the professionals about your next home improvement projects.
This one day event will offer visitors garden supplies, live music, festival food, product demonstrations, All Breed Spring Dog Parade and Contest, Little Miss & Mister Springtime Pageant, $500 Home Depot gift card give-away, exhibits, Farm Produce, Home Based Businesses, Baked Goods, pony rides, face painter, bounce inflatables, shopping and picnic style dining. Gloucester Craft & Home Show is a pet friendly event and consumers are asked to donate a can of pet food for shelters. Artists and craftsmen from many states attend year after year. Shop from over 100 craftsmen offering everything handmade. Bring mom and spend the day with us on May 6th, 10am to 4pm. Tell your friends and plan to attend! If case of rain the event will be held on Sunday, May 7th from 10am to 4pm. Craftsmen, artists, Home & Garden companies, networking businesses, food vendors and Home Party Plans are being sought. Application can be found on line at www.gloucestercraftfair.com Contact Kathy Wright, event planner at 856-7650118.
Happy Easter
Hours: Thurs - Sat 11-4; Sun 12-4
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 11th Mon - Fri 10-6, Sat 9 - 5 (Closed Sundays)
March 11h 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, you’re 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., April 1st, 8th and Good Friday April 14 & 15 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
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
WEST CREEK
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March & April 2017
WEST CREEK
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
ELMER
Peg g y’s Country Gifts & Antiques 203 E Ellm er St & Park Av Avee Elm er, N J 08318 • 856 856--358 -2310
Established 1987
Special sales on select items
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 - NJ, Old Quilts, Cookie Jars, Vintage Doilies, & More! PLEASE NOTE HOURS: Opening Around the End of March. Please call first Thurs - Sat 10:30am – 4-ish Other hours by appointment. Call if coming from distance.
NOW OPEN! Military Building Military WWII items We buy and sell! Building open Fri & Sat.
Classified Ads
TO PL ACE A CL AS SIFIED COUNTR Y AD: PLACE CLAS ASSIFIED COUNTRY These 2x2 ads are offered to crafters, artisans, mail order houses, local events, shop or antique mall space for rent, businesses for sale and similar supporting businesses. Send your ad information along with a check for $40.00 to the address on Pg. 2. Ad copy and check must be received by the 10th of the month preceeding publication. We reserve the right to reject any ad not in keeping with the theme of our paper.
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APRON ART BY JAN ELAINE Unique handmade aprons for serving in your café, tea room, bed & breakfast and home entertaining. www.apronartbyjanelaine.etsy.com
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March & April 2017
VINEL AND VINELAND
Become Inspired
By Annice Bradley Rockwell
Decorating, Entertaining and Living in the Early American Style The Promise of Spring The months of March and April are a time of great promise and true anticipation. With our days slowly brightening and the air holding the intermittent scent of warm earth, our spirits begin to lift for it is almost spring. We tend to long for that strikingly unexpected sunny day where we feel more alive and inspired to plan for the vibrant season ahead. The once stark countryside begins to feel alive with the promise of spring just as we do. The birds begin to chirp and sing and the symbolic flight of the woodcock in a New England meadow at dusk confirms the arrival of this happy time. Farm fields and brown earth slowly transform to touches of green indicating nature’s innate talent to transition. A Symbolic Season of Renewal As we become mindful of the advent of spring, we often spend more time out of doors and it is a time savored. A simple walk to the wintered-over beds of fragrant thyme suggests hardy survival and a promise of the abundance to come. Visiting the raised vegetable beds, we can envision a first planting of peas or even the bountiful blessings that come with a first crop of our own tender lettuce. Chores such as cleaning the yard or decorating our porch provide us the
opportunity to reflect on the season that is safely behind us to focus now on the symbolic season of renewal. Nature’s Spectacular Lead Gathering items to capture the essence of spring is a joyful task. Sturdy antiques can be used to pot beautiful blooms that instantly brighten a porch scene. The contrast between a timeworn piece and nature’s color is uplifting and ideas to create this contrast are endless. Cast iron kettles filled with soil look seasonally special planted with herbs of green and a selective pop of color. Even chairs or primitive baskets that seem beyond use can be put back to work as garden accents when coupled with a blooming plant. Porch doors and windows can be easily enlivened with natural twig wreaths accented with herbal notes. Surrounding ourselves with the symbols of this awakening season provides a soulful lift that we crave and enjoy. And as we plan for the warmer months ahead, it is the early part of spring that gives us the biggest push forward as we endeavor to follow nature’s spectacular lead. – Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques in Connecticut. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com
Easter Recipe File Easter Paska
"This traditional Polish egg bread is wonderfully light with a slightly sweet flavor." Recipe by: Tiffany Leyda Ingredients For the Sponge: 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F) 1/2 cup white sugar 3 cups warm milk 4 cups all-purpose flour For the Dough: 6 eggs, beaten 1/2 cup white sugar 1 cup butter, softened 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest 12 cups all-purpose flour 1 egg 1 tablespoon water 2 tablespoons butter, melted Directions Proof the yeast in 1/2 cup warm water in a large bowl until slightly frothy. In the meantime, dissolve 1/2 cup sugar in the warm milk; allow to cool to lukewarm. Once cooled, add the milk mixture to the yeast mixture along with 4 cups of flour. Mix well with a wooden spoon. Cover and put in a dark, warm place until the mixture is bubbly and doubled in size, about 2 hours. Stir in the beaten eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 cup butter, salt, and lemon peel. Stir well to blend. Begin adding the remaining flour a cup at a time to form a very soft dough. Knead the dough on a floured board until soft and elastic, about 10 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and allow to rise in a warm place until doubled, about 2 hours. Punch dough down, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes. Divide dough into three parts (see Cook's Note). Shape into slightly rounded loaves, and place on greased baking sheets. Let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush onto loaves. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake in preheated oven until loaves are deep brown, 45 to 50 minutes. Once they are done, brush the tops with melted butter for a soft crust. © 2017 Allrecipes.com Printed With Permission From Allrecipes.com
Rt. 55 Exit 32
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With coupon only. Not valid with other offers. Expires April 30, 2017 - TCR
By Patsy Terrell
Making Connections At the Tallgrass Writing Workshop last year in Emporia, author Max McCoy said, “Write from the inside out,” during his presentation about mystery writing. When I reread my notes later, the first thing that came to me was that we should live from the inside out. Max was saying that in mystery writing you have to know the nuances of the story – where you’re going with it. While we can’t know all the twists and turns life will present to us, it is helpful to have an idea of where we’d like to go. Admittedly, this is not easy work. Knowing ourselves, our motivations, our weaknesses and the events from the past that affect us today is a tall order. But, I think it’s a worthy one. It often means facing things we would rather keep hidden, even from ourselves. Perhaps most diligently from ourselves. But when we know ourselves inside out, we are able to look at the world through a less cloudy lens. We can question our reactions because we understand our motivations. One of the things I know about myself is that I have a drive to create. Sometimes that happens with words, sometimes with paint, sometimes with occasions. In all of these things it’s about creating a connection. I am confident that connection is one of the most important tasks we have in our lives. What other purpose do we have? We learn about ourselves by interacting with others. We observe how they respond to things and ponder the
applications for our own lives. It’s possible because of the connections we have built. One of the things often with us when we’re making connections with other people is food. From birthday cakes to family celebrations to lunches with friends, food gives us a way to build traditions and make memories. Our recipe this month is one I’ve shared with friends many times over the years. You can whip it up in just a few minutes and it cooks in the microwave. –Patsy Terrell makes brownies and friends whenever possible. See more recipes and stories at cookslibrarywithpatsy.com. Brownies 1 Brownies 2 eggs 1 cup sugar 1/2 cup margarine, melted 1/2 cup flour 1/3 cup cocoa Salt to taste 1/2 cup nuts, optional In mixer beat eggs, blend in sugar and melted butter. Add flour, cocoa and salt and mix. Stir in vanilla and nuts. Pour into ungreased microwave safe dish. I use an 8 by 8 glass dish but a glass pie plate will do, too.\Microwave at medium (50%) for 6 minutes. Turn quarter turn and microwave at 100% for 1-3 minutes until mixture begins to dry on top. .
Page 12
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
CAPE MA Y MAY
The Knitting Savant
Stitch By Stitch
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 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. 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..
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS
May 2nd – Save the Date for Feasting on History The 17th Annual Restaurant Gala at the NASW Aviation Museum. Featuring over 40 area restaurants, wineries, breweries, bakeries and more! Advance ticket sales only.
An Early American Living History Museum 720 Route 9, Cape May, NJ 3 Miles North of Cape May City Admission Charge (unless noted) - Free Parking
Call for more information 609-898-2300 or visit our website: www.hcsv.org
March Dates to Celebrate As with most of the other months, March is named for a Roman god. Mars, mostly known as the god of war, but he was also considered an ancestor of the Roman people and a guardian of agriculture. It was thought that he oversaw the new growth in Spring. March is special to me as my birthday is the 19th. (No, I’m not telling you what year.) We are all familiar with St. Patrick’s Day on the 17, the beginning of Spring on the 20th, and also the beginning of Daylight Savings Time which starts on the 12th this year. But there are quite a few holidays you may not be aware of. On the 1st you can celebrate National Pig Day. The 2nd is Dr. Seuss Day. National Barbie Day is the 9th. You might want to celebrate that one
by Jo Branham
with your daughter. Another couple of days to celebrate with your children are National Children’s Craft Day on the 14th and National Crayon Day on the 31st. National Quilting Day is the 18th this year and National American Diabetes Association Alert Day is on the 28th. There are a number of food related holidays this month. March 6th was my Dad’s birthday and is also National Chocolate Cheesecake Day. He would have loved that! Also: 9th is National Meatball Day; 14th is National Potato Chip Day; and the 19th is National Chocolate Caramel Day, National Poultry Day and National Corn Dog Day, all rolled into one glorious day. Sounds like a corn dog for lunch and fried chicken for dinner kind of day!
By Andrea Springer
Knitting for That Baby Face Like many of us, I check social media daily to see what’s up the world. One of my favorite parts of my feed is the babies. We have a daily ritual of sharing the photos our family and friends post of their little ones, usually with the exclamation, “Aww, look at that peanut!” After a day of grown up challenges, these little faces are a shot of sunshine. We welcomed new “peanuts” to our family and neighborhood recently. I designed this simple rolled brim hat for gifts, using a striping method called the Helix Technique that eliminates the color “jog” that happens when knitting in the round. Three colors are used in each round, each working progressively, section by section, creating a “helix” of color. This pattern is topped with an Icord knot and is a simple gift to frame that sweet baby face! Look At That Peanut! Hat This simple rolled brim hat pattern uses the Helix technique to knit stripes. • Sizes: Baby (14” circumference) / Toddler ( 16” circumference) • 3 colors of DK weight yarn (A, B, & C), approximately 125 yards total • Needles: US #6 – can use DPN’s and/or 40” circular using the Magic Loop method • Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle Pattern Cast on 77 / 88 stitches. Join to work in the round, being careful not to twist. Place a marker at the beginning of the round. With Color A, knit until the hat measures 1.25” from the cast on edge. The edge will roll naturally. Next Round: K 25/ 29. Place marker. K 26 / 29. Place marker. K 26 / 30. The beginning marker is here. If you’re using DPN’s, you can arrange the stitches on three separate needles. Begin Helix Technique Striping: Helix Round 1: Knit 25 / 29 to the first marker with Color A. Drop Color A. Pick
up Color B and knit to the second marker. Drop Color B. Pick up Color C and knit to the beginning marker. Helix Round 2: Continue knitting past the beginning marker with Color C to the first marker, where Color A will be waiting. Drop Color C. Pick up Color A and knit to the second marker. Drop Color A. Pick up Color B and knit to the beginning marker. Make sure not to pull the first stitch in the transition too tight so it doesn’t pucker. Continue in this manner, picking up the waiting color at the first and second markers, and knitting with the color picked up at the second marker to the beginning marker and then on to the first marker (you will work two sections in each round with a single color). Work until the piece measures 4.25” / 4.75” from the rolled brim. Decrease Round 1: Decrease 2 / 3 stitches evenly around. 75/85 stitches remain. Decrease Round 2: K2tog, K3, repeat to the end. 60 / 68 stitches remain. Knit 5 rounds. Decrease Round 3: K2tog, K2, repeat to the end. 45 / 51 stitches remain. Knit 5 rounds. Decrease Round 4: K2tog, K1, repeat to the end. 30 / 34 stitches remain. Knit 3 rounds. At this point, knit with Color A only. Decrease Round 5: K2tog, repeat to the end, K1. 15 / 17 stitches remain. Repeat this round 2 more times. You should have 4 / 5 stitches left. Using two DPN’s, work the remaining stitches in I-cord for 1.5” and bind off. Weave in loose ends and tie a single knot in the I-cord to finish the top! –Andrea Springer blogs at www.knittingsavant.com where she helps folks remember that they have everything they need to be successful in knitting and in life. You can share comments or ideas with her at andrea@knittingsavant.com or follow Knitting
Recipes From Breezy Manor Farm Grandmother Clara’s Angel Food Cake (Uniced - of course!)
13 egg whites 1 cup flour 1/8 t. salt 1 t. cream of tartar 1 ½ cups sugar
See Article on Page 14
Diections: Beat the egg whites til very foamy in a large metal bowl (Grandmother beat hers with a wire wisk, I use a mixer). Add the cream of tartar. Beat til stiff. Fold in the dry ingredients gently. Add the vanilla. Pour into a tube pan, ungreased. Bake on the lower rack in your oven 55 minutes at 350 degrees. Remove from oven when done, turn pan upside down on a rack on the counter. Leave til cool. Then slide a knife around the edge of the pan to release the cake. Serve uniced. from: Donna Jo Copeland, who is a farmeress/fiber artist and owner of Breezy Manor Farm
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March & April 2017
MORRISTOWN - RED BANK - SOMERSET Est. 1964
The Antique Center of Red Bank Sundays 12-5pm
Daily 11-5pm
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
Morris County HistoriCal soCiety at aCorn Hall Spring is in the air so plan to visit the Morris County Historical Society at Acorn Hall! Built in 1853, the mansion was remodeled in 1860 in the Italianate Villa-style. Donated to the Society by Mary Crane Hone in 1971, Acorn Hall is recognized for its authenticity and Victorian grandeur. Complete your day with a visit to its Victorian gardens, and The Gallery Gift Shop. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m Exhibit: “1917: World War, Women’s Rights, and Weaponry Sciences” through June 25, 2017. The MCHS commemorates the sacrifices of Morris County residents in WWI. Learn of the men and women who went to war, some never to return, the struggle of women to gain the right to vote, and the advancements in the science of warfare. WWI era clothing and uniforms, weaponry and militaria, and many artifacts are displayed.
Free Pattern
Find more free patterns at: JacquelynneSteves.com
See website for more details - www.acornhall.org Find us on FaceBook, Twitter and Instagram 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960
Stories of a Farm Wife
by Tammy Page
A “Spring” in my Step The months of December, January and February have been pretty good to us as far as cold and icy weather goes. The Midwest has been lucky this winter and has had very little snow, which is ok by me. With spring fast approaching, I am so looking forward to the appearance of singing birds and sunshine through the windows warming my farm home. With temperatures rising into the 50’s I enjoy pulling out my small decorative tables, my welcome signs and spring flags. Finding these things is no small task in my over-crowded, much needing a cleaning, catch-all garage. That’s another story in itself and a full day of sorting and pitching. Some of my favorites to include in my yard décor are the brightly colored flags that greet visitors into our driveway. Another favorite is a big basket of red gerbera daisies that look so life-like they look just- picked. I put those on my table
on the back patio to welcome back door visitors. My table on the patio is the also a perfect place to rest my watering can and use as a potting stand. The arrival of red birds, blue jays and finches are the hope of soon-to-come warmer days and brings a spring to my step. A friend of mine who is an avid bird watcher and has a menagerie of feeders on her deck has a contest with her husband on who can see the first robin of the season. It’s always fun to hear about their first sighting. We all have our own idea of what sights and sounds announce the spring season. For me, it’s the sight of new sprouts of grass, the smell of crocus and tulips and freshly plowed fields. Top that off with a gentle shower of rain and you know it is spring! –Tammy Page lives on an Indiana working farm with her family, farm animals and many pets. She enjoys writing and adding to her farm collections during searches of local shops.
Use this pattern for embroidery, wool applique, punch needle or rug hooking, painted projects or whatever your imagination can dream up! Reduce or enlarge pattern as desired. Commer cial use is strictl ohibited. Commercial strictlyy pr prohibited.
We love to see the projects that you have made from our patterns. If you decide to post projects based on one of our patterns on a blog or website, please give design credit to Jacquelynne Steves. Thank you!
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
DEL AWARE - NEIGHB ORING ST ATE DELA NEIGHBORING STA
Life on the Farm
by Donna Jo Copeland
The Rites of Spring Sliding into March 1st after one very up and down winter, it doesn’t seem possible spring is near. Maybe early spring flowers will pop their heads up and bloom. Talking with mom last night she reminded me of spring greens. When she was young she would often accompany her grandmother into the woods to cut fresh greens— anything green---dandelions, plantain, pokeweed, wild asparagus and others. They brought the basket into the kitchen, washed the greens and put them into a pot of water to boil. The first water was poured off. Pot refilled and a piece of fatback or bacon was added. At the table everyone got a helping of greens. Sometimes sweet and good, sometimes very bitter. But the spring greens were good for you (oh how I remember those words…). On my wee farm, spring is another season of mud and pasture flooding. Often I have dreamed about small wellies for my sheep. Fortunately my breeds have sound feet. The spring shearing will happen in late March. Maven, Caileen, Rosie, Orion, Zoe, Kahula, Essie Mae and Belle Starr are waiting. Even with my damaged hand I will shear my ram myself—he has never been handled by a man and I don’t want to start now that he is 15 years old. Cup and I have an understanding. After shearing I will have wonderful fresh fleeces to wash. I just love seeing my yard dotted with racks of drying fleece. The nesting birds like it too--often a male Robin will try to make off with a huge pile of wool. They think bigger is better when it comes to nest material.
Spring is also garden time—peas on St. Patrick’s Day, potatoes on Good Friday. Early spinach and lettuce as soon as the ground is ready. I fill 2 liter bottles w i t h water to act as hot water bottles in the garden for the tender plants. Every year I have to rein myself in as its just me and I don’t need a huge garden. But digging in the dirt is so much fun and so is wiggling my toes in fresh turned earth. After winter’s chill I just can’t wait to go barefoot! Every day in March and April I poke around looking for what is coming up— snowdrops, crocus, Johnny Jumpups, daffodils, bluebells. I collect dandelion greens for the bunnies, leaving the blossoms for the honey bees. No matter how March comes in I always pray it will leave like a lamb. In early spring the old hens will lay eggs and continue til the hot weather sets in. With this abundance my great grandmother always made angel food cakes—my favorite. Uniced. And then homemade noodles with stewed chicken. Sunday dinners fit for royalty. April brings fiber/wool shows. Its fun to reconnect with other shepherdesses. Fellowship is a big part of the fiber and wool world. We work hard and have a passion unbridled, our hours long, our contentment mammoth. No matter how terrible the world, for generations peace comes in the serene gaze of a contented ewe. And in the shepherdess as she surveys her flock. We are blessed. – © by Donna Jo Copeland, who is a farmeress/fiber artist and owner of Breezy Manor Farm & Wool Shed in Mooresville, IN. “Like” her on FACEBOOK @ Breezy Manor Farm.
Over The Tea Cup
By Janet Young
Outdoors in Spring
Spring…the time of year between winter and summer. The time of year to plan all the projects which have been temporarily put on hold. For, after a long cold winter, we become inspired by the warmer temperatures and the longer daylight hours. For all gardeners, this is their season to shine, as they prepare the landscape and their gardens for a bountiful harvest come summer. For parents of young children, this is the time when at last, you can take your toddler to the park and allow her to release her unbounding energy. Spring is the beginning of outdoor activities such as the first picnic of the season, or perhaps you might want to entertain some guests with an outdoor garden tea party. With St. Patty’s Day and Easter celebrations this time of year, there are plenty of celebratory occasions. So, why not take the celebrations outdoors. If you are so fortunate to have a porch or even a patio, there is nothing more inviting than to be outside to enjoy the fresh new dawning of spring. This past fall, I was invited to speak at an historical mansion with a large wraparound porch. It was a warm September afternoon with the sun shining brightly. All the tables and chairs were placed strategically around the porch. The wait staff was dressed in period costume, pushing the tea cart serving tea, and then
offering a wonderful assortment of sandwiches and desserts. It was a lovely tea. Yet somehow I believe it was enhanced by being outdoors. For, as the guests ate, they were able to look out over an expanse of land and view the skyline and the natural setting that cannot be duplicated indoors. It was a memorable experience. So, even if you do not have a view of that magnitude, there is just something about being outdoors that brings life to the party. Yes, spring is a most wonderful time of the year! However, it is but a brief respite before the heat of summer descends upon us. So, if you think you might like to try a garden tea party or some other outdoor activity, now is the time to plan and to prepare before an inevitable heat wave surfaces. In the meantime, if you have never tried outdoor entertaining before, I hope I have inspired you to at least think about a creative way you might incorporate at least part of your celebration outdoors. It will bring a new spark to your event and who knows, it just may mark the beginning of a new way to celebrate and/or entertain your family and friends. –Janet Young, Certified Tea and EtiquetteConsultant, is a founding member of Mid-Atlantic Tea Business Association and freelance writer/national tea presenter. Visit her website at www.overtheteacup.com.
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March & April 2017
DEL AWARE DELA
This Space Reserved For Your Shop or Show Info from an advertiser: “You folks do a great job with design and I can honestly say that going into my 9th year in business, your paper has been the best advertising vehicle I’ve used.”
Welcome to
Serendipity Quilt Shop
• Over 3500 Bolts of premium cotton fabrics • Flannel • Wool • Stitchery • Rug Hooking • Quilting and Sewing Classes • Books, Patterns and Notions www.serendipityquiltshop.com
Cats & Quilts My ‘Fur’less Mom If you have pets, you undoubtedly wish you could understand what they are trying to tell you. They do their best to communicate with us and with each other. If she could talk, here is what our Lily might say. Life changed at our house recently and our ‘fur’less mom is home a lot more. That means we have to behave—or at least get into trouble quietly and in a spot where she can’t see us. Ever since she rescued me from the middle of the road (where the mean people left me), our lives had been pretty much the same from day to day. Mom would wake up, feed us and play with us, then head out the door to work. Most days she did not return home until time to feed us again. We missed her a lot but she told us if we wanted kitty food, kitty litter and treats, then she had to go to work. Many days she returned home to a mess and I always blamed it on Gracie. (Even though Gracie is too old and grumpy to have any fun and Lacey and I had done the deed.) This summer, all that changed. We moved to a new house where we have lots of stairs to run and play on and our ‘fur’less mom stays at home with us. She still goes to work but now her work is downstairs in what she calls the studio. We like having mom at home and now we get to help. For instance, just this week when she went upstairs for lunch, I helped by knocking everything off of her cutting table. She gets pretty messy as she works and, with my help, she got to organize it all again. The day before that, I helped rearrange the quilt blocks she was working on. (In a much better pattern if I do say so myself!) I even hid the one I did not like, giving her the opportunity to make another one that was much better than the first. Sometimes her color choices need a little help. When this happens, Lacey and I try our best to point her in a different direction but last week nothing helped. I finally had to throw up on the red she wanted to use in order to get her to try something else. Little does she know just how much we help her with these difficult design choices. Lacey and I are also concerned about mom’s health. We often bring her toys, like pretend mice and little balls, and we
by Deb Heatherly insist she take a break during the day and play with us. This makes her get up and stretch as well as give her eyes a break from that box she stares at for hours on end when she is writing patterns. She always thanks us and we make her smile. (Well, at least most of the time.) You see, there was that one day when she didn’t smile very much. I was just doing my job and trying to protect her from caffeine. I’d heard on the TV that too much of that stuff is not good for ‘fur’less parents. So when mom wasn’t looking I took my foot and knocked over her diet Pepsi. Yes, I knew exactly what I was doing (which she pointed out to my ‘fur’less dad when he got home), but I love her and want to keep her away from things that might harm her. Even so, that was not a good day. After she cleaned up the mess, she was pretty grumpy for the rest of the afternoon and I do not think I’ll try that again. She and her diet Pepsi are on their own. Finally, we are also in charge of protecting mom while she works. Maggie, the dog, thinks that’s her job but all she does is bark. She also goes outside a lot so this important job falls to me. Mom says I do a great job and told me I was a very brave girl last week when a ladybug snuck into the studio and I single handedly killed it all by myself. (Take that, Gracie! Like usual, I was working while you sat on the couch and slept.) Boy, being assistants to a quilt designer is tough work, but we are more than happy to be able to help. Maggie, Lacey, Gracie and I are excited that our ‘fur’less mom now works from home and we look forward to helping her design rulers and patterns for many years to come. Author’s Note to Photo: If these two could talk: "I can't believe she picked that fabric." "Me either." "What was she thinking?" "She needs to let us help next time." –Deb Heatherly is a Creative Grids® designer and author of the books Cat’itude and Strippy Stars. She can be found traveling the country to speak and teach Creative Grids® workshops. Visit her website: www.Debscatsnquilts.com for more information. Contact her at Debscatsnquilts@aol.com or on her Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/DebscatsnquiltsFranklin.
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Closed Sun
Flowers Mean Spring It’s getting warmer. The sun seems to be shining just a little bit brighter. The forsythia and lilac bushes are budding. The crocuses, tulips, narcissuses and daffodils are blooming. Spring time is here and it’s time to start planning those summer gardens. One of my favorite Spring memories is of helping Mom plant the flower garden. We had different areas around the yard where she planted flowers. She was a big moss rose fan, so we usually had them in a couple spots. We could count on having marigolds, zinnias, cosmos and hollyhocks most every year. Every once in a while she’d add something new, like tiger lilies and gladiolus.
by Jo Branham
I love the flowers I’ve mentioned above. Most of all, I love the memories they bring back to me. A friend recently shared how she ran across her mom’s old cookbook while cleaning out her cookbook stash, and how the memories of time spent in the kitchen with her mom came flooding back. Flowers, especially the ones I’ve named here, affect me the same way. Whether they’re ones I’ve planted or flowers I see growing in my neighbor’s yards as I’m driving down the road, they bring back those precious memories of Spring days spent outside with my mother. –Jo Branham lives in Nashville, IN with her cat. She enjoys quilting, shopping and writing .
Page 16
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
W00DSTOWN
25 East Avenue Woodstown, New Jersey 08098 (former location of Scarecrow Factory)
85 6 - 521-0401
GRAND REOPENING! MARCH 1, 2017 20% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE REFRESHMENTS & DOOR PRIZES
Featuring gifts for the elegant hostess and the warm & inviting country home Beautiful Flowers, Country Kitchen & Bath Accessories, Swan Creek Candles & Crossroad Candles, Slates, Flags & Garden Decor, Seasonal Country Decor, and so much more Major Credit Cards Accepted · Gift Certificates Available · Layaway Available Open Tuesday - Saturday 10-5 · Wednesdays: Senior Citizens receive 15% off
“OUR CHILDREN ARE A GIFT FROM GOD ON LOAN FROM HEAVEN ABOVE.”