Wisconsin s Main Street Shopping Guide! July-August Visit Our Website & Enter To Win A $100 Prize!

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1 Wisconsin s Main Street Shopping Guide! July-August 2018 Visit Our Website & Enter To Win A $100 Prize!

2 The Country Register Of W isconsin This Issue Available During March-April 2018 Ad Deadline For Sept.-Oct. Issue: August 1, 2018 The Country Register of W isconsin Publishers/Owners - Jennifer & Scott Hughes Address: P.O. Box 276, Altoona, WI Phone: Fax: jennifer@countryregisterofwisconsin.com Website: National Website: Contributing Writers: Auntie Ca h, Susan Baldani, Celia Benedict, Susan Branch, Nancy Parker Brummett, Valerie Burner, Sue Carloni, Barbara Conquest, Donna Jo Copeland, Gayle Cranford, Meghan Diemel,Sharon Greve, Kerri Habben, Lydia Harris, Janette Hess, Kelly Illick, Maranda K. Jones, Jan Keller, Lesley Nuttall, Tammy Page, Julie Pirtle, Harry Rinker, Annice Bradley Rockwell, Andrea Springer, Ann Stewart, Marla Wilson The Country Register Staff Jennifer Hughes Phone: Fax: jennifer@countryregisterofwisconsin.com Scott Hughes Phone: Fax: scott@countryregisterofwisconsin.com Jane Strasburg Phone: Fax: jane@countryregisterofwisconsin.com Meghan Diemel, Editor Phone: Fax: Subscription Order Form Name Address City State Zip Phone ( ) Start With Issue: J/F M/A M/J J/A S/O N/D Mail This Completed Form Plus $18.00 For A One-Year Mail Subscription To: The Country Register Of Wisconsin PO Box 276, Altoona, WI Meet Our Cover Artist: Robert Christy Robert Christy grew up and went to school in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, he moved to the West Coast, where he took up painting. He has been a full-time artist since the late 1980s. He has always been a fan of the great out-ofdoors, traveling widely in northern Wisconsin and out west to hike and fly fish. Naturally, landscape painting, especially plein air painting, is one of his favorite ways to paint. Painting on location is The Country Register Of Wisconsin Country The Country Register Story Began In 1988 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 spread to many other areas, all of which are listed to the right. Look for the paper during your travels. To receive a sample paper from another area, mail $3.00 in U.S.A. or $4.00 in Canada to that area s editor. The Country Register is available at each shop that advertises and often at other unique locations. We hope you enjoy this bi-monthly publication and please let the advertisers know that you saw their ads in this edition of The Country Register. a great excuse to travel to places of great beauty, Christy explained. Standing quietly for hours while painting lets me absorb the atmosphere of a place and see some amazing things that most people never notice. He has painted outdoors all along the Pacific coast, from Washington State to San Diego, all over the desert southwest, from Colorado to Arizona and the California desert, and in Wisconsin from Eau Claire and Menomonie (along the Chippewa and Red Cedar Rivers) to Bayfield and the Lake Superior shoreline. He has had many solo art shows in the places he's painted, including: Seattle WA; Santa Cruz, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Borrego Springs, CA; Chicago, IL; and Eau Claire and Ashland, WI. The painting on the cover was done in Bayfield, WI and is a scene in the main Bayfield Harbor. It is titled Eight Yachts. And although some of the boats don't seem to be big enough to be yachts, he said, Even the smallest sailboat in the harbor is a Registers...Across The Country! Traveling to another state? Send $3 to any publisher below to obtain a paper from another area. To another state s publisher, go to and click on publishers. USA Arizona: Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, Arkansas: Richard & Lenda Brown, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, California: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, Colorado: Jan & John Keller, Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, Connecticut: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL, 35763, Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, , Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, Idaho (S): Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, Illinois: Richard & Lenda Brown, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, Indiana: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, Maine: Deborah Daney, 660 Country Club Rd. Sanford, ME 04073, Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, Massachusetts: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, Michigan: Bill, Marlene & Leslie Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, , Minnesota: Kim and Mickey Keller, Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, Missouri: Richard & Lenda Brown, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, Montana: Dee Sleep, Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, Nebraska: Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ 85071, Nevada (N): Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, New Hampshire: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester St., Chester, NH 03036, New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, North Carolina: Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, North Dakota: Dee Sleep, Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, Oklahoma: Richard & Lenda Brown, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, Oregon: Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, Pennsylvania: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, Rhode Island: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, South Carolina: Barb Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, South Dakota: Dee Sleep, Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, Texas: Richard & Lenda Brown, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, Vermont: Michelle Hatch, 20 Chester St., Chester, NH 03036, Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, Washington: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, West Virginia: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 128, Owens Cross Roads, AL 35763, Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, Wyoming: Dee Sleep, Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, CANADA Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0, British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, BC V0H 1Z0, Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, Ontario: Harriet Ramos, St. Joseph Blvd., Orleans, ON K1C 6E7, Robert Christy yacht for the person who sails it. You can see paintings of all the places he has stayed and painted, from Lake Superior to Chicago, to the southwestern desert to San Diego and Big Sur, CA, at his website at RobertChristyArtist.com. The Country Register is published every other month. Copyright Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Offices of The Country Register are located in Phoenix, AZ. The Country Register of Wisconsin s office is located in Altoona, WI and is licensed by The Country Register with exclusive rights to publish in the State of Wisconsin using logos and graphics owned by The Country Register. Articles 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. Notification regarding any consumer complaints related to merchandise purchase from our advertisers would be appreciated and would assist in our efforts.

3 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 3 Visit: Great Sales & Promotions In Our Favorite Places! July After The Shop Hop Sale - The Paisley Star - Boscobel Row by Row Experience Begins Buttons and Bolts Fabric & Quilting Supply - Salem Forest Mills Quilt Shop - Postville, IA Hidden Quilts - Platteville Mill House Quilts - Waunakee My Favorite Quilt Shop - Green Bay Pins & Pieces Quilt Shop - Darlington Pinery Patches Quilt Store - Tigerton Quilt Kits & Beyond - Marshfield Red Roxy Quilt Co. - Decorah, IA The Fabric Patch - Ironwood, MI Christmas in July - The Needle/Quilting Workshop - Wausau Wool Sale - Bolts of Fun Quilt Shop - Thorp th of July Sale - Antoinette s Quilt Shop - Plover 5...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Heritage Days - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron Belated Birthday Bash - Antoinette s Quilt Shop - Plover Anniversary Sale - Fox Cities Quilt Co. - Appleton 12...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Christmas In July - Jeri s Quilt Patch - Norway, MI Christmas in July - The Gift Box & Boutique - Hales Corners Year Anniversary Celebration - The Calico Shoppe - Eau Claire Sweet Corn Festival - Angell Park - Sun Prairie Chamber - Sun Prairie 19...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Annual Tent Sale - The Fabric Patch - Ironwood, MI Annual Summer Quilt Sale - The Calico Shoppe - Eau Claire 24...Beginning Sewing Class - Antoinette s Quilt Shop - Plover Two Stop Shop Hop - Forest Mills Quilt Shop - Postville, IA 25...Special Shopping Event - Fox Cities Quilt Co. - Appleton Christmas in July Shop Hop - Keep Me In Stitches - Appleton Christmas in July Shop Hop - Going To Pieces Quilt Co. - Appleton Christmas in July - Silver Thimble Quilt & Yarn Shop - Green Bay Christmas in July - Antoinette s Quilt Shop - Plover th EAA Quilt Show - Oshkosh Seniors Center - Lakeside Quitlers - Oshkosh 26...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Mountain Man Encampment - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron Maxwell Street Days - Wehmhoff Square Park Burlington Chamber - Burlington Craft Supply Sale - The Gift Box & Boutique - Hales Corners August Craft Supply Sale - The Gift Box & Boutique - Hales Corners Row by Row Experience Buttons and Bolts Fabric & Quilting Supply - Salem Forest Mills Quilt Shop - Postville, IA Hidden Quilts - Platteville Mill House Quilts - Waunakee My Favorite Quilt Shop - Green Bay Pins & Pieces Quilt Shop - Darlington Pinery Patches Quilt Store - Tigerton Quilt Kits & Beyond - Marshfield Red Roxy Quilt Co. - Decorah, IA The Fabric Patch - Ironwood, MI Pre-Made Quilt Sale - Bolts of Fun Quilt Shop - Thorp 2...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc 4...Quilt Of Valor - Quilt Kits & Beyond - Marshfield 4...Author, Artist & Actor Day - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron 4...Crazy Daze - J&R Variety - Tomah 4...Crazy Daze - Tomah Cash Mercantile - Tomah th Anniversary Celebration - The Cotton Thimble - Wisconsin Rapids Customer Appreciation Days - Columbus Antique Mall - Columbus 9...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Tent Sale - The Needle/Quilting Workshop - Wausau Dollar Days Sale - The Gift Box & Boutique - Hales Corners 11...Classic Car Show - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron Annual Summer Sale - Sawdust & Stitches - Elkhorn 16...Kids Craft Class - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc Stamp & Scrapbook Expo - Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Schaumburg, IL 18...Yarnpalooza Northwind Book & FIber - Spooner Ole Fashioned County Fair - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron Sweet Corn Festival - Sun Prairie Chamber Of Commerce - Sun Prairie 19...Vintage Baseball - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron 19...Milton s Annual Arts & Craft Show & Chicken BBQ The Old Junction Mill - Milton Sew Fun Shop Hop - Pammy s Patchwork Playhouse - Whitehall th Anniversary Celebration - Ben Franklin Crafts - Oconomowoc 21...Intro to Quilting Class Begins - Antoinette s Quilt Shop - Plover Doug Leko Lecture/Demo/Workshop - Red Roxy Quilt Co. - Decorah, IA 26...Peak Over The Fence - The Pickett Fence - Prairie du Chien Summer Clearnance Sale - The Purple Petunia - Eau Claire September 1...Summer Clearnance Sale - The Purple Petunia - Eau Claire Sew Fun Shop Hop - Pammy s Patchwork Playhouse - Whitehall Quilt Expo - Wisconsin Public Television - Madison Vending at the Quilt Expo - Ana s Sewing Center - Madison Vending at the Quilt Expo - Julie s Sewing Center - Madison th Birthday Celebration - River Road Quilt Shop - La Crosse th Annual Bluegrass Festival - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron Indianhead Art & Craft Fest - Pioneer Village Museum - Cameron th Anniversary Quilt Show - Iola Car Show Building Norke Needlers Quilt Guild - Iola th Annual Hook-In - Spener Lake Christian Center Heart of Wisconsin Rug Hooking Guild - Waupaca National Sewing Month Retreat - The Quilt Peddler - Fennimore Rummage Sale Event - Polkadots and More! - Mukwonago Falling Leaves Shop Hop - Busy Bobbin - Rice Lake Warrens Carnberry Festival Warrens Fall Splendor Art Meander - Arts In Hand Gallery - Spooner th Annual Hook-In - Spencer Lake Christian Center - Waupaca October Falling Leaves Shop Hop - Busy Bobbin - Rice Lake Chippewa Valley Quilt Show - Nortner Wisconsin State Fairgrounds Stiching Pals - Chippewa Falls 13...Oktoberfest Sip & Shop Craft/Vendor Tour The Women of Trinity Lutheran Church - Boyceville Grab A friend And Take A Road Trip!

4 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Page 4! July-August 2018 Visit: Houghton, MI; Norway, MI Corral Your Family For Fun With A Western Flair This Summer By Lydia E. Harris Although I grew up on a dairy farm, I ve never been a cowgirl. But that didn t stop me from corralling some of my family for a tea party with a Western flair. So while the weather is still warm, let s lasso some summer-sizzlin fun. Here are a few ideas: Guests: Howdy, Pardners Start by rounding up some wannabe cowgirls and cowboys of any age for an outdoor teatime. I invited my son and his wife with their three children aged 7 to 14. Keep the decorations colorful and simple. How about various colors of bandanas and cowboy hats? You could even provide kerchiefs for guests to wear at the party and take home afterward. If you like, add a crafty no-sew denim project to your table decor. All you need are worn-out blue jeans. Cut around the back pockets of the jeans. This will give you two layers of fabric the pocket and the jean fabric. Wash the pockets. The frayed edges add to their appeal. Leave the pockets plain or decorate them with buttons, charms, or fabric paint. Set one at each place setting as a coaster for tea. Or better yet, fill the pockets with silverware (plastic is fine) and napkins. Red plaid paper napkins or colorful handkerchiefs would look cheerful. If possible, serve your teatime on your deck or outdoors. Use casual dishes or paper plates and pint jars for glasses. Grub: Rustle Up Delicious Vittles Plan a tasty menu with generous portions. Tiny tidbits don t fit a Western cowboy theme. Here are some menu ideas: Saucy Sausage: Select a fully cooked sausage ring such as kielbasa. Cut it into bite-sized chunks and simmer them in your favorite barbecue sauce. Serve with toothpicks. Pasta Salad: Cook wagon-wheelshaped pasta. Add favorite chopped veggies along with olives, salami, and cheese. Drizzle with Italian dressing, Visit us for all your fabric needs! Batiks - Australians - Contemporary Flannels - Wide Backs Hours: Mon - Fri 10:30-5 Sat 10: US Highway 41 Houghton, MI & 2nd Story Antiques and Gifts and refrigerate the salad to blend flavors before serving. Biscuits: Serve large grand biscuits that come in a tube. Or make homemade buttermilk biscuits. The key is to cut them cowboy sized about 3 inches in diameter. My favorite recipe is made with 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 tsp. soda. Next, cut in 1/2 cup shortening and mix in 3/4 cup buttermilk. Knead the dough lightly, roll it out, and cut it with a 3-inch cutter or glass. Bake the biscuits at 450 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes. Serve them warm with butter, honey, and strawberry jam. Cowboy Caviar and Tortilla Chips: A new recipe to me, this is simple to make with a can of black beans or black-eyed peas and shoepeg corn (small, sweet kernels of white corn that come in cans or frozen). Drain the cans. Add two chopped tomatoes, sliced green onion, diced red or green pepper, and chopped cilantro to taste. Add an oil-and-vinegar dressing made with 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and salt and black pepper to taste. The cumin and cilantro give this caviar a distinctive and delicious flavor. Just before serving, add chopped avocado if desired. I made individual servings by layering some of the caviar in small jellysized jars, alternating black beans, corn, green onions, and tomatoes. Next, I poured in the dressing, added a lid, and Keep your decorations colorful! refrigerated the caviar to let the flavors blend. I spooned the rest of the caviar with dressing into a small bowl and refrigerated it for several hours. Later, I served it surrounded with chips to resemble a cowboy hat with the chips as a brim. Easy-Brew Iced Tea: Make several quarts of iced tea or as needed for the size of your group. Place 4 teabags in each quart jar of cold water and refrigerate it for several hours. While the tea steeps, make lemonade ice cubes by pouring lemonade into ice cube trays or mini muffin tins and freezing. When serving the tea, remove the teabags, place two lemonade cubes into each chilled pint jar, and fill them with tea. Cowboy Ice Cream Sandwiches: Cowboy Cookies with ice cream between two of them make a delicious ice cream sandwich. (See recipe.) Add chunks of watermelon and fresh veggies to the menu for a hearty, delicious teatime. Continued on Page Congratulations $100 Winner! HOURS: Mon.-Fri Sat Sun CST Robin Quade of Ashland, WI Christmas In July! July 13-31, 2018 * HANDMADE Original Quilted Items & Gifts *ANTIQUES, Lots of Flannels, Fabrics & More! 703 Brown Street Norway UP Michigan Robin can choose a Gift Certificate from any advertiser in the May-June 2018 Issue.. You Could Be The Next $100 Winner Just Visit & Sign Up! We Are Giving Away $600 This Year, So There s Plenty More To Win. Visit Online & Sign Up Today!

5 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 5 Visit: Rhinelander, Schaumburg, IL; Tomahawk Tea & Cowboy Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Complement The Theme Continued from Page 4 Grins: Laughter and Fun You may want to horse around by having guests share a favorite adventure they have experienced with or without a horse. Or fill a basket with sayings or verses from Proverbs. Pass the basket around and let guests select a saying to read or they may share one of their own. I found websites with cowboy advice, such as, The quickest way to double your money is to fold it over and put it back into your pocket. Send guests home with some trail mix or a few cowboy cookies, without ice cream, placed in a baggie and tied with raffia. Although the party is over, I m sure you and your guests will remember the grub and grins you shared for a long time. I first used this Western tea theme for a Memorial Day party. But it could be used for Father s Day, Fourth of July, Veteran s Day, Labor Day or any summer or patriotic event. I hope you ll join me to round up some Western fun. Giddy-up! From Lydia s Recipe File: Cowboy-Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup brown sugar, packed 2 eggs 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla 2 cups flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. salt 2 cups rolled oats (half quick-cooking and half old-fashioned) 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (more if you wish) Ice cream (vanilla or favorite flavor) Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease the baking sheet or cover it with parchment paper. 2. Cream together the butter and sugars. Mix in eggs and vanilla. 3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until combined. 4. Stir in the oatmeal. Then add the chips. 5. Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place them on the cookie sheet. 6. Dip the bottom of a glass (one with a flat bottom) into sugar. Then use it to flatten the cookies. Dip the glass into sugar each time before flattening the cookies. 7. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until light brown around the edges. Cool the cookies slightly before removing them from the baking sheet. 8. Prepare the ice cream. For each cookie sandwich you ll need 1/4 cup ice cream. Place the ice cream between two pieces of wax paper and flatten it. Freeze the ice cream until you are ready to serve it. 9. Place one ice cream circle between two cookies. Eat them or freeze until ready to eat. Recipe makes about 3 dozen 3-inch cookies or 18 ice cream sandwiches. Variations: If you are not making ice cream sandwiches, add other ingredients of your choice to the cookie dough, such as coconut, chopped nuts, or raisins. Instead of flattening the cookies, drop them by spoonfuls onto the cookie sheet. Lydia E. Harris, known as Grandma Tea, wrote the book Preparing My Heart for Grandparenting (AMG Publishers). She holds a master s degree in home economics. 10% Off Your Regular Price Purchase With This Ad Or Use Coupon Code Country Register Shopping Online 118 W Wisconsin Ave. Historic Downtown Tomahawk WI Find & Like Us on Facebook! Open Mon-Fri 9-4:30 & Sat 9-4 Sun Closed Northern Wisconsin s Largest Creative Sewing Center! Create Your Own Beautiful at Sew Smart... We offer Sales & Service New Lower Prices on Cotton Quilting Fabrics! 2193 Lincoln St. Rhinelander WI Ph Next to Goodwill in the Walmart Shopping Plaza Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-3 Sun 12-3 sales@sewsmartonline.com Fabric Books Patterns Notions Sewing Classes Long Arm Quilting Largest Selection of Widebacks In The Area! RHINELANDER, WI Longarm Quilting Services Handi Quilter Accuquilt Signature Dealer Janome Dealer/Service Center Open 7 Days A Week: Like us on Facebook sewcreativellc 30 W Davenport St Rhinelander, WI Sewcreative16@yahoo.com NEW! Lower Fabric Prices! We carry ONLY quilt shop quality fabrics. Batiks & Digital Prints $9.99 Prints $8.99 Solids $6.99 Fun & Trendy Cotton & Coated Fabrics, Batiks, Notions, Classes & Clubs Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. & Sun. by Appt.

6 Page 6 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Ashland, Eagle River, Minocqua What s In A Name? The Debate Between Vintage & Antique Rages By Harry L. Rinker Benjamin Martell is an anomaly. He is a young antiques dealer who has been involved in the antiques and collectibles trade for six years. Not only has he survived, he is intensely curious about how the trade functions. From time to time, he shares his thoughts with me. A January 30, 2018, contained the following paragraph: I am not sure if you use Google Trends, but it can offer some good insights to where the market was at and where it is going in the future. I want to highlight the change in terms antiques and vintage over the last 10 plus years. Antique is still used a lot in the trade. Dealers should embrace vintage instead of antique to describe items.the use of the word vintage has increased over the last 14 years while antique has plummeted on Google. The base of searches is much larger now than in 2004 because a lot more people in the world are using the internet. Should the antiques trade start calling itself the Vintage Goods and Collectibles Trade? I know this does not exactly roll off the tongue. Younger people are obviously using vintage more than antique. The trade might be well served embracing the term. I am 35. My initial impression of antiques when I first became involved in buying and selling was old glassware, Victorian furniture, formal dinnerware or extremely expensive items like those featured on the Antiques Roadshow that are out of the price range of 95 percent of the regular buying public. Upon reading the above, my first reaction was to send Benjamin a copy of my 2006 Rinker on Collectibles Column #1008 entitled Defining Vintage. The column began: Mary Ann Weber s was a short one: What do you consider as vintage? I have had many different opinions, so I would like an opinion from an expert. I have been pondering the same question for over a year. As an ebay buyer, I encounter vintage on a regular basis. One thing is self-evident: everyone uses the term differently. My initial conclusion is that vintage is a meaningless term when applied to antiques and collectibles. Twelve years have passed since I wrote ROC #1008. The digital age still was in its adolescence in It is now mature, albeit still young, brash, and unpredictable... but no longer an entity to be dismissed or ignored. The impact of the digital age is global. Its vocabulary is becoming the primary communication tool for the under-40 generations. In 2006, Millennials were still in middle or high school. Today, they are young adults. Their vocabulary differs significantly from that of their parents and grandparents. They look forward not backward. They have no problem discarding older vocabularies whose meaning is lost to them. Antique, collectible, and vintage have different meanings in 2018 than they did in Those committed to the old definitions are not realistic. If older collectors and dealers wish to communicate with younger generations, they need to agree on a new common vocabulary that is contemporary with the times. Who shapes and defines the antiques and collectibles field is at the core of the issue. Throughout much of the 20th century, those involved in the antiques and collectibles trade determined its course and future. Individuals who came into the trade as appraisers, collectors, dealers, or in other areas were expected to accept the field s terminology as sacrosanct. This changed in the 1980s and 1990s. Outside forces began to impact the direction in which the antiques and collectibles trade evolved. Lifestyle gurus like Martha Stewart, shifting decorating trends, and coverage by the mass media were in the first wave. ebay and the internet, world economic fluctuations, globalization, and generational changes followed. The antiques and collectibles trade lost its ability to dictate the future. Instead, the trade found itself responding to one change after another. Adaptation and assimilation became more difficult when multiple changes occurred simultaneously. The antiques and collectibles trade never spoke with a unified voice. The laissez-faire, individualist approach of its participants and the narrowness of many of its collectors prevented participants from identifying common concerns that could bind them together. The Depression glass collector never felt he/she had anything in common with the Hopalong Cassidy collector. The antiques and collectibles trade is fragmentated. This will never change. I did an ebay search for vintage. At 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 6, I received 20,352,870 results. I next searched rare, a pet peeve of mine when used to identify the status of an antique or collectible. I received 4,809,436 hits, only percent of the number of vintage hit. While I find both sets of numbers astonishing, it is clear I need to pay more attention to the term vintage. Before going further and for my own amusement, I did an ebay search for antique. Antique had 5,062,574 hits, percent of the vintage total. The point Benjamin raised appears to be well founded. [Author s Aside: No attempt was made to check out each of the above listings to see how the terms antique, vintage, and rare were used. There is no need. Whether used correctly or incorrectly, the chances for error in all three cases are equal. The numbers speak for themselves.] The first Rinker on Collectibles column was devoted to defining the terms antique and collectible. During the past 32 years, I have written several Rinker on Collectibles columns updating these definitions. The most recent was my 2013 Column #1400 entitled An Antique is Anything Made Before Since I wrote that column, the definition of what is and is not an antique has continued to deteriorate. More and more antiques show venues, even high-end ones, are admitting dealers who sell high-end contemporary furniture, ceramics, glass, and other studio-crafted products. The implication is that the creation of antiques can be instantaneous. Gone is the concept that an antique has to stand a test of time. Continued on Page 7 Come Catch Your Breath at... Second Wind Country Inn Mark & Kelly Illick ~ Innkeepers Carlson Rd. Ashland, WI Plan your fall get-a-way at Second Wind. Book your September stay at Second Wind and enjoy with a Siskiwit Falls River walk and picnic with Oliver (Second Wind s own Airdale) as your tour guide. Offer available for use until October 31, 2018 Must mention ad at time of reservation. Excludes Holidays and Event Weekends. Open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Hwy. 51 S. 2 miles South of Minocqua Bridge Lurky & Me Longarm Computerized Edge To Edge Machine Quilting Jeanne Leurquin (715) Call Or For An Appointment! 112 N. Aquila Court Eagle River, WI jlurkin@frontier.com Open Monday-Friday 9:30-5 & Saturday 9-3 Closed Sundays Quality Fabrics Patterns Notions Thread Wool Hand Embroidery Supplies 9785 Hwy. 70 West Minocqua, Wisconsin Phone:

7 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 7 Visit: Gordon, Hayward, Winter With No Vocabulary Police, Internet Helps Cause Trade Confusion Continued from Page 6 The antiques and collectibles trade is in a state of confusion. Although the internet is not solely to blame, it plays a major part. The internet has no vocabulary police. Everyone is free to use whatever term makes sense. Most internet writers are followers rather than leaders. It is easier to adopt a universally used term than the correct one as defined by past usage. Whether the antiques and collectibles trade, especially the old traditionalists, like it or not, vintage is the in term. Benjamin is correct in his assertion that if the antiques and collectibles trade wishes to establish a By Susan Baldani viable communication with the younger generations, it has to resort to using vintage. The trade also has to accept another truth. It is impossible to define what vintage means. The meaning floats from person to person and object to object. More often than not, those who use vintage have no understanding of its meaning. Instead of increasing preciseness, the internet fosters ambiguity. The rise of vintage is the tip of the iceberg. Words such as contemporary and modern are gaining a strong foothold. Modern and Modernism are two very different concepts within the trade. However, those who sell and buy on the internet see little difference. When I taught writing, I constantly reminded my students to be precise and concise. The goal was to eliminate any confusion or misunderstanding. The internet is not academe. It is the new Wild West where everything goes. Law and order is in abeyance. Those who have followed Rinker on Collectibles will read the above and think, this is more vintage Harry. Hopefully, they know what that means. I most certainly do not. Harry L. Rinker welcomes questions from readers about collectibles, those massproduced items from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. Selected letters will be answered in this column. Harry cannot provide personal answers. Photos and other material submitted cannot be returned. Send your questions to: Rinker on Collectibles, 5955 Mill Point Court SE, Kentwood, MI You also can your questions to harrylrinker@aol.com. Only s containing a full name and mailing address will be considered. Sometimes, The Most Simple Birthday Parties Are The Best While I was growing up, most parties were held in people s homes, especially birthday parties. These days, many parents feel an obligation to have them in bowling alleys, movie theaters, and indoor sports centers since this is what most of the other parents are doing. In my family, we have managed to keep birthday parties in our homes or backyards. The guests are mostly other family members with a few friends thrown in the mix. This tradition is still meaningful to us, and a way to celebrate our milestones with the people who mean the most. We often bake our own cakes and make the food for the celebration, but we may also have a store-bought piñata or a Pin the Tail on the Donkey and other games to add to the fun. Of course, we have the birthdaythemed plates and party hats to add to the festivity. Balloons and streamers are always great additions and make the occasion that much more special. If the weather is warm, outdoor toys such as water balloons, sprinklers and water guns can allow kids to have fun while staying cool. If you have a pool, even better. There are no times limits or restrictions to the number of people you can have and the party can start and end at any time. The children in the family never seem disappointed with these parties and enjoy being the center of attention for the day. I have great memories of childhood birthday parties at my relatives homes, and I m glad the younger people in my family are continuing this tradition. I love being able to visit with relatives and friends I may not get to see very often in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Of course, there s nothing wrong with celebrating outside the home. Many parents may not have the space or the time to prepare food and decorate. As long as the birthday boy or girl is happy, that s all that really matters. Susan Baldani has an MA in education and a BA in psychology. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at Thornapple Quilting & Design Studio LLC Longarm Quilting At It s Best National & Local Award Winning Quilting Find me on thornapplequilting@yahoo.com Website: Open By Appointment Michelle LaBarbera Winter, WI Yarns Fabrics Gifts Clothing Other Good Stuff Kunert Kreations COME IN AND SAVE!! Polar Fleece 25% OFF & Cuddle Fleece 35% OFF All Quilting Fabrics on Bolts Now 40% OFF Corner of Hwy. 53 & Y Gordon, WI Tues-Fri 10-4:30 Sat 10-3 Sun & Mon Closed Ph: Hayward The The ultimate northwood experience, and some mighty fine shopping, await you in Hayward, located in Sawyer County of northern Wisconsin. Fish, hunt, relax and by all means, visit the great small town shops of Hayward! riveredg@cheqnet.net Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 Our Quilt Loft Features Over 4,000 Bolts Of Fabric! Find Two Floors Of Quality Antiques In Addition To Our Quilt Loft... We Also Buy Quality Antiques! St. Rd. 27 Hayward, WI OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

8 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Page 8! July-August 2018 Visit: Spooner Chalk It Up To A Great Time ChalkFest 2018 Set For Eau Claire By Meghan Diemel Sitting down on a warm summer day to draw with sidewalk chalk isn t just for kids anymore. Each summer, thousands of residents and visitors enjoy the artwork of artists who use chalk to bring their imaginations to life. Chalkfest is held on the campus of the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire annually; this year s installment falls on Saturday, July 28. Whether they are nature scenes, commentary on social issues or even interactive artwork, the chalk drawings have the ability to bring the community together in a creative way. Paul Butrymowicz, assistant director in activities, involvement and leadership at UWEC, says the event has been in existence for more than a decade. Started by an editor for news outlet Volume One, to showcase Eau Claire and the new amenities in the downtown district, it migrated to the UWEC campus over time. The campus became the perfect home, due to the plethora of sidewalk space. [Visitors] are going to experience yards and yards of sidewalk space displaying all different kinds of chalk artwork, he explained. We re hoping to Spooner Spooner is a perfect place for a getaway or place to settle down. You could retire here, raise a family, or bring your business. We are far enough up north to have great fishing and hunting and yet have great shopping. You are living the dream in this area! 237 Walnut St. Spooner, Wisconsin OPEN TUESDAY - FRIDAY 10-4 SATURDAY 10-3 CLOSED SUNDAY & MONDAY, Sat 9-5 M-F 9-5:30 -Dec) 11-3 Sun (May Longarm Quilting Service Sewing Machine Repair Fabric & Notions Quilting Supplies Classes For All Skill Levels Phone: Yarnpalooza! All Day Saturday, Aug. 18 Demos, Demos, Specials, Specials, Drawings Drawings General General Bookstore Bookstore Fine Fine Yarn Yarn Shop Shop Gallery Gallery of of Local Local Art Art && Jewelry Jewelry Toys, Toys, Games Games && Puzzles Puzzles Mon. - Fri Sat Fall Splendor Art Meander Sept , 2018 have upward of 200 participants. Butrymowicz said artists of all ages participate. Some are professionals and participate for the competition aspect, while others are there to have a good time. It s just a really fun day and people get to see really creative things as they wander our campus mall, he added. Throughout the afternoon and early evening, food trucks, beverages, ice cream, and live music help to further create a celebratory-like atmosphere. There is also the chance for kids to participate in a large kids mural on site. Public hours for the event run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If weather is an issue, the event is not held. And while it may be too late to enter this year s event as an artist, Butrymowicz said they re always in need of event volunteers. If anyone is interested in volunteer- ing for the event, because it does take a village to pull off, there is a link Register to Volunteer on the website. The website is located at Looking ahead to next year, for those artists interested in showing off their chalk drawing skills, the website registration is usually open in April and entries are taken on a first come, first served basis. I think it s such a unique event, Butrymowicz added. The fact that it s been in existence for over a decade, I think we re one of the vanguards in terms of hosting this kind of event. Volume One, Markquart Motors and Festival Foods are this year s event sponsors, alongside UWEC. For more information about Chalkfest, visit or search Chalkfest 2018 on Facebook for event details.

9 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 9 By Tammy Page Visit: Boyceville, Cameron, Clear Lake, Rice Lake, Ridgeland You Don t Have To Grow Up On A Farm, To Be A Farm Girl I didn t grow up on a farm like my husband did. Instead, I was raised until the age of 11 in the city surrounded by close neighbors, fenced-in yards and lots of traffic. At age 11, my parents moved our family to the suburbs and I got a little taste of the country life. Our closest neighbor was a quarter-mile away and the pace of life was much slower and quieter. Wanting even more peace and quiet we then moved to 10 acres two counties away. This is where I learned about following tractors at a slow pace as they traveled from field to field, growing a large vegetable garden, raising baby chicks and ducks, and letting the dogs run free through the woods and creek. The people were different too. They waved hello whether they knew you or not. They helped plow out the snowy roads when the county highway crew was slow to get there. The people I met made me feel welcome as I started my ninth grade year of high school. There were the usual cliques of jocks, brains and farm boys, but most of the time everyone felt free to join any one of the groups. This is where I met some lifelong friends with whom we still enjoy spending time and taking vacations together. We have raised our children together, leaned on each other in rough times, and have established trust as Blueberry Line Quilting 101 Diamond St S, Ridgeland, WI E4548 County Road FF Boyceville, WI Like us on Facebook! Hours: Tues-Fri: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat-Sun: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. A quaint little quilt shop in a historic general store located in Ridgeland offering fabrics, notions and long arm quilting service. Have Longarm, will quilt for you! Hours: Wednesday - Friday 10-5 & Sat Closed Sunday, Monday & Tuesday Quilter s Corner at CB Styles A Little Quilt Shop With A Big Heart! Stop in and visit us on your summer travels. - See us from Highway 63 - Serving Quilters Needs Since LARGE SELECTION OF: Over 4,000 Bolts Of Fabrics Open: Patterns Books Monday-Friday 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Quilting Notions Gift Items Saturday Sewing Machines 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Classes Offered Other hours by appointment. Store Hours: T/TH: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. W/F: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Owners: Barb & Camilla rd Ave. NW Clear Lake, WI N Wilson Ave Rice Lake, WI We re 1 of 7 Shops in the Falling Leaves Shop Hop Sept. 28-Oct. 6 Enjoy A Different Kind Of Shopping Experience! HOMEMADE BAKED GOODS FRESH EACH MORNING Hand-Scooped Ice Cream Cones Bulk, Natural, Organic & Gluten Free Foods Specialty Spices & Seasonings Specialty Gifts, Quilting Fabric, Books, Patterns & Supplies if we were family. My most valued relationship began there too where I fell in love with a tried-and-true farm boy. We shared a class together. Believe it or not, it was a chorus class. I loved to sing and had always been involved in music. On the other hand, Bud had not been much of a singer but after being in Spanish class for two days, he decided it was going to take a lot of work and studying and dropped the class. The only class available was chorus. He told me he noticed me the first day of class as I walked in front of the class and never stopped looking. Just this past June, we celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary. You don t have to grow up on a farm to be a farm girl. Tammy page lives with her family on a working farm in central Indiana. She enjoys collecting items remembered from her youth, cooking and decorating her home, and spoiling her grandchildren. BARRON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY S PIONEER VILLAGE MUSEUM JULY 7-8 JULY AUGUST 4 AUGUST 11 AUGUST AUGUST 19 SEPTEMBER 7-9 SEPTEMBER SPECIAL EVENTS: HERITAGE DAYS MOUNTAIN MAN ENCAMPMENT AUTHOR, ARTIST & ACTOR DAY CLASSIC CAR SHOW OLE FASHIONED COUNTY FAIR VINTAGE BASEBALL 12TH ANNUAL BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL INDIANHEAD ART & CRAFT FEST THE PIONEER KITCHEN RESTAURANT IS OPEN FOR MOST SPECIAL EVENTS OPEN UNTIL SEPT 9 Oktoberfest Sip & Shop Craft & Vendor Tour Saturday, October 13, a.m. - 4 p.m. This tour includes 7 local vendors in area shops and many other vendors and crafters at Tiffany Creek Elementary School in Boyceville (9 a.m. - 2 p.m.). The Ladies of Trinity will be serving food and drinks at Tiffany Creek all day! Bloomin Creations Shed N7584 Cty Rd K Menomonie, WI Barn Star Boutique E th Ave Boyceville, WI There will be a prize drawing at each location and a Grand Prize drawing if you attend each location and have your passport stamped. Sponsored by The Women of Trinity Lutheran Church The Grain Bin E4548 Cty Rd FF Boyceville, WI Shep s Shop N9657 Cty Rd O Boyceville, WI Village Homestead 320 Main St West Ridgeland, WI Cool Iron N9657 Cty Rd O Boyceville, WI Barn Quilts 1112 Tiffany St Boyceville, WI For more information, please contact Mary , Peggy or Sharon HOURS: FRI & SUN 1-5 SAT 10-5 $10 (ADULT); $5 (5-12); OVER 62 1/2 OFF FRIDAYS For information call (715) museum1@chibardun.net or visit Like us on

10 Page 10 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Eau Claire Supporting Pattern Designers Ensures Knitting Community Flourishes By Andrea Springer The only thing that may be bigger than a knitter s yarn stash is our pattern files. We all have files, magazines and books filled with designs that caught our eye once upon a time. With Ravelry, Pinterest and other internet sites our ability to bookmark and store patterns became limitless, and our ability to download our current knitting fancy became as easy as a click to download. If you use a tablet or smart phone to read your patterns on pdfs even printing to paper is optional! I didn t realize until recently how the sale of books and paper patterns in local yarn shops had dropped in recent years. An LYS owner remarked that their percentage of sales of individual patterns and books were much less now than when they opened over a decade ago. Almost everyone gets their patterns online and they are either free or come directly from the designers, the owner said. The business model has changed and with it, some knitters attitudes about access to and use of designs. Access to patterns and information is so abundant, it can be easy to assume that most patterns are available somewhere for free. I stumbled across a social media thread a few weeks ago where a knitwear designer was defending the fee she charged to purchase her patterns. She outlined the hours spent in developing the design, working on the written pattern, working with test knitters to be sure the instructions were clear, having the finish piece photographed, and then designing a pleasing, easy to read, finished pattern. She was frustrated people balked at the few dollars she asked in return for her hard work, especially when those dollars helped keep a roof over her head and food on her table. This designer s posts were a reminder for me. I thought about how many times I d been inspired by a photograph of a beautiful handknitted garment, the time and energy that I invested in choosing and purchasing the perfect yarn, and then in working on the project. I wouldn t have gotten so much enjoyment out of the project if it hadn t been for the time and effort of the designer. And as a small business owner, I like knowing I m fairly compensating another business owner, the designer. Creative individuals give the world so much joy, and knitting designers are part of that tribe they deserve to know their work is valued. It s easy to find free patterns online, and we can use them to stretch our knitting budget. It s also easy to assume that designers view the work they share with us as a fun hobby and for some, it very well could be but for many it s a business that helps support an individual or a family. One of the great things about knitting is the community that it builds. Let s make sure we continue to support pattern designers as a part of our circle. Andrea Springer blogs at 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. Wisconsin s Largest Scrapbook/Stamp Store & Retreat Centers Picture This Hours: Mon.- Thur. 10am-7pm Sat. 10am-5pm & Sun. 11am-3pm Experience Downtown Eau Claire... SUMMER CLEARANCE SALE Aug Sept % OFF All Merchandise Including: Ladies Apparel - Jewelry - Bags Scarves - Switch Flops Eau Claire T-Shirts and Sweatshirts! 216 S. Barstow St. Eau Claire, WI Open: Mon. thru Fri. 10-5; Thurs. Evening Until 7pm; & Saturday 10-4 Western Wisconsin s #1 Shopping Destination! Eau Claire Make & Take Thursdays Weekly Classes Book Your Retreat The city of Eau Claire has a population of over 65,000 and includes a wonderful and diverse retail sector that welcomes visitors! John s Sewing Center John L. Webber Serving the Chippewa Valley Since Toll Free Eau Claire s Most Complete Fabric and Quilt Shop! 214 S. Barstow Downtown Eau Claire (715) Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Thurs.10am-7pm; Sat 10am-4pm Authorized Dealer Professional Factory Trained & Certified Sewing Machine Service for 35 Years. Service and Parts for all makes and models. 419 E Madison Eau Claire, WI Corner of Madison & Farwell Annual Summer Quilt Sale July 23rd Thru 28th We are celebrating our 25 Year Anniversary! To thank our wonderful customers, we are offering 25% OFF - July Drawings & refreshments daily. Limited to stock on hand. Sale items not included. From table runners to bed size quilts. Some finished and some in need of a loving quilter s hand. Shop early for the best selection! Quilt Expo Bus Trip (Madison, WI) Sat., Sept. 8 $45, Includes Admission

11 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 11 Visit: Chippewa Falls, Fountain City, Hixton, Osseo, Whitehall Farmers Markets Connect The Community To Their Local Farmers By Meghan Diemel Veronika Zazovsky is a farmer and veteran of Menomonie, Wisconsin s farmers market for the past seven years. Through that time, she has seen the weekly event through changes and improvements. It s easy to notice the improvements: there is more focus on community involvement and communication, with increased visibility on an upgraded website and social media channels, and a broadening market that encompasses everything from produce to art, complemented by family friendly activities. At one point, Zazovsky was participating in eight farmers markets a week. Those experiences helped build her vision for what farmers markets should be, what they re lacking, and how they should benefit the community in the best way. I analyzed all my experiences, she explained. My hometown is Menomonie, so I take the Menomonie Farmers Market as the heart of this community... When I had the opportunity to lead it [as general manager], I took all my previous experience, all my knowledge and expertise to make it the best farmers market in the area. The market can now be found in Wilson Park in Menomonie, under the timberframed pavilion that was a recent and massive undertaking by the community. We re also lucky to have a band stage in Wilson Park, so we re offering that to musicians to come and play and perform, Zazovsky added. We also have art market, which allows local artists to come. When hunger hits while perusing the produce and art and it most certainly will a mouth-watering array of food to tempt the taste buds is available. Everything from pies and rolls from Elk Lake Bakery and luxurious goat milk caramel sauce from Bifrost Farms, to egg rolls and other hot lunches from popular food truck vendors are available throughout the market. Special events have been a welcomed addition to the market as well, with a kids booth each week in addition to dance and yoga lessons. Once the sun sets on the summer months, the fun isn t over. Winter market starts in November and provides patrons with winter produce, like squash, carrots, onions and garlic, meat vendors, egg vendors, and goat cheese and goat milk products. Jams, jellies, honey, and other canned items are also popular finds, while the bakeries continue supporting the market throughout the winter months. Nonfood items are also part of the winter market, with craft vendors on site. No matter where you are in Wisconsin, a farmers market is likely just around the corner. It s an important thread that keeps the state s residents and its farmers working together. Farmers markets provide such a unique connection between a consumer and a farmer and grower, said Zazovsky. Customers have a chance to ask direct questions to their farmers and get to know their farmers. The markets also have an impact on the local economy. As Zazovsky explained, even her children are part of the market, and use the money from their egg selling to attend camps in Menomonie in the summer. I believe the base of any farmers market is trust, she furthered. It s very hard Cobblestone Cottage Gifts Home Decor Jewelry and much, much more! Over 70 Antique Booths! Hixton, Wisconsin GIFT (4438) Store Hours: Mon.-Sat & Sun. from Gift Certificates Available - The Menomonie Farmers Market is held Wednesdays & Saturdays at Wilson Park. to know where your product came from if you re buying it from a large chain store. Buying in the co-ops is another option, but you can really connect to the farmer when you come to the farmers market. You can look into their eyes, see their hard-working hands, and ask, Where did the lettuce come from? How was this cheese made? What s in the sausage? By getting your answers from the Chippewa Valley Quilt Show Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin Kindness Matters GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! th Street Osseo, WI Phone (715) farmer directly, you get a feel for their process, their philosophies and their lives, she added. I think when you find a farmer you can trust, you re blessed for life. For more information about a farmers market near you in Wisconsin, check out You re Invited! Western Wisconsin s Newest Quilt Shop! Fabrics Notions Books Patterns Thread Batting Wool Hand Embroidery Clubs Classes HOURS: Monday & Wed-Friday 10-4:30 Tuesday 10-6 Saturday 10-3 Closed Sunday Saturday & Sunday, October 6 & 7 9:00-4:00 Each Day Lots Of Quilts, Lots Of Vendors, Food Concession & A Boutique More Information At Contacts: Kathy (608) & Jean (715) Find Us On Facebook & Instagram The Cat-Tail The Purr-fect Place to Shop Many Items Made Locally! Whether you are Cat People or not, you will enjoy visiting this shop! 32 S. Main St. Fountain City, WI (Shop) or (Home) Hours: Monday-Saturday 10ish to 5ish or by Appointment NOW OPEN at our New Location: Scranton St. Whitehall, WI Fabric - Patterns - Books - Batting - Notions - Thread - Classes Like our FACEBOOK Page! See the latest News, Class Information and Updates! WEBSITE: pammyspatchworkplayhouse@live.com Hours: Fri 10am-5pm Sat. 10am-5pm Sun-Thurs By Appt Scranton St. Whitehall, WI cell Visit Us During The Sew Fun Shop Hop August 19 to September 2

12 Page 12 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com By Janette Hess Summertime, and the livin is easy, composer George Gershwin observed some 80 years ago. Fast-forward to summertime Pull some shrimp out of the freezer and use shrimp-themed recipes to confirm that summertime eatin can be easy, too. Shrimp in their fresh or frozen forms are readily available year-round, but they seem like warm-weather food when they re not breaded and deep-fried. Utilizing pre-cooked cocktail shrimp, Marinated Shrimp is an easy dish to assemble. Offer it as an appetizer at your next backyard gathering, or discard the lemon slices and serve the shrimp, onions, peppers, capers and dressing over a bed of garden-fresh greens. Add some sliced avocado and a sprinkling of feta cheese, and salad never tasted so good! Shrimp Creole is not quite as easy to make, but it is exceptionally easy to eat. Packed with shrimp and seasonal vegetables, this classic dish is delicious as well as elegant. If needed, the base may be cooked a day or two in advance and then stored in the refrigerator. It also freezes Visit: Stanley Shrimp Make For A Fast, Light Summertime Meal well. For serving, simply heat the base to boiling and add raw shrimp as detailed in the recipe. What could be easier on your summer schedule than a fabulous makeahead dish? Marinated Shrimp 2 pounds frozen jumbo shrimp (precooked, peeled and de-veined with tails intact) 1 white onion, peeled and thinly sliced 2 medium lemons, thinly sliced ½ cup sliced, drained pepperoncini deli-style peppers ¼ cup drained capers 1 cup Italian dressing 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish ½ teaspoon celery seed Thaw shrimp in refrigerator according to package instructions. (This may take overnight.) Pat shrimp dry. Place single layer of shrimp in bottom of 9-by-13-inch dish. Cover with half of onions, lemon slices, peppers and capers. Repeat layer. In separate bowl, whisk together dressing, horseradish and celery seed. Pour dressing over shrimp. Refrigerate 8 to 10 hours, stirring once after 4 to 5 hours. Transfer to a bowl for serving, if desired. Makes 8 servings. Shrimp Creole 2 pounds shell-on frozen raw shrimp, medium or large size ½ cup vegetable oil ½ cup flour 1 large onion, chopped 1 large bell pepper (red or green), seeded and chopped 1½ cups chopped celery 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups fresh, peeled, chopped tomato 1 6-ounce can tomato paste 3½ cups chicken broth 2 bay leaves 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning* ½ teaspoon dried thyme ¼ teaspoon black pepper 3 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley OR 1 tablespoon dried parsley Several dashes of hot pepper sauce, plus more for serving 8 to 10 servings steamed rice Thaw shrimp according to package instructions. Peel, devein and remove tails. Refrigerate while preparing base. To make base, heat oil in heavy soup pot or Dutch oven. Add flour. Reduce heat to medium low. Cook and stir for approximately 15 minutes, or until mixture is a rich caramel color. Adjust heat as needed to keep mixture from browning too slowly or too quickly. Add onion, bell pepper and celery. Simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and continue cooking and stirring an additional 5 minutes. Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth and all seasonings except parsley and hot pepper sauce. Simmer on very low heat for 35 to 40 minutes. Just before serving, remove bay leaves and add parsley. Bring mixture to boil and add raw shrimp. Cook just until shrimp are opaque. Remove from heat and add several dashes of hot pepper sauce. Serve over steamed rice. Makes 8 to 10 generous servings. *If Creole seasoning is not available, substitute several dashes of Worcestershire sauce. A trained journalist, Janette Hess focuses her writing on interesting people and interesting foods. She is a Master Food Volunteer with her local Extension service and enjoys collecting, testing and sharing recipes. Stanley THE GATEWAY TO CENTRAL WISCONSIN Right Along Highway 29, Which Is Now A Beautiful, Effortless Drive East To West Across The Entire State, You ll Find Charming Stanley. You Are Invited To Explore Our Friendly Community & Visit Our Unique Retailers! Visit us at The Woolen Shop WOOLENS And EVERYWHERE Tues-Thurs 9-5 Fri 9-3 Sat, Sun, Mon. by Appointment State Shop Hop Hours: M-F 9:30-5:30 Sat 9:30-4 Sun 12-3 Check out our Sew Easy Triangles... Ask for a Demo! A Small Country Shop with a BIG Atmosphere! Machine Quilting Machine Embroidery Home of Pieceful Patches Wool Fabrics Batiks Notions Books Classes Visit Donna s Discount Den for Sale Fabric & 20% Off Selected Kits Gift Certificates Available County Hwy MM Stanley, WI djhaas@centurytel.net Take Stanley Exit 101 South, then South on Hwy H 1 1/2 miles to Hwy MM, then East 1/4 mile WOOLENS For Applique & Rug Hooking Small Pieces To Yardage Route 29 & 345th Street Southwest Corner Closed Sundays th St. Stanley, WI stormfarm1@yahoo.com Mon-Fri 8-6 Sat 8-4 QUILTING & VARIETY STORE Over 4,000 Bolts of Fabric Flannels, Fleeces, Cottons, 108 Backings, Great Selection! We also have BEAUTIFUL QUILTS for sale! Contact us to Sign Up for Classes Eversewn Sewing Machines Shoes, Clothing, Baby Items, Toys, Candles, Garlands, Furniture and Much More!! N14085 Fernwall Ave Stanley, WI Come & see our Beautiful Quilts! From Stanley, drive E on Hwy 29 to S on Copenhaver, turn E on Cty Rd N (approx 1 mile) On the corner of Cty N and Fernwall The Unique Variety Store Located in a Rustic, Country Setting!

13 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 13 Visit: Greenwood, Marshfield, Thorp Knitters Played An Integral Part In World War I Efforts Stateside & Abroad By Sharon Greve Do you belong to the wool brigade? If not, then come along. Mothers, wives and maidens Make this Army strong. Gray wool is our ammunition; Some make it into balls. Pass them to the knitting squad; They will soon use them all. For this is no time to be idle And sit with folded hands. Pick up your knitting whenever you re sitting, A sock soon grows under your hand. Hark! I hear the bugle call. Someone wants another ball. This 1917 poem is similar to many of the World War I knitting poems and song lyrics equating knitters with warriors. The United States declared war on Germany April 6, During the war, the government asked Americans of all ages to knit wool socks, sweaters, and other garments for American soldiers at home and abroad. Published patterns, knitting bags, patriotic tape measures and knitting tools, sheet music lyrics about knitting, etc. encouraged Americans to knit for the war effort. Knitting became not only acceptable, but expected. Men were taught to knit during work lunch breaks. Most women and many men already knew how to knit. Those who didn t quickly learned. Some experienced knitters reworked any shoddy work before garments were given to the American Red Cross (ARC) that issued patterns and yarn, collected finished goods, and shipped them to Europe. Knitters were told to stop all other knitting items to devote all their spare time to knitting socks, using any appropriately colored wool they could find. Non-knitters were urged to purchase yarn for knitters. In the summer of 1917 the ARC issued an urgent call for one and a half million each of knitted wristlets, mufflers, sweaters, and pairs of socks. Soldiers spent weeks or months entrenched in wet and freezing conditions, so the need for socks was paramount to avoid contracting trench foot a fungus. Knit for Sammie! became the rallying cry of ARC knitters. American soldiers were called Sammies, short for Uncle Sam. Sammies needed wool helmets and vests, chest covers and fingerless mitts to allow trigger access. Knitters also produced so-called stump socks to cover amputated limbs. Military commanders were required by the War Council to account for the donated ARC garments as though they were government property regularly supplied by the Quartermaster Corps...This action on the part of the War Department will assure thousands of American women who have knitted sweaters and other articles for soldiers for winter use that the articles Main Street Vintage 314 S Main St. Greenwood, WI Visit Us On Facebook & Like Our Page! One Of A Kind Items - New Items Added Weekly Unique Home Decor, Antiques, Furniture, Jewelry, Accessories, Primitive Decor DnA Vintners Wine, Upcycled-Reclaimed Items, Handmade Rugs, Garden Art, Soaps & Lotions, Greeting Cards, Jams, Jellies, Syrups, Dips and much more! Now Available: DnA Vintners Wines! Open: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Closed Sundays they have made will receive the same careful attention as clothing or any other article furnished by the government. By mid 1918 the need for socks was so critical that the ARC begged knitters: Don t make sweaters...every pound of yarn that can be secured should be used for socks. Some knitters conserved wool by using cotton yarn for the legs and wool for the feet. Wool was the best fiber for moisture absorption. Other knitters, confused by the semi-complicated task of turning the heel, began knitting heel-less tube socks. Soldiers loved them because they were more comfortable than socks with lumpy, poorly made heels. To ease yarn shortage, the War Industries Board ordered all American yarn retailers to turn over their stock of service yarn to the ARC. For six weeks, all yarn for war-effort knitting was available only through the ARC. The production of the critical war material (wool) prompted President Woodrow Wilson to allow a small flock of sheep on the White House lawn. The so-called War to End all Wars ended November 11, 1918 when Germany surrendered. Participants in the program have been quoted as feeling they did something to help the war effort, that they alleviated suffering, and that they were calmed by the act of knitting. The program was successful for everyone. Many knitters swore off gray and khaki yarn for good, or so they thought. These same knitters were to be the first to pick up their needles in December 1941, to once again knit for victory Sharon Greve. Contact castonshar@charter.net. No reprint without permission. TheDailyGrind GOURMET COFFEE & TEA Daily Breakfast & Luncheon Specials Hours: Mon-Fri 6:30am-6:00pm Sat 7:30am-2:00pm 236 S. Central Ave. Marshfield WI (715) N Main St Greenwood, WI Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 9am-Noon Come See Our Century-Old Building, Filled with Beautiful Flowers, Gifts & Home Decor. Fresh Flowers Home & Garden Decor Garlands Candles & Melts Gifts Local Dairy & Wine Apparel Soaps and Lotions Cards & Balloons Visit Us on Facebook and Online at E Stanley St. Thorp, WI Ph Monday-Friday 9-5 Saturday 9-4 A Time to Retreat next door Call for information and reservations July Special Wool Sale - Spend $15 and get $2 OFF August Special Pre-Made Quilt Sale 25% OFF Wide Selection of Quilts Find us on Facebook, and check out our new Fabrics! Gift Certificates Available! Perfect for Any Special Occasion! boltsoffun09@yahoo.com Order online at: 2 Miles North of Fleet Farm On Hwy. 13, Then 1.25 Miles West On Mann Rd. S549 W. Mann Rd. Marshfield, WI Phone: Like Us On Facebook! 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14 Page 14 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Owen, Withee Collector s Corner: Vintage Wedding Cake Toppers Are Fun & Fashionable By Valerie Burner Just the other day a friend was sharing a story about her circle of stuff. She falls in love with something and then, before she knows it, she has a collection. After a bit of time, she finds herself in love with something else and sells off her old stuff in order to get new stuff thus, the circle of stuff. Sound familiar? It does to me! Welcome to The Collectors Corner. Over the years I have collected many different things and, while I am not an expert at identifying or valuing, I do consider myself very experienced in the art of collecting. I love the thrill of the hunt, learning about my new finds and talking to people who are passionate about what they collect. I m always looking for new uses for old things and imaginative ways to incorporate my newest treasure into my everyday living. Not that long ago I stumbled upon some vintage wedding cake toppers. At the time, I was planning a wedding shower for a dear friend who loves all things vintage. I didn t have a clue what I was going to do with the beauties, but those cake toppers that had been lovingly cared for one still in its original box needed to come home with me and find a new purpose. If I didn t know better, I d swear the couples in the toppers grinned as they were being purchased and carried out of the store. Wedding cake toppers gained favor during the Victorian era. They originally consisted of flowers, bells or some object related to the bride and groom and were often made by a family member or a professional baker who used frosting, icing or non-edible materials. In the 1920s, American high society started the trend of using bride and groom figures on the wedding cake. Two things happened in a relatively short span of time that fueled the popularity of bride and groom cake toppers. In 1922, Emily Post, an American etiquette expert wrote about wedding cakes and the placement of bride and groom figurines atop the cakes. Retailers such as Sears Roebuck & Company began selling mass-produced bride and groom wedding cake toppers. They were manufactured primarily in the United States, Germany and Japan. In 1927, the Sears catalog had a full page devoted to cake toppers: grooms with and without top hats, brides with and without veils, some holding hands, some under gazebos, some surrounded by flowers, but all in the classic wedding theme. Posy Patch Greenhouse & Gift Shop You Have To Stop In & Check Out Our Super Sales! FRESH PRODUCE IS HERE! Be Sure To Visit The Gift Shop: N11839 State Hwy. 73 Owen, Wisconsin 7 Miles S. Of Withee, 6 Miles N. Of Greenwood Monday-Friday 8:00-8:00 Saturday 8:00-6:00 Closed Sunday Hanging Baskets Pouches Proven Winners Herbs Planters Water Plants Vegetables Perennials Proven Winner Shrubs Maple Syrup Jams Jellies Homemade Candy Are You Landscaping? We Will Custom Fill Your Planters! Does Your Home Need A Facelift? ery We Have Shade Trees, Flowering Trees & A Large Selection Of Proven Winner Shrubs Let Us Design A Unique Combination Especially For You! Large Selection Of Canvas Prints, Inspirational Signs, Berry Garlands, Wrought Iron Lanterns & Much More! Corinthian Bells Wind Chimes Primitive Furniture Bird Houses Notions P a t t e r n s C l o t h i n g Quilts BERNINA Dealer Phone: N14590 Cty. O, Withee, WI Hours: M-Th 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Fri. 8 a.m..- 8 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Vintage wedding cake toppers featuring bride and groom figures continued to be dominant through the 1950s. They were (and still are) a non-perishable part of the wedding cake that is kept as a reminder of that very special day and oftentimes passed down from one generation to the next. What once was a staple of every wedding cake today is seen as a lovely connection to the generations before us. With cake toppers today being more reflective of the couple s style, the vintage bride and groom cake toppers can seem old fashioned. Enter the vintage lover, the collector, the one who wants to find uses for these beautiful old things. With such a vast variety of styles, you can find toppers that reflect different eras. Included are the flapper days of the 1920s, 1940s wartime brides with grooms often in military attire, 1950s Grace Kelly style, 1960s with bouffant hair styles reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy, even ruffled shirts and longer hair on the grooms that were both popular in the 1970s, different hair colors and skin tones, and ones celebrating 25th and 50th wedding anniversaries. Materials range from chalk ware, composition, celluloid, plastic, crepe paper and netting, bisque, some with lace and others with millinery flowers. If you have a collector s heart, it is nearly impossible to have just one. You can find them in vintage and antique stores and, if you are lucky, thrift stores or online. Prices range from $10 to over $150, with the rarest ones and those made of chalk ware commanding the highest prices. Once you have a little group together, the charm, warmth and romance is undeniable. A trio displayed under glass cloche on a side table, several grouped together with vintage photos in a white cabinet, a vignette that includes a vintage cake plate and pearls on a nightstand the ideas are endless. Let a little whimsy enter your home and surround yourself with things you love. At the wedding shower for my friend, we used my three lovely toppers to decorate the food, dessert and gift tables along with vintage doilies, shades of aqua, ivory and brown. It was really lovely. The bride now displays one of those toppers in her home, perhaps the beginning of another collection. Valerie Burner married into a family of collectors more than 25 years ago. The first piece she and her husband purchased together was a drop leaf table that has had many uses over the years. Their current collections include pink depression glass, vintage Santa Clauses and Christmas, Snoopy, and, of course, teddy bears. They have owned Bears & More in the historic Catlin Court district of Downtown Glendale, AZ, for more than 25 years. You can contact Valerie at bearsmore@aol.com. B o o k s Toys Quilters! Quilters! 5000 Plus Bolts of Fabric. Receive 10% Discount on Fabric purchase of $300 or more. Quilt Batting and Sew Much More. MACHINE QUILTING SERVICES We Carry Longarm Quilters! Buy Your New Bernina and Receive Free guide class, 2 years free service. We Hope To See You Soon! 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15 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 15 By Sue Carloni Tell Dad to turn right, my older sister Fay whispered. But I want to go left, I whined. No, Fay insisted. Say right. Turn right, Daddy, I said, wistfully looking out the car window toward the left. Nearly every Sunday, Dad took our family for a drive. Each of us three children got to state which way we wanted him to go when we came to a crossroads right, left, or straight. I remember these family adventures since I was 5 years old back in My older sister Fay and older brother Lee always knew which way they wanted Dad to turn. I m sure Dad and Mom knew, too. Even though I didn t get my way in telling Dad which way to go, I did get Visit: Wausau Sunday Drives Lead To A Lifetime Of Lake Memories excited when I spotted our usual destination. As soon as we turned onto the narrow road, I watched for the stone retaining wall that was next to the gravel driveway. Dad slowly drove down the sloped driveway and parked. I scrambled out of the car along with Fay and Lee. Mr. and Mrs. Moore were sometimes in their yard grilling burgers on their brick barbecue pit or relaxing in their white Adirondack lawn chairs. They always greeted our family with smiles and hugs. The Moores were family friends, but they treated us like relatives. We were always invited to have lunch and obliged. The fresh country air gave us all good appetites for the juicy burgers. The quaint cottage was dark and damp inside with flies buzzing around Come To Visit Wausau due to the screen door not closing tightly. Yet the atmosphere of their summer home was cozy. It was on a spring-fed lake named Eagle Spring Lake in Wisconsin, and the water was cold, clear and deep where the spring came in. The Moores cottage was on the shallow, weedy side of the lake, but the water was still good for swimming, water skiing, boating, and canoeing. A long wooden L-shaped pier had a bench seat and ladder to climb in and out of the lake. Before I learned to swim, I had to sit on the bench and watch my sister and brother swim. That s where I also sat to watch Fay water ski. I was only allowed to walk in the shallow water. I sat down on the cement retaining wall that was along the shore in front of their property and slipped my feet into the cool water. They landed in weeds that tickled my legs. I was always sad when it was time to leave the lake. Come again soon, Mrs. Moore said, as we climbed into the car. I knew we would most likely the next Sunday. Sue Carloni is a freelance writer who has been published in more than 70 magazines, including The Country Register, Guideposts, and Good Old Days. She also has a story in the Chicken Soup for the Soul Angels & Miracles book. She lives in Wisconsin where she enjoys doing volunteer work at a local historical society, walking in the forest, and reading. Wausau is the hub of the central and north-central Wisconsin region with a metro population of above 100,000. It is located between two major four-lane highways, Interstate 39 (north and south) and Highway 29 (east and west). It is also known as "Arts Town USA" due to its commitment to the performing arts. 312 and 314 1st Avenue Wausau, WI or Mon-Fri 10-5:30 Sat 10-4 Check out our Quilting Workshop for Thousands of Bolts of Fabric, and An Outrageous Number of Batiks! We also carry Moda, Maywood, Asian Prints Hand Dyed Wool and More... Visit the Needle Workshop for Hundreds of Needlework Patterns, Fabrics, Fibers and Accessories! Stop in Today! You ll love our selection! Central Wisconsin s Stitching Headquarters! July 1-31 Special Events! Christmas in July Sale August Annual Tent Sale 1220 Merrill Ave. Wausau, WI Phone grantsmqm@marchmail.com Central Wisconsin s LARGEST Sewing Machine Dealer! WAUSAU 2907 Rib Mountain Dr., Ste B Wausau, WI Ph: Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 9-4 Sun 12-4 Brand Name Fabrics, Patterns, Books, Notions & Threads, Classes, Expanded Fabric Line... A Full Line Quilt Shop! New Lower Prices on Cotton Quilting Fabrics sales@sewsmartonline.com Create Your Own Beautiful at Sew Smart... New Machine Sales Service On All Brands Specializing In Civil War Fabrics Kits Patterns Primitive Gifts Notions Books Moda Windham Marcus Andover Diamond Textiles More! Participating In: Row By Row AND Junior Row By Row! See Us: Cranberry Country Quilter's Show, July 21st in Eagle River Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10-5 Saturday 10-4 Closed Sunday & Monday, Or By Appointment, Please Call! Kim Diehl s Whatnots Club State Highway 51 Badger Ave Merrill Ave Grant s March Quilting Mercantile West Bridge Street Check Out Our FB Page For BOM Offerings! Merrill Ave N 3rd Ave N 1st Ave CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD! SEWING STUDIO Sewing Machine Sales & Service Fabric Threads Notions Sewing Tables Classes Wausau 4505 Rib Mountain Dr. Wausau, WI (715) Now Open! Stop In To See Us & Sign Up For Our Newsletter So You ll Know About Our Sales & Special Events! CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD!

16 Page 16 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Loving Others, Community Devotion Create Meaning To Life By Lesley R. Nuttall Our journey of love and marriage, which began in 1960, often included our extended family. Love was always front and center around us growing up and our parents instilled the love deep into our souls. It was natural to see our father give our mother a quick hug and kiss whenever he left for work. As children, we always felt loved, and at bedtime an I love you with a hug was normal. My husband Craig had bonded with my family and had taken on the role as man of the family since my father had died shortly after we were married. It was a very difficult time for my mother, being left at age 37 to raise her three young daughters alone. The 1970s was a very busy decade for us with family and volunteering. Our daughter, Lisa, was born in July of Our son, Tommy, who was 8 years old, was so excited that he rode his bicycle up and down the street, repeating, It s a girl, it s a girl, we have a baby girl! It was thrilling to now have what was called the perfect family a boy and a girl! My husband was kept busy with the janitorial business Clean More Service, which he had started several years earlier, and was starting to employee more workers. He was also involved volunteering with our brother-in-law, Bill, coaching a hockey team that our son Tommy, and Bill s son, David played on. I would take Lisa to the arena to watch the hockey games. Life was good and our hearts were full of love for our little family. After the death of my father I continued to work with my mother in her florist shop. As she was easing into her new life, she decided at age 39, she would like to go back to school to upgrade her education. Both my sisters Julie and Sandy were married and starting their own families. When my mother left and moved to another city, she took our youngest sister, Beryl, with her. I took over running the florist shop, and by this time I had become a hands-on florist myself. I loved working with the flowers and creating new designs and arrangements daily. I must say it was a bit of a challenge though, as I decided I would take our 3- month-old daughter, Lisa, to work with me. I loved being able to have her with me every day and still work productively. It was a loving and bonding experience for both of us. When she was 8 and 9 months old I would put her in her baby walker and let her roam around the shop. It was cute as she started smelling the flowering plants sitting on the floor, but then she eventually started picking the flowers! The time had come for us to make a decision; hire a babysitter or someone to run the shop. Our decision was to close the shop. The janitorial business was prosperous and we decided this would give us more family time. It was great for Lisa and I to be home when Tommy came home after school, and I feel that was the best solution for our family. In 1976, we bought our second home. Lisa was 6 years old and had joined the Girl Guides organization as a Brownie. As usual they were looking for volunteer leaders, so I became one of the leaders for the group. I continued on for six years, even after Lisa moved on up to the Girl Guides. Tommy was now in Cub Scouts and enjoying the challenges. In 1978, our town suffered a huge loss when our only arena and curling rink burnt down. The town mayor asked Craig to take on the position of volunteer fund-raising chairperson and to start a group who raised money to build a new arena. He took on the task, and I also became one of the volunteers. After four years of fund-raising, a new arena was built in As a reader, I always liked the quote by Morrie Schwartz in the book, Tuesdays with Morrie, written by Mitch Albom. I felt it would be very appropriate to use here. The way you get meaning into your life is by loving others; to devote yourself to your community around you and to devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning. Continued on Page 17

17 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 17 By Auntie Ca h Visit: New London, Seymour, Tigerton Treasures & Healing Come From Cleaning The Corner Closet Everyone goes through it, but are we ever really ready when the actual day arrives? Mom passed away July, Dad was lost; no one to care for, Dad was alone now. Having lived by their means, nothing of value was amongst their possessions. You could say they were Ralph & Alice of the Honeymooners, just as comfortable being apartment dwellers. I caught a glimpse of Dad weeping at the photographs of five daughters, now only four, while so surreal; staring back at him, tears running inside the dusty frames. What was waiting to be emptied was the first task at hand. Dad needed closure, more memories than needed, behind a closed door. Such a task, to open the jammed closet door, would only have caused him more emotion, and it was time for inner space of that barricade to breathe. Unaware of years of hoarding, tumbling bags came at us like fallen rocks. The hours ahead were spent compiling clothes for charities. Saddened and weary, we took Love & Marriage Made Stronger By The Foundation Of Friendship Continued from Page 16 My husband did this when he took on the task of volunteer fund-raiser to raise money for the new arena for our town. I was very proud of him for sharing his talent. When thinking of love and marriage, I feel that one of the most important things in life is to learn how to love! Love doesn t have to be chatting or laughing together all the time. They say, silence is golden. You can still love, and be with the one you love and sit in silence. It is Fabrics Patterns Notions Classes N4647 Hwy 45 Tigerton, WI Ph Treats &Treasures Dad to dinner. Day two, we were focused to clean the second bedroom. More clusters, more hoarding, yet neatly organized as a sewing room should be. A quilting table flirted with Kath, the eldest, who was also talented with the art of sewing. The surprise on her face, priceless! There were piles of materials, piles of quilts, finished and unfinished, all waiting for Kath to put her own personal touches and signature on the remnants remaining. Again, to Kath, priceless! Her first treasure found. She found another surprise: antique music. It was an old RCA, excellent patina, record player of the 1950s, along with doo-wop 45s and country western albums that we danced to so long ago. Mom played guitar, yodeled, and sang with a band. Kath was still a baby when Mom cut a 78 record, two-sided, along with her friend, Cass. My Kathleen was written and sung by Mom. The rest of us couldn t look at the debris as hoarding anymore. Left in the closet was the last for us to spread on top of Mom s bed. Lying on our Participating in the Row By Row Experience 2018 Join us for the fun! Wednesday-Saturday 9-5 Sunday 12-5 Closed Monday & Tuesday OPEN MON-SAT N. Main Street Seymour, Wisconsin Cafe! Coffee, Teas, Homemade Soup, Fresh Bakery, Salad, Sandwiches Crafts, Arts, Antiques, Vintage! Vendors Display Here Wisconsin Products! Soaps, Candles, Maple Syrup, Cherry Juice, More Gift Ideas! Very, Very Unique Ideas For All Your Friends & Family sides, to a circle of sisterhood, the time had come to review the trinkets and Sarah Coventry jewelry. It was peaceful, and harmonic, in choosing who wanted what. A shoebox remained in the corner of the closet; a notation Give this to Carol upon my death, the message instinctively to be returned to its original owner. It was sister No. 2. Me! Some old memories escape your mind, especially if it was so many years ago when I was the age of 10. Dad would always enter the Irish Sweepstakes drawing, which took place in New York City. I followed in his footsteps. Ivory Snow sponsored a contest. To enter, you would write your name and address on a postcard and mail it. Dad came home one night holding a registered letter. So reserved, he handed it to me, and I read aloud, I was the firstplace winner nationally. The shoebox contents was a pristine, black leather box, engraved Tiffany s in gold lettering. What appeared as gaudy to a 10 year old, my Mom thought differently. What excited me was that I won first place. A definitely the test of love! A quote from Mr. Sam Elliott is, the key to long lasting marriage is common sensibility but also work at being together. That s how relationships last! In our personal relationship, we started out as friends, and it carried over into love. You must keep both alive to make it last! As we are now heading toward our 57th wedding anniversary, I will say there have been ups and downs. Over the years, we were thrilled to have been blessed with five grandchildren and one great grandson. We were saddened to lose our son last year to cancer, but thrilled that his daughter, Catherine, had a baby boy two months before Tom died. Express your love to those you love, as you never know what tomorrow might bring! Love is free, so pass it on to all your family and friends! 2018 Lesley R. Nuttall is the author of Secrets of Party Planning and lives in Dryden, ON, Can. with her husband. lesleyrose@shaw.ca. Water Street Vintage, LLC 207 W North Water Street New London, WI Primitives, Antiques, Vintage, Shabby Chic, Repurposed, Records, Furniture and Home Decor An authorized dealer for the American Paint Company chalk and clay based mineral paint, McCall s candles and Howard s products. Located in a 15,000 sq. ft. building with 70 booths and over 3,000 square feet of consignment. Also offering a meeting room to rent for classes, meetings, showers, etc. Open 7 Day A Week! Mon.-Fri Sat & Sun delicate 18-karat gold leaf lay on top of black velvet, the pin was accented with diamonds and sapphires. Enclosed, the expose of designer, number and year, accompanied by its authenticity that it was from Tiffany s. Mom never wore it. When Antiques Roadshow came onto the television circuit, sister No. 3 Chrissie won the lottery for two tickets to the Roadshow held in Providence, RI. It was appraised at $1,500 with the box and value would only increase. An heirloom to be passed on to a millennium niece. The corner closet gave a passport to view antique and folk art market, tag sales, and flea markets. I enjoy this type of browsing. It is entertainment and socializing with artists who have the same interests. Inside my bucket list is hopes to one day have Breakfast at Tiffany s. Dad moved in with sister No. 5, Terry and me two months later. Auntie Ca h, A.K.A. Carol Nixon. Non-fiction short story. Cannot be copyrighted

18 Page 18 July-Augst 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: By Gayle Cranford Childhood Summers Several children lived on our short street in a small town in western Pennsylvania. I lived there from the ages of 6 to 18, at which time I went off to college. As children, we never lacked for friends or cousins with whom to play or explore. The lazy, hazy days of summer were treasures, more easily appreciated as memories. A large field at the end of our street provided the perfect safe spot for interested friends to meet for a game of ball. Usually, the sidewalks were covered with chalk hopscotch games. Our big maple tree in the front yard was the perfect place for creating roads and houses in the root and dirt base, giving us hours of creative play. My father had built a grape arbor in the backyard, our house in which to lay old carpets, hang curtains, and to pretend to be grown-up. Nearby, Grandpa Roberts owned a chicken coop behind his house that, instead of chickens, was filled with all kinds of old treasures that whetted our imaginations. We friends and cousins never lacked for opportunities or venues in which to experience creative play on Fourteenth Street. I remember other summer activities there. Nearly all of us had bicycles that enabled us to explore other nearby neighborhoods. Occasionally, I would dress Fluffy, our cat, in doll clothes and wheel her around in my bicycle basket. One time, while straddling the back wheel on a friend s bicycle, I accidentally caught my foot and leg in the spokes. Skinned knees and shins abounded. Being the first grandchild afforded me much attention from aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Aunts Kathaleen and Shirley, just a few years older than I, spent hours dressing me up and applying makeup. Shirley, five years my senior, and I loved to spread out our paper dolls on the carpet, especially when my mother would bring me a new paper doll packet from her shopping excursion to downtown Sharon. Often, I would draw and cut out my own paper couture creations, complete with tabs with which to attach them to the paper dolls. A few years later, I received a 3-D precursor of Barbie with detachable arms and I graduated to making fabric clothes for her. Many balmy days, some of us would spread an old quilt or blanket between our homes on the grass on which to play board games or sew crude doll clothes. Nearby rambling roses provided red petals that we wet and placed on our fingernails. We even had fun stamping on and popping white berry-like pods on our neighbors front shrubs. Because Grandpa, Uncle Jay, and my father all kept bees in the neighborhood, summer play always meant that someone would invariably get stung, especially by stepping on honey bees in the clover growing in our yards. Cousin Gene suffered a sting on one nostril. I was stung on my elbow producing a rash of hives. Another sting between my eyes obviously closed both eyes for awhile. But, we also loved to catch bees in hollyhock blossoms and always had honey in the comb available to spread on our morning toast. Another silly game we neighborhood kids played was to sit on the front sidewalk step of our neighbors a short block away on Ridge Avenue, a busier thoroughfare. We each chose a color and counted to see how many cars of our colors we each would see passing up or down the street. We became so absorbed in the game that, once, my father called Dave and me to dinner, but we were too engrossed in counting cars to hear him. Frightened for our safety, when Dad found us, he spanked me the entire way back to the house. Spankings were so rare that this one was etched in my brain forever. As I remember, David received a few more spankings in his growing up time than did I. One, in particular, was when he wandered off from a job helping our father lay cement blocks under the back porch. Those wonderful times of my childhood days in the 1940s and 50s have provided me with the glorious gift of memories in my declining years. I am so grateful.

19 In The Heart Of The Fox Cities, North Of Lake Winnebago Appleton: Wisconsin s Shopping Place Visit Appleton & The Fox Cities For A Great Getaway: Shopping, A Relaxing Couples Retreat, Cultural Activities Or A Family Escape - All With Small Town Warmth! From Farmhouse To Fixer-Upper, We Have Something That Will Fit Your Style. HOME DECOR GIFTS ART CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD! Green Bay 933 Anderson Dr. Ste. D Green Bay, WI (920) Appleton 1230 W. College Ave. Appleton, WI (920) CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD! Great Stormy Kromer Selection! Call Anytime! Turn East On Glendale And Look For The Barn! We ll Leave The Barn Door Open! 2002 N. Lynndale Dr. Appleton, Wisconsin naturalencounters.net Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm W College Ave Appleton, WI Appleton s Newest Quilt Shop! A little something for everyone. July 9-15 Anniversary Sale July 25 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. President of FreeSpirit Fabrics On Hand For A Special Shopping Event Check our website for classes: Appleton s Brightest QUILT SHOP Christmas In July Shop Hop: July 25th-28th 3402 N Richmond St. #B Appleton, Wisconsin M-F 9:30-5:30, Thurs 9:30-6:30, Sat 9:30-3:00 1 Block South of Hwy 41 on Richmond St. (Exit 142) W. Northland Avenue Across From Festival Foods Appleton, WI CHRISTMAS IN JULY EXPANDED! JULY VISIT ALL 6 SHOPS VISIT 6 FOX VALLEY SHOPS PICK UP EVENT CARD AT ANY SHOP! ENTER TO WIN GREAT PRIZES Visit six shops for a chance to win the grand prize of $300 in gift cards! Additional prizes include $50 and $25 gift cards from the shops. SPECIALS, DOOR PRIZES & TREATS! Watch your for participating shops from Menasha to Green Bay! Join us for a little Christmas cheer & get inspired by the new samples and patterns! It's 4 days of Fun! Summer Spectacular Continues! Stop Or Call For Details! FIND US ON FACEBOOK! Appleton s Largest Quilt Shop Over 5,000 Bolts! Call For Schedules Of Our Classes & Clubs! BUSES WELCOME! Website: goingtopiecesquiltcompany@yahoo.com Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 9-5:30 Thurs 9-6:30 Saturday 9-3 Closed Sundays

20 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Page 20! July-August 2018 Visit: Green Bay Become Inspired - Summer s Solitude By Annice Bradley Rockwell In the depth of summer comes a quiet and drawn-out lull that gives us opportunities for mindful outdoor activities that provide peace and tranquility. With our gardens at a stage where they are now relatively self-sufficient, we can take a step back and enjoy the result of our hard work. The heavier chores of late spring, such as cultivating the raised beds and amending the soil, have transformed into smaller tasks. They include light weeding or going out to the vegetable patch at the end of a hot summer day when the air is a bit cooler to fill our antique gathering basket with fresh zucchini or heirloom tomatoes. As we work happily to bring in the beginnings of our personal harvest, we often feel a deep sense of reward and begin to get excited for all that we can do with the bountiful blessings before us. Putting By Canning or putting by, is one way to preserve our abundance for the seasons ahead. Gathering fresh produce from your garden such as zucchini, cucumbers and peppers for relishes and pickles, or bright red juicy tomatoes to can in glass jars to be used for a homemade lasagna in the dead of winter, makes for a full day of old-fashioned Unique Shopping, Beautiful Parks & Great Family Attractions! work. There is a simple joy found in slicing succulent cucumbers and onions from your own garden. But nothing seems sweeter than seeing your filled canning jars in an array of gorgeous colors and textures ready to be stored in a pantry or buttery for future use. All of the growing, tending and nurturing is doubly rewarding when you taste these sublime slices of summer on a cold winter s evening. It is a soulful reminder of the height of the year and of nature s promise to return another summer to us. Campfire Nights Gardening and putting by are two of summer s soulful luxuries. Another simple blessing is a crackling fire on a midsummer s night. There is something primitive and magical about a campfire and it is perfect for a summer evening. The leaping flames lure us with their beauty and we are naturally drawn to- Green Bay Welcome, Shoppers! gether in a spirit of camaraderie. Gathering around a fire, whether it be with family or with friends, brings a certain kind of happiness that our current age of technology could never rival. Somehow telling stories and catching up with the ones we love around a fire makes us easily lose track of the time because we are living truly in the moment. In the heart of this summer season, enjoy the slower pace of the nice, long days. Spend time experiencing summer s simple blessings and share the lasting joy that it brings with those you hold dear. Annice Bradley Rockwell is an educator and owner of Pomfret Antiques. She is currently working on her book, New England Girl. NewEnglandGirl2012@hotmail.com. Welcome Sports Fans, Theatre Fans, Food Enthusiasts & Fishermen! Green Bay Has Something For Every Member Of Your Family! LARGEST Variety Of Cotton Fabrics Over 4,000 Bolts! Visit Us During Row By Row: June 21st Thru September 4th M-Th 9:30-5:00 Fri 9:30-4:30 Sat. 9: Cardinal Lane Suite 108 Green Bay, Wisconsin Phone: Store Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10-5 Tuesday & Thursday 10-8 Saturday Anderson Dr. Ste. D Green Bay, WI (920) W. College Ave. Appleton, WI (920) Best Selection Of HOLIDAY Fabrics Christmas :: Halloween :: Patriotic New Selection Of Civil War Era Fabrics Plus Many More! Long Arm Quilt Machine Rental & Sales Yarn & Knitting Supplies Unique Selection Of Quilting Fabrics, Patterns, Books, Notions, Hand-Dyed Wool, Roving CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD! CLIP & SAVE 10% WITH THIS AD! Quality Fabric Patterns Notions Gifts Gammill Long Arm Services Wood: Quilt Racks Quilt Ladders Hangers Appleton We Are A Row By Row Junior Shop! 1550 Dousman St. Green Bay, WI Just 1 mile east of Hwy 41 & Hwy 29 interchange! Sign Up For The Diva Class Passport & Start Taking Classes! Green Bay Visit Us During The Row By Row Experience June 21-September 4, 2018 Infant :: Juvenile :: Batiks Kansas Troubles :: Reproductions Novelties :: Outdoor & Wildlife Trunk Show In July: Made By Marney Quilts Visit To See More! Christmas In July: July 25th-28th Visit Silver Thimble, Quilting Divas, Going To Pieces & Keep Me In Stitches! 2475 University Ave. University Courtyard Suite D Green Bay, Wisconsin or (920) HOURS: Mon, Tues, Wed & Friday 9:30-5, Thurs 9:30-8, Sat 10-3 Like Us On Facebook! Web: silverthimblequilts.com silverthimble@tds.net

21 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 21 By Julie Pirtle Scrapbooking is a passion I ve had since I was a child. I was inspired at the age of 5 when my great grandmother gave me a tattered scrapbook full of cards and mementos that she had saved throughout the decades. That year, I received a scrapbook as a gift. I immediately started to fill it with memories, even creating my own embellishments. I was a scrapbooker when scrapbooking wasn t cool! Years later, an entire scrapbooking industry was born. Stores filled with supplies and paper popped up everywhere. Home parties, where women got together to try new tools and ideas, were held nightly. Weekend crops became modernday quilting bees. Paper crafting allowed us to be social as we archived our family history. It also gave us ample opportunity to acquire supplies lots of supplies. As a fellow scrapbooker and professional organizer, I have seen how these collections actually inhibit the creative process. Here are a few tips to help get the crafting clutter corralled: 1) Designate your space. Unfortunately, it seems like the craft room becomes the catch-all room. Not only does this create a mess, it also stops the creative juices from flowing. Banish everything from the area that is not craft related. Everything. 2) Purge! It is time to get real with yourself. The bubblegum ball paper you bought 20 years ago is not likely to be used at this point. Just like fashion, styles change and so do your creative inspirations. Release items that no longer suit Visit: Montello, Oshkosh, Ripon Getting Craft Clutter Under Control your needs. If you have duplicate tools, create a portable carryall that can be used when scrapping away from home and get rid of the rest. Be ruthless. You ve got this! 3) Create a flow. Just like a kitchen, your craft space needs to make sense as you use it. Keep your tools within hands reach, either in drawers or a desktop caddy. Create storage areas. That old dresser in the garage would be great drawer storage after it gets a bright coat of fresh paint. To make the closet crafterfriendly, build shelves or line it with a shelving unit or bookcases. Take advantage of as much vertical space as possible, both in the closet and on your walls. 4) Sort and store. There are many ways I help my clients store their supplies and none of them is necessarily better than the other. The market is filled with craft storage solutions. Find what works best for you. Inexpensive plastic shoebox containers with snap on lids are ideal for storing flowers, ribbon and embellishments. Label and store them stacked on a shelf. Sort your paper by manufacturer or theme and place in vertical paper holders. Vertical paper holders protect the integrity of your paper and are easy to line up on a bookcase. Thread embellishments that are in their original plastic sleeved packages onto large circle jump rings and place them on wall hooks. Hang vintage spice racks on your walls and fill them with paints and small jars that hold your embellishments. Not only is it handy, it looks great! 5) Surround yourself with things you love. This is your studio. Your she-cave. 30th EAA Quilt Show Thursday, July 26 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oshkosh Seniors Center 234 N. Campbell Rd Oshkosh, WI 1197 W Winneconne Ave Neenah, WI Your haven. This is the space where you will create magic. Make it your own! Now that you have organized your supplies, sprinkle your space with items that make you smile the clay pot your first grader made, your favorite childhood toy, your granddaughters' framed artwork. Not only will they make you happy, they will give inspiration as well. 6) Save money and enjoy! The process of bringing order to your supplies can feel daunting but it is worth every moment in the end. Having your supplies organized makes it easier to create and saves money as well. Now that everything has its space, the likelihood of buying something only to discover that you already had one in the craft clutter will be a thing of the past. The paper-crafting room in the before and after pictures shows the difference between a craft room overrun with supplies that didn't have dedicated spaces compared to how the space became functional and enjoyable to create in after an overhaul and deep purge. Once you have joined the ranks of savvy and organized crafters, you'll be able to put on your slippers, sit down with a cup of tea and create. You will have earned it, so ENJOY! Julie Pirtle is a professional organizer and enjoys helping the "clutter challenged." She hails from Oregon and now lives in Mesa, AZ. She has been organizing her entire life and made the move to turn it into a business in Her business experience lends itself well to organizing everything from kitchens to garages, but her passion for scrapbooking and crafting has attracted many to use her skills to create functional space in their crafting rooms. The Garden Center Teapot Quilt Cottage The First Irrigated Farm In Wisconsin! In-Season Produce From A-to-Z Spring Plants & Unusual Finds! Asparagus Green Onions Annuals Perennials Shrubs Seeds Tools Accessories Booklets Gardening Classes Bagged Dirt & Fertilizer Heirloom Perennials Varieties Of 100+ Years! Irises & Day Lillies Your Year Round Gift Shoppe Home Decor, Florals, Wreaths, Many Hand Made Items, Garden, Seasonal Decor, Jewelry, Baby Items, Linens, Rugs, Gourmet, Cards, Signs Hours: Closed Sundays Mon. - Fri. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. South On 22 From The Waterfalls 505 Main St Montello, Wisc. Quilts Fabrics Yarns Wool Fabric Patterns Quilting Books & Classes Knitting & Crocheting Supplies Home Decor Gift Items In-Store & Custom Baskets Seasonal & Decorative Arrangements Spices Jellies Jams Recipe Books Indoor Plants Handmade Clothing Unique Yard Arrangements Check Out The Garden Center & Teapot Quilt Cottage On Facebook! Phone Raffle Quilts Challenge Quilts Quilters Marketplace Bed Turning Quilt Items for Sale Lunch & Desserts Free Admission Free Parking Barrier Free More Info: lsqgnews@gmail.com Presented By: Lakeside Quilters Ltd. Authorized Dealer JANOME Authorized Dealer Janome Skyline S5 WE RE OPEN: Wed-Saturday 9:30-5:00 Wood & Fabric Creations Denim Shirts Florals Candles Northwoods Americana Fall & Halloween Christmas Soup & Dip Mixes Pictures Ornaments Bird Houses 1821 Harrison St., Oshkosh, WI (SEWS) itssewrite.com Summer Sale! We Service & Repair Most Makes & Models... Tin Lizzie Longarm Quilter Rental Available Sewing & Embroidery Classes Visit Our Website for Upcoming Classes Mon-Fri 10-5 Sat 9-2 Closed Sat. Memorial Day to Labor Day

22 Page 22 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Iola, Plover, Waupaca Norske Needlers Host Quilted Candy For The Eye September 15 Whether you prefer cashews smothered in caramel, a butterscotch drop that melts in your mouth, or the sweet chocolate kiss, there is a candy for each individual taste. The same can be said when the Norske Needlers present their third quilt show, Quilted Candy for the Eye, on September 15, Pieced quilts, applique, landscapes, embroidery, hand quilted or machine quilted, there will be over 200 quilts, wall hangings, table runners and other quilted items to savor that have been completed since their last quilt show in There will also be a vendors mall, a sales boutique of members items and a club booth of rummage items. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., local quilter and rugmaker, Jerry Johnson will host a bed turning of 1950s, 60s and 70s quilts. Like Us! 3046 Village Park Dr Plover WI Exit 153 off I-39 Just east of Menard s in Village Park Shopping Center There is free parking, no stairs and food available at the venue. Although the 40 members of the quilt club have been busy quilting items for themselves and to give away, many are also involved in making community projects. Participating in the Million Pillowcase Challenge for many years, one member also has made over 500! These pillowcases are distributed locally to children s homes, nursing homes, the veterans home and a host of other charitable organizations. Quilts of Valor, another National challenge, have been created for many local veterans. Other projects include quilts for Hurricane Harvey victims and other tragedies. In addition, quilts have been made individually or as a group and given for local raffles at the Iola Historical Society, Jorgens Park in Scandinavia, Dig Pink Cancer Awareness and other fundraising Hours: M-S 10-5 Wed 10-8 Sign up for our Newsletter at Belated Birthday Bash!!! July 9-13 July 2-3 4th of July Sale- Celebrate with 20% off all Patriotic Fabric Lines! July 9-13 Belated Birthday Bash - Help us celebrate our 7th year!!! Lots and lots of sales throughout the shop! July Christmas in July - Get ready for all those fun holiday projects. Stop in and check out all of our great gift ideas! Plus 25% off all Christmas Fabrics & Patterns! July 24 Beginning Sewing Class (10:15 am-1:15 pm) Ever wanted to learn the basics, but never had the opportunity? Now is your chance! Join our Beginning Sewing Class to learn about your machine, sewing tools and techniques, and so much more!! $40 class fee includes kit and handouts! Begins August 21 - Intro to Quilting Class - Join our 6-session class starting on August 21. We will cover everything from color choice, tips and tricks, best practices, quilting your project, and so much more! Call the shop for more details. events. Many churches display quilts made by members. Our major fundraiser is a silent auction at our November meeting. Members bring items they no longer want and sell them to other members. In the course of a short meeting, approximately $600 has been raised annually to donate to the local food pantries in Iola and Scandinavia. New members are always welcome at our meeting held the first Monday of the month (with no meeting in July) at the Iola Community Center on Main St. at 6 p.m. At each meeting there is a program to learn and exchange new ideas and techniques. Following a business meeting there is a popular Show and Tell of member s projects. Every three months there is a themed fat quarter drawing of fat quarters donated by members. Workdays are offered twice a month at the same location for members to work on their own projects. In addition, a local retreat is also held every year, alternating having a teach one year and working on your own projects the other. For a sweet taste of many quilting and sewing techniques and a chance to see new product and purchase quilted items, come to the Norske Needlers Quilt show: Quilted Candy for the Eye! Adults $5, children under 12 free, at the Iola Car Show building from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, September 15, For more information, please contact Dianne Erickson, or e- mail mooving@wi-net.com 29th Annual Rug Hook-In Set For Sept. 20 The Heart of Wisconsin Rug Hooking Guild is sponsoring its 29th annual Hook-In on Thursday, September 20, 2018 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Spencer Lake Christian Center in Waupaca, Wisconsin. This is a day during which rug hookers from all over the state come together to shop at the vendors, share their rug hooking projects with others, and spend time hooking on their projects while visiting with friends. Vendors will be selling wool material, rug hooking patterns, penny rug patterns, and rug hooking tools. A buffet lunch Iola Car Show Building 130 Jensen Dr. Iola, WI 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission $5 12 & Under Free will be served at noon. The cost of lunch and registration is $22. Pre-registration is required. The Hook-In will feature a silent auction, a rug show, door prizes, mini-classes, and a welcome gift. Coffee and snacks will be served in the morning. This is a great opportunity for people to come and find out what rug hooking is all about. Visit our website for registration information or contact Carole Pelot at Heart of Wisconsin 29th Annual Hook-In Sept. 29, a.m. - 3 p.m. Lunch & Snacks, Vendors, Silent Auction, Door Prizes, Rug Show Spencer Lake Christian Center Waupaca, WI Information & Registration: Margaret at or grundfam@wctc.net 15th Anniversary Quilt Show Themed: Quilted Candy for the Eye Saturday, September 15 Presented by Norske Needlers Quilt Guild of Iola 100s of quilts on display! Vendors Mall, Sales Boutique, Lunch Available On Site Bed turning at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Easy Access, Free Parking.

23 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 23 By Susan Baldani Visit: Wisconsin Rapids Take A Hike And Breathe In That Fresh Summer Air! Many of us spend too much time indoors, whether due to work or other responsibilities. Now is the time to get out, get active and breathe in some fresh air. Explore your town or state to find the best places to hike. Many trails can be traversed easily with just a good pair of sneakers. Others are more arduous and may require a pair of hiking boots. Hiking is something you can do anytime, either by yourself or with a partner or group, and trails can be matched to your level of ability. It s a great way to enjoy nature and get away from the hustle and bustle of our sometimes fast-paced world. Stroll under a canopy of trees while birds and other wildlife serenade you. Let yourself relax and forget your troubles. Or if you prefer, push yourself up a steep incline and revel in the satisfaction of making it to the top. There are some important items to bring with you, whether you re taking a short walk around a park or a long trek through the mountains. Water, of course, is number one on the list. It s important to stay hydrated while doing any form of exercise. Bug spray or some kind of tick repellent is also critical, and make sure you wear high quality socks. It s also a good idea to bring along some healthy snacks, and yes, bring your phone, but only use it to take pictures. Also pack an extra pair of shoelaces, just in case. If you want to take your hike a step further, try geocaching. What is this, you ask? As defined by Wikipedia, Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity, in which participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or mobile device and other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers, called geocaches or caches, at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Doesn t that sound interesting? When you find a cache, remember to sign and date the log book and return the item exactly how and where you found it. A cache can be any number of things: a toy, trinket, a book, or something else that has some kind of meaning to the person who left it behind. For more information, go to If geocaching is not your thing, you can make up your own games as you walk along. How many pine cones can you fit into your pockets? Who can spot the first squirrel in a tree, or the first bird s nest? What is the first animal track you see? These are just a few examples, but use your imagination to make it an adventure. Susan Baldani has an MA in education and a BA in psychology. She enjoys writing and in addition to writing articles about small town life, is currently working on her second book. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at Near The Geographical Center Of The State! Wisconsin Rapids Midwestern charm and atmosphere, access to modern infrastructure and technology, abundant educational and cultural opportunities, plus a mix of retail establishments and restaurants! Need le Little Retreat Your home away from home for all things creative and relaxing! Our Mission is to offer crafters a clean, comfortable, central location to get away from life s challenges and enjoy peace and fellowship while focusing on their passions! Be sure to visit us on Facebook for classes and open sew days Book your retreat today! Country Freckles Country Freckles th St. S. Wisconsin Rapids, WI (Next to Burger King) Woolens & Patterns from RED BARN RUGS Home Decor Primitive Lighting Homemade Dids Candles Linens Reproduction Furniture Much, Much More! NEW HOURS: Wed-Sat 11am-5pm Join Us Every Saturday See our Booth/Vendor Sale and check out my booth at Water Street Vintage, Ye Olde Goat, and Antique Up! Check it out every Wednesday! Open Rug Hooking Check our Facebook page or blog for event details! needlelittleretreat.com 340 Lincoln St. Wisconsin Rapids, WI dewildestyle.nlr@gmail.com Tues-Sat 10am-4pm Carol Prahl - Owner cthimble@wctc.net August th Anniversary Gala COME CELEBRATE WITH US!!! (We will be open Monday, August 6) New Lines Arriving Weekly Christmas Fabric Year Round Books on Quilting Finished Quilts & Wallhangings for Sale Over 9000 Bolts of 100% Cotton Fabric (2000 Batiks) Famous Name Fabrics Available 540 Daly Ave. (Hwys. 13 & 54) Wisconsin Rapids, WI Lighthouse Books & Gifts Hours: Mon-Fri 10-6 & Sat 10-4 Incredible Selection Of Rubber Stamps & Scrapbook Supplies! Thousands of Stamps, 12 x 12 Papers, Stickers, Embellishments & Much More! New Items Arriving Daily Great Sale Items and Specials Each Month! th St Wisconsin Rapids WI Visit Our Gift Shop Filled with Distinctive Home & Garden Decor, and So Much More. We Specialize in Custom Floral Arrangements for All Occasions. Summer Hours : Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 2pm 2210 Kingston Rd - (Hwy 54 E) Wisconsin Rapids

24 Page 24 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Tomah, Warrens Get the Cranfest App Today! Warrens Cranberry Festival 2018 September 28, 29 & 30, 2018 Warrens Cranberry Capitol of Wisconsin 3 Miles Of Booth Frontage & Over 1,300 Booths! Hours: Open at 7 a.m. all three days. Where The I Divides World s Largest Cranberry Festival Art & Craft Fair, Antique & Flea Market, Farmer s Market, Food & Music. Cranberry Marsh Tours, Fri. & Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Gigantic Parade Sunday, September 30, 2018 At 1 p.m. Located 8 miles north of Tomah. Take I-94 West to Warrens Exit #135 More Information: PO Box 146, Warrens, WI cranfest@cranfest.com Phone: Fax: A Great Recipe! Black Bean Salsa From: The Country Register of Alberta Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed 2/3 cups tomatoes, diced small 1 cup green peppers, finely diced 1/4 cup onions, finely diced Tomah, Wisconsin Tomah is the crossroads for West-Central Wisconsin offering Recreation & Convenience! Our location is midway between the Twin Cities and Milwaukee, where the state s interstate system, I-90 & I-94 divides. Cranberry Country! Crazy Daze Sales August 4, 2018 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Your Country Register Cookbook 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 3 tbsp lime juice, fresh is best 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped 1 tsp garlic powder, or 2 cloves minced Combine all ingredients. Mix well to blend. Chill. Can be stored in a sterilized and properly sealed Mason jar. Put a jar of salsa and some tortilla chips in a snazzy gift bag and you have a great gift Primitive Pickett Fence & Outhouse In The Yard J&R Variety 1006 Superior Ave. Tomah, WI LLC Open: Monday-Saturday HUGE Selection of Dining Room Tables & Chairs Quality Mattresses On SALE Expanded Selection Of Tools New Furniture Arriving Weekly! Outdoor Decor! Collector Prints Gifts & Gift Wrap Everything You Might Need At Great Low Prices! Country & Primitive Home Decor Arnett s Santas Are Here! Lanterns - Iron Works Timer Candles & Much More Hours: Tues-Sat 10-5 Wed 10-3 & Closed Sun.& Mon. You won t believe the Crazy Daze Deals August 4! - One Day Only - Crazy Low Prices! HUGE Clearance Sale! FUN, FUNKY & FABULOUS! Antiques, Vintage, Gifts, Crafts & Art Junction I-94 & HWY 21 East Exit #143, Tomah 1510 Eaton Ave, Tomah, WI Toll Free info@antiquemalloftomah.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. Party December 1 Step back in time with the... Tomah Cash Mercantile Co. 914 Superior St., Tomah, WI Monday - Friday 9:00-5:30 Saturday 9:00-4:00 Sunday Closed OUR FANTASTIC GIFT DEPARTMENT FEATURES: Contemporary, Primitives, Home Decor, Northwoods, Garden & Textiles Check out our Large Selection of Embellish Your Story FOR THE COLLECTOR: Willow Tree, Cranberry Glass, Jim Shore Crazy Daze Sidewalk Sales August 4 8am-4pm The Quilted Rooster Barbara Welch - Owner pnbwelch@gmail.com New Pricing Storewide! 216 E Clifton - Tomah, WI Next to Dairy Queen - Plenty of Parking A Must See! 4 Floors of Shopping! Womens, Mens & Childrens Fashions Shoe Department Furniture Department One of the oldest family-owned department stores. Since 1900! Visit us at: 70 Wide Backs To Choose From! Cash or Check Only Store Hours: Sun, Mon, Wed & Fri 9-6 Closed Tues, Thurs & Sat CLOSED: August 9-14 Check Facebook For Changes! Right Now At The Quilted Rooster: Over 500 Fabrics $5-$6 Per Yard

25 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 25 By Donna Jo Copeland Visit: La Crosse, Onalaska Life On The Farm - Flax, Linen and Linsey-Woolsey I spin with a small group of fiber artists once a week and this spring we were invited to spin some homegrown flax. The event was the Spring Gathering in a Pioneer Village. Last summer one of our members grew a flax patch tall slender stalks topped with delicate blue flowers. She then pulled and bundled the stalks, scotched to remove the seed heads, and laid the bundles out in the dew to ret the outer husk. Then they were hung in the barn to dry. Our group then broke the outer husks off on my very old flax brake. Once the husk was off, the bundles were then drawn through my antique hackle to separate the flax from the tow ever hear of a flaxen-haired maiden or a towheaded boy? Hackle Once hackled it was ready to dampen and spin. Misting the flax helps it to spin a smooth, fine yarn. The magic happens when the flax fibers go thru the orifice on the spinning wheel. Once spun and on the bobbin it becomes linen thread! Spinning the flax into linen thread In keeping with the pioneer spirit I brought a loom threaded with linen thread. I had spun some of my sheep wool into a fine yarn and this was used as the weft for the weaving. This made the linsey woolsey fabric! This fabric has its origins lost in ancient times. A good serviceable fabric. It can be woven fine as gossamer silk or coarse for heavy coats. One of the last times this country saw a lot of linseywoolsey was in the late 1800s. Bowing to my ancestors, I still weave linsey woolsey fabric today usually for table linens. Weaving the fabric A Great Recipe! Mediterranean Salad From: The Country Register of Colorado Ingredients: 1 (8 oz) pkg spaghetti 1 jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and coursely chopped 1 can sliced ripe olives (4 oz., drained) 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped 1/2 small onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated There is another kind of magic when I use the old tools and feel the presence of those before my hands. I hear the echoes of their labors, the whispers of their smiles. The contentment of keeping an old way living again. Simple magic also happens as our small group works together, no competition, just simple work and joy. In our weekly gatherings much spinning, knitting and rug hooking gets done. Laughter and the stories of our lives abound. And of course, we enjoy our pitchin lunches. Mom s Deviled Eggs Put 1 dozen eggs in a large pot, cover with cold water. Add 2 T. salt. Cover and bring to a rolling boil. Shut off the heat and let it set for 20 minutes. Peel the eggs under cold running water. Slice them lengthwise. Put the yolks in a mixing bowl. Mash well with a fork. Mix ½ cup water, ½ cup cider vinegar, ¼ cup sugar and about 2 T. prepared mustard. (Mom and her older sister Kate always argued about how much sugar to add; Kate preferring ½ cup sugar.) Mix well and fill the egg halves. Add salt and pepper to taste. I like to sprinkle a bit of paprika over the top. Chill several hours. Donna Jo Copeland, farmeress at Breezy Manor Farm, in Mooresville, IN. Your Country Register Cookbook 1/2 cup Italian dressing 1/2 tsp course ground black pepper 1 cup frozen English peas (thawed) 1 small zucchini, chopped 1/2 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing 1/2 tsp dried parsley flakes 1/2 tsp dried dill weed Cook spaghetti according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water and drain. Combine artichokes and next 6 ingredients in a large bowl. Add spaghetti, stirring well. Combine mayonnaise and remaining ingredients, stirring with wire whisk; add to spaghetti mixture and stir well. Cover and chill. Yield: 8 servings. La Crosse On The Mississippi River find more at... mon - sat 10-5 thurs 10-8 Closed Sundays Over 3,000 Bolts of Fabric All Model Machine Repair River Road Quilt Shop at Nelson Flag Quality Fabrics ~ Patterns ~ Books ~ Notions Just South Of Gundersen Lutheran Clinic on South Avenue Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9am-6pm Sat. 9am-5pm Sun. 12pm-4pm 2501 South Ave., La Crosse WI or treasuresonmain.net Downtown Architectural Walking Tours Children s Museum Paddlewheel Boat Rides Restaurants Specialty Shops Quilt Sampler Top Ten Shop Fall 2012 A Family Owned La Crosse Tradition Known For Flags, Home & Garden Decor and Gift Items Is Now Even Better With The Addition Of... Come help us Celebrate our 11th Birthday! September 7, 8 & 9 In store specials, cake and coffee! Antiques Furniture Seasonal Collectibles Garden Linens Housewares Primitives Now Accepting Complete Estate Sales 722 Main St. LaCrosse, WI S Main St. Westby, WI Open: Mon-Sat 10 am - 5 pm Sundays in Westby 10 am - 3 pm

26 Page 26 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com It s Row By Row time again! On your marks, get set Oh, wait just a minute. Before you start off with enthusiasm and high expectations, take a quick look at a few lessons I ve learned lately about the (fabric) hunt. We recently spent two weeks in the Maritime Provinces. Although not in desperate need of more fabric, I never miss a chance to explore areas and shops new to me on the principle that quilting treasures are somewhere out there, and if I don t look I won t find them. At the first opportunity I googled the name of an outstanding quilt shop I had visited some years ago, which had wonderful locally made quilts for sale as well as an extensive selection of high-quality fabrics in other words, a quilter s dream. Google said the shop was still there same name, same village, still listed as a quilt shop. After an hour s drive, full of anticipation, we found the shop. It was now an upscale clothing shop with not a quilt in sight. What a letdown! An employee, when questioned, airily replied, Oh, the place was sold and the new owner wasn t interested in quilts. What a loss. Lesson One: Google is not always accurate. Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 9am-4pm Visit: Hillsboro, Lodi, Viroqua Quilting With Barbara - It s Row By Row Time Again A few days later we searched for hours in another larger town for a quilt shop listed online. When we finally gave up looking and inquired about its location from a resident of the town, we were told it had been closed for more than a year. The website had not been taken down. Lesson Two: Websites are not always taken down when no longer valid. Another day, June 9 to be exact, after a half-hour drive we arrived at an out-ofthe-way shop only to find a sign on the door that said, Open June 15 to September 30. We were not completely surprised, because we were in a touristy area, but we would have appreciated having had that information earlier. Lesson Three: Online information is not always complete. We belatedly concluded that Country Register is by far the most reliable source of up-to-date information. Unfortunately the paper is not published in the area we visited, but if it had been we would have consulted it and saved several hours of driving and a certain amount of frustration. Country Register is published every other month, it is always current (closed businesses will not be advertising) and it is widely available, allowing the quilter Fabric, Flannels, Notions, Patterns, Kits, Wool Felt, DMC Floss, Yarn & Longarm Quilting Service Check out our Facebook page for current events and sales! 117 FS Drive Suite C Viroqua, WI Gifts and More... to do some research before travelling. Many editions are even online. Lesson Four: Country Register is timely, reliable, and widely accessible, and therefore an excellent source of information. On a more positive note, we discovered more or less by accident and the phone book (yes, they re still available) other great shops, including a chain new to us. They were running a sale; I was By Susan Baldani There s a place, probably right in your hometown, where you can find books, movies, classes and seminars all at no cost to you. What is this wonderful spot? Your free public library, of course. The library is a quiet place where phones are kept hidden and people speak softly, a refuge from the loud and sometimes boisterous world. You can wander among the bookshelves to find new authors while rediscovering old ones. No one rushes you, so you can take your time looking for whatever it is you desire that day. Do you want a mystery to challenge your mind, a thriller to scare you, or a comedy to make you laugh? How about a self-help book to learn crocheting or sewing, or one on how to refinish your great-aunt s cedar chest? Or do you have dreams of becoming a writer or painter? There are plenty of books to help you accomplish your goals. If for some reason you cannot get to your local library that often, many have ebooks and even ereaders on loan so you can download your choices right from home. For children, libraries are a gold mine of information and fun. Many offer puppet shows, storytimes, book bingos and much more. Take your kids when they re young, even before they can read, and let them pick out their own books. Give able to buy some quality batiks there for an average of $4 a meter. Lesson Five: Be persistent. Don t let a few unsatisfactory experiences be discouraging. There s always a sale somewhere! Happy hunting! Barbara Conquest writes her column from Blue Sky Quilting in Tofield, AB. Barbara Conquest. Discover A World Of Fun At Your Library them an appreciation of the stories inside and let their imaginations add to them. Help them discover new worlds and ideas between the covers. Enroll them in classes so they can make new friends and learn new skills. If you have teens, there may be classes that offer tips for saving for college, homework help, and computer coding tutorials. For adults, there are usually a variety of classes and activities that may focus on everything from using social media and tax return preparation to yoga and book clubs. Many libraries also offer museum passes, so you and your family and friends can visit for free or at drastic discounts. This opens up a whole new world for many who could not afford it otherwise. Libraries have greatly expanded their services over the years, so take advantage of all they have to offer. Either stop in or go to your local website for more information. Susan Baldani has an MA in education and a BA in psychology. She enjoys writing and in addition to writing articles about small town life, is currently working on her second book. You can contact her at suebaldani@yahoo.com or through her website at We ve Got Great Gift Ideas To Share With You For Birthdays, Christmas & Everyday. Willow Tree Collectibles Scented Candles Amish Made Baskets Plush Animals HOURS: Monday-Thursday 8:30-5:30 Friday 8:30-6:00 Saturday 8:30-1:00 PETERSON PHARMACY 727 Water Ave. Hillsboro, WI Phone: (608) Village Creek Quilt Shop LLC 123 South Main St Lodi, WI Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. & Sat. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Stop in and get inspired! Areas largest selection of layer cakes and charm packs. Home of Creek Side Stitches villagecreeklodi.com

27 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 27 By Ann Stewart Visit: Columbus, Pardeeville, Waunakee Summer Breaks Mean Time Well Spent With Family & Friends Summer break! But how to spend it and is it worth the expense? A vacation is an adventure that costs time and money and yields nothing tangible. The time could be spent on yardwork or working to put more money in the bank. The money could be spent re-doing the hardwoods or finishing the basement. And yet, a vacation is an expenditure that yields the greatest investments for the present as well as the future as you remember the past. A suitcase full of experiences, memories, and deeper relationships are all permanent dividends that never lose value. As a kid, I remember a 1964 purple Ford station wagon with no AC packed with 13 (six adults) and I remember that our family took over the entire first floor of a hotel and its pool! Did I mention we saw the Grand Canyon? And every summer we went to Grandma and Grandpa s where we played in the barn, picked raspberries, and bicycled to Birch Bay, picnicking near a huge piece of driftwood. We spent some evenings at the local amusement park riding a Ferris wheel that spun over the bay, with my grandmother right next to us! My husband and I have taken our kids camping. Once on the Appalachian Trail plagued by bears, once in the fall with frost on the ground, and once in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons with my brother s family, which doubled our memories and solidified our relationships. I am so glad we adventured forth for natural fun! Sometimes we ve gone to a local hotel for the night. What a thrill that was for our little kids to swim in the pool, make their own waffles or choose whatever cereal they wanted for breakfast. Priceless. Planters Turn From Trash To Treasure By Marla Wilson There are beautiful planters of all kinds in the stores and garden centers this time of year. However, I am a junker and prefer to plant in all kinds of containers saved from the trash pile. The whole idea of salvage style is to take an item that is no longer usable as it was originally intended and give it another purpose. I have planted flowers in containers of all kinds. The item just has to hold soil and have some kind of drainage holes to qualify for a planter. As a bonus, many times holes are the very reason it was discarded in the first place. Old kitchen pans, tea kettles, rusty buckets and tubs are common. Look for more unusual options. I have used an old doll buggy, suitcase, and bicycle basket with wonderful results. This spring, I used a mail box turned on end, a metal drawer, the lower part of a vintage stove, and my favorite an old rusty tool box. I took this picture before the plants had grown, so you could get a good look at the containers, but in a couple of weeks they will be beautiful. If you are not a fan of the rusty look, clean it up and paint it. The options are endless and it is so much FUN! 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 or contact her at stumpy1954@hotmail.com. We have memories of landing in Orlando without telling the girls we were headed to Disney. We ve flown to Oklahoma and Colorado and explored river rafting and hiking and getting to know our extended family. But my favorite vacation happens each year at the same time, same place, same people. Each summer we join family at remote Priest Lake, Idaho, a lake so crisp, clear and pristine you can see to the bottom 20 feet below. A place where Internet access is limited, and television would be an intrusion. We don t have to hustle to any landmark, museum, or show. We may waterski, hike, cook s - mores, play cards, float on the water, and talk and talk and talk. Over the 40 years, we ve added spouses, children, and cousins and their spouses, extending the fun, relationships, and memories. It s been an investment of time and dollars, but the best money spent as my girls have a heart full of memories and love. The payoffs from a family vacation are something money can t buy. Don t let not enough time or money or too many obligations, sports practices, or choices stop you. If you haven t gotten away yet, take a night, or a weekend or even a week and make magic and memories with your family. 2018, Ann Stewart. NEW DEALERS! NEW ITEMS! SAME CRAZY OWNERS! Come see us! Pardeeville Wisconsin AWARD WINNING MALL WITH OVER 95 DEALERS! WE JUST KEEP GETTING BETTER! Open 7 days a week 10 am - 4:30 pm 103 Industrial Dr., Pardeeville, WI (30 minutes north of Madison off Hwy 22) Wisconsin s Largest Antique Mall Over 82,000 square feet of Antiques displayed and sold by 222 of Wisconsin s finest dealers in 444 booths! Collectibles Antiques Glassware Books 3rd Floor Furniture Vintage Decorating World s Fair Lounge Columbus Antique Mall & Museum 239 Whitney St., Columbus, WI OPEN EVERYDAY 8:15am to 4:00pm Customer Appreciation Days: August 6-12, % Discount on All Items $10 & Over! Containers saved from the junk pile can make beautiful planters. Imagine...Explore..Create Discover our huge supply of quilting fabrics, books, patterns & notions - all styles Great selection of sewing machines & supplies Our Bargain Area is always changing Shop our on-line store Find us on Facebook Visit us during the Row By Row Experience! 100 Baker St. Waunakee, WI Open Daily: Mon.-Fri. - 9 to 6 Thurs. - 9 to 8 Sat. - 9 to 5 Sun to 4

28 Page 28 July-Augst 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com By Kelly Illick I am so ready for summer! I have dreams of many picnics, days at the beach, river walking and doing lots of close to home sightseeing trips. Much of this will be done with grandbabies in tow. June is almost over and my summer is just beginning. I found an amazing place of beauty last summer. Though I have lived here in northern Wisconsin all my life, and I had heard of this river, I had never been there. Once I was introduced to the Siskiwit River, I returned six more times and plan to go many times this summer. It is on the northern-most tip of Wisconsin and it runs right through the small town of Cornucopia. I put on my Keen walking sandals and walk up and down this stair-step of waterfalls... over a quarter mile of them, just up from the mouth of where it flows into Lake Superior. It s a little slice of heaven on earth! It s been my happy thought this past month as I had an over-the-top crazy month. Planning a wedding from afar is no easy task. For months we have been preparing for this very special day for our daughter and her husband. Plus, we had all the details of leaving our two businesses Visit: Madison, Sun Prairie Something Summery, Just in Time For Summer and farm. I left for Ohio days before Mr. Hubs. There were many loose ends to tie up, being so much of the planning was long distance, and I wanted to have some time with my girl. The night of the wedding, after the reception, I posted a picture of the parents of the bride on my Facebook page, and I also share it here in my article. Under it I wrote the caption, Exhausted parents, hiding it well. It was actually a pretty great picture of Mr. Hubs and I, even though we were both beyond tired. It had been a beautiful day! We fell into bed grateful, but oh so tired. The weeks prior had left no time for a pause in life, so sitting down with uninterrupted thoughts of writing my column just didn't happen. On the journey cross country to home from Ohio, I was, of course, thinking about what I would write. There were no ideas on the horizon. I just knew I needed some down time and I was longing for summer. As we headed home our youngest daughter and I were in one car. Mr. Hubs, my mama and my auntie were in another. They were doing the straight drive home. I was too tired for that, so I had made a text to our favorite Airbnb hostess and host. Their home was at the halfway point of this long journey. She had an open room for us. We were excited. As we were getting closer to our home away from home, we texted our hostess to tell her our estimated arrival time. She shot us a text back saying they were at mile marker number 178, as she was thinking we were most likely were on the same highway they were traveling on. They were traveling home to their home also. Sixty seconds later we passed mile marker 178. We exchanged the make and color of our cars and eventually we caught up with them and pulled in their drive at the same time as them. Jill, this Airbnb hostess (who is now a friend) is a wonderful cook. She is also an author and speaker. I shared with her about my need for a great summer recipe and she pulled out her box. Of all the recipes she pulled out, this wonderful frozen pie looked perfect. When I got home I needed to test this recipe before I could share it with you. I took a closer look at it and I was so disappointed. It had an ingredient that I really try not to use anymore... Cool Whip (which is a story for another day). So you'll notice it doesn't have Cool Whip in it. I substituted whipped heavy cream and it turned out awesome. And for the gluten free, it's easy to make with a gluten-free graham cracker crust. So enjoy this lemonade pie, just in time for summer. This recipe is super easy and so delish! And have a great summer! Take time to make special memories with those you love, and take time every day to put a smile on someone's face, even... and especially, a stranger! Give and it will be given unto you! (And as a writer I apologize for all the exclamation points, but I just couldn't help myself. I feel so much enthusiasm about the summer ahead of me! Enjoy!) Frozen Lemonade Pie 1 graham cracker crust 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped until stiff 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 ounces) 6 ounces frozen concentrated lemonade (or try limeade) Beat heavy whipping cream until stiff, slowly add the sweetened condensed milk and frozen concentrate lemonade while continuing to whip all three ingredients together. Pour into graham cracker crust and freeze. Ready to serve in several hours. This Innkeeper Chic by Kelly Illick features fresh seasonal recipes from the northwoods of Wisconsin. Kelly loves using locally grown fruits and vegetables grown here in the north. She and her husband Mark operate Second Wind Country Inn in rural Ashland Wisconsin. Second Wind is known for its rustic elegance and yummy breakfasts. Check us out at or become our friend on Facebook. Look for more of Kelly s secrets in upcoming issues of The Country Register. FOUR SEASONS CRAFT MALL 1323 W. Main St. Sun Prairie, WI One of Madison area s finest craft malls to shop! At Four Seasons Craft Mall, you ll find over 5,000 sq. ft. of Beautiful Home Decor and Gifts...featuring Handcrafted Items. From Artisans all over the Midwest! Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed. & Fri Thurs Sat Closed Sundays Closed Wednesday July 4, 2018 Take Exit 101 (Main St.) from Hwy 151. We re about 3 blocks down on the right.

29 July-August 2018! Page 29 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Visit: Boscobel, Darlington, Fennimore, Platteville, Prairie du Chien The Paisley Star Quilt Shop & Fabrics, Gifts, Country Decor Linens, Rugs, Jewelry, Accessories & More Many NEW Arrivals Country Depot Come Back In July For After The Shop Hop Sale July 1-28, W. Main St. Platteville, WI Tue-Fri 10-6; Sat hiddenquilts@centurytel.net Owner-Carol Long OVER 1800 BOLTS OF QUALITY QUILTING COTTON FABRIC. LARGEST SELECTION OF HOFFMAN HAND-DYES IN THE AREA. LOTS OF BOOKS, PATTERNS, NOTIONS, THREAD & KITS. KANGAROO & ARROW CABINETS. Row by Row begins June 21! Call or For Our Class Schedule! When life gives you scraps, make quilts! Home of Hidden Quilts Design Patterns 25% OFF All Fabric, Notions & Patterns! Closed Monday Open Tues.-Sat & Sunday 11-4 FREE Gift Wrapping! Follow us on Facebook! 903 ELM ST. BOSCOBEL, WI P ins & Pieces Quilt Shop Visit us during the Fun Quality Fabrics Longarm Quilting Services Row By Row Quilting Classes Tuxedo Rentals Experience Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10:00 ish to 3:00 ish After hours by appointment. 242 Main Street Darlington, WI Phone: NEW pinspiecesquilt@centurytel.net LOCATION pinspiecesquiltshop.com Check Out Our Peddler Log Cabin Retreat Accomodates Six Offering nearly 7,000 bolts of Fabric, Notions, Yarn, Punch Needle, DMC Floss US Highway 18 East Fennimore, WI National Sewing Month Retreat September 21 & 22 Phone: (608) quiltpeddlerllc@gmail.com SEWING MACHINES Hours: Monday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. A quaint quilt store with so much more! 216 N. Marquette Road Prairie du Chien, WI Fabric Books Patterns Jelly Rolls Charm Packs Unique Gifts & More! Hours: Thur.-Sat. 10am-5 pm & Sun. 11am-4pm Follow us on Facebook the pickett fence 100 W Blackhawk Ave - Prairie du Chien, WI Quilt Shop Candy Store Authorized Jan ome Sewin g Machine Dealer Located in the heart of downtown Prairie du Chien. Follow Us On Facebook HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 10-5:30 Saturday 10-5 Sunday 12-4 Peak Over The Fence Aug. 26 1:30 p.m. Reservations Required

30 Page 30 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com By Jan Keller It s almost the Fourth of July. It hardly seems like summer started, yet we re about to celebrate our country s independence. That means the county fairs are right around the corner. Then, in no time, it will be time for school to start up all over again. The way time seems to fly, it s important to enjoy the remaining summer season with fun-filled days spent enjoying family and friends. When I plan a fun day, I usually set my sights on some special and fun destination. A few years ago, however, while enjoying a fun day with my friends Erin and Stephanie, I was reminded of a simple truth. We started our day by taking a walk along a tree-lined stretch of a nearby river. Next we went to the tennis courts to roller skate, followed by lunch. After lunch we went bowling, and then returned for a final walk along the river bank. The girls and I were in no hurry. We had no destinations to meet, or schedules to keep. The day had been purposely set aside for lollygagging to our heart s content. And outside, in the grandeur of nature, that s exactly what we did. Lollygag. We watched ants. We looked out for clumps of cactus Visit: Decorah, IA; Postville, IA Pieces From My Heart - Lollygagging (but not nearly so closely as we zigzagged to avoid stepping in the middle of numerous other clumps). We discovered a special strain of grass that could be pulled apart and put back together, kind of like pop-beads. We picked several varieties of vividly colored wild flowers. We got down on our hands and knees and let the sandy river-bottom soil filter, grain by grain, through our fingers. We found the bony remains of a cow carcass, as well as the tracks of many of the species of wildlife that make their home in the area. Along the way, in the midst of some of nature s most interesting settings, the girls posed to have their pictures taken. Our day was about over so it was time to head back to my car. That s when Erin piped up and said, Gee Jan, I didn t know you could be this much fun. That s when the truth hit me. Fun days aren t necessarily about going places or spending money. They re about lollygagging Jan Keller. Life is like a quilt, pieced together from a unique patchwork of memories, friendships, joys, and challenges. In each of these books, syndicated columnist Jan Keller is down to earth and refreshingly transparent as she opens the door to life s dreams, triumphs and struggles in a heart-warming way that will touch you forever. You ll love the way she spins yarns that weave the pieces of a treasured tapestry into a vivid depiction of life and love. A Great Recipe! Stewed Okra & Tomatoes From: Myrna Robinson Kingwood, Texas Ingredients: 2 slices bacon 1 tbsp olive oil 1 mess of fresh okra 1 small - medium sweet onion (chopped) Order both books for just $25 and save shipping & handling! Mail your order to: Black Sheep Books, Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO Your Country Register Cookbook Place bacon in large, deep skillet and cook until evenly brown. Remove bacon from pan and set bacon aside to use at another time. With bacon grease and oil in skillet, saute okra, onion and pepper until tender. Add tomatoes and seasonings, Cook until well blended. 1 or 2 (14.5 oz) cans stewed tomatoes Salt, pepper, garlic powder and italian seasoning to taste FOREST MILLS QUILT SHOP 650 FOREST MILLS RD POSTVILLE, IA (COUNTY ROAD X16 - BETWEEN WAUKON & LUANA) forestmillsquilts@gmail.com Don t Miss The... Two Stop Shop Hop July Enjoy 20% OFF During The Shop Hop PARTICIPATING IN THE ROW BY ROW EXPERIENCE! Sewing Machines Largest selection of batiks & flannels in the area. Kits for every sample! Doug Leko Lecture/Demo Friday, Aug. 24 Plus Workshop Saturday, Aug. 25 Like Us On Facebook! Open Mon.-Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-4, Sun W Water St., Decorah, IA info@redroxyquiltco.com

31 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 31 By Nancy Parker Brummett My friend Kathy and I loaded up and took off on a five-day road trip from Colorado Springs, CO, to Waco, TX. As fans of the HGTV show, Fixer Upper, we wanted to see for ourselves the silos, the suspension bridge, and the rolling green fields featured on TV. We knew we liked the show, and thought its stars Chip and Joanna Gaines were just the greatest, but we weren t at all prepared for our reaction the first time those silos came into view. Parking in the lot by the astoundingly beautiful and historic First Baptist Church of Waco, we were like giddy school girls as we climbed out of the car. Of course we wanted to shop at Magnolia Market, made famous by founders Chip and Joanna. Everyone had warned us the line to get in would wind around the block, but we arrived when the store first opened on a weekday and walked right in. Oh my! Beautifully merchandised shelves of enticing candles, mugs, and decorator items filled our senses, much like walking on to any set of Fixer Upper. If you love Joanna s design style, this is heaven. Visit: Linden Back Porch Break - Making Our Way To Waco The temptation to buy at least one of everything was quelled when we looked at the prices however. So rather than buy the artificial magnolias for sale we took photos of the real magnolias in bloom all over town and inhaled their intoxicating aroma for free. We did wait in line at Silos Baking Co. for some of their acclaimed cupcakes and biscuits, but enjoyed visiting with other fans of the show while we waited. The next day we ate breakfast at Magnolia Table a remodel of the old Elite Cafe where Elvis frequently ate when he was stationed at Fort Hood, TX. Treating ourselves to huge breakfasts that included French toast or pancakes and Texas pecan coffee, we agreed the time we had to wait was definitely worth it as was every calorie. And of course we shopped the attached gift shop until our spot at one of the community tables opened up. So basically we did everything on offer from Chip and Joanna and their growing brand, Magnolia. We were delighted with our experiences, just as we d expected, so no surprise there. What did surprise us was how much we fell in love with Waco itself. Super model turned entrepreneur David Ridley established Waco-tours.com with friends, and no visit to Waco would be complete without climbing on to one of their air-conditioned Mercedes vans and letting a well-informed, entertaining guide tell you the rest of the story about Waco. Yes, we drove by some of the homes featured on different episodes of Fixer Upper (and some of the women in our van could cite season and episode for each one), including the home and workshop of Clint Harp of Harp Design. (Fans of the show know he s the one who builds beautiful tables for Joanna after she walks into his workshop with a big, Hey, Clint! ) But we also drove by Lake Waco, through the impressive campus of Baylor University, and saw the confluence of the Brazos and Bosque rivers from lush Cameron Park. Our guide entertained us with the legend of the park s Lover s Leap, where a young Native American couple are said to have jumped to their deaths just to be together forever. Once back on the bus, he led us in singing the similarly themed hit from the 60s, Running Bear, complete with hand motions. Pure fun. There s so much authentic American history in Waco, and Kathy and I were impressed with how clean and well-kept the city was, as were the roadways we drove throughout Texas. We didn t have time to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum (Dr. Pepper was invented in Waco) or the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, but overall it was a fantastic trip. Think about makin your way to Waco for all things Magnolia... and more! Nancy Parker Brummett is an author and freelance writer in Colorado Springs, CO. Like her author page on Facebook, or to learn more about her life and work, visit THE IDEAL RETREAT FOR CREATIVE PEOPLE Wound Bobbin Cottage GATHER CREATE RELAX Wound Bobbin Cottage is a beautifully renovated historic Sears Catalog Home built in 1902 that has many of its lovely original architectural features. The Cottage is flooded with natural light and has well-equipped spaces for crafting, sewing, ironing, cutting, and designing. Work into the night on that project you just can t put down, or take time to relax and watch movies. At the end of the day, relax with friends in porch rockers, or end your day laughing with friends while roasting marshmallows around the fire pit overlooking green pastures. If you re lucky you ll spot eagles flying above grazing cows. Located in Linden, WI, a small rural community nestled in scenic southwest Wisconsin, Wound Bobbin Cottage offers small-town charm and green pastures. This is the perfect place to create, laugh, relax, and make memories. Whether your passion is quilting, scrapbooking, knitting, painting, crafting, beading, writing, or just relaxing with friends, Wound Bobbin Cottage is the retreat venue for you. 3 bedrooms, 2 and ½ baths accommodates 9 guests, has 3 bedrooms, 2 and a half baths, and a fully equipped gourmet kitchen. creativegatherings986@gmail.com Phone: (608) $45.00 Per Night, Per Guest. For A Limited Time, Receive A $5.00 Per Night, Per Guest Discount For First-Time Bookings. See Website For Details.

32 countryregisterofwisconsin.com Page 32! July-August 2018 Visit: Big Bend, Clinton, Salem Longarm Quilting Services Custom Quilting Edge to Edge Quilting Sally Fitzgerald, Owner Big Bend, Wisconsin (414) Ρ Ν8&&8= 9,Λ)5Ν7 /88 Σ8&58=7 Τ88Ο7 Υ,ς,Ω5= :86 Λ? :86 Ξ,)&5Ν5Η,=& 4ΨΒ= 2Γ( Η&.Λ ) #Α! #! %& #% &(() )#+,./)/ 0!/#)+! 1./&2 34 /& 5!! /0!5! (#36+&65 7# 0)%!58 The Days Of Future Past By Celia Benedict Mennonite Society s building where the ancestry records are kept, and from where their overseas charity work begins. Upstairs is a workroom, where the ladies meet and quilt around the four sides of a large quilt frame, in the same way they have done for probably a hundred years. Donated fabric becomes quilted coverings both for sale in the shop, and to be sent round the world to those in need. No digital processes here, just the comradery that has always been a large part of the quilting world. I guess what pleases me the most, is that there is room for all styles and methods in the fellowship of people doing what they love and creating beautiful and useful quilts. A song title from The Moody Blues in the 1970s has a lot of meaning to me these days. In writing an article for the last issue of our Country Register, I visited several quilting businesses. I got to see in detail the workings of the digitalage machines that stitch the marvelous quilted designs on the quilts made by our readers. The technology is astonishing, taking just hours or days to quilt the fabric that would, only a few years ago, have taken weeks to stitch. Some of the backgrounds are phenomenal in their way; I could see bulrushes and tiny frogs and butterflies stitched into the fabric. I was delighted with what I saw. But some months previously, I also had the chance to visit our local MenCelia Benedict is from Calgary, Alnonite thrift shop. It is housed in the berta. 244 Allen St. Clinton, WI 53525! #!%& (&) &+ (,.+ /0+ % & 89 :&; 31<!% 8= >6? % Α >8Β)7Χ Β 7 Ε Β) Φ,.Γ3Η.Ι / ϑ 2,.Γ%Η.Ι Κ)5 Ε (,& Φ,.Γ Η.Ι (Β= 2 Η.Γ#Η. 666;ΛΒ&&8=7Μ 666;ΛΒ&&8=7Μ,=ϑΜ,=ϑΜΛ8 &7;Ν8. Μ%3 Μ % Κ8 86 Β7 8= Κ,Ν Λ88Ο &8 7 6,& 6 Π) ΒΗ &8Θ Over 1,000 Bolts Of Fabric Our Own Extensive Pattern Line Wool & Hand Embroidery Supplies Longarm Quilting Service: 23 Years Experience Custom Made T-Shirt & Memory Quilts LIKE US ON FB! Shop Hours: Tues-Thurs Fri Sat Closed Sun. & Mon. Check Our FB Page For Possible Changes To Hours

33 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 33 By Kerri Habben Sometimes the sweetness of life bends you in half. In those moments you are utterly and fully alive. When you stand up again you are stronger, breathe more deeply and experience the world with kinder eyes. I am living through new seasons. They began in winter, shimmered into spring and now it is summer. Summer with all of its fullness and abundance. When we learned my mother was dying, I had just broken my right foot. I broke it in three places and it required surgery. The accident was a gift. A broken foot heals. A broken conscience might not have. My mother had truly needed more care than I could give. She was in a nursing home until she came home five weeks later with hospice. Friends ensured I could be with Mom part of every day and helped us in countless ways. I had many long hours at home. I listened to the house breathe in the silence. I allowed each thought to rise from beneath the surface and then I would release it back into the air upon a prayer. Based upon a longtime friend s advice, I began a difficult mental exercise. I visualized myself as best as I could after my mother died. I focused on things that would need doing or that I may want to do. Then I would watch my future self, achieving everything regardless of the sadness in my heart. I gently forced myself to look forward to these things. Often tears journeyed down my face. It was never weeping. It was simply the opening of a well I know won t run dry. It will endlessly be a river of sorrow, joy and gratitude flowing together. I wrote the following poem about our sycamore tree last summer. I composed it for an Old Mountain Press anthology entitled Fly With Me. It seems both a longer and shorter time ago that these words came to me. There was a time this past winter when walking in our backyard seemed as remote as the moon. Yet prayerfully, here I stand, pondering our sycamore tree once more. Its branches seem to reach the heavens and open a portal to my mother s precious smile. Visit: Burlington, Germantown Seasons Beneath A Sycamore Tree Seasons Beneath a Sycamore Between sips of coffee and a sheen of sweat, waiting as life flows into a watering can from the rain barrel, I breathe in the new morning air before the true heat of the day simmers in. Sun from the east paints dapples of light across your mottled canvas of bark and wood. I study you, my friend of some decades. You have long been a sentry of shade. Beneath your limbs and branches, I have walked, run, mowed, planted, and raked. I have dreamed, smiled, ached, and wept. I have rejoiced, mourned, and reawakened. Always I have prayed, not to you, but to the only One who can make a tree. Please tell me, my friend, how it is that now you wear an abundant shawl of leaves, when but months ago you shimmered bare after a furious frenzy of falling leaves. How do you know when it is time to be dormant, when it is time to come forth? When to thrive, and when to hold on? When to let go and when to begin once more? I sip, sweat, and wait. Wait, sweat, and sip as water glides from the spigot. Upon a sudden breeze your leaves dance. In their rustling, I feel your answer: "Trust, child, trust." Kerri Habben is a writer, photographer and crochet instructor living in Raleigh, NC. An avid crocheter and knitter, she learned these skills from her grandmother and mother. She donates many of her yarn creations to those in need. Kerri has gathered a decade of essays she is working to publish. She can be reached at 913jeeves@gmail.com. Celebrating 30 Years On Main Street! German Mouth Blown By Inge Glas Ornaments Wendt & Kuhn Figurines Steinbach Nutcrackers KWO Smokers Advent & Christmas Special 30% Discounts W15909 Main Street - Germantown, Wisconsin Summer Hours: 11-5 Thurs-Fri-Sat November & December Hours: 11-5 Wed.-Thur-Fri-Sat & 1-5 Sun Find us on Facebook and at SinterKlausen.com

34 Page 34 July-August 2018 countryregisterofwisconsin.com By Valerie Burner Visit: Milton, Oconomowoc Gingham Creates Whimsy, Whether As Aprons Or Outfits Gingham is a lightweight, plainwoven cloth, typically checked in white and a bold color. There is an ongoing debate on where the name for this classic fabric originated. It could be Malaysian, French or English via Dutch but, suffice it to say, pretty much everyone loves this classic checkered patterned fabric. Used for more than 400 years, there is no right or wrong side to this fabric that has been made into just about everything you can imagine. Everyone remembers Dorothy s blue gingham dress in The Wizard of Oz. Bridget Bardot famously got married in a pink gingham wedding dress made by couturier Jacques Esterel. Even the dashing Sean Connery as James Bond in Thunderball wore a pink gingham shirt with matching trunks. Today, gingham is enjoying fashion resurgence with retro style being so popular. I would venture to guess that my fondness for gingham comes from a pink gingham outfit my mother made for me when I was in first grade along with a pink gingham swimsuit about the same time. Today, in a vintage suitcase, I keep my collection of gingham aprons one for every day of the month and, well, a few extras, truth be told. Gingham has always been a very economical fabric and perhaps this is why it became so popular for aprons in the 1930s through the early 1960s. Employing embroidery known as Depression Lace was a way for women to create a more expensive look when creating items out of gingham and embroidery floss and pearl cotton. Other names for the embroidery are Amish Lace, Hoover Lace, Hoover Star embroidery, Gingham Lace, Chinese Pinwheel, Tic Tac Toe, Mountain Lace, Gingham Tracks, Chicken Scratch, and Snowflake Lace. Smocking is also found, more often just on pockets but occasionally up by the waistband. Every so often, a gingham apron adorned with rick rack and/or simple lace trims pops up. Ladies were ingenious and thrifty using every little scrap and turning those mere inches of rick rack into decorative flowers on their aprons. And then there are the aprons where some spent hours pulling the threads to create the drawn thread work that is beautiful and delicate. The shapes of these aprons are as varied as the women who made them The Old Junction Mill Red Rooster: Loose Threads 8005 N Milton Rd Milton, WI marykay@loosethreadsllc.com Hours: Mon Tues.-Fri Sat & Sun You won t want to miss... Milton s Annual Arts & Craft Show and Chicken BBQ! Sunday, August 19 A modern country shop specializing in unique, affordable home furnishings and gifts. Fresh new looks for each Season! Red Rooster also offers hand dipped ice cream (Spring-Fall) and specialty food items. Peddlars Loft & Cellar: Showcases 45 plus local vendors and their many wares which include antiques, primitive home decor, wood and repurposed items, handmade cards, ceramics and much more. Join Red Rooster on Facebook and be the first to know! Check out our 3000 sq. ft. shopping area! We stock over 6000 bolts of 100% cotton. Enjoy our bright room, homespun room, baby room, and the largest selection of flannel fabrics. Exit 8 off Hwy 26 into Milton - SAMPLES ARE US W Madison Ave Milton, WI Three Floors Of Fun! Open: Tues. thru Sat. at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. & Sun. Noon to 4 p.m. from simple straight forward with gathering at the waist, to box pleats with straight hems, to the stair-step hem lines that make the gingham apron something extra special. The pockets are sometimes fancy, sometimes plain, sometimes square, sometimes heart shaped, but always present and purposeful. I love finding gingham aprons while out treasure hunting. They turn up unexpectedly. Each is handmade and one of a kind and must come home, get carefully laundered, ironed, folded and put in my suitcase. I can honestly say I ve never paid more than $7 for one of these, making it one of those collections that, while not necessarily valuable monetarily, it does make me happy and that s simple bliss. For me, part of the fun of collecting is learning about the newest treasure and also incorporating it into my every day living. The different embroidery used on the aprons has inspired me to pick up the needle again and try some of the Chicken Scratch stitching. I spied a Christmas tree, a heart and a southern bell while perusing Pinterest and know that this is in my near crafting future as the summer heat wears on. An unexpected bonus that has come from my apron collecting is working with this fabric that is older than the USA, having been inspired by women who took time from their daily chores to make themselves something pretty out of humble gingham and embroidery floss and maybe a few ends of rick rack, and learning new stitches all connecting me to the past. Every once in a while, I get them out to wear and find myself drawn to the pink and white check with the kittenembroidered pockets. It s seen better days, has been repaired and has some spots but it is so charming. Another of Mon-Fri 9-9 Sat 9-6 Sun 10-5 my favorites is purple gingham with a stair step hemline and smocking. There was no way this one was not coming to my house. Then there s an almost turquoise blue one that has one of my favorite color combinations of red and turquoise. Another favorite color combination is pink and green, which, combined with the drawn thread work, puts that one in my growing pile of favorites. Then there is the grey one, not very flashy, actually quite dull, but if you look closely up by the waistline, you will find the tiniest of pleating and charming little baskets with embroidered flowers. I also have a few that are child-sized. I can just imagine mom and daughter in their matching aprons making bread. Mom might have even taught her daughter how to do the Depression Lace stitches. It s these little personal details that keep me on the hunt. I really can t say I have a single favorite gingham apron and am hard pressed to pick out my top dozen. Thank goodness the suitcase is forgiving there is always room for one more. Let a little whimsy enter your home and surround yourself with the things you love. Happy collecting! Valerie Burner married into a family of collectors more than 25 years ago. The first piece she and her husband purchased together was a drop leaf table that has had many uses over the years. Their current collections include pink depression glass, vintage Santa Clauses and Christmas, Snoopy, and, of course, teddy bears. They have owned Bears & More in the historic Catlin Court district of Downtown Glendale, AZ, for over 25 years. You can contact Valerie at bearsmore@aol.com. benfranklincraftswi.com 1083 Summit Ave. (Hwy. 67 N) Whitman Park Shopping Center Oconomowoc WI Take I-94 to Dousman/Oconomowoc Exit (Hwy 67) Drive north 2 miles Buses Welcome! Largest selection of crafts in Southeast Wisconsin... Many completed projects on display. Quilt Shop with over 5,500 bolts of name brand fabric, wool & accessories. Country Corner Gift Shop with many collectibles, Custom Frame & Hobby Shop, Art & Artist Supplies, Yarn, Crafts, Beads, Scrapbooking, Floral, Stationery Products, Greeting Cards & Party Supplies Ben Franklin Crafts is independently owned.ben Franklin and Ben Franklin Crafts are licensed trademarks of HMStores BFC, LLC.

35 countryregisterofwisconsin.com July-August 2018 Page 35 Visit: Elkhorn, Fort Atkinson, Hales Corners, Mukwonago, New London Much-Loved Childhood Dolls Find New Homes In The Arms Of Daughters By Maranda K. Jones What happened to that doll s hair?! My sister was asked this question many times growing up. Her dolls were so well loved. She changed their clothes countless times, pulling pieces and stretching the snap closures until they fit, even if they were not the right size. One doll blew kisses when we squeezed her tummy, until my sister realized a toothpick might fit in that tiny mouth. It did, and then broke off. My dad performed surgery more than once for the same injury. Their faces were smudged and dirty, but my sister cleaned them up in the sink. She washed, combed, and cut their hair. One doll shared a constant look of surprise and fright with the three inches of blonde matted hair standing straight up. She was her favorite and it showed. On the other hand, my dolls appear perfectly preserved. I was more meticulous with mine. They wore their original clothes and the hairstyle they were born with. I wrapped them in blankets, pushed them in strollers, and kept them neat and clean. They got the same attention as my sister s dolls, but our methods were very different. I considered myself a collector and wanted to keep my dolls as perfect as possible. We took their orders at our restaurant, serving them food prepared in our Strawberry Shortcake kitchen. My meals were plastic hamburgers and fries, easy to cook and easy to clean up. My sister actually needed to wash dishes after playing restaurant. Cookie crumbs filled the little plates and tints of Pepsi marked the inside of our teacups. We took our dolls to school so I could teach them how to read and write in my well-ordered classroom. My sister was the voice of the unruly student who had more fun testing the teacher than reading Hours: M-F 10-5 Sat 10-4 SAWDUST & STITCHES SAWDUST & STITCHES Quilting Fabric & Notions Check our website for classes, sales events and more! August Annual Summer Sale quietly in her book. She was more freespirited whereas I wanted to follow my lesson plans step by step. She gave me a lot of practice for my future career and in retrospect should receive more of my gratitude. We share many happy memories of the years we spent playing together in the basement. We find those stories flying out of the boxes of toys as we go through our childhood belongings. Our own children now revel in these riches. They are eager to get their hands on the dolls that spent so many hours in our arms. As we watch our daughters play with our dolls from decades ago, we reminisce about their past adventures and what is yet to come. I have never seen our dolls smile brighter Maranda K. Jones 13 S. Wisconsin St. in Elkhorn, WI Website: thequiltpatch@centurytel.net LLC Specializing in Kits RUMMAGE SALE EVENT SEPTEMBER Doodlebug Crate Paper Bella Blvd Lawn Fawn Stamps Imaginise Two-Lips Stamps Deco Foil Penny Black Hero Arts Judith Art Impressions My Mind s Eye Inky Antics Simple Stories LARGE SELECTION OF STICKERS & EMBELLISHMENTS Mon & Fri 9:30-5:30 Tues-Thur 9:30-9 Sat 9:30-5 Sun 12-5 (Winter) Classes Available Longarm Quilting Find us on Facebook! Tues., Wed., Thurs. 11am - 5pm Fri. 10am - 4pm Sat. 9am - 4 pm Closed Sun. & Mon. (Open by appt.) polkdotsandmore.com W3352 Lower Hebron Rd Fort Atkinson, WI Ph Floral Fabric 555 Bayview Road Mukwonago, WI Ph See us for all your Home Decorating and Gift needs! The Gift Box & Boutique Mon- Fri 10-5 Sat 10-3 Closed Sun Find us on Facebook or our website at: Christmas in July July % Off the regular price of NON-Handmade Items, some items will be marked below 60% off. Craft Supply Sale July 28 - August 4 Examples are Ribbon, Beaded Garlands, Wood Items, etc. Learn to make a Bow class will be held daily! Call to reserve your space now! Dollar Days Sale August Help us get ready for Fall & Christmas Seasons Come and see what you can get for $1, $2, $3, etc S 108th St Hales Corners, WI Ph:

36 Wisconsin s Specialty Shopping Guide Advertiser Listing Copies of The Country Register are available at each of the businesses below and at various community visitor centers. Check out the Schedule of Events on Page 3 to find out when the shops are having their Sales & Special Events! APPLETON Fox Cities Quilt Co....Pg. 19 Going to Pieces Quilt Company...Pg. 19 Julie s Sewing Center...Pg. 19 Keep Me In Stitches Quilt Shop...Pg. 19 Natural Encounters...Pg. 19 ASHLAND Second Wind Country Inn...Pg. 6 BIG BEND Sally s Quilting Studio...Pg. 32 BOSCOBEL The Paisley Star...Pg. 29 BOYCEVILLE The Grain Bin...Pg. 9 BURLINGTON Burlington Chamber...Pg. 33 CAMERON Pioneer Village Museum...Pg. 9 CHIPPEWA FALLS Chippewa Valley Quilt Show...Pg. 11 CLEAR LAKE Quilter s Corner at CB Styles...Pg. 9 CLINTON Twin Turtle Quilts...Pg. 32 COLUMBUS Columbus Antique Mall...Pg. 27 DARLINGTON Pins & Pieces Quilt Shop...Pg. 29 DECORAH, IA Red Roxy Quilt Co...Pg. 30 EAGLE RIVER Lurky & Me...Pg. 6 EAU CLAIRE John s Sewing Center...Pg. 10 Picture This/Green Haven Retreat...Pg. 10 The Calico Shoppe...Pg. 10 The Purple Petunia...Pg. 10 ELKHORN Sawdust & Stitches...Pg. 35 The Quilting Connection...Pg. 35 FENNIMORE The Quilt Peddler...Pg. 29 FORT ATKINSON Quilt Patch...Pg. 35 FOUNTAIN CITY The Cat Tail...Pg. 11 GERMANTOWN Sinter Klausen Christmas Markt...Pg. 33 GORDON Kunert Kreations...Pg. 7 GREEN BAY Julie s Sewing Center...Pg. 20 My Favorite Quilt Shop...Pg. 20 Quilting Divas Sewing Boutique...Pg. 20 Silver Thimble...Pg. 20 GREENWOOD Centuries on Main...Pg. 13 Main Street Vintage...Pg. 13 HALES CORNERS The Gift Box...Pg. 35 HAYWARD Nordic Northwoods...Pg. 7 River s Edge Antiques & Quilt Loft...Pg. 7 HILLSBORO Peterson Pharmacy...Pg. 26 HIXTON Cobblestone Cottage...Pg. 11 HOUGHTON, MI Portage Quilt House...Pg. 4 IOLA Norke Needlers Quilt Guild...Pg. 22 LA CROSSE River Road Quilt Shop...Pg. 25 Treasures On Main...Pg. 25 LINDEN Wound Bobbin Cottage...Pg. 31 LODI Village Creek...Pg. 26 MADISON Quilt Expo...Pg. 28 MARSHFIELD Quilt Kits & Beyond...Pg. 13 The Daily Grind...Pg. 13 MILTON Loose Threads...Pg. 34 The Old Junction Mill...Pg. 34 MINOCQUA Around the Block Quilt Shop...Pg. 6 Elizabeth s Wollery...Pg. 6 MONTELLO Teapot Quilt Cottage/Garden Center...Pg. 21 MUKWONAGO Polkadots & More...Pg. 35 NEENAH Cedar Ridge Crafts...Pg. 21 NEW LONDON The Quilting Connection...Pg. 35 Water Street Vintage...Pg. 17 NORWAY, MI Jeri s Quilt Patch...Pg. 4 OCONOMOWOC Ben Franklin Crafts...Pg. 34 ONALASKA Olive Juice Quilts...Pg. 25 OSHKOSH Lakeside Quilters...Pg. 21 It s Sew Rite...Pg. 21 OSSEO The Quilting Nook & More...Pg. 11 OWEN Posy Patch Greenhouse...Pg. 14 PARDEEVILLE Pardeeville Antiques Mall...Pg. 27 PLATTEVILLE Hidden Quilts...Pg. 29 PLOVER Antoinette s Quilt Shop...Pg. 22 POSTVILLE, IA Forest Mills Quilt Shop...Pg. 30 PRAIRIE du CHIEN Front Porch Quilts...Pg. 29 The Pickett Fence...Pg. 29 RHINELANDER Sew Creative...Pg. 5 Sew Smart...Pg. 5 RICE LAKE Busy Bobbin...Pg.9 RIDGELAND Blueberry Line Quilting...Pg. 9 RIPON Crafts Tucked Back...Pg. 21 SALEM Buttons and Bolts...Pg. 32 SEYMOUR Sissy s Treats & Treasures...Pg. 17 SPOONER Arts In Hand Gallery...Pg. 8 Cottage Treasures...Pg. 8 Northwind Book & Fiber...Pg. 8 STANLEY Pine Hollow Quilting & Variety Store...Pg. 12 Sew And Sew Quilts & Fabrics...Pg. 12 The Woolen Shop...Pg. 12 SUN PRAIRIE Four Seasons Craft Mall...Pg. 28 Sun Prairie Chamber Of Commerce...Pg. 28 THORP Bolts of Fun Quilt Shop...Pg. 13 TIGERTON Pinery Patches Quilt Shop...Pg. 17 TOMAH Antique/Cranberry Country Mall...Pg. 24 J&R Variety...Pg. 24 The Market Place...Pg. 24 The Quilted Rooster...Pg. 24 Tomah Cash Mercantile Co....Pg. 24 TOMAHAWK Sew Pieceful Quilting...Pg. 5 VIROQUA Quilt Basket N Creations...Pg. 26 WARRENS Warrens Cranberry Festival...Pg. 24 WAUNAKEE Mill House Quilts...Pg. 27 WAUPACA Heart Of Wisconsin Rug Hooking Guild...Pg. 22 WAUSAU Ana s Sewing Studio...Pg. 15 Grant s March Quilting Mercantile...Pg. 15 Sew Smart...Pg. 15 The Needle and Quilting Workshop...Pg. 15 WESTBY Treasures on Main...Pg. 25 WHITEHALL Pammy s Patchwork Playhouse...Pg. 11 WINTER Thornapple Quilting & Design Studio...Pg. 7 WISCONSIN RAPIDS Angel Gardens...Pg. 23 Country Freckles...Pg. 23 Lighthouse Books & Gifts...Pg. 23 Need le Little Retreat...Pg. 23 The Cotton Thimble...Pg. 23 WITHEE Brubakers Sewing...Pg. 14 ONLINE Country Register...Pg. 18 StampandScrapbookExpo.com...Pg. 5 Tell The Shop Owners You Found Them In The Country Register!