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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
Happy Holidays from all of us!
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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 • Nov. & Dec. 2016 • Vol. 17 No. 4 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.
I know! I find it as hard to believe as you must. Can it be true that it is the Holiday Season already? If you need proof just visit any of the shops advertising in this issue of The Country Register and see the beautiful Thanksgiving and Christmas displays that only our advertisers can bring you. They have worked for months hand making, shopping for and gathering all the best for the Holidays and you will be amazed at the choices you find this year. Review the list of Holiday Open Houses the shops have scheduled, which are listed on the following page, and mark your calendar accordingly. You won’t want to miss them! Now is the time to “make your list and check it twice” to be sure you don’t miss that special, oneof-a kind gift you know your loved one will cherish.
Our writers have lots of ideas not only for making your Holiday Season less stressful but also for recipes and gift ideas that might simplify your planning and gift giving. When you visit the shops and events who advertise with us this season please remember to thank them for bringing you The Country Register. It is their ad dollars that keep this publication coming your way every two months.
Let’s Go Shopping-
AND THE GR ANDKIDS! GRANDKIDS!
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. 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
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Publications All Across The United States & Canada USA Alabama: Amy & David Carter, 866-825-9217 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: Michael Dempsey, 919-661-1760 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: Michael Dempsey, 919-661-1760 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: Michael Dempsey, 919-661-1760 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
by Mrs. Julie A. Druck
Finding the Peace
Upon recently sorting through a tote of Christmas decorations, I came across a small cardboard box. Inside was a hodge-podge of plastic nativity figures that were bought a few summers ago at a yard sale. What drew me to them originally was their uniqueness. Though they were plastic, they were obviously vintage and from a decade in which plastic was the exception instead of the norm. At 50 cents for the box, the decision was quickly made for them to come home and be tucked away for the enjoyment of future grandchildren. The little box typically gets moved aside to get out the “real” decorations, but I decided there just might be a spot in the house for that nativity this year. Now that one of our chicks has left the nest, there’s a room upstairs with some extra space in it. There, on top of an old desk, seemed a good spot where the angels and camels and company could spend a little time this season. As each piece was pulled out and arranged into the scene, the usual were found: Mary and Joseph, three Wise Men, some shepherds and sheep, a lone donkey and two angels. I particularly love the three camels, each one having a gold cord attached to their very own handler – presumably, servants of the three Wise Men. Something else that endears me to these figures is their apparent age. It’s obvious by looking at them that they’ve been around for awhile and have seen better days. One of the camels and a sheep each have a broken leg, some of the lambs’ eyes are worn off, the donkey’s coat is pretty scruffy, and one of the shepherds is looking mighty washed out. No matter – I set them all up in places to their advantage and tried to arrange those with missing limbs in stable positions.
The scene being nearly complete, I dove back into the box for the Piece of Pieces, the Baby Jesus. But lo and behold, the box was empty. What disappointment! As I looked at the forlorn little scene, with expectant-faced members eagerly facing forward, bowed and ready to show honor to the One they came to worship, I contemplated putting it all away. For what’s a manger scene without the One Whom we celebrate? A f t e r considering it, I realized that the vintage vignette is actually a good illustration of our world today. Each ragtag figurine reminding me that we, too, come to the celebration with missing limbs and blurry eyes and broken spirits. Yet we come with expectancy and hope, looking for someone or something to heal our hurt, our pain and our hearts once and for all. We wonder, “Where is peace?” – looking to find it in a program, a policy, or a political agenda. And we find ourselves staring into empty space. But the angels gave us the answer. It was delivered in the birth announcement on that holy - but not very silent - night long ago: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill among men.” Peace was, and continues to be, found in the One called Emmanuel, “God with us.” He is not lost; we do not need to find Him. He is with us. In our brokenness, He is with us – continually holding out His hand for us to grasp, knowing that we’ll find hope and love and healing and true peace only in the midst of His embrace. –Julie Druck is from York, Pennsylvania, and writes from her farm in Skunk Hollow. There she seeks to follow God by serving her family, keeping her home, and encouraging others. thedrucks@netzero.com.
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November & December 2016
Events Listing
Advertiser Index
See shop & show ads for complete details.
Shops are listed alphabetically by location. Cities & Shops
P age # Page
Cape May ............................. 15 Historic Cold Spring Village Stitch by Stitch Elmer ..................................... 5 Peggy’s Country Gifts/Antiques Morristown .......................... 13 Acorn Hall Mullica Hill ........................... 7 Amelia’s Teas & Holly Creamy Acres Farm Needles & Pins Newton ................................ 12 Wilbur’s Country Store Pedricktown .......................... 6 Heart Felt Designs The ETC Shop Pitman ................................. 16 Olde Pear Primitives Red Bank ............................. 13 Antique Center of Red Bank
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, 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.
Cities & Shops
P age # Page
Salem ..................................... 4 Cawman’s Antique Mall Suse-E-Q’s Cottage Vineland .............................. 11 The Pin Cushion West Creek ......................... 8, 9 KC Creations Woodstown .......................... 16 The Scarecrow Factory Delaware Bethany Beach .................... 14 Sea Needles Dagsboro ............................. 14 Serendipity Newark ................................ 14 The Blue Hen Bed & Breakfast
Day
Event
November
Page #
5 5 5, 6 12 12 25 25-27 25-27
Candlelight Walk - Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May ....................... 15 Celebrate the Holidays - Scarecrow Factory, Woodstown ........................... 16 Christmas Open House - Heart Felt Designs, Pedricktown ......................... 6 Customer Appreciation Day - The ETC Shop, Pedricktown ....................... 6 Holiday Open House - Olde Pear Primitives, Pitman .................................. 16 Opening of Nights of Lights Hayride - Creamy Acres, Mullica Hill .......... 7 Special Holiday Weekend - Heart Felt Designs, Pedricktown ....................... 6 Special Holiday Weekend - The ETC Shop , Pedricktown ............................ 6
Day
Event
2-4 3 10, 11 18
Holiday Open House/Anniversary Sale - Cawman’s, Salem ......................... 4 Wassail Day - Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May ................................ 15 Holiday Tea - Amelia’s Teas & Holly, Mullica Hill .......................................... 7 Tea with Mrs. Claus - Amelia’s Teas & Holly, Mullica Hill ............................ 7
December
Page #
Out of State ......................... 10 Web-Based ........................... 10
APRON ART BY JAN ELAINE Unique handmade aprons for serving in your café, tea room, bed & breakfast and home entertaining. www.apronartbyjanelaine.etsy.com
Holiday Word Scramble
Are you organizing a local arts, crafts or antique show?
Need exhibitors/crafters?
This is Your spot! Advertise right here with The Country Register classifieds. Reach over 70,000 readers for $40! Call or Fax by the 1st of the month prior to the issue date to be in our next issues -
Phone: 888-616-8319 / Fax: 800-609-0278
Our Jan/Feb Edition will feature...
Quilting, Sewing and Needle Arts Call NOW to place your ad so that your shop does not miss out on all of the sewing enthusiasts who save this edition each year for shopping Send your info to: in@countryregisteronline.com We will reply with an ad design for your consideration.
From Susan’s Recipe File
Every Holiday Breakfast Casserole 1 lb. sausage, cooked and drained 8 eggs 1 (5.5 oz.) pkg. seasoned croutons 2 c. (16 oz. carton) 1/2 & 1/2 1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese 1 1/2 c. milk 1 c. shredded Swiss cheese 1 1/2 t. dry mustard 1 c. shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1 T. minced onion Layer in greased 9 x 13 baking dish: 1. croutons 2. cheeses 3. sausage Beat together remaining ingredients and pour over top. Cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning (or at least 8 hours to give the croutons time to soak up the liquid), bake 50-60 min. at 350°. 12 hearty servings.
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
SALEM
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
Cawman’s
Antique Mall
Antiques & Things on Consignment
Re g u lar We d - H r s : 1 0 a m Su n -5pm
BIG WEEKEND – DECEMBER 2nd - 4th Combining: Holiday Open House & 15th Anniversary Sale
Watch for “after” Christmas Sale on Facebook
• Folk Guitar Singer on Dec 3 & 4, 2 to 4 • Pictures with Santa on Dec 3, 1 to 4 • Door Prizes and Light Refreshments • Many Anniversary Sales in the Vendor Booths
Wed to Sat 10 - 5; Sun Noon - 4 Closed Mon & Tues Major Credit Cards Welcome
Week of Christmas: D ec 19-24 M on-F ri 10-5; SSat at 10-2; Closed 25 Dec Mon-F on-Fri
Ov er 40 Vendors in 12,000 sq ft • SSee ee us on F acebook Over Facebook
529 SSalem alem Q uinton R oad, SSalem, alem, NJ 08079 Quinton Road, 856-935-0423 • C r edit C ar ds A ccepted ift C er tificates Cr Car ards Accepted • G Gift Cer ertificates Su se-E-Q ’s C ot Suse-E-Q Cot otttage
What’s in Your Wall–…er…Cupboard? Start Your Collection
Holiday Musings Upon A New Decade
By Kerri Habben
Today I received an early Christmas present. Some time ago I was affirmed when I saw my grandmother in a dream. I was in her home and everything was where it had always been. She came around the corner into the den wearing a nightgown, the blue one with pink flowers. “You’re here.” I murmured in wonder from where I sat in the rust chair Uncle Henry bought for Aunt Wilma. I went to her and wrapped my arms around her, enfolding her as a treasure one never expected to hold again. She was solid and real. “Of course,” she answered, embracing me but glancing a bit askance. “Where else would I be?” Last night I dreamt of her again. We were in her home, she again wearing the same nightgown. Today I was in a storage area off our garage looking for some supplies. Moving things around, fabric fell from a nearly empty box. Before me waited the blue nightgown with pink flowers, neatly folded. With that I was infused with the true spirit of the season. This is the eleventh holiday season for Mom and I since our mother and grandmother passed away. Huba, as I called her, was the last of our family here, with the rest living in different parts of the country. So for Thanksgiving and Christmas it is just the two of us. We share a home, and we treasure the precious rhythm of daily life all year through. For those who have faced loss or traumatic change during the past year, the holidays present a unique challenge. Often we see ourselves in strangers and they see themselves in us. Then, perhaps, we are no longer unknown to one another. In our common humanity we are connected by our joys and our sorrows,
our resilience and our hopes. We may wear a range of skin colors, emerge from diverse backgrounds, and worship in different ways. Together we are all navigating this precious journey called life. Back to celebrating holidays. We mail our packages by the first week in December. We write our season’s greetings, most of which are sent in due time for their destination. We decorate with special items from over the years. Aunt Wilma’s velvet-suited Santa Claus is set out, and Huba’s ceramic church graces the front table. I write my letter to Santa Claus. I never actually mail it. I merely write it to take stock of where I am at the tail end of one year and at the cusp of the next. These last few years I find myself compiling a list of what I treasure rather than what I want. I ask Mr. Claus, who is an example in giving, not to give up on us. That even with all of the strife and sadness in this world, we may yet discover and offer the best of ourselves to each other. On Christmas we usually go out to eat at a chain restaurant that is open that day. We carry a handmade gift for our server. We call our relatives and friends or they call us. We open our gifts. Always the moment arrives when we realize the room around us isn’t full of people and yet it is. For our loved ones are always with us, even as they are safe and whole in the palm of God’s hand. Thus in our prayerful hearts and houses of memory the past, present, and future breathe a grateful, joyful sigh. –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. Kerri has gathered a decade of essays she is working to publish. She can be reached at 913jeeves@gmail.com
When friend, Angela McInnis (who crafted the quilt for my book cover), posted a pictorial record of her new Fiesta collection on Facebook, I rushed to check my own kitchen collectables, including vintage Fiesta, partying behind my cupboard doors. Goodness, but her new Fiesta was charming! Did I like it better than the old? I read that it’s now (and has been) the most popular line of everyday dishes for Macy’s. Unlike the old, the new stuff has added wonderful pastel colors, is microwaveable, and dishwasher safe. Nice. My daughter uses hers daily & her kids love to pick out their own plate colors. (Me, too.) But my Fiesta is all from the 1930s and ‘40s and must be handwashed. No microwave use. Yet, has a charm of its own. Unlike some of my collections acquired over many years, picking through antique stores, yard sales, and online, the Fiesta came to me in an unusual way. A friend of mine was getting rid of boxes of old things off loaded by someone. “Do what you want with these,” she’d been advised. Knowing I was a collector, she invited me over to check them out and help her decide what to toss and what to keep. Deep in the first box, I found treasure. And became over-the-moon-excited about some Vaseline glass pieces, hoping to absorb one or two into my small collection. I oo-ed & ah-ed so much, she decided to keep them all. Rats. But one box housed quite a lot of old Fiesta ware ready to use. The colors were mainly cobalt, yellow, light green, and ivory. Plus a couple broken bits, some chipped plates, and a cup with no handle. Of little interest to my friend, she offered the entire box to me for $75.00. Of course, I’d hoped for my favorite price. Free. But her price seemed fair. A few special pieces beckoned from the bottom. A carafe with its rare top and a
by Cathy Elliott
mint, covered casserole. Later, shopping for missing pieces out in the antique world, I realized that three dinner plates alone might cost $75.00. I had almost an entire set of dishes! Along with the Fiesta in my cupboard, reside my everyday dishes – a monax American Sweetheart set from the Depression era. They are lovely in form, opalescent, with a raised design decorating scalloped edges. Unlike the Fiesta, it took me ages to collect the A m e r i c a n Sweetheart. The top shelf is populated with early Franciscan ware (Gladding McBean) in a creamy, swirl pattern. A service for twelve, they have appeared in many Thanksgivings at my home, doing utilitarian duty in a most elegant way. I look into my cupboards and see great value there. Not how much they are worth. But the years of pleasure I’ve had, treasure hunting with like-minded dear ones. I see places I’ve been and conversations and laughter. They are more than colorful dishes. They represent shared experiences. A very special lady once said to me, “Things do not satisfy. Only Jesus satisfies.” I so agree. These dishes are just things that will break and chip. They won’t last. But He knows what delights my collector heart. So I’ll enjoy them in the here & now, until the day when I’m walking on the streets of gold. – Now retired from the day job as a Library Information Technician, Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer in northern California, creating cozy mysteries and more on her trusty laptop. She has authored three cozy mysteries with the newest – A Stitch in Crime released in 2015, in tandem with the RErelease of a companion book, A Vase of Mistaken Identity. Find out more at: www.cathyelliottbooks.wordpress.com
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November & December 2016
ELMER
Peg g y’s Country Gifts & Antiques
Established 1987
203 E Ellm er St & Park Av Avee • E Ellm er, N J 08318 • 856 856--358 -2310 Handmade Soap - All Natural “Cherokee Pride Soap Company” Old Sleds • 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 Holiday 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, Cupboards - late 1800-1900’s, Special Enamel top tables, Milk Bottles - NJ, sales on Old Quilts, Cookie Jars, Vintage Doilies, & More!
ry r e M tmas s i r h C
New Antiques Every 2 weeks
select items
PLEASE NOTE HOURS: Hrs for Nov/Dec: 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! This building open Fri & Sat.
Gather – A Vintage Market
By Simone Gers
Souvenirs: Markers of Our Lives Last spring at the market, we had several customers who were visiting Tucson and were buying awesome collectibles to take home in their suitcases. One lady was buying a large jar of liquid wax. I triple wrapped it and advised her to slip the whole thing into a zip lock bag before she put it in her suitcase. I love seeing what other people love so much they are prepared to pack them in their suitcases or carry onto planes. How cool is it to bring home some awesome antique instead of another t-shirt or ball cap? I have a catalogue of stories around antique souvenirs. After 35 years of marriage to a collector, I can tell you most of my luggage and carryon bags are stuffed to the gills with whatever my husband Tray thinks he can get home. One year, he had three crystal chandeliers in our carry-on pieces. Another time, it was an antique gumball machine—the kind with the big glass dome. It weighed a ton. Our clothes become wrap and cushion for all his finds. One year, when we were leaving Paris, Tray stuffed a bunch of art in one of the duffle bags. One of the pieces was big. I remember looking at it on the street as he was deciding whether or not he could get it home. I kept say, “It’s kinda big.” And he kept saying, “I think I can make it work.” And he did. He had to wrangle with the French gate agent who kept saying,
“But sir, it has to fit through the door of the conveyor belt.” And Tray kept saying, “Let me redo it,” until he was able to reorganize so the whole thing slowly pushed through the plastic flaps. He beamed at her when it finally made it. I’m sure she was thinking the baggage guys are going to love this. To Tray’s delight, all of the art made it home in one piece. Antique souvenirs are legendary in our home. When our boys were little and Tray would return from a business trip, he’d sit us all down on the sofa and make a big deal of pulling each precious gift from his suitcase. Old rusty skates for you, an antique bug sprayer for you, and an antique croquet set for you. Other times, he’d hit a little closer to something that could almost pass for acceptable to the boys with antique sports and game-related gifts— an old catcher’s mitt, collectible cards or a wooden, hand-painted game board. I love antique souvenirs. Of course, there are the standard teaspoons, teacups, thimbles, dishtowels, tablecloths and other items that memorialized states, towns, fairs—especially the World’s fair— and other big events. Some people love old state license plates. Antique postcards and other cards are also favorites. I really love some of the really old cards that look hand painted or photos that are processed in a special way. One of our vendors picked up a collection of retableaus that were stunning. I kept picking them up, turning them over in my hands, imagining packing them in a trunk for the journey home and thankful they’re still around.
Of course, if we’re driving on vacation, I’m really kidding myself thinking that we are going on vacation. Vacation has become a euphemism for buying trip. Last year, our Christmas trip to see the grandkids on the east coast was so fruitful for Tray that I ended up flying home— there was no more room in the van, so he dropped me off at my folks’ home in Louisiana. And poor Dottie West, our sixpound Pomeranian, was snuggled up on her bed that was strapped on top of finds stacked almost to the ceiling of the front passenger seat. She had to duck her head to see out the window. As he pulled away, I told Tray, “Dottie West better make it home.” He winked as he drove off, and I knew that on his journey home, he’d find more along the way, figure out some way to pack it in. And that’s okay because some of my favorite antiques are pieces we found through our travels, commemorating not only an awesome trip but also the journey of looking for wonderful things, stories about finding our way through winding streets to local shops and all of the people
along the way. Would I remember the day in old town Puerto Rico if the crazed ironstone piece wasn’t right behind my desk or that friendly old man in Malta if I didn’t see that piece of lace sitting under it? Would I think about St. John’s island, all of the birds or the beautiful water as often if I didn’t see the antique hand-painted botanical cards on the table at the end of the hall? I don’t know. All of our travel treasures mean so much to me that when Tray says, “I wonder if there’s an antique place here,” I’m quick to pull out my phone and Google it. And we’re off, collecting memories along the way. –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—a pegged farm table that was so decrepit it was behind the antique store— and they have been upcycling vintage finds ever since. The Gers own Gather A Vintage Market in Tucson, AZ, a monthly market (www.gatheravintagemarket.com). 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
PEDRICK TOWN PEDRICKTOWN
Voted Salem County’s Best Country Shop in 2016
Thank you for your support!
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Come & Enjoy the Warmth of the Holidays with Us We’ll be Well Stocked for the Holiday Season! Two Great Gatherings Coming Up “Christmas Preview Open House”
Sat., Nov 5th – 10 - 5 & Sun., Nov 6th – 12:30 - 5
“Special Holiday Weekend”
Fri., Nov 25th – 10-8; Sat., Nov 26th – 10-5 and Sun., Nov 27th – 12:30 to 5 Click “Like”
For more information call: (856) 299-2133 WEB: www.heartfeltdesigns.com Holiday Hrs: Mon - Sat.: 10-5, Thurs.’till 8 Sun - Call first • Extended Holiday Hours
Less than 10 min. from Del. Memorial & Commodore Barry Bridges
There are many things that we automatically expect to see at Christmas time. Christmas trees, of course, with sparkling lights, bright colored ornaments and gifts under said tree. Where did these things that we take for granted as a part of our Christmas celebration come from? Gifts: We often assume the act of gift giving as coming from the gifts brought to the Christ child when he was born, which is possible. However, there was an early Roman practice where gifts were given during winter solstice. Christmas eventually replaced the winter solstice celebrations. In the beginning, when Christmas trees first began to be used, gifts were hung from the tree. Tinsel: Tinsel was created in Germany. Silver was beaten into thin strips and hung on the tree. When plastic man-made tinsel was created, it became very popular because it was much cheaper and lighter to hang on the tree. Spider: The story goes that a family bought a tree but was too poor to decorate it. In the night, while the children slept, a spider spun webs all over the tree. On Christmas morning the cobwebs were magically turned into silver and gold strands decorating the tree. Tree Decorations: The very first decorations were edible treats: nuts, apples, cookies, white candy sticks (that eventually became candy canes as we
Stars in the Grass: A Gift for the Season by Ann Stewart
24 So. Railroad Ave., Pedricktown, NJ
Christmas Traditions
Book Give-Away
by Jo Branham
know them today). The first non-edible decorations were traditionally made of glass, wood and ceramic. Baubles, small hollow glass or plastic ornaments, coated with a thin metallic layer to make them shine and then painted with a polymer to add color. Mistletoe: Used by pagans for centuries, the plant was worshipped because it seemed magical. It had no roots yet it remained green even during the coldest winter. It was also a symbol of peace and the Celtic people believed it had magical healing powers. It was often placed in the house to bring good luck and to ward off evil spirits. Why do people kiss under the mistletoe? I did look into that, but there are so many different theories. Christmas Cards: Probably began in England where children, practicing their writing, would write special Christmas greetings for their parents. Sir Henry Cole is credited with creating the first Christmas card. He was the director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The Christmas of 1843 found him too busy to pen his usual Christmas letters, so he hired an artist, John Calcott Horsley, to illustrate some cards for him. I know there are many things I’ve skipped, such as Poinsettias, Santa Claus, Christmas lights. Maybe I can write about them next year. –Jo Branham lives in Brown County, IN.
The idyllic world of nine-year-old Abby McAndrews is transformed when a tragedy tears her family apart. Before the accident, her dad, Reverend John McAndrews, had all the answers, but now his questions and guilt threaten to destroy his family. Abby’s fifteen-year-old brother, Matt, begins an angry descent as he acts out in dangerous ways. Her mother tries to hold her grieving family together, but when Abby’s dad refuses to move on, the family is at a crossroads. Set in a small Midwestern town in 1970, Abby’s heart breaking remembrances are balanced by humor and nostalgia as her family strug gles with—and ultimately celebrates—an authentic story of faith and life after loss. The first-person narrative in Abby’s voice is simply elegant as she looks back in childlike remembrances on her family’s life. “The summer before I turned ten was idyllic—until August 3, 1970. It perfectly describes a time when I thought the world was safe and good things lasted forever. What I couldn’t know then, but try to remember now, is how fragile and delicate
are the moments we most treasure, and if they break into pieces, repairing means seeing anew.” Readers who enjoyed The Deep End of the Ocean, A Girl Named Zippy, or To Kill a Mockingbird will also enjoy Stars in the Grass. This debut novel is a wonderful book club selection because it's new (Feb. 1, 2017) and prompts great discussion. In fact, the author welcomes phone interviews with book clubs and will come speak to your group if you live close enough to her Virginia farm. Author Ann Marie Stewart is the Country Register’s own “Ann’s Lovin’ Ewe” columnist. She raises two daughters and a whole flock of woolly sheep on a farm in Virginia. She is the originator and author of three books in the Preparing My Heart series and writes for Mentoring Moment. Ann's love of teaching, musical theater, and film and television production adds depth to her storytelling. That’s why THIS story of love, loss, and healing is the perfect Valentine gift for yourself or a fellow reader. (Listed on Amazon for Pre-Order) www.AnnMarieStewart.com Facebook: AnnMarieStewart @ StarsintheGrass
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November & December 2016
MULLIC A HILL MULLICA
533 Mullica Hill Rd, Mullica Hill NJ 08062 • (856) 218-7467
Shop Hours: Mon thru Fri 10-5; Sat & Sun 10-4
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
Holiday Tea: Dec 10th & 11th - $28 pp + tax & gratuity (Reservations are Required)
Tea with Mrs. Claus: Dec 18th at 3pm $14.95/child $20.95/adult
(Reservations are Required) www.ameliasteasandholly.com 26 South Main St., Mullica Hill, NJ 08062 (856) 223-0404 Reservations Recommended Parking in Rear of Building
Over The Tea Cup
ed pand x E w Ne Area!
Hours: Wed - Sat 11-4; Sun 12-4
Large selection of all Quilting Fabrics Classes Offered • Row by Row Participant
www.needles-pins-nj.com
Salvage Style
by Marla Wilson
Old Ironing Board Accessories Organizer
This is a very simple project, as there is no carpentry work involved and old metal ironing boards are easy to find at yard sales or flea markets. After removing the legs, I used a wire brush to clean the r ust off this ironing board. Next I sprayed it with primer and then white spray paint. I had purchased drawer pulls and a set of hooks at a local hobby shop. Vintage hardware would be great, if you have it. Attach the drawer pulls through the openings in the ironing board top and tighten the screws down. Do the same with the
set of hooks. Attach it to the wall with screws. You are ready to get organized!!! This works well for jewelry, scarves, purses, belts, and hats. Very easy to do and so useful!!!! –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 kitchen and baby gifts, home decor and fashion accessories. Follow The Rusty Wheel on Facebook, or www.therustywheel.vpweb.com or contact her at stumpy1954@hotmail.com
By Janet Young
Let Us Give Thanks
As I write this, Louisiana has just experienced the worst, or at least comparable, flooding equal to what they experienced when Katrina hit few years ago. Florida has just weathered a hurricane dumping rain and damaging winds throughout before raging up the coastline. California continues to battle wild fires where scores of people have had their homes burnt to the ground. These accounts are only a few of the disasters that have reached our shorelines recently. Nationally, there continues to be devastation after devastation reported almost daily. As we approach Thanksgiving it brings to mind how, we who have escaped such loss have so much for which to be thankful, while for those who have suffered such tragedy, may be feeling down and discouraged. When put in the proper perspective they have much for which they can still be thankful. Granted, some have had the added sorrow of losing a loved one(s) or even their pets. That is not easy to accept, yet they go on. In this difficult time we, the American people, have showered them with an outpouring of love through donations of time, food, money, household items, and even helping them to rebuild their homes. In this worst hour of need that is when neighbors helping neighbors sprang into action as boat owners in Louisiana went with police to help rescue people from their rain-swollen homes. These acts are
an out-pouring of love we have for our fellow-man. After the storm strangers were there to help in any way they could. Suffering the losses these people have endured may impact them forever, yet they will go on because they are a people who through their faith, hope, and love will not give up; but continue to fight their fears as they rebuild their homes and lives once more. As we sit down at our Thanksgiving table this year, be thankful for except for the grace of God’s many blessings, there go I you. We could be without a home, eating our turkey dinner in a shelter wearing donated clothing. This Thanksgiving and Christmas season reach out in love to those in need. An invitation to dinner, even a cup of tea served in a dainty teacup can reach the hearts of those less fortunate. This Thanksgiving may we especially be thankful for all God has provided for us. And may His Light shine through us, as we reach out to others in need. For in that one moment, we provide these dear people the opportunity to forget their hardship and experience the love and courage to go on. –Janet Young, Certified Tea and Etiquette Consultant from the Protocol School of Washington, is a Founding member of MidAtlantic Tea Business Association, freelance writer/national tea presenter, and owner of Over The Teacup Inc. You can email her at janet@overtheteacup.com.
Lets Celebrate the Magic of Christmas at Creamy Acres Farm Creamy Acres has transformed it’s dairy farm into a Christmas Wonderland filled with huge sparkling light displays. Enjoy fun for the whole family with an old fashioned hayride, snuggled under a blanketand listening to all your favorite Christmas songs. Ride through our live Nativity Scene featuring everyone’s favorite farm animals. Our Night of Lights Country Christmas Hayride and Light Extravaganza is sure to please kids of all ages. Come to our Country Christmas hayride and make Christmas memories that will last forever. To learn more please go to www.nightoflightshayride.com Our gift shop will be fully stocked with a nice selection of Christmas Decor, Fresh Wreaths, Roping, Swags, Grave Blankets & Fresh Cut Fraser Fir Trees. Country Store Hours: Tues & Wed 10-5 Thur, Fri, Sat 10-9 CLOSED Sun & Mon
$5.00 OFF COUPON Any fresh wreaths, centerpieces, roping, swags, grave blankets, and trees.
Creamy Acres Farm. Limit 1 coupon per customer. Expires 12/21/16. (TCR-NJ N/D 2016)
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
WEST CREEK
Page 9
November & December 2016
WEST CREEK
Page 10
The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
OUT OF ST ATE AND WEB STA WEB--BASED
Crochet Christmas Stars These crochet stars will make your christmas tree shine! Make each of them unique by varying the color and the yarn type. MATERIAL Yarn used : Järbo 8/4 (Mercerised cotton, 4 ply, fingering weight) in white, light grey and red. Järbo Glittra (effect yarn) in red and silver. Hook: 2,5 mm ABBREVIATIONS, US CROCHET TERMS st - stitch sl st - sling stitch ch - chain sc - single crochet hdc - half double crochet dc - double crochet tr - treble crochet DESCRIPTION (Crochet diagram below) Start with a magic ring. Round 1: 10 sc in the magic ring. Join round with a sl st in first sc. Round 2: ch 3 (counts as 1 hdc and 1 ch) , (1 hdc in next sc, ch 1) repeat 9 times. Join round with 1 sc in 2:nd ch of the first ch 3. Round 3: (1 sc in next ch1 space, 1 sc in next hdc, 2 sc in next ch-1 space, 1 sc in next hdc) (There should now be 25 sc.) Round 4: (ch 3, sk next sc, 1 sl st in next sc, ch 4, sk next 2 sc, 1 sl st in next sc) repeat 5 times.
by Charlotta Wadman
Round 5: 1 sl st in next ch-3 space, (ch 5, 1 tr in next ch-4 space, ch 5, 1 sl st in next ch 3 space) repeat 5 times. Round 6: ch 2 (4 hdc in next ch-5 space, ch 1, [1 dc, ch 3, 1 dc] in next tr, ch 1, 4 hdc in next ch-5 space, 1 hdc i next ch-3 space from round 4) repeat 5 times. Join round with a sl st in 2:nd ch of first ch 2. Fasten off and weave in the ends. STARCH AND BLOCK Your stars need to be starched and blocked. I have used white glue mixed with water to make them stiff. Mix glue and water in equal proportions and soak your star in it. Pin it in desired shape on to a blocking board or whatever blocking device that you use, let it dry. Attach a thread to one of the star tips and you're done! Happy crocheting! –© Charlotta Wadman, In the Yarn Garden, 2016. All rights reserved. It would be very nice to see your completed stars. Please tag images with #intheyarngarden or feel free to leave a comment with a link to your picture. https://intheyarngarden.blogspot.com/ You can also email Charlotta at: intheyarngarden@gmail.com
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November & December 2016
VINEL AND VINELAND
Town and Country Cooking
by Janette Hess
No-risk bisque
Cool days call for hot, hearty soups. This fall, let bisque take you out of your chili-and-chicken-noodle-soup comfort zone. The term “bisque” once was reserved for soups with a seafood base, but current usage applies it to most any smooth-textured soup. Rich Mushroom Bisque is for mushroom lovers only. Risk it, and you’ll never again be satisfied with canned cream of mushroom soup. This bisque also can double as a sauce for grilled steaks or as a base for beef stroganoff. Don’t be timid about experimenting with the leftovers, if you have any. Butternut Squash Bisque is a perennial favorite. Despite its sophisticated taste and look, it is surprisingly simple to make. Soups featuring roasted red peppers also are popular, especially in fine restaurants. This month’s Smokey Pepper Bisque recipe allows you to bring the elegance home! –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. Rich Mushroom Bisque 2. tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion, diced 1 pound fresh white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced ¼ cup sherry (optional) ½ ounce dried porcini mushrooms 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon sweet paprika 1 teaspoon dried marjoram 2 cups beef broth 1½ cups water ¾ cup light cream (“half and half ”) 1 to 2 ounces blue cheese (¼ to ½ cup crumbles) Freshly ground black pepper In large pot, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until onion is softened, approximately 10 minutes. Stir in fresh mushrooms and chopped carrot. Cook an additional 10 minutes, or until mushrooms release their liquid. Add sherry, dried mushrooms, garlic, paprika, marjoram, broth and water. Cover and slowly simmer until carrots and dried mushrooms are soft, about an hour. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Using food processor or blender, process mixture until very smooth. Return to pot. Add cream and heat through, taking care not to boil. Whisk in crumbled blue cheese 1 tablespoon at a time. Taste after each addition, stopping when desired saltiness is achieved. Season with freshly ground pepper. Makes approximately 6 cups soup. If desired, garnish with fresh chives and a swirl of cream. Serving suggestion: If a chunky mushroom soup is desired, sauté an additional ½ pound of fresh mushrooms in 1 tablespoon butter. Add to soup before serving.
Butternut Squash Bisque 1 medium butternut squash (2 to 2½ pounds) 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion 2½ cups chicken stock ¼ teaspoon black pepper ¼ teaspoon dried thyme 3-4 drops hot pepper sauce ½ cup light cream (“half and half ”) Salt to taste Prepare squash by carefully slicing lengthwise and removing seeds. Wrap each half in aluminum foil and place on baking sheet. Roast at 375 degrees for approximately 1 hour, or until squash is very soft. Remove from oven. When cool enough to handle, scoop out flesh and set aside. In large pot, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add onion. Slowly cook and stir until onion is very soft, 15 to 20 minutes. Add squash, stock, pepper and thyme. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Using food processor or blender, process mixture until very smooth. Return to pot. Add cream and heat through, taking care not to boil. Add salt, if necessary. Makes approximately 6 cups soup.
Smokey Pepper Bisque 3 large, red bell peppers OR jarred equivalent of roasted red peppers, cleaned, rinsed and drained ¼ cup diced shallot 1 medium carrot, finely grated 1 teaspoon minced garlic 2 teaspoons smoked paprika 1 tablespoon flour 3 cups chicken stock 2 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, finely grated 2 ounces cream cheese 1½ teaspoons dried basil Salt to taste If using fresh peppers, cut, seed and quarter peppers. Lay skin side up on rimmed baking sheet. Broil until skins are blistered and blackened. Quickly remove from oven and wrap in aluminum foil. When cool, peel away loosened skins and discard. Refrigerate until needed, up to three days in advance. In large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add shallots and sauté until soft and fragrant. Add roughly chopped peppers, garlic and grated carrots. Simmer until vegetables are completely softened. Add paprika and flour. Stir to combine. Add stock and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Using food processor or blender, process mixture until very smooth. Return to pot. Add cheese, cream cheese and basil; whisk to combine. Heat through but do not boil. Add salt, if necessary. Makes approximately 4 cups soup.
Rt. 55 Exit 32
QUIL TING & SEWING CLASSES AV AILABLE QUILTING AVAILABLE
Planning a Wedding? We also feature Bridal Fabric, Appliques, Ribbons & Silk Flowers!
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20% OFFAny One Item
With coupon only. Not valid with other offers. Expires Dec. 31, 2016 - TCR
KISSed Quilts
by Marlene Oddie
This year, the Island Batik Ambassadors (IBA) are having monthly challenges. I’ve tried to get monthly blog postings up and the blog hops have been great fun with all the inspiration and giveaways! Are you participating? As designers using Island Batik (IB) fabrics, we are often given a request for quilts through other channels. One was with McCall’s Quick Quilts sometime last year. I proposed some ideas but, alas, they were not selected. But it showed me a new channel to share my quilt designs and made the process less intimidating. New fall quilt designs were underway and I pitched this Zig Zag design with Island Batik fabrics and it was selected. But they wanted different fabrics to be used because another IBA had already pitched a project that was selected with IB fabrics for the same issue. At first I could not understand how these Rustic Winds – Marcus fabrics would work with this modern design. The more I worked with it, the more comfortable I got. Ultimately, the team at McCall’s Quick Quilts gave it the name Mountain Pass and it suddenly all came together and made sense to me, too. So,
check newsstands for McCall’s Quick Quilts October/November issue and you, too, can get this new technique for making a chevron design that minimizes seams. I originally designed it for my Mom’s charity group in Apache Junction, AZ. I’m excited to share it with a much wider audience through a m a g a z i n e publication. I did a guest blog post over at McCall's and have shared additional piecing illustration details on my own blog. Sometimes our fears are the stumbling block to our own progress. In this case, when I don’t know the process of something, I tend to be intimidated and not as driven to push forward. I’m grateful for those opportunities that continue to be given to me on this quilting journey. Thanks for sharing it with me. –Marlene Oddie is an engineer by education, project manager by profession and now a quilter by passion in Grand Coulee, WA. She enjoys long-arm quilting on her Gammill Optimum Plus, but especially enjoys designing quilts and assisting in the creation of a meaningful treasure for the recipient. Follow Marlene’s adventures via http:// www.facebook.com/kissedquilts and her blog at http://kissedquilts.blogspot.com.
New Opportunities – Just Go for It!
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
NEWTON
Letter Writing
Wilbur’s Country Store
Can we bring writing letters with pen and paper back?
Christmas British Foods & Candy Yankee Candles Cookie Cutters Gourmet Items Wind Chimes Linen Calendars Aprons Preserves & Pepper Jellies Braided Rugs, Chair Pads & Placemats
908-362-8833 735 Rt. 94 – between Newton & Blairstown, NJ
Quilts That Redeem,
by Sherry Osland
A Child’s Heart
My last QTR article was about the 2016 Tornado Quilt Effort taking place in the Abilene/Chapman area. Quilts are still being made, collected and being given. I’ve seen so many heart-felt things amongst those affected and those giving through generous hearts and hands. One of the most touching, I just have to share. A quilter came into my studio one day early-on in this “effort.” This particular lady had responded – above and beyond the call – by giving five BEAUTIFUL quilts. She said they had no particular destination, and they might as well be helping others. (!) A few days later, she returned and told me a story about her cousin’s grandson, Zeke. Her cousin lives in another state and her sixyear-old grandson, Zeke, was visiting her. She told him about the tornado touching down and destroying people’s homes, upsetting their lives and costing them a whole lot of money to fix and rebuild their homes. She said Zeke disappeared for a little bit. When he came back, he had one dollar and twenty-five cents in his hand. It was his piggy bank money, and he held it out to her and asked if it could help the people. When I was told this story, it stayed in my heart and mind – always will. I thought long and hard about the thank you note back to Zeke. This was a life event he would no doubt remember for the rest of his life. Oh my goodness - the honor and blessing to receive Zeke’s gift and then to pass it on. In such an important note, I wanted to say what God would have me say to him for his great gift. Oh! To see the tenderness of a child’s heart created after God’s own. Editor’s Note: Since Sherry submitted this article, she has sent some updates on the efforts to provide quilts to Kansas tornado victims, including from Country Register readers in other states, who saw the column in their own state’s Country Register editions.
by Mrs. Kimberly Chaffee
She has been blessed with the concern and response from these Country Register readers including: • A reader from Michigan who belongs to a group called the Sew Crazy quilt ladies. The reader had two quilts on hand and the group had several others that they are sending. • A Country Register reader from Tennessee who stopped at Sherry’s shop in Abilene while on a month-long, 50thanniversary trip that went as far as White Horse, Yukon, Canada, had read the article and volunteered to take quilt tops home with her to quilt. She will be shipping them back when they are finished. • Another Country Register reader from Massachusetts called after reading about the effort in the Massachusetts Country Register and donated several quilts and will also be sharing the story with her 125member quilt guild to see if anyone else has quilts that could be donated. “People ask me how many quilts we need,” Sherry said. “I have a general idea, but no definite number. One night, thinking about this when trying to quiet my mind and go to sleep, it came to me that I shouldn’t set a specific number and tell God how many we need. God is the one who knows, and He will move in the hearts of those He wants to have given. My/our job is to make sure they are given. Let this blessing give you encouragement!” To see pictures of families and individuals receiving their quilts, check out Praise Work Quilting’s Facebook page. Pictures and stories about the recipients are posted as the quilts are given. -Sherry Osland, 1216 NW 3rd St. Abilene, Ks. In ministry and business since Sept. 4, 2000. Contact information: sherryo51@hotmail.com or 785-263-4600. For exs of work: facebook.com/ PraiseWorksQuilting
Discourse in American culture can be summed up in two words, mobile apps. These nifty little tools allow us to communicate instantly with short bursts of text to make dinner plans, remind hubby to pick up a gallon of milk, or check in on a teenager. Not only can we “converse” with single letters, but also pictures have made a comeback from the ancient ruins of Mesopotamia. Emoji’s, which are modern examples of hieroglyphics, add emotion to our texts, verifying the fact we have come full circle in 8,000 years. F o r t u n a t e l y, hieroglyphics only lasted so long, as their inability to tell the whole story was bothersome. A picture of men holding spears with a large elephant in front of them left too many questions unanswered. Who were these brave men? How did their hunt turn out? Did they all survive? The story being depicted was significant and yet there was no way of knowing the outcome. Thankfully, the alphabet was invented, and the greatest stories of mankind began to be captured through written letters. Wisdom, history, life lessons, feelings of hope, love, and tragedy were shared through hand written letters. Mountains or oceans did not bind these lasting stories. Battlefields and catastrophes could not impede their discovery by future generations. The words written were revealing, but so too was the paper, the penmanship, the smell of the person, perhaps their surroundings; all the individuality had been captured. What concerns me is our modern writing with its simple text messages, removes the essence of our existence from history. As brief as a time that we are here, our thoughts are forever lost in cyber space. In 50 years, no one will know my beliefs, the lessons I have learned, the people I enjoyed spending time with, or the ones that impacted me most. Which brings me to my point. Did anyone else notice last year, the lack of Christmas cards delivered to their mailbox? I certainly did. I understand that one stamp is now worth what my father described as an amazing afternoon to a 12 year old in 1955. He could get his
haircut, take in an entire afternoon of movies, have ice cream, and still have money in his pocket at the end of the day. So yes, the stamp is expensive. Writing with pen and paper is cumbersome; you can’t easily backspace. But what is capturing our existence? Facebook? Instagram? What is capturing you? My grandmother wrote hand written letters to our family. I can still smell her perfume on the paper, which is remarkable considering her letters are 30 years old. She talked about simple things happening in her small town of Fair Haven, New York. She mentioned that the bay had white caps from a recent storm. Stories, where now as I read them as an adult, reveal her character and faith. Her letters kept her real to me long after she passed away. This time of year we begin to focus on being thankful, seeing family, reminding ourselves what is important. Can we bring writing letters with pen and paper back? Can we share with our children thoughts that are important to us? Can we share simple stories, maybe even family history on something far more special than an emoji? Your letter may find its way into a special book or Bible, and become the treasure of a future family member. Can you write a letter to a dear friend that shows you are thinking of them? This letter may be tucked in a drawer and reread on days they may feel lonely or without hope. Our existence is important, and is something that should last long after a cell phone is shut off, or a text is deleted. I believe your family and friends will want to cherish you long after you have left them for a better place. Give your family and dear friends a true gift this holiday season. Give them your stories, your wisdom, your praise, your hope, and certainly most of all your love. Write them a letter, stamp it, and mail it to them. –Mrs. Kimberly Chaffee is a homeschooling mother of four great kids, living north of Pittsburgh, Pa with her husband and herd of dairy goats. You can reach her with comments at pittsewing@gmail.com.
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Christmas time is here. Twinkling lights sparking on a window pane. Brightly wrapped presents scattered under the tree. Excitement flowing like an electric current as the Big Day draws closer. We may not have had a lot of presents under our tree on some of my childhood Christmases. But one thing I always knew I would find was a book - at least one, maybe more, if I was lucky. Mom started buying us the Trixie Belden mystery series when I was around 10 years old. Between my middle sister and me, we ended up with practically the whole series by the time we were in our late teens. Mom would buy us books for other holidays and occasions, too. Like birthdays.
by Jo Branham
In these modern days, a lot of our Christmas presents have become electronic. Everyone wants a tablet or an Ipad, video games or DVDs of a favorite movie or TV show. And there’s nothing wrong with those things, but I find it hard to believe kids of today can get as excited about their gadgets as I did about my Christmas books. I still have a lot of them. And I get them off the shelf and read them over again now and then.It’s not just about the book itself. It’s about the memories it brings of Christmases past and of spending time with loved ones and family who’ve left us. Spend time with your family this holiday season. Create memories. –Jo Branham lives in Brown County, IN.
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November & December 2016
MORRISTOWN - RED BANK
Morris County HistoriCal soCiety at aCorn Hall
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
Camera's Last Stand Back in the day, women would often carry "brag books" in their purses. These were little albums showing their kids' or their grandkids' photos. The modern version is on our cell phones with the addition of video capabilities that can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how the pictures were taken. Years ago, I started compiling a special brag book that I entitled "My Non-Brag Book" with all the worst photos we ever took. It's been a source of great fun as we giggle and cackle at our collection of blooper photos. It started with my Aunt Ruth Jean sending me a picture, taken by my cousin Jim, just as she was cleaning her teeth with her tongue—mouth closed. It made her look like a chimpanzee. I opened up the letter and kept giggling at the worst picture my aunt ever took. She had a wonderful sense of humor and wrote that her son told her when she saw the horrible photo, "Mom, the camera never lies." That started a fun book that I enjoy to this day. I've added a few photos of my own over the years. One day, I fixed my hair in a modified "beehive" like my fashion conscious sister, Christy, and I honestly thought I looked hot. That same day, I went to a big box store and had a photo taken for my membership card and about croaked when I saw the photo. It was, to put it mildly, hideous. I have never worn that hairstyle again. My next photo was for another ID card and I had lightened my hair and thought the blonde streaks looked like a million dollars. The photo with the new "do" made me look pasty and washed out. Another zinger in my hairstyling Hall of Shame. Now it is a bit of a fun thing. Instead of photo shopping 20 lbs off my figure and/or reshaping things a bit with a pair of shears, I just leave the dreadful photos as is and think, "Okay, another candidate for the non-brag book." Of course, no one but those in the nefarious book and myself actually look at these nasty pictures, but it serves a
Acorn Hall is dressed for the Holidays! Take a historic house tour, and enjoy Victorian-inspired Christmas decorations this holiday season. Built in 1853, the mansion was remodeled in 1860 in the Italianate Villa-style. Recognized for its authenticity, visitors can experience Victorian grandeur at Acorn Hall. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m. The Oak Leaf Gallery Gift Shop is open for all of your holiday shopping needs! Please call for hours and more information. Exhibit: Race to the Finish: Newspaper Coverage of Presidential Elections, 1789 – 2008 This collection of historic newspapers shows the development of presidential election reporting from George Washington through Barack Obama, complimented by political paraphernalia, period clothing, and cultural artifacts.
by Susan Springer
couple of purposes for me. One lesson learned is a reminder that looks are truly not the end all and true beauty is not measured by a good photograph. We've all known the super vain soul who you can't stand to be around. I keep telling myself that we are all marching towards aging, which ultimately is the greatest equalizer of the impossible goal of youthful outer beauty lasting forever. Accepting a rotten photo now and then is the least of our worries and, in its own way, has great value in the lesson of humility. I am always amazed at how shocked I am to see a wretched photo of myself. I think it stems from a visit of sorts to those fantasy worlds imagining we are creatures in a romance novel who never had an ugly moment or could possibly look horrid in a photograph. We all know that in photos, angles of the camera matter—a lot. I learned a neat trick while getting a photo for my new auto license. The woman manning the camera told me that I should think like a turtle. She said to look straight at the camera and then the second before taking the shot stick my neck out propelling the face forward. She proclaimed that this eliminates another nemesis of the photo you don't want "out there"—the double chin shot. It worked! Having taken a number of hideously horrid photos lately, I can now understand Jane Jetson, the cartoon character of the future. She would answer her videophone holding up a made-up mask with a perfectly coiffed hairstyle. Sounds good to me and meanwhile apparently the future is now. I'll see y'all at the beauty parlor! -Copyright 2016 by Susan Salisbury Springer. All rights reserved. Used by permission, no reprint without author’s permission. Ms. Springer has a degree in Family & Consumer Sciences and writes about life in the shadow of the Cascade Mountain range in the Pacific Northwest. She can be reached at ssspringer@consultant.com.
See website for more details - www.acornhall.org Find us on FaceBook and Twitter 68 Morris Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07960 (973)267-3465
Life on the Farm
by Donna Jo Copeland
On Being Thankful Late fall, almost winter brings the season of thankfulness, centering down, family memories. And while enticing aromas wander out of the kitchen and to do lists cover the fridge, we do all need to pause and count our thankfulness’s. My life is a simple one, my income meager; my 19th century farmhouse has none of the modern conveniences such as furnace, air conditioning, hot water, TV nor internet. Nonetheless I am thankful for my blessings, happy and content with my farm life. Oh don't get me wrong, I do have my moments of "woe is me" but that is when my blessings shine the brightest--bunny snuggles and sheep kisses. You see I am a lover of history, keeper of family stories, oldest grandchild. As a child I was surrounded by great and greatgreat grandparents, aunts and uncles. Some of these wonderful people were the children and grandchildren of the Civil War. I listened to their stories of farm life, doing without, fear of Morgan's Raid and being proud and thankful for what they had and could produce. My grandpa was so proud of his goat cart, which he could drive all over Brooklyn which only had 4 streets then. I enjoyed my great grandmother's silly songs, needlework and cooking she shared with me. She also related the story of moving to California as a small child only to be shuttled back when her mother died soon after arriving, then being given away to an older couple who raised her. A great-great grandmother homesteaded in Oklahoma only to lose the land after her husband died. She walked back to Indiana with two
small children reading palms and healing folks along the way, took her two years. Another great-great grandmother's husband left her a grass widow, took off south, married again and was killed in Mississippi near the end of the Civil War. She took in boarders and milked cows for a living and quilted, raising her children on their small farm. My grandfathers had lots of stories too, good ones. But it is the stories from my female ancestors which strike a chord in my soul. The very fact that they kept going, kept living, kept being thankful for whatever blessings they could fashion. In no small way I cherish their blood which runs in my veins. And I am very thankful for my wee farm, my farm life, livestock, and my "fiber life". And oh so thankful for my friends--they are the sparkle in my life. As I am the last one in my family to farm, they are thankful they are not me. I mentioned kitchen aromas. One of our fall treats always brought us in from chores lickety-split...Apple Crisp.
–Donna Jo Copeland is a 15th generation farmeress/fiber artist who owns and operates Brezzy Manor Farm in Mooresville, IN. See more information at Breezy Manor Farm on Facebook.
Brezzy Manor Farm Apple Crisp Cut together 3/4 cup butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup Quaker Oats, 1/4 cup cinnamon. Core and chop 8-10 apples and put in the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan. Sprinkle cinnamon mixture over the top. Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes. Best served with homemade ice cream.
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
DEL AWARE DELA
Welcome to
Serendipity Quilt Shop
• Over 3500 Bolts of premium cotton fabrics • Flannel • Wool • Stitchery • Rug Hooking • Quilting and Sewing Classes Like us on • Books, Patterns and Notions Hours: Mon-Sat 9-5 FACEBOOK
www.serendipityquiltshop.com
Closed Sun
31821 Cannon St., Dagsboro, DE 19939 (302) 732-6304
Christmas Trees Why do we set up and decorate fir or pine trees for Christmas? The evergreen tree has always been a symbol of life. Many ancient people, both pagan and Christian, used evergreen branches to decorate their homes during the New Year celebrations. The first Christmas trees were set up in public or town squares for everyone to enjoy. The record of who was first to use a fir tree to celebrate the Christmas holiday is unclear. The city of Tallinn in Estonia claims to have had the first Christmas tree in 1441. Riga, a city in Latvia, claims to have had the first tree, as well. There is a plaque in Riga’s town square that is engraved with the words: “The First New Year’s Tree in Riga 1510,” in eight languages. There are many legends as to how the tradition of bringing a tree into the home began. One says that Martin Luther began the tradition when saw the stars shining through the branches of a tree as he walked home one evening. He told his children it reminded him of Jesus, who had left the heavens to walk on the Earth to save mankind. Another version says and English priest, St. Boniface, had gone to Germany to preach to the pagans there. One night, as he was traveling, he came upon a ceremony where the people were going to sacrifice a young person to an oak tree, which they worshipped. St. Boniface jumped from his horse and cut down the oak. From the oak’s roots, a fir tree sprang up, which St. Boniface took as a sign of Christian faith. His followers supposedly placed lit candles on the tree so St. Boniface could preach to the pagans at night. The first Christmas trees were decorated mostly with edible treats, such as gingerbread men, candy, nuts, apples wrapped in gold foil. Glass makers began making special small ornaments, similar to those used today and glass bead garlands. Eventually other types of garlands (cranberries, popcorn), tinsel and candy canes became common ornaments for the tree. Toppers were originally the Christ child in a manger, but were quickly replaced with either and Angel, such as
by Jo Branham the shepherds saw or a Star as the one the wise men followed. Artificial trees became popular in the early 20th century. They have been made from feathers, aluminum, paper mache, metal, glass and many different types of plastic. White trees were popular for a short while. In the 1800s, white trees were made by wrapping cotton batting around branches, creating a snow covered effect. While we are most accustomed to seeing fir or pine trees used as Christmas trees, other countries often us native trees to celebrate their Christmas. New Zealanders will sometimes use a native tree with red flowers. In India, they commonly use Mango or banana trees. The most commonly used trees in the United States are the Douglas Fir and White Fir. The fir tree does not shed its needles when it dries out and retains good foliage color and scent. I love the smell! Since I have an artificial tree, I buy all kinds of evergreen scented candles and melts to scent my home for the holidays. There was also a tradition about when you were to put up and take down your tree that went along with different religious beliefs. Some people put up the tree and decorated it on Christmas Eve, after the children had gone to bed. Others put there’s up the week before Thanksgiving! It could be taken down January 5th (which is the day after 12th Night) or even as far into the new year as the first week of February. Public Christmas trees are still popular today. Many cities, towns and department stores put up public trees, such as the tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City and the large Christmas tree at Victoria Square in Adelaide, New Zealand. The famous Macy’s Great Tree in Atlanta was first put up in 1948. Whether you celebrate with a small electric ceramic tree or a huge Douglas fir . . . or no tree at all, it doesn’t matter because Christmas isn’t about trees or lights or presents. It’s about love. The love that came down from God on that very first Christmas and shown on all of us. Spread the love. Have a very Merry Christmas!
The Knitting Savant
By Andrea Springer
Our Knitting Muses
Nothing triggers the desire to knit quite like a cold snap. The hustle and flow of summer projects, vacations and family activities have demanded our attention. Then, out of nowhere, there’s a subtle shift of light and temperature, and we yearn again for our needles and big piles of yarn. Ready to create a new season of projects, we stock our stash, gathering what we’ll need to get us through, and start casting on stitches. But where do we go when our creative bucket is empty? I’ve asked myself that question several times in recent months. 2016 has been a season of change for us – from new jobs and added responsibilities, to the loss of my dear father-in-law. Our LYS closed earlier in the year, so my regular knitting groups were meeting at new times and places that didn’t fit my schedule – more change! Even personal knitting time, the creative outlet that’s grounded me for years, has been at a premium because of this season of change. I wouldn’t have missed a moment of this year for the world, but I realized I needed an intervention recently when I stood looking at all the yarn in my stash closet and couldn’t come up with one project I wanted to make. My creative energies had been directed in other areas for months, and I was running on fumes. Thank heavens for fellow knitters! Two friends who took sweater classes from me in recent years called to ask if I’d help them finish projects they didn’t get done during class time, and it was the nudge I needed. Together, we looked at why they’d stopped working on the sweaters,
ripped out what wasn’t right, and they both finished their projects beautifully. They inspired me to go back to my own WIP’s (works in progress) and finish a sweater I’d put away three years ago. Slowly but surely, they’re helping me prime my creative pump with their inspired knitting and supportive friendship. Knitting is a solitary activity by definition, but the energy and connection that’s generated when a group of knitters get together can multiply creativity exponentially, not just around the table but for weeks after. A good knitting group is part class time, part show and tell, part pep rally, part recipe swap, part group therapy session; with a generous dose of belly laughs and a few “Double Dog” dare projects for good measure. Wine and food are a nice touch, but not as important as being able to add another chair around the table for a new knitter. It’s “community” in the best sense of the term. If you’re lucky in your knitting journey, you’ll spend time with “muses” who inspire you to jump off of creative cliffs with the things you make and who’ll carry you along when you’ve failed to grow wings on the way down. If you can’t find a group in your area, be someone else’s “muse” and start one. You’ll be glad you did! –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 Savant on Facebook and Twitter.
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November & December 2016
CAPE MA Y MAY
St i tc h By St i tc h Washington Commons 315 Ocean St., Unit 9 Cape May, NJ 08204
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS November 5th: Candlelight Walk – 6-8pm Luminaries line the paths to several of the Village’s restored historic buildings where wine, beer and a variety of light fare will be served. Get your holiday shopping started at a special Country Store sale. Tickets are $30 xt. 10. ($25 for members) and must be purchased in advance. Call (609) 898-2300, eext.
< Cross Stitch & all the “goodies” < Needlepoint & Patanayan Wool < Custom Framing < Nancy Spruance Trunk Show
December 3rd: Wassail Day – 11am-3pm FREE Admission Celebrate the holidays the traditional way! Visit select buildings where hot beverages and goodies are served fireside by historical interpreters in period clothing. Meet Father Christmas! Enjoy children’s crafts, a model railroad exhibit, and a special Country Store sale.
We will be having classes. Please call for information.
An Early American Living History Museum 720 Route 9, Cape May, NJ
OPEN EVERY DAY 10AM - 5PM (Please Call First: 1-800-868-3215)
3 Miles North of Cape May City Admission Charge (unless noted) - Free Parking
If we don’t have it, we will order it. We ship anywhere.
Call for more information 609-898-2300 or visit our website: www.hcsv.org
Thanksgiving Traditions It’s Party Time with Lesley
by Lesley Nuttall
Giving Thanks
I have always loved to plan parties, and I find it interesting how some of our major events and customs had their beginnings. Many countries have different names for their Thanksgiving even though it’s all about being thankful. Thanksgiving is a great “family event” and the concept around the world remains the same; to give “thanks” to God for our blessings. Originally the day was about being thankful for the bountiful fall harvest. In the year 2000, the United Nations proclaimed the year as “the international year of Thanksgiving.” In Canada, our thanksgiving can be traced back to 1578 when explorer Martin Frobisher held a celebration on Baffin Island, (now called Nunavut, Canada’s newest territory.) It was about giving thanks to God for surviving his long journey from England through storms and icebergs. In 1957 our Thanksgiving date was officially set as the 2nd Monday in October. Canada’s celebrations include colorful parades, watching the football games, family gatherings with lots of food including roasted turkey with stuffing, ham, mashed potatoes with gravy, and pumpkin pie. In the United States, some historians believe the first Thanksgiving took place in Florida in 1513 with Juan Ponce De Leon’s landing, or Francisco V. De Coronado’s service of Thanksgiving in the Texas panhandle in 1541. America’s first President, George Washington
designated a special day for a national Thanksgiving, and later it was President Abraham Lincoln who declared Thanksgiving s national holiday to be held the last Thursday in November each year. Thanksgiving Day in the United States is a festive time with carved turkey and cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes or yams, corn, and pumpkin pie. An amazing event is Macy’s annual Thanksgiving Day parade. Some folks enjoy relaxing and watching the football games on television. A tradition is the annual “pardoning” of a live turkey by the U.S. President who spares the bird from the chopping block and it is able to live out its life in a petting zoo. Australia has numerous different festivals throughout the year. The Lavender Festival is held in the first three weeks of January. In February they have the Hops Festival which continues into March; and in March they also have the Apple and Grape Harvest. They celebrate for three or four days with street carnivals, a parade, grape crushing, apple competitions and fireworks. They end their festivities with the crowning of an ‘apple ‘n grape’ ambassador. In Africa, their African Harvest festivals are held in August and include a lot of religious ceremonies. Singing, dancing and beauty competitions are also part of their celebrations. Some of their entertainment also includes bull or bird fights. A western African tradition is the Yams, (Homowo)
Turkey pardon: One lucky turkey gets a break every year. The president of the United States grants him a pardon. Turkey farmers had been sending their choicest birds to the presidents since the 1800s. In 1963, President John F. Kennedy sent the turkey back and said: We’ll just let this one grow. President Richard Nixon sent his turkeys to a Washington D.C. petting farm. The first official pardon was granted by
by Jo Branham
President George H. W. Bush in 1989. The lucky turkey lived out his days at a Virginia petting zoo called Frying Pan Park. Cranberries: American Indians used cranberries for food, to dye fabric and as medicine. The Indians would have introduced this food, along with corn and turkey, to the Pilgrims. It was without a doubt an item on the very first Thanksgiving menu.
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Festival which lasts for three days. Yams are a very important crop in Africa, especially in Ghana. The people dress in brightly colorful kind of toga’s made from kente cloth, (which is the best known of all African textiles.) They dance and sing to the sounds of drums. In China, their celebration is called the August Moon festival. On the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunar calendar, they celebrate in honor of the harvest of rice and their wheat crops. During the Moon festival, families get together to view the full moon which is a symbol of harmony, abundance and luck. On this day they believe that the moon is the roundest and brightest. Instead of pumpkin pie, they serve moon-cake. The children enjoy puppet shows and a parade of brightly lit lanterns. In Rome, September is wine harvest time in most regions of Italy. After their harvest is finished, they spend several weeks celebrating the success of their harvest. Their harvest festival is known as Cerelia, and commences on October 4th. Music, parades and sports activities are all part of their celebrations. They are famous for their huge bowls of salad and of course numerous pasta entrees. As you can see, everyone around the world celebrates with thankfulness for their good harvest. Whether they call it
Thanksgiving or by another name, it all means the same! But we don’t need a special harvest to be thankful. I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving and the blessings bestowed upon you and your family! Make this a Thanksgiving full of wonderful new memories to last a lifetime! –Lesley is the Author of Secrets of Party Planning. She lives with her husband in Dryden, ON, Canada © 2016, Lesley R. Nuttall Honey-Glazed Sweet Potatoes 3 medium sweet potatoes 2 tbsp butter or margarine 3 tbsp honey grated peel from 1 orange 2 tbsp fresh orange juice 1) Wash, pare and thinly slice potatoes. Melt butter in a large non-stick pan. 2) Add potatoes, cover and cook over medium heat, 8-10 minutes until tender. Turn often. 3) Combine honey, peel and orange juice and pour over potatoes. 4) Continue cooking, tossing gently until the potatoes are thoroughly glazed with the mixture. Yield: 4 servings (double as desired)
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The Country Register of New Jersey and Delaware
PITMAN - WOODSTOWN Jesus is the reason for the season.
Celebrate th e Hol the Holiidays a att t wo loc ations ffe eatu ring h andmade ttr reasu res oca tur ha sur
NOW... 2 Great Locations!
The Scarecrow Factory Country Store 25 East Avenue (Rt. 40), Woodstown, NJ 08098 • (856) 769-1050 Join us for our Holiday Open House - Sat., Nov. 5th from 10 to 5 at our Woodstown location We have everything from angels to snowmen and everything in between.
Olde Pear Primitives
Invites you to our Holiday Open House Sat., Nov. 12 from 10-5 at our NEW LOCATION: 11 Broadway, Pitman, NJ • (856) 457-7541 Visit us during the Woodstown by Candlelight - Friday, December 2nd We’re open 10am to 10pm!
“Like” Us on Facebook: Scarecrow Factory Country Store and Olde Pear Primitives
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12 - 4; Evening Hours Available – please call! • Gift Certificates Available
Building Harmony
by Jeff Cappis
We were bent on finding another pet. Our old dog Pudge had died some years earlier at the ripe old age of 18 and the house never seemed the same. Somehow the sound of his pitter patter around the place was still with us. He was a great dog and he loved living on the acreage. We all agreed, for him, it was doggie heaven. In fact, many other dogs who had come by over the years, didn’t want to leave. He was a small dog with a big heart. He was always happy to see us, never peed in the house, and kept the floor spotless of crumbs and other food debris. If you were down, he’d snuggle. If you were up, he’d play. You could just tell he was one of those dogs who tried to do what was right. Even outside, whenever he ran across dead mice, squirrels or birds, he would promptly give them a proper burial and even stand vigil. Once he tried to bury a skunk that wasn’t quite dead. It just smelled that way. Afterwards so did he, for about a week. The skunk however made a full recovery. In the end he got old. We called him butt breath because he smelled the same at both ends. His nose worked, but it was right next to his mouth so that’s all he could smell. His eyesight was failing and his hearing wasn’t very good. More than once he was accidentally kick across the floor when he stepped in the way. Finally, one cold winter’s day he died peacefully in Cathy’s arms. We had him cremated and kept his ashes in a special
handmade wooden box. On it was a brass plaque that read; “Pudge- world’s greatest dog.” So a few years later, Cathy, our grandson Kane and I, found ourselves at a breeder’s place surrounded by a bunch of 10 week old puppies. They were super cute fluffy little things- all running around playing and peeing to their hearts content. We were smitten. “How do we choose?” asked Cathy. “They’re all so precious and all so much like Pudge.” Kane wanted to buy them all. I looked around. In the end there were two males that reminded us most of Pudge. One was sleeping and the other was running around. “Let’s take him,” I pointed to the dog running around. “He seems to have the most spunk.” We all agreed. Kane asked if he could feed the puppy sometimes and give him baths. “Sure”, Cathy said with a smile. “Careful not to drowned him when you do,” I joked. I called over the breeder who was a well-mannered and polite woman with a kind face. “Have you decided?” she asked. “Yes,” I replied. “We’ll take that one.” She smiled with her kindly face and picked him up. “He’s so sweet,” she said. “He’s my favorite too.” “We’re taking him to doggie heaven,” said Kane. Good-bye kindly breeder’s face. Hello concerned dog lover. Cathy picked up on that and explained.
A Puppy Heaven
“What he means is our place is heaven for dogs.” The breeder looked relieved. Then, hoping to convince the breeder further I added, “There are lots of places to bury small animals on our property.” Back to concerned dog lover. Then Kane added, “We burned the last one but we know how to take care of little dogs. They never leave!” Shocked, the breeder clutched the puppy to her chest and turned as if to protect it. Then Kane went on, “we won’t kick him across the floor if he stays out of our way. We’ll even feed him sometimes,” Then, and with a big smile he said, “and I promise not to drown him!” At this point, even the puppy seemed to be worried. The breeder began to hustle him away.
Realizing now what was going on in the panicked breeder’s mind, Cathy and I followed. We spent fifteen long minutes trying to convince her we weren’t blood thirsty puppy murderers and explained the misunderstandings. As she filled out the paperwork, she’d stop and look us up and down, then go on to the paperwork again. That kind face had turned somewhat sour. She shoved the paper at us. “Sign here.” We did. She handed us a leash along with a few pet supplies. With a smile and a “thank-you”, we turned and began to walk the puppy out the door. At the last minute he stopped and turned to the breeder as if to say, “Where are you letting them take me?” We named him Max.
Free Pattern
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