Vermont’s Guide to Specialty Shopping & Events • May-June Issue

MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 2 MAY-JUNE 2013PAGE 3The Country Register The Country Register

Essex Junction & Events

Thank you for picking up the May-June issue of The Country Register! I saw my first healthy looking tulips yesterday and I couldn’t help but feel that spring is finally here.

It’s the perfect time of year to dust off those projects you let sit through the long winter: Sit outside with UFO’s and a glass of lemonade or re-decorate a tired room with beautiful antiques and primitives.

It’s also an excellent time to learn something new. I started sewing classes this past month, after months of letting my brand new (to me) sewing machine sit around unused. Since before Christ-mas I’d been putting it off as “too time consuming to start” and how wrong I was! A relaxing after-noon with friends was all it took. Lots of local shops offer great classes for everyone from begin-ners to long-time quilters, sewers, and crafters.

It’s also a great time of year to sit down and make a plan for your summer travels. The Ver-mont Quilt Festival is in the end of June (if you’re a quilter this is a don’t miss!) and our advertising shops are all in areas that you can build a day or weekend trip around (you can even check out our back page if you want to take a trip out of state)!

Don’t forget to thank the shops for advertising in the paper, it wouldn’t happen without them!

From the Publishers

DisclaimerArticles published in this newspaper, which are contributed from an

outside source, 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 the purchase or use of products advertised herein.

The Country Register of Vermont May-June 2013 Vol. 1, No. 6The Country Register is published every other month. Copyright © 2013. Reproduction or use without written permission of editorial or graphic

content in any manner is prohibited.Subscription price for 1 year (6 issues) is $18. Single issues can be

purchased for $3.

Kelly and Chris Kennedy5804 Whiterose Way

New Market, MD 21774(443) 243-1118 • tcrvermont@gmail.com

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The Country Register Founder: Barbara Floyd, 602-237-6008,info@countryregister.com, located in Phoenix, AZ

USA• Indicates the State has a web-viewable version of The Country Register.

Alabama: Dana Wilburn, 6349 Knollwood Ct., Frederick, MD 21701, 301-698-2694• Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950• Arkansas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• California and N. Nevada: Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858 Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797 • Connecticut: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319• Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, 706-340-1049, 678-641-7728• Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Idaho (S) WA & E. OR:Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950• Illinois: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319 Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, 641-751-2619• Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, 866-966-9815• Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243-1118 Maine: Gail Hageman, 221 Winslow Rd, Albion, ME 04910, 207-437-2663• Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Massachusetts-RI: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760 Michigan: Bill and Marlene Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, 48603-3143, 989-793-4211• Minnesota: Kim and Mickey Keller, 12835 Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, 763-754-1661• Missouri: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Montana: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ 85071, 602-942-8950 Nevada (N): Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858• Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803 New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 330 North Road, Deerfield, NH, 03037, 603-463-3703• New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319 New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797• New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• N. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009 ,937-652-1157• Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950• Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Rhode Island: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• S. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• South Dakota:Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243-1118• Texas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Utah: Daniel & Stacy Tueller, 153 S 2050 W, Provo UT 84601, 801-592-8498 Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243-1118• Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Washington & E. OR & S. ID : Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950• West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, 715-838-9426• Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028

CANADA• Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0,780-889-3776 British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, B.C. V0H 1Z0, 1-800-784-6711• Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, 306-736-2441 Ontario: Laurie Holcombe, 166-B Craig Henry Drive, Nepean, Ontario K2G 4M7 613-864-8667

The SummerTourist Seasonis just around

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May-JuneEvents

June

28-30...........................................Vermont Quilt Festival, Essex Junction (p. 3)

JULY-AUGUST 2012PAGE 5

Bethel

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Two-bite BlissA cool dessert is always a welcome ending to a summer picnic.

Whether you are planning an outdoor barbeque, a 4th of July party or a summer tea party, a bite-size dessert that can be eaten without utensils is always a good thing! Try these luscious lemon tarts that can be assembled in minutes and look as good as they taste. Just be sure to make plenty! © Susan Tipsord 2012 Luscious Lemon Tarts

2 pkg. pre-baked fillo dessert shells (in freezer section), thawedApproximately 5 oz. mascarpone cheese (sweet Italian cream cheese)Approximately ½ c. lemon curd30 raspberries Remove dessert shells from freezer 30 minutes before assembling dessert. They will thaw quickly. Mix mascarpone cheese and lemon curd. No need to measure - this recipe can be adjusted to your taste. If you like a lemony bite, add more lemon curd. Fill dessert shells with mixture and top each with a raspberry. Makes 30 two-bite tarts.

Countryberries LLC

330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com

Designed by Kathy Graham

Countryberries Designs

Summer Sail Pinkeep

This pattern is free for you to use. Please give the artist credit. Not for commercial use. Cross stitch this design on your desired cross stitch fabric. Stitch around edges, right sides together. Turn, stuff and stitch closed. Add a ribbon hanger if desired. Have fun!

Holiday HelpersMany of the quilters and crafters I know are busy working on holi-day projects right now. It’s hot and summery almost everywhere in the country, but it’s Christmas in a lot of workrooms! Now is a great time to sign up for a class to learn a new skill or improve upon the skills you may already have, but here is another thought. Do you have a skill that you can share with others? Perhaps you are a terrific baker? A master knitter? A skilled jewelry maker? No doubt there are people that would love to learn from you! Organize a class of your own. Determine what you would like to offer, make your own sched-ule, advertise and enjoy! If you are so inclined, senior centers and after-school programs are often looking for people to teach classes. Having a hobby you enjoy is a gift; sharing your hobby or talents with others can be priceless. © Susan Tipsord 2012

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MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 4 MAY-JUNE 2013PAGE 5The Country Register The Country Register

BrandonBranford House

AntiquesA Historic 1850s Farmhouse on a

Scenic Vermont Dairy Farm

Antiquing Like It Was Before the InternetAntiques, antiques & more antiques!

6691 US Route 7, Brandon, VT 057337 minutes South of Brandon, 17 minutes North of Rutland on Hwy 7

802-483-2971 • branfordhouseantiques.comOpen Daily 10am until 5pm • Closed Wed & Thurs in Winter

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2013 Marks The25th Year ofThe Country

Register!

E n j o y M o r e o f J a n ’ s C o l u m n sO R D E R H E R B O O K S TO DAY

Life is like a quilt, pieced together from aunique patchwork of memories, friendships,joys, and challenges. In each of these books,

syndicated columnist Jan Keller is down toearth and refreshingly transparent as sheopens the door to life’s dreams, triumphs

and struggles in a heart-warmingway that will touch you forever. You’ll

love the way she spins ‘yarns’ thatweave the pieces of a treasured tapestry into a vivid depiction of life and love.

SPECIAL OFFER! Order both books for just $25 and SAVE Shipping & Handling!

Mail your order to: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831.

Pieces From My Heartby Jan Keller

The Icing on the CakeWhen I was a little girl very the first thing I ate when refreshments were

served at a birthday party was the icing on the cake. When I was two yearsold a photo was taken of all of the guests at my older sister’s birthday partyand, if a dirty face is any indication, I truly enjoyed my piece of cake; and,of course, I ate the frosting first.

Of all the cakes my mother baked for my birthday I wanted chocolate cake withwhat I called ‘sticky’ frosting. As a rare treat, up until Hostess went out of business, Icould buy a package of Suzy Qs and get my birthday cake fix because it tasted sosimilar to my mom’s chocolate cake with ‘sticky’ frosting.

Now, as a grown woman, I rarely make a layer cake, and frost my large rectan-gular cake in the pan with either German chocolate or broiled frosting—both ofwhich are loaded with coconut and pecans. But, as the grandmother of five grand-children (ranging in age from eight to fourteen) I recently had the honor of bakinga birthday cake for Gabe and Garrett, my fourteen-year-old twin grandsons.Because it was also the first birthday cake I baked for any of my grandchildren, I put

a lot of thought into the cake and its frosting.I don’t think any of my grandchildren like

nuts or coconut, but they do like chocolate, sothe icing was my primary decision. Afterpouring over several cookbooks and manyrecipes, I finally decided, for the first time in mylife, to try to make my beloved ‘sticky’ frosting—more commonly known as ‘Seven Minute Icing.’

After reviewing many recipes for this old-timey treat, I combined elements from here andthere and was pleased with the results. When itcomes to the icing on the cake, this remains myfavorite; and here’s my recipe:

SEVEN MINUTE ICING1 1/2 cups sugar1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar1 tablespoon white corn syrup1/8 teaspoon salt1/3 cup water3 egg whites1 1/2 teaspoons vanillaPlace sugar, cream of tartar, corn syrup, salt, water and egg whites in a large glass

mixing bowl (the bowl needs to fit on top of a large pot and work as the top sectionof a double boiler). Beat with an electric mixer for one minute. Place the largemixing bowl on top of the pot of boiling water, being sure that the boiling waterdoes not touch the bottom of the glass mixing bowl. Beat constantly on high speedwith an electric mixer for seven minutes. Remove from heat and beat in vanilla.

Immediately frost the cake and serve as soon as possible.Yield enough icing to frost a 2-layer cake.

© 2013 Jan Keller. No reprint of this article without permission.Jan shares other pieces of her life in her books, Pieces From My Crazy Quilt,

and The Tie That Binds. These books can be ordered by calling 719-749-9797,or writing: Black Sheep Books, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO 80831

Mowing Down the Proverbs’ Womanby Mari Vanderstelt

Once upon a time, when my girls were very little, we attended a church whereevery Mother’s Day the Pastor read Proverbs 31. You know the one I am talkingabout: “She riseth early to feed her family and servants ... she weaves ... she neverfears the cold or the dark because she has enough oil for her lamps and has coatsand blankets to shut out the cold. She buys and sells land.” And so on.

I pictured a modern day real estate mongrel with a cheerful housekeeper whokept the house spotless for this modern day super mom who worked full time,made her own candles Martha Stewart style, and spent her off hours sewing trendylittle coats out of wool she spun from her sheep in the backyard. Of course, shenever slept and somehow kept a cheerful disposition because her husband praisedher at the city gates. (He had time to sit at the gates—she was doing all the work!)If it were not for the fact she is in the Bible, I would strongly suggest she was onsomething illegal.

I resented the Proverbs woman. She annoyedme. I could sew my little girls outfits only if I putoff doing the dishes—and spinning the fibers andmaking my own candles just seemed like a bitmuch. I did not need her cheerful perky perfectpersonality disorder dragged out every Mother’sDay to ruin my once a year holiday of pamperingfrom the kids. And why do I want to buy land? Isit for the sheep? Every Mother’s Day, after thePastor closed the service with that passage, Iwould entertain myself with the gleeful image ofrevving up the John Deere Tractor and mowingthat woman down.

To make matters worse, I am descended from a Proverbs’ Woman. My maternalGrandmother made all of my mother’s and her sisters’ school clothes (and theylooked great!) gardened, canned, knitted, worked full time and served on severalchurch committees. She put on holiday feasts every year served on fine china withperfect table arrangement. (I prefer pizza on paper plates.) One year, she stayed uptill midnight Christmas Eve sewing a suit (a suit mind you!!!) for Grampy, her adoptedfather. (I would feel crafty just making a tie.) The point is that she illustrated for methat the Proverbs’ Woman really can exist. And when you are knee deep in diapersand can’t catch up on the laundry, you prefer to think she is just an urban myth.

Somewhere along the line, my view towards the Proverbs’ Woman—and mygrandmother—softened. Yes, the Proverbs’ Woman did a lot, but nowhere does itsay she did it all in one day. Yes, my grandmother did a lot. She also died young.

The older I get, the more I realize why my Grandmother did so much. She trulyloved sewing—it was how she worked through problems and unwound at the endof the day. The fact that she was able to provide her daughters with stylish clotheswas probably a bonus. In fact, I imagine she loved doing it so much because,unlike gardening and cleaning, when you sew something, it stays done!

I will never be able to sew clothing for my teens. (They have put a firm footdown regarding matching dresses.) But I can use my quilting skills to earn moneyto buy clothes for them. It was like a light bulb moment for me when I realized wehad something in common, and that I was not as hopeless a woman and mother asI thought I was.

Somewhere along the way I realized the point of the Proverbs’ Woman is thatshe stepped up to the plate and helped provide for her family in a way that wasright for her and the season of her life. Maybe we can’t all make oil for our lampsand spin wool from our sheep, but every time we help provide for our family andothers, we are the Proverbs’ Woman. And if we are able to do so in a manner thatalso helps satisfy our soul—oh boy, the joy in that!

So, no, I don’t provide meals for the servants. But I have a dishwasher and I helpprovide electricity. My house is old and cold and I make a lot of quilts that are wellused through the months of October to May. I will work my way into the gardeningand food preservation thing when the time is right. And I no longer dream aboutmowing the Proverbs’ Woman down. I just want to feed her a lot of chocolate andwatch her break out. It will be a bonus if she gains a few pounds in the process.

I mean, I can’t change my views entirely. Mari Vanderstelt owns Yankee Dutch Quilting & Dry Goods, located at 106 East Bishop Way, Brownsville, OR 97327.

She can be reached at yankeedutch@hotmail.com. Writing has proven to be a great way for Mari to unwind.

GabeGarrett

Outdoor Activities Word Scramble Unscramble the words. Key is below.

01. tfgarin sport of traveling on rivers and streams by a floating platform made of buoyant material

02. igikhn walking for a long distance 03. abolfolt a game in which two opposing teams of 11

players each defend goals at opposite ends 04. ngrigdean the act of cultivating or tending a plot of land 05. sohognit to hit, wound, or kill with a missile fired from a

weapon. 06. micpagn a place where a person or persons live in tents 07. tsprso an activity exertion and skill in which an

individual or team competes against each other 08. iincygclb riding a vehicle with two wire-spoked wheels, a

seat, handlebars, ... 09. aldobgdel a game in which players in a circle try to hit the

opponents inside the circle with an inflated ball 10. ncacpbgkiak combines hiking and camping backcountry

wilderness 11. ihsignf the technique, occupation, or diversion of

catching aquatics 12. icnicp a casual meal eaten outdoors 13. rocesc objective is to score goals, by kicking or heading

the ball into the opponents' goal 14. crangi to compete in a contest of speed 15. nerkitgk to journey on foot, especially to hike through

mountainous areas. 16. eaocertnri enjoyable activity when one is not working 17. icetkrc a team sport with bat and ball for two teams of

eleven players each 18. albesabl a game of ball between two nine-player teams

played usually for nine innings 19. bganiunsth basking in sunshine, to get a suntan 20. iogfgnl game played on a large outdoor course with a

series of 9 or 18 holes spaced far apart

1. rafting, 2. hiking, 3. football, 4. gardening, 5. shooting, 6. camping, 7. sports, 8. bicycling, 9. dodgeball, 10. backpacking,

11. fishing, 12. picnic, 13. soccer, 14. racing, 15. trekking, 16. recreation, 17. cricket, 18. baseball, 19. sunbathing, 20. golfing

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MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 6 MAY-JUNE 2013PAGE 7The Country Register The Country Register

Countrywide

Countryberries LLC

330 North Road Deerfield, NH 03037603-463-7615 www.countryberries.com

Designed by Kathy Graham

Countryberries Designs Valentine Snowflake

Find an old drawer, box, enamel dishpan or pot. Cover the bottom with plastic if necessary. Fill with potting soil. Using small stones and plants from around your yard, create a “landscape”. Check at your garden center for small plants that are slow growing or can be easily trimmed. Remember to buy shade plants if your fairy garden will be in a shaded area and sun-loving plants for a sunny area. Some possi-bilities include: Wooly Thyme, Irish Moss, Blue Star Creeper and Baby Tears. Go to a craft supply store or garden center to find miniature benches, arbors, watering cans, shovels, etc.Relax and enjoy your garden- perhaps you’ll find some fairies hiding under the leaves!

Fairy Garden

Piecing Life Togetherby Barbara Polston

Do What You LoveWriters should pay attention to the re-

quests of their editors and publishers. This writer is no exception. I received a message from my Country Register publisher that the theme for the upcoming issue would be “gardening, outdoor projects, and sum-mertime fun.” I think she was hoping that I might structure my column around these topics. Let’s see...

“Gardening” would be a challenge. I don’t have a lawn. I have what is called “desert landscaping,” which means dirt and rocks. My plantings are absolutely no main-tenance—they are trimmed by landscap-ers about twice a year and that’s that. The extent of my gardening is to sweep dried leaves off my back patio. Even that doesn’t happen as much as it should. Gardening, as a topic, seems out of the question.

“Outdoor projects” is a challenge as well. My philosophy is that the outdoors should remain there. While I appreciate the beauty of the mountains, the seashore and the forests, a glimpse now and again is enough for me. I prefer my glimpses to come through the windows of a comfortable vehicle. Besides, we’ve already been over 90 degrees here in Phoenix, Arizona, and will hit triple digits before the end of the month. Summer here is like winter in the Midwest. Although we don’t need shovels and boots, we have a tendency to stay indoors where it’s nicely air-conditioned. No outdoor projects on tap for this girl and no column topic either.

That leaves “summertime fun.” We’ve already discussed the summer heat in my neck of the woods. I think we’ve already established that outdoors is not where I’d like to be at anytime, much less in the summer. So, what will I be do-ing for “summertime fun,” you might ask.

Although it’s under wraps for the time being, I’m working on a BIG project. My project requires lots of sewing and quilting and lots of writing. My project is done indoors, which I think we’ve established is my preferred place to be. My workspaces, both where I sew and quilt and where I write, are comfortable and air-conditioned.

If you’ve read my column for any length of time, you know that I write for my living. I write, primarily, about quilting and have been diligently working to derive all of my income from quilt-related activities. That includes the aforemen-tioned sewing and teaching my patterns and techniques. You may be thinking that my summertime plans sound more like work than fun.

Marc Anthony is quoted as saying, “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.” I’m very fortunate that I am able to work at what I love. Summertime work? For me, summertime fun! I hope this passes muster with my publisher!

Barbara Polston is a writer by vocation and a quilter by avocation. You can see Barbara’s quilts, join her on Facebook or book her class and lecture offer-ings at www.barbarapolston.com. She is the Editor of The Quilting Quarterly, the Journal of The National Quilting Association, Inc. Barbara, who has lived in Phoenix, Arizona, for over 27 years, is calmly quilting in Studio Narnia. ©Bar-bara Polston, Phoenix, AZ, April 2013

Become Inspired!Decorating, Entertaining, and Living in the Early American Style with Milltown Primitives, LLC

Decorating the OutdoorsWhen I think about the months of May and June I envision warm, sunny

days that lure me out to my herb garden to work with my plants. The arrival of May makes me think of the year my mother’s herb garden was a stop on the Woodstock, CT House and Garden tour. She and I worked side by side in her garden and when our work was done the finishing touch was to add a special accent that would have been part of an eighteenth century garden. It remains one of my favorite garden centerpieces to this day—the bee skep. Each year my mother would place a tall skep on the large stump that was beautifully sur-rounded by stands of mint. The bee skep was visible from the road and was the perfect touch to this 1703 kitchen-side garden. In primitive decorating nothing says gardening like the traditional bee skep and they can be found reasonably in many shapes and forms. Another prominent accent that indeed says ‘almost summer’ is the American flag.

As an owner of an early home I like to purchase tea-dyed Betsy Ross flags for my indoor and outdoor displays. They look early and when these patriotic symbols are attached to wooden sticks they can be put almost anywhere for an instant, primitive touch of summer. Porches or small outbuildings can be adorned with banners of stars and stripes in the same early American style.

Using Your AntiquesMy passion for antiques has led me to discover that not only do I love

antiques for their history, value and form, but also for their function. I have found that a sturdy, primitive tool carrier can be rendered useful once again by serving as a tote for gardening hand tools. Early baskets fashioned from quality splint can be used to gather herbs or to bring picnic notions out to the sum-mer table. Wooden wheelbarrows can be used as efficient work carts and serve double-duty as a garden centerpiece when the day is done. In essence, when I buy antiques that have stood the test of time I feel I am honoring them by put-ting them back to work.

Entertaining with AntiquesAs I think to the warmer months ahead I get busy thinking of ways to enter-

tain outside. My herb garden and stone patio can become my “outdoor space” for entertaining and I try to think of ways to make it special for my guests. When I go shopping for antiques I consider ways to incorporate primitives into this new outdoor area. For evening gatherings, I always like to use antique lighting to adorn my outdoor table settings. Antique lanterns on sticks placed around my back fence add a primitive touch. The collective effect is simple, but relaxing. To add to the ambiance of the outdoors, Robin Rock, the owner of Milltown Primitives, shared some creative ideas with me that I have recently tried. I used an antique iron pot as a fire pit to gather around when guests begin to feel a chill in the air. When I tried it out, it worked perfectly and did not take up much space. Robin also recommended using tobacco fencing to establish the perimeter of your outdoor space. Similarly, simple beanpoles add primitive distinction while serving as trellises for climbing flowers such as nasturtium. To anchor the corners of the space in an early American style, large antique rain barrels can add a genuine touch that brings one back to a simpler time.

Using antiques to accentuate your yard and home is rewarding in so many ways. As I pull into my yard at the end of my day I look upon my outdoor antiques and they seem to stand as a symbol for old-fashioned hard work, well-deserved satisfaction and time–honored pride. They remind me of all of the blessings found in a life lived simply and a life lived with purpose.

Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is cur-rently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com

Robin Rock is the owner of Milltown Primitives. www.milltownprimitvesshop.com

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From the Recipe Box:Mom’s Cheesecake

Filling

3 eggs1 cup sugar1/4 t. salt2 t. vanilla extract1/2 t. almond extract2 large & 1 small Philadelphia Cream Cheese1 ½ pint sour cream

Blend all ingredients.

Crust

3 cups Graham Crackers (crumbled)1/2 cup butter

Melt butter. Add graham crackers. Shape into crust in pie dish. Add filling.

Bake 40 to 50 minutes at 375 degrees.

Courtesy of Janice Tosadori, Maryland.

MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 8 MAY-JUNE 2013PAGE 9The Country Register The Country Register

Berlin

Located at the Berlin Mall: 282 Berlin Mall Rd.Berlin, VT 05602(802) 778-0777

mail@vermontbobbin.com

Hours: Mon-Sat from 10am to 9pm • Sun from 11am to 5pm

West Danville

Joe’s Pond Craft ShopRt. 2 & 15, West Danville, VT • 684-2192

www.joespondcrafts.comTues - Sat: 9:30 - 6:00 • Sun. 9:30 - 1 • Closed Mondays

Fine, Vermont HandcraftsOutstanding collection of Folk Art Designs Handwoven Rag Rugs – Quilting – Woodworking Pottery – Hand knitted Socks – Needle Felting Soy Candles – Basketry & So Much more...

Joe’s Pond Craft ShopRt. 2 & 15, West Danville, VT • 684-2192

www.joespondcrafts.comTues - Sat: 9:30 - 6:00 • Sun. 9:30 - 1 • Closed Mondays

Fine, Vermont HandcraftsOutstanding collection of Folk Art Designs Handwoven Rag Rugs – Quilting – Woodworking Pottery – Hand knitted Socks – Needle Felting Soy Candles – Basketry & So Much more...

Joe’s Pond Craft ShopRt. 2 & 15, West Danville, VT • 684-2192

www.joespondcrafts.comTues - Sat: 9:30 - 6:00 • Sun 9:30 - 1:00

Closed Mondays

This pattern may be used for embroidery,wool appliqué, punch needle or rug hooking,

painted projects or whatever yourimagination can dream up!

Reduce or enlarge pattern as desired.Commercial use prohibited.

Find more free patterns atwww.TheNobleWife.com

We love to see the projects that you have made from our patterns. If you decide topost a project that you have made based on one of our patterns on a blog or website,please give design credit to Jacquelynne Steves of The Noble Wife. Thank you!!!

Free Pattern

The Dropped Stitchby Sharon Greve

What Does Your HandbagSay About You?

Some psychologists believe the style of handbaga woman carries, and the way she carries it, saysvolumes about her. It is, after all, a woman’sfavorite and most important accessory for her daily busy activities. Today’s handbagshave to fit the role of practical accessory and a fashion statement—adapting tochanging needs and lifestyles from purses (the American name) to totes. Fiberwomen have the advantage of designing and creating their very own bag whichexpresses their personality and individual interests. Today just about anything goesas far as handbag designs—a great accessory to show your needlework skills. If awoman’s handbag project is intimidating to you, create a bag for a little girl. Eitherway, the following guidelines will help.

Consider the age and lifestyle of recipient. What is the intended use—everydayshopping, at work, the beach, gym, or a wedding?

Consider the intended contents. Handbags can wear out with the weight andnature of the objects placed inside. A sharp pen can wear a hole, coins can rubstitching that can come undone at points of intense wear or friction such as on thebottom panel where the bag rests on a variety of surfaces. Personally, I recommendlining any bag, even if felted. Select a favorite color or a “surprise splash” of a printwhich expresses your personality or interest. The bag shell is protected from saggingand stretching because the content weight is on the lining.

A handbag should complement the recipient’s body size and shape. If the bag istoo small, the woman appears to be carrying a child’s bag; if too large, the womanappears overpowered by the accessory. A handbag’s shape can add bulk to a woman’sbody before adding the contents. And, no woman wants that! Common bag shapesare square (bucket), rectangular (envelope), and circular (hobo and drawstring).The size of the intended contents and their placement (vertical or horizontal) in thebag should be considered. Pockets in the lining provide content organization.

A durable fiber is important. You do want the bag to last a long time after yourneedlework. A swatch is handy to determine if the pattern stitches, which add tothe bag’s strength, are pleasantly visible or if they are lost in the color and densetexture. Color can be an instant reflection of your personality so select a favoritecolor, keeping in mind there are summer colors and winter colors. A colorful lining,of course, reveals a splash of personal expression when the bag is open.

Wooden handles are available in yarn stores for a hand-carried handbag if youdon’t want to create your own of fiber. If a shoulder strap is desired, be sure thefiber and stitch pattern is strong, not stretchy; however, a strong fiber may becarried with the primary fiber for strength to withstand the pull of the filled handbagweight. An across-the body- strap should match your body measurement.

Closure options are only limited by your imagination. Some are button, shell, beadand loop, magnetic device, zipper, Velcro, drawstring or combination; i.e., Velcro orzipper for inside closure with fold over flap closing with loop and button, etc.

Personalize your bag with embellishments of embroidery, applique, beads, shells,decorative pins, buttons, ribbons, flowers (knitted, crocheted, or felted), zipper pullfobs, and the list goes on. The options are endless. Use your creativity to express you.

Since a handbag goes everywhere with you and rests on many surfaces, care isimportant. To avoid unwanted felting, follow the fiber care instructions provided bythe manufacturer. Hand washing and shaping is generally recommended.

Make your handbag speak for you!©2013 Sharon Greve She may be reached at castonshar@yahoo.com No reprint without permission

Random Actsby Maranda K. Jones

Garden Design

Maranda Jones’ new book Random Actsis now available at amazon.com.

The book includes her reader-acclaimed articles from the last decade.

Gardening well is one of my strongest convic-tions. To break the soil, to nourish the land, and torelease the imprisoned buds from the damp earthfloor is a reward unlike any other. The results arevisible, tangible, and delightful. While Father Timeand Jack Frost have held the green shoots captiveduring the solitary winter months, the blooms haveserved their sentence and are out on parole. Picksof flowers and blades of grass overwhelm yardsinside the confined areas carefully guarded by rocks, bricks, and stone walls. Talltrees tower over the ground, proudly presiding over their courts, tapping theirgavels in the breeze. Each branch full of jury members is ready to testify thatsummer has reached its verdict.

The Garden of Eden holds evidence of being the most influential of our landscapedesigns. This first garden was not only beautiful, but practical. Its image has caughtour attention from the very beginning. Trees, rivers, beasts, birds, and goldenhanced the original garden plan, and most of us try to replicate this paradise inour own backyards.

In the Garden of Eden, there were two distinct trees. Gardeners today alsoacknowledge two distinct trees. Disciplined trees, always divided into evergreens ordeciduous, are loyal to their respective gangs. The deciduous trees carry canopies ofshade and colors galore in certain seasons. Some will even share fruit, nuts, and acornsin exchange for ample space and full sunlight. The evergreens also enjoy full sunlightas they protect from winter winds and offer year-round color and texture. Nativetrees from either group make gardens visually distinct to their region of the world.

The Garden of Eden was home to a single river that split into four separaterivers downstream. Most gardeners would find that creation impossible to imitateand find other ways to introduce water into their landscapes. Waterfalls, fountains,bird baths and ponds verify that water is a common, essential element. It relievesplants of thirst, flowing freely from faucets. It welcomes winged creatures to washand drink, holds fish in custody, and invites other beasts to partake.

Beasts and birds appear alone, two by two, or in great abundance. My gardenhosts an owl, who is a loner, who arrives in the dark, who hides in the shadows. Apair of squirrels engages in a high-speed chase winding around the pine trees,jumping onto the roof, and scaling the rain gutters. Butterflies and ladybugs, too manyto count, conquer the colorful blossoms and leaves. Many have witnessed fictionalfrogs and flamingoes among the less than genuine geese and turtles strategicallyplaced to attract an audience. Garden gnomes tend to be evasive around here, andsome have to see to believe.

Last and certainly not least, a garden needs gold. The gold in our gardens is thealmighty force. The golden sun is the key to our existence, for it is the light and thelife. We search for its presence and worship its fundamental nature. We take comfortin its warmth and hope that we will be rescued from darkness. We bask in thestrength, the omnipotence, and the glory.

We rely on sustenance from the soil, appreciating its prettiness and its purpose.We cleanse our bodies and souls with water. We come across creatures from allwalks and flights of life. Some seek trees of life and some seek trees of knowledge.Our roots run deep and inevitably intertwine, subconsciously reminding us of ourorigin. And so it grows.

Author Maranda K. Jones shares her stories of faith and family through her personal experiences of growing,teaching, and parenting in a small town. She lives with her husband and their son and daughters in rural Colorado.

She is an elementary school teacher as well as a prolific freelance writer. Reach Maranda at MzMc@aol.com

Summer Flower Power by Lesley R. Nuttall

Summer is upon us with the flowers in full bloom.Flowers all around us, and there isn’t much more room.

Bumble bees are busy, buzzing all around.Butterflies are fluttering, without making any sound.

Canadian Provinces each have an unique national flower.Alberta’s is the Wild Rose in a pretty pink colour.

British Columbia’s Pacific Dogwood blooms in April and May.Saskatchewan’s Western Red Lily grows in meadows and forest clay.

Manitoba’s Prairie Crocus can bloom with snow still on the ground.Ontario’s white Trillium has a trio of white petals all around.

New Brunswick’s purple Violet makes the Provinces perfect welcome!Canada has no official flower, but makes the Maple Leaf its emblem.

The United States has official flowers for each and every region.Florida’s Orange Blossoms little white flowers, bloom in the spring season.

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Columbines rich aroma attracts butterflies and bees.Maryland’s Black Eyed Susan is beautiful standing tall with ease.

New York’s Tea Rose is a symbol of love and beauty in all colours.Wisconsin and New Jersey’s Violets have pretty purple flowers.

North Carolina and Virginia’s American Dogwood have mostly, little white petals.While New Hampshire’s purple Lilac Bush can grow on rocky hills and bevels.

Delaware’s Peach State has the reputation of gorgeous Peach Blossoms.Vermont’s Red Clover can be seen along roadsides by the volumes.

Canada and the U.S. are blessed to have flowers so beautiful and grand.And we are so fortunate for them to be growing, all throughout our land!

© 2013 Lesley R. NuttallLesley lives with her husband in Dryden, ON, Can. and is the Author of

“Secrets of Party Planning.” lesleyrose@shaw.ca

A Cup of Tea with LydiaBy Lydia E. Harris

Celebrate Your Nationali-TEA!

What’s your ethnic background? Does your name reveal your ancestry?With a last name of Harris, it’s not surprising my husband is half English and Scots-

Irish. But he’s also half Czech. So if I hosted a tea party to reflect my husband’s ances-tors, I could use English, Scots-Irish, or Czech foods and customs to honor his back-ground.

What’s your nationali-TEA?If you highlighted your heritage at a tea party, what foods and customs could you

include? Would you plan an all-American party? Or does your heritage contain another ethnic background or a mixture of cultures?

Since my maiden name is Siemens, I could plan a German menu for my nationali-TEA. And because my parents were Mennonites, I could incorporate traditional Mennonite foods.

What’s to eat?Once you decide which aspect of your heritage to showcase, select favorite foods.

Perhaps you’re French and would enjoy quiche, crepes, or mousse. Or if Scandinavian, a smorgasbord that includes sweet bread with cardamom might suit you.

Your guest list may also influence your menu. If I invite my siblings, I’m more likely to serve German-Mennonite foods. I might even break from serving traditional tea scones and bake zwieback (yeast double buns). Sliced meat-and-cheese cold cuts might replace finger sandwiches. And the black tea would be served with sugar and lemon.

But we’re not limited to serving foods from only one culture. It’s fun to use an inter-national menu and include delicacies from several countries. Ask guests to bring foods from their heritage to share. Perhaps someone with a Spanish background will bring cold gazpacho soup, while an Italian guest will bring pasta salad. A Scottish guest might bring shortbread, while an Australian friend might bring pavlova, a meringue dessert. The possibili-TEAS are endless.

I planned an international tea and invited my prayer-group ladies and their husbands. Including foods from several cultures allowed me to go beyond dainty tidbits and serve heartier foods the men enjoyed. But we sipped plenty of tea from china teacups.

What’s for fun?To extend your heritage theme, you could select clothes, customs, entertainment, and

decorations to go with your nationali-TEA. Small flags or a flower arrangement using the colors in your flag are easy and inexpensive. As for clothing, my Norwegian friend enjoys wearing her traditional colorful dress. Ethnic background music adds to the flavor of the event. Check the library for CDs.

At our extended family gatherings, we often tap into our farm background and use cows and chickens for decorations. Since I grew up milking cows and gathering eggs, a country theme suits me to a TEA. After all, as the saying goes: You can take the girl out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the girl.

Tea times lend themselves to relaxed conversations that include family backgrounds, stories, and customs. Encourage your guests to share snippets of their cultural heritage and what it means to them. You’ll become better acquainted as you celebrate family histories together.

I’m grateful for my roots and look forward to planning a nationali-TEA to celebrate my heritage. I might even use our familiar German prayer.* Won’t you join me?

*German blessing: Segne Vater, diese Speise, Uns zur Kraft, und dir zum Preise. Amen. (English: Father, bless this food we pray. Help us live for You today. Amen.)

Lydia E. Harris, M.A. in home economics, is the author of Preparing My Heart for Grandpar-enting. Column used by permission, © 2013. No reprint without the author’s permission. Contact LydiaHarris@Qwest.net.

From Lydia’s Recipe File: PavlovaThis dessert is popular in Australia and New Zealand. The crisp meringue shell with

marshmallowy center tastes delicious topped with whipped cream and fruit.

Preheat oven to 250 degrees.Beat until foamy:4 egg whitesAdd a dash of salt, and beat

to a stiff foam.Add and beat in: 3/4 cup sugar, one tablespoon

at a time.After mixture forms stiff

peaks, fold in:1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vinegar

Spoon meringue mixture onto a cookie sheet cov-ered with parchment paper, forming a 9-inch round. Bake for 1 to 1 1/4 hours until outside is crisp to touch and pale cream color. Turn off oven and open oven door. Leave pavlova in oven until cool.

Place on flat serving dish. Top with one or more cups sweetened whipped cream. Decorate with fresh fruit, such as berries, kiwi, or bananas.

Serves 6 to 8. Refrigerate leftovers.(Recipe adapted from The Graceful Art of Tea by Nan Taylor.)

From the Recipe Box:Ribbon Jello1 sm. lime jello1 sm. orange jello1 sm lemon jello1 sm. cherry jelloWater

2 envelopes Knox gelatin1/2 cup cold water2 cups milk1 cup sugar1 pint sour cream2 t. vanilla

Mix Knox gelatin and water; set aside. Bring milk to boil. Turn offheat. Add sugar and gelatin/water. Add hot mixture slowly to sourcream. Add vanilla. Do not refrigerate.

Make lime jello using 1 cup boiling water and 1/2 cup cold water.

Pour lime jello into 9 x 9 pan. Chill 45 minutes. Top with 1 1/2 cupwhite mixture. Chill 45 minutes.

Continue layering jello and white mixture, ending with cherry jellolayer. Chill 45 minutes between each layer.

Courtesy of Janice Tosadori, Maryland.

MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 10 MAY-JUNE 2013PAGE 11The Country Register The Country Register

Classifieds Countrywide

Classifieds Looking for Artisans or Crafters for your event?

Place a classified ad here in the Country Register & Get two

months of advertising for $35!

Call 443-243-1118 or email tcrvermont@gmail.comfor more information.

Deadline for the July-August issue is June 1st

Have A Website?

Your ad could be here!Call 443-243-1118 or email

tcrvermont@gmail.comfor more information.

Deadline for the July-Augustissue is June 1st

Directory

1. Berlin..........................................pg 82. Brandon.....................................pg 53. Essex Junction...........................pg 34. West Danville............................pg 9

Countrywide......................pgs 7 & 11Classifieds ...................................pg 10New York.....................................pg 12

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To My Grandmother’s Wooden Chopping Bowl

by Kerri HabbenIn 2005 I wrote an essay about mothers and food. I gave my grandmother a copy.

Uncharacteristically, she said nothing upon reading it. Then one day as I was cleaning around her easy chair, she said, “Leave that blue folder there. I read what’s in there.”

I smiled at her, and she smiled back at me. “I know,” I answered. Years of nurturing and love spoke for themselves.

My grandmother had inspired the essay by her stories of her own mother, Nanna, who had died in 1958. Nanna’s 98-year-old daughter had described the cakes her mother baked every Friday and how hot cocoa awaited them on snowy days. My mother remem-bers how Nanna peeled a potato, and we still use some of the dishes she did.

We are not always entirely fair to the women who lived in the times before our own; in ordinary and extraordinary circumstances we cannot fully understand. It is too easy to believe that just because opportunities and rights were limited, a woman’s essence and mind were non-existent. I hear words and phrases about times past that don’t represent the mother who raised my grandmother or the mother who raised my mother. I don’t sense the lives they survived and prospered through in the simplistic stereotypes strewn forth. Courage isn’t merely about the singular events of life; it is also in the casseroles and cakes of day-to-day living.

When my grandmother passed away in September of 2006, I wrote a poem about what, in my bones, I know will always be vital.

To My Grandmother’s Wooden Chopping BowlPerhaps the lines and scratches inside of youare as ancient markings on a canyon wall.I was here, they write.I went this way, they speak.There is a concentric water mark along your outer edge,rings upon a tree trunk, counting years and growth,of expanding within the worldand growing into oneself.You held the food that my grandmother cooked.Apples, spinach, celery, onions.Once you were cradled against the womb that held my mother.You were tucked into the ribs my head grazedwhen I was a child in her embrace.In your center is a feathery outline absorbed into the wood,sparrow brown wisps that paint part of a portrait of a life.Of her life, of the one who now says with her etchings,I was here.I went this way.There are circles upon circles.They speak for her now:I kept growing and giving.I was myself.She held you once, as I hold you now.I see her, chopping stroke upon stroke, creating a life, nurturing liveswith apples, spinach, celery, and onions.Your markings speak across wood’s grain,as the petroglyphs speak upon red layers of rock. You whisper words that know every language.You speak of time that only feels cycles and seasons.Oh, how you speak.

Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer, and local historian in Raleigh, NC.

Spring Cleaning with Essential Oils

By Wanda Headrick

Have you ever considered the exhausted, achy or irritable feelings you experi-ence after cleaning your home might not actually be from the physical activity of cleaning, but from the chemicals used in the process?

According to the “Mind Health Report” (Jan 2013), “many of the effects of environmental toxins are cumulative,” affecting the developing brains of children and posing a threat to the integrity and functionality of the human brain as we age. This can result in reduced cognitive, sensory, motor and social behaviors. In addition, liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing these toxins are often reduced, hormone production is reduced (in both males and females), and the function and integrity of the blood-brain barrier becomes compromised. When the blood-brain barrier that separates circulating blood from the brain’s intracel-lular fluid becomes compromised, toxic agents in the bloodstream can get into brain tissue. This can affect how we feel, think and respond. That is one of the reasons I have added “Home Cleaning” to my list of essential oils uses.

Making your own natural cleaners using pure essential oils, or purchasing home cleaning products made with natural alternatives and pure essential oils, has many advantages. Most recipes for natural cleaning products call for rela-tively common and harmless household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar and pure essential oils. They may require a little more “elbow grease,” but most pure essential oils have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiseptic properties. Other advantages of using pure essential oils in your home cleaning include:

It is safer for your health and environment;Pure Essential Oils give added cleaning power without exposure to the toxic

chemicals from synthetic fragrances (which often contribute to headaches and other health issues);

It is FUN and over time, less expensive;Pure Essential Oils make your home environment relaxing, refreshing and

fragrant.I have included some ways to use Pure Essential Oils in cleaning your home

for Spring and throughout the year to keep your home healthy and happy.

Lemongrass Drain Opener

Lemongrass Essential Oil has properties that are antiseptic, anti-microbial, fungicidal, bactericidal, insecticidal, and act as a deodorant. It helps cut through grease, clogged drains, and is great for repelling mosquitoes. Commercial drain cleaners can contain extremely toxic chemicals, the fumes can be harmful to our lungs, and they can be harmful to drain pipes. Use the following recipe to open up clogged drains and for monthly maintenance.

Lemmongrass Pure Essential Oil 10 dropsBaking Soda 1 CupBoiling Water 3 Cups

Put the baking soda and the Pure Lemongrass Essential Oil in the sink drain, then pour in the boiling water: plunge as needed to release the clog.

An alternative is to use distilled white vinegar in place of the water. Once the fizzing has stopped, pour boiling water into the sink drain and plunge if needed. Avoid splashing the Lemongrass Drain Opener mix into your eyes or onto your skin. Wear eye goggles for added protection.

Eucalyptus Floor Cleaner

Eucalyptus is well known for helping to fight colds and flu due to its natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is excellent added to a humidi-fier, the rinse cycle of a load of laundry, or to remove sticky residue from tags and tape and to remove stains from clothes.

Eucalyptus Pure Essential Oil 20 dropsHot Water 2 GallonGround Soap Base (or liquid Castile Soap) 2 TablespoonsWhite Vinegar 2 Cups

Mix all the above ingredients together in a large bucket and use as needed for cleaning your floors.

Pure Lemon, Pine, or Sweet Orange Essential Oils may be substituted for Pure Euca-lyptus Essential Oil, or blend two or more of your favorite pure essential oils together.

Other natural cleaning products and Pure Essential Oils available from Flinthills Aro-matherapy that are beneficial for cleaning your home include:

Lemon Soft Scrub (excellent for countertops, stainless steel sinks, appliances and flat top cooktops)

Toilet Bowl CleanerOrange Furniture Polish Natural Wool Felted Dryer Ball (a reusable replacement for fabric softener dryer sheets

and decreases drying time)Pure Essential Oils of: Lemon, Lavender, Pine, Sweet Orange, Tea Tree, Peppermint,

Rosemary Eucalyptus, Cedarwood, Patchouli and Lemongrass

To buy pure essential oils, natural cleaning products and supplies go to www.flinthillsaromatherapy.com, call 620-394-2250 or e-mail info@flinthillsaroma-therapy.com

Wanda Headrick, owner of Flinthills Aromatherapy, draws on her extensive knowledge of essen-tial oils to share non-chemical remedies to keep readers and their homes healthy.

Meet the Cover Artist:

Sydney WrightSydney Wright has

loved drawing and paint-ing since early child-hood. With the encour-agement and support of her parents, Sydney took private art lessons throughout her adoles-cent years. A love of art followed her to college where she expanded her knowledge studying il-

lustration and graphic design. She graduated with a BFA from Tyler School of Art, Temple University. After grad-uating she landed a job working in the art department for the magazine Opera News. Later, Wright went on to work for the well known national publication, Ladies Home Journal.

Sydney is now a freelance artist working from her home on the coast of New Jersey. With a beach house overlooking the Atlantic Ocean she is blessed with infi-nite inspiration. As part of her freelance work, Sydney creates illustration for Scholastic, a company providing teaching aids and educational material for children. She has also recently completed the illustration of her first children's book. A fun, whimsical style gives her work wide-reaching appeal in today’s market.

To view Sydney’s art prints, go to www.PennyLanePublishing.com or call Penny Lane Publishing at 800-273-5263 for more information.

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MAY-JUNE 2013 PAGE 12The Country Register

New YorkCooking with the Oldies.....

Refreshing Summer Slawby Barbara Floyd, Founder of The Country Register

There are times in your menu planning that call for a good crunchy slaw as a side dish. With summer in the near future we will be looking for some interesting salads. Over many years, more than 50 years to be exact, my favorite slaw has been from Vada’s Steak House in Breckenridge, MN. I am sure it was served at our wedding dinner reception there in the dead of winter of 1962 because it was kind of like the trademark of that restaurant. We townsfolk loved the Lutheran Cookbook that came out a bit before that because Vada had her recipe for the slaw in it. That cookbook is now on my daughter’s shelf up in Walla Walla out on a farm. It would probably sell, if it were for sale, at the Love of Junk, Walla Walla’s Vintage Market that I am co-ordintating on that farm for on June 14-15. (www.loveofjunk.com).

Meanwhile, here in Phoenix I have enjoyed doing some entertaining for large groups. Instead of the usual box of greens tossed with a few other veggies and dressing, I recently was craving some tangy, crunchy slaw that would taste like Vada’s. I know the recipe by heart. Finely chopped green cabbage in any amount you wish along with a good amount of course shredded carrots is the original reci-pe. Toss lightly with a coating of olive oil (back in the “good old days” it was corn oil). Then mix equal portions of sugar and apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper to taste. mix well to dissolve the sugar and pour over slaw, stirring often. If you have a medium sized bowl of slaw, try 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of vinegar. I tend to do less sugar, more vinegar because I like the thought of less sugar and love the taste of the vinegar to come through. Now, after all these years I have taken a few liber-ties with Vada’s recipe. Color is good when it comes in the form of real food. This salad is much prettier and healthier with the addition of such things as some shred-ded or chopped red cabbage, green onions, radishes, sweet red peppers chopped and various fresh hot peppers diced very fine and to your own liking. This will add a little kick for the tastebuds and compliment Mexican food, burgers or any type of meat you maybe will serve with slaw such as pulled pork. This slaw keeps well for several days refrigerated so it is a good make it ahead, get it done kind of salad.

Barbara Floyd, Founder of The Country Register resides in Phoenix, AZ and since retiring from active publishing she entertains a bit more and is enjoying a couple of volunteer jobs. Summers she escapes to Walla Walla and Tri-Cities, WA where she enjoys the company of three children and six of her ten grandchildren plus much more family.

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