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Your Complimentary Guide to Specialty Shopping and Events in Oklahoma & Texas

®May-June 2013

2 Events

,

USA• Alabama: Dana Wilburn, 6349 Knollwood Ct., Frederick, MD 21701, 301-698-2694• Arizona: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950• Arkansas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• California & N. Nevada: Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858 Colorado: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797• Connecticut: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• Delaware: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319• Florida: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Georgia: Linda Parish, P.O. Box 389, Lexington, GA, 30648, 706-340-1049, 678-641-7728• Idaho (N): Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Idaho (S) WA & E. OR: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950• Illinois: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Indiana: Gail & Merle Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319 Iowa: Linda Glendy, P.O. Box 6, Tama, IA, 52339, 641-751-2619• Kansas: Cindy Baldwin, 988 9th Ave., McPherson, KS 67460, 866-966-9815• Kentucky: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243-1118 Maine: Gail Hageman, 221 Winslow Rd, Albion, ME 04910, 207-437-2663• Maryland: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Massachusetts-RI: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760 Michigan: Bill and Marlene Howell, 3790 Manistee, Saginaw, MI, 48603-3143, 989-793-4211• Minnesota: Kim and Mickey Keller, 12835 Kiska St. NE, Blaine, MN, 55449, 763-754-1661• Missouri: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Montana: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Nebraska: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ 85071, 602-942-8950• Nevada (N): Betty Fassett, 26941 Cabot Rd., Suite 132, Laguna Hills, CA, 92653, 800-349-1858• Nevada (S): Glena Dunn, 4568 Carol Circle, Las Vegas, NV, 89120, 702-523-1803 New Hampshire: Kathleen Graham, 330 North Road, Deerfield, NH, 03037, 603-463-3703 • New Jersey: Merle and Gail Taylor, P.O. Box 594, New Market, MD, 21774, 888-616-8319 New Mexico: Jan & John Keller, 16755 Oak Brush Loop, Peyton, CO, 80831, 719-749-9797• New York: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• N. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• North Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Ohio: Barb Moore, P. O. Box 37, Cable, OH, 43009, 937-652-1157• Oklahoma: Lenda Williams, P.O. Box 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Oregon: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P.O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 85071, 602-942-8950• Pennsylvania: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Rhode Island: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• S. Carolina: Michael Dempsey, 10213 Fanny Brown Road, Raleigh, NC 27603, 919-661-1760• South Dakota: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028• Tennessee: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774 443-243-1118• Texas: Lenda Williams, P.O. Bo 32581, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, 405-470-2597• Utah: Daniel & Stacy Tueller, 153 S 2050 W, Provo UT 84601, 801-592-8498• Vermont: Chris & Kelly Kennedy, 5804 Whiterose Way, New Market, MD 21774, 443-243-1118• Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, P.O. Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Wash. & E. OR & S. ID: Barbara Stillman and Lolly Konecky, P. O. Box 84345, Phoenix, AZ, 602-942-8950• West Virginia: Dave & Amy Carter, PO Box 365, New Market, MD, 21774, 866-825-9217• Wisconsin: Scott & Jennifer Hughes, P. O. Box 276, Altoona, WI, 54720, 715-838-9426• Wyoming: Dee Sleep, 10563 Chicken Creek Road, Spearfish, SD 57783, 605-722-7028CANADA• Alberta: Ruth Burke, P.O. Box 97, Heisler, AB, T0B2A0, 780-889-3776 British Columbia: Bryan Stonehill, Box 1338, Summerland, B.C. V0H 1Z0, 1-800-784-6711• Manitoba & Saskatchewan: Scott & Marj Kearns, Box 850, Kipling, SK, S0G 2S0, 306-736-2441 Ontario: Laurie Holcombe, 166-B Craig Henry Dr., Nepean, Ontario K2G4M7, 613-864-8667

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the Country register of Oklahoma & texas may/June 2013 issue

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May / June 2013 Events 3

“Come with me,’ Mom says.To the library. Books and summertimego together.” – Lisa Schroeder

In this IssueAbout Our Cover Art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Designs, Stitchery & Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 9, 13

Mystery Quilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Oklahoma Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8

Recipes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14

Texas Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16

Word Scramble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Our Search for Cover Artwork —Across the U.S. and Canada, you can always tell The Country

Register by it’s cover. Our publishers seek to find cover art or photos from the state the paper represents. To that end, we are seeking the work of artists from Oklahoma & Texas to feature on our covers. The art must be in good taste and consistent with the theme of the papers.

If you would like your work to be considered, please send an email indicating your interest to countryregister@cox.net

About Our Cover Art... Erika Weber has owned her own photography

business for 15 years. She specializes in weddings and portraits. Her love of science and the outdoors has allowed her to find the beauty of nature where ever she goes. She is now living in the desert country of Del Rio with her husband and three children.. She has been exploring the area and surrounding areas with an excitement of learning and a camera to capture the moments. Her websites are www.simplyyouphotography.net for portraits and her fine art http://erika-weber.fineartamerica.com.

Just Between Us…by Lenda Williams

Happy Mother’s Day to the wonderful mothers and Happy Father’s Day to the wonderful fathers! As you all know, my mother is still an independent liver and thinker. This year has had its challenges. Six weeks ago she fell and broke her wrist and three weeks ago she broke her hip. She is back in her home but I am living with her until she gains better mobility. My office is now a 4 ft. table in the corner of her living room. Luckily I live a couple of miles from her so I have to run back and forth to get something from the “real” office.

This time of year it’s hard to think of anything but gardening. Do you remember when the golden rule of thumb was that as soon as Easter was over, you could plant any of your tender plants? Well, I’m looking out the window at ice laden trees and breaking branches. Who ever heard of an ice storm in April? The tulips and daffodils are freeze dried. They look beautiful but can only guess what they will look like when they thaw.

Vegetable and flower gardening have always been a passion for me. My parents owned a Nursery and Greenhouse until I was in my 40’s and I just loved all the plants. I tried to plant as many as possible in my yard. I also do some container gardening. Lately, with the drought, and water rationing, it has been a challenge to have a pretty yard and conserve water. Any of you have any tips you want to share with us?

You will notice that we have some good articles on gardening. What is it about quilters & crafters who seem to be gardeners also? Could it be the love of all things made and grown?

I always think of spring as a time of renewal. As you read this paper, you will notice that Oklahoma and Texas have become one paper. Many of you have asked for this and we listened. Now as you travel between these states, you will have a paper showing you where to shop in both states. As always if you notice that your favorite shop is not advertising in the paper, please let them know what they are missing and email me with their contact and I will contact them.

I would like to have your input on the paper. Please email me at countryregister@hotmail.com.

Lenda Williams

4 northwest OK

Liz McCamey • Gretchen HaltomE-mail: quiltersdepot@pldi.net

The Uptown Quilt Shopin a small town

580-883-4999www.quiltersdepot.net

116 E. 3rd StreetRingwood, OK 73768

116 E. 3rd StreetRingwood, OK 73768

Quilter’sDepot

Quilter’sDepotMon.-Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 10-2

Over 2,000 bolts of fabrics, including Thimbleberries, RJR, Moda,Hoffman batiks, flannels, & many more! Patterns, quilting supplies, notions

and classes with a friendly atmosphere!!

June 2013 • Road to Oklahoma Shop Hop

COLUmnist sEt tO “Paint thE CariBBEan”Phoenix, AZ...Country Register columnist, Barbara Polston, is preparing

to “Paint the Caribbean.” Barbara will be teaching her fabric painting and quilting techniques aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Sea while cruising to St. Maarten; St. Kitts; San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Labadee, Haiti. Booked through Quilt Retreat at Sea, the eight-night cruise includes quilt kits and classes, open stitch and sail sewing, a group tour of a batik factory, and everything travelers have come to expect from a cruise vacation. Travelers need bring nothing more than a basic sewing kit; even sewing machines are provided on board. The cruise departs and returns to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, April 26 - May 4, 2014.

Quilt Retreat at Sea is a mother/daughter owned company offering quilt cruises around the world. Each cruise offers in depth instruction from a nationally-recognized quilt teacher. Special pricing is available for travel companions who prefer to enjoy all the amenities a cruise offers, but not participate in the class. Payment plans and options are available.

Barbara Polston is an award-winning quiltmaker, nationally-recognized writer and teacher, and the author of “Piecing Life Together”, a regularly-appearing column in the Country Register. Although not a formally-trained artist, Barbara has developed techniques that bring out the “inner artist” in everyone and has been complimented on her ability to create a classroom environment that encourages trying new things. A new painting and quilting project has been created especially for the cruise students.

To book your cruise and “Paint the Caribbean”, visit http://www.quiltretreatatsea.com.

Our shop, with its antique tin ceiling, houses a fabulous fabric selectionof 3,000 bolts. We also carry unique notions, patterns, books and kits.

Step in to the warmest hospitality in Northwest Oklahoma.

www.fabricsandmoreetc.com

Fabrics & More Etc.413 Barnes — Alva, OK 73717

580-327-0240Be sure to stop by our new location to see our new store.

We carry over 4000 bolts of fabric from your favorite mills, books, patterns, notions, kits and more.

Be sure to like us on Facebook.

WE'VE MOVED!

Store HoursTues-Fri 9:30- 5:30

Sat 9:30 - 2:30

Piecing Life together

Do What You Loveby Barbara Polston

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

“Gardening” would be a challenge. I don’t have a lawn. I have what is called “desert landscaping,” which means dirt and rocks. My plantings are absolutely no maintenance—they are trimmed by landscapers about twice

a year and that’s that. The extent of my gardening is to sweep dried leaves off my back patio. Even that doesn’t happen as much as it should. Gardening, as a topic, seems out of the question.

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

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

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

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

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

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

May / June 2013 northeast OK 5

Building harmony

Decorating the Outdoorsby annice rockwell

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

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

(continued on page 15)

Building harmony

Cost of a Guilty Pleasureby Jeff Cappis

My father always told me never use any more energy or effort than you need to get a job done. To use any more than that is just a waste.

I guess I was reminded of that last summer when the mosquitoes were bad and I got a new bug zapper. It was called the Electro-Massacre 4000. It was lightweight with a good grip and even gave you a beeping noise when it was set to maximum shock. I’d hoped it would save us from hundreds of bites.

I’m a little embarrassed to admit that it became kind of a guilty pleasure. I know we should live in harmony with nature, and I really hate killing anything, but seeing those little buggers explode in a small flash of light was empowering. Kind of like getting even for every bite or sting you’ve ever gotten—with a vengeance! The zapper was a pretty yellow color, too.

It was shaped like a tennis racket with an electrified grid running through it and could take out dozens of the little buggers at a time. All you had to do is push the little red button on the side and you were in business.

At first I used it when the bugs were bad. I brought it with me when Cathy and I relaxed on our deck in the cool evenings. It was kind of fun. After the sun went down, I could wave the zapper through the air for a mini-light show.

I got to depend on it. Whenever I had to work in the forest, I could clear an area of mosquitoes (for a little while at least and get stuff done without being eaten. That was pretty groovy, but after a while, though, I found I spent more time zapping bugs than working.

I really felt like the king of the forest—powerful. Wasps, mosquitoes, those little bugs that like to fly up your nose—none of those guys were a problem anymore. I had technology. I had mastered my domain. I even justified my evil pleasure by thinking I was helping to rid the world of pests. Kind of like a hero. I even developed some impressive martial arts kind of moves with that thing to impress Cathy. As I got better with it, the light shows got even more spectacular.

One night we were sitting in our hot tub and I was zapping the occasional bug under the night sky. We both agreed it was a useful thing and were examining it when Cathy asked me about the power settings.

“This baby goes quite high,” I said all cocky and boasting. “I haven’t even turned it up as high as it will go yet. Hey, let’s try it!” With that, I turned the little dial on the side all the way up.

I was to find out later (when I actually read the manual) that this particular model has one problem—at the highest power setting, the unit gives off an electromagnetic signal that actually attracts bugs. I know this to be true enough. Within seconds we were swarmed.

My zapper was on it like lighting! Things were sparking all around us. I got the feeling I could actually win this battle. Cathy began to cheer. The bugs were exploding in a light show that rivaled the stars themselves.

I was probably down to the last few bugs when, unfortunately, the zapper slipped from my wet hand. All we heard was a beep as it went to an even higher setting before hitting the water in a spectacular fireworks display then sinking like the Titanic.

After a couple of days, the twitching stopped and we’re both much better now.

I had to get a new zapper. After the water incident, the old one just made a bad-buzzing noise, then gave me a shock when I pushed the button. I tested it fifteen times before deciding to throw it out. By then, I got to know how the bugs felt and my vengeance level dropped by 80%.

Zapping them is still necessary for our protection, but now I have a more reasonable model. Just powerful enough to zap a few bugs. Not powerful enough to electrocute two big pests in a hot tub.

Copyright by Jeff Cappis. Email: jcappis@telus.net.

6 southwest OK

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Make a Friend— Save Your Life!

by marlene Oddie

How often do you hear the doctor tell you that you need to make friends for your health?

I am reading Friendships Don’t Just Happen: The Guide to Creating a Meaningful Circle of Girlfriends by Shasta Nelson, the founder of www.girlfriendcircles.com. I’ve encouraged others in my new locale to read it as well. Shortly, we will meet to discuss the concepts presented in the book using questions that the author has provided. I’m excited about how this will help my health and well being. Shasta Nelson shares several studies that indicate “female friendships matter to our health and happiness almost more than anything.”

Becoming a quilter has introduced me to an entire industry of quilters around the world. Through many different avenues I continue to make great friends, even if I’ve only met them through social media channels. Quilters seem to make friends quickly as they have a strong common interest in the art of quilt making.

Most quilters seem to have a desire to create something that is then given to a loved one as a special memento. Sometimes I wonder if I got into this as a way to leave a legacy. At the time, I wasn’t married, had no children and just wasn’t sure what my future would hold. I had no idea that getting into quilting as a hobby would turn into my business, take me so many places in the world, and allow me to meet and make such wonderful friends.

There are many different genres of quilting, but usually within a group of quilters, each person can find someone else in the group who shares similar passions and styles. It is amazing how quickly we will open up to a fellow quilter about our personal life when we may not really know them at all. There is an inherent trust between us—given our common interest and sense of giving. I have found that one of my love languages, as described by Gary Chapman, is quality time (www.5lovelanguages.com). Friendship and the quality time spent in conversation or doing things together is important to me.

Through Shasta Nelson’s book, I’m also learning that there are five types of friends and there are five steps in turning people we meet into friends who matter. Knowing these tools can help you move on from friends who might not be good for your health to creating friends who will assist in your well being. We go through different stages of life and have different needs from our friends. I’m excited to have new tools to help me transition.

New friends in this locale have meant a support group to make connections as I take my long-arm machine quilting business out of the house into a studio space in the center of Grand Coulee, WA. I appreciate them already!

Consider Shasta’s book if you’re looking for new tools to understand friendships and the value they can have in your life. It makes a great gift to your friends, too.

Marlene Oddie is an engineer by education, project manager by profession and now a quilter by passion. She enjoys long-arm quilting on her Gammill Optimum Plus, but especially enjoys designing quilts and creating a meaningful treasure for the recipient. Follow Marlene’s adventures via her blog at http://kissedquilts.blogspot.com or on http://www.facebook.com/kissedquilts

thE saladby susan tipsord

“Summertime and the weather’s fine. . .” That old song makes me think of the summer festivities we all love to enjoy. Block parties, picnics and barbecues are a rite of summer and I’m always looking for something new to take to eat. However, sometimes the old stand-bys are the best! One of my family’s favorites is “The Salad” – a simple, yet oh so good addition to any summer meal. It pairs equally well with a burgers and brats affair or a steak on the grill fete. Try it – I guarantee it will be one of your family favorites as well! © Susan Tipsord 2013

the saladMixed spring greens, such as baby leaf lettuces, baby spinach, arugula and radicchio

Diced roma tomatoes

Red onion, very thinly sliced

Red pepper, very thinly sliced

Diced cucumber

Croutons

Crumbled goat cheese

Good Seasons Italian Dressing (from the mix, made with red wine vinegar)

Combine all ingredients except dressing in large bowl. Top with goat cheese – this is the key ingredient. The mixture of the sweet and tart chevre with the Italian dressing is amazing! Dress and toss immediately before serving.

May / June 2013 southeast OK 7

ann's Loving Ewe

A Mess that Blessesby ann stewart

Few friends see my house when it’s a mess. They are the same ones that let me in their messy homes. I’ve seen dust bunnies on the floor, heaps of unfolded laundry, and cat hair on the couch. And so I open my own back door to them even with dishes in the sink, dusty furniture, and carpets in need of vacuuming.

Everybody else is barred from witnessing my chaotic clutter. But how many times do I not show hospitality because my house looks less-than-perfect? Wouldn’t someone still appreciate an invite even if my home looked less Martha Stewart and more Ann Stewart?

Sometimes Martha intimidates, but Ann is approachable. How many times could I bless a neighbor if I called and said, “I’m ordering out for pizza, would you like to join me?” When could last night’s leftovers become a lingering laughter-filled lunch with an appreciative friend? What if I invited someone over for a breakfast tea and talk?

Oh there is a time for presenting an inviting home that says, “You’re so special I’ve really cleaned up for you.” It can be satisfying to put on an elaborate evening and fine meal that’s a real showstopper. But if that process of perfection halts my hospitality, then I need to think about what my guests truly need. Or if my hospitality intimidates, is it really a blessing?

Similarly, only a few friends hear when my life feels like a mess; they’re the same ones who’ve shared their messy lives with me. They’ve opened the back door of their life and I feel comfortable being me. We’ve communicated and connected. After all, we both know we’re imperfect and our lives are far from neat and tidy.

But I wonder how many times I’ve missed opening up my heart because I didn’t want to blow my cover. When I hide behind a façade, it forms a wall to friends who will never know I’m a real person with real struggles. How can I communicate care and concern and connect with someone who has a need?

Recently I went through a bump in my marriage and needed to talk. I didn’t call on friends who seemed to have it all together, I phoned a Bible study friend who had shared her messy heart-felt story of separation and near-divorce. I drove over to her home and we sat down and talked. I would learn, that by the grace of God, her marriage was now more than surviving; it was thriving in ways she didn’t know possible.

It’s sometimes our imperfection that is most attractive. With (and through) our messes, we can bless someone.

What’s stopping you from being a lovin’ ewe and reaching out to someone who might need a messy friend?

© 2013. Used by permission. No reprint without author’s permission.

8 Events & Fun stuff

Lettuce Wraps2 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil

2 8-ounce chicken breasts, finely chopped

4 green onions, thinly sliced with tender tops reserved

3 tablespoons lower-sodium soy sauce, divided

6-8 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped

1 8-ounce can water chestnuts, drained and finely chopped

1 small carrot, grated

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 teaspoon sesame oil

2 tablespoons sherry OR chicken broth

1 teaspoon Asian hot chili sauce

8-12 large lettuce leaves, washed and drainedsauce options:Asian peanut sauce (available commercially) 50/50 mix of soy sauce and rice vinegar, seasoned with dash of Asian hot chili sauceIn large, non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium to medium-high heat. Add chicken and onions; drizzle with 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Cook and stir until chicken is just cooked through, approximately 5 minutes. Add mushrooms, water chestnuts, carrot, garlic and ginger. Cook and stir until mushrooms have released their moisture and softened. In small bowl, mix remaining soy sauce, sesame oil, sherry and chili sauce. Stir liquid into chicken mixture; cook an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Add reserved sliced onion tops. Remove from heat. To serve, spoon mixture onto large lettuce leaves (iceberg, romaine or butter) and drizzle with sauce, if desired. Makes approximately 4 cups of filling.

Back Porch Breakby Nancy Parker Brummett

Gotta Love Those Class ReunionsNot only is it graduation time, it’s also the time of

year many of us will be getting ready for our nextclass reunion—which is a lot like graduation déjà vu!Getting ready for a class reunion is a challenge. Notonly do you have to adjust your hairdo and your

hemline, you have to adjust your identity. Who were you in high school? Who wereyou the last time you saw these people? Who are you today?

I’ve attended several class reunions since graduating from Holston High Schoolin Knoxville, TN, in 1966, and each time I almost didn’t go. After all, what could Ipossibly have in common with my classmates after so many years? How many timescould I get choked up over “Unchained Melody” and the other hits of the 60’s?Looking back on it, however, I wouldn’t have missed any of our reunions for the world.

With each successive reunion there was less competition and pretension. At the10th reunion far too many people were intent on letting everyone know how muchthey had achieved, flaunting their still young and trim appearances, and twirlingtheir perfect spouses around the dance floor.

At the 20th, it was harder to look young and trim, but efforts were still made.The more mature of us admitted our defeats and divorces, and only those who hada few too many drinks did much dancing at all.

At the 30th, overweight people just wore something comfortable, the baldingguys gave up on the dreaded “comb-over,” and those who danced did so incelebration of our collective survival! Each reunion is memorialized by a groupphoto. At our 30th reunion, when we lined up on steps outside the country clubwhere the dinner-dance was held, it was hot and muggy as it always is in the Southin August. As the photographer struggled to get 75 of us in her viewfinder, weswatted the bees that swarmed around us.

“Must be all this perfume and after shave attracting them,” I said. “No,” called a voice from a couple of rows back. “It’s the wrinkle cream and the

Rogaine.” We all had great smiles in that photo.And then it was the 35th, the 40th, and much to our consternation, the 45th.

There we were lined up for the group photo again, just extremely happy to seeone another and in full and grateful acceptance of who we really are.

If you have a chance to go to a class reunion this summer, go ahead and go.You’ll be surprised by how much fun you have!

Nancy Parker Brummett is an author and freelance writer in Colorado Springs, CO. “Like” her author page on Face Book, or to learn more about her life and work, visit www.nancyparkerbrummett.com.

Wit N Wisdomby Cheryl Potts

Outhouse MemoriesStanding at the top of my hillside rock garden, is a

shed in the form of an outhouse. The gray barn boardstructure is a perfect location for my garden decorations,weed killer and tool storage. It brings back childhoodmemories each time I lift the latch or peer inside the half-moon cut-out in the door.

The first time I laid eyes on one of those things, was in my own backyard at fiveyears old. My parents had purchased their first home and were in the midst of aconstruction project, building on a bathroom. Meanwhile, a green, double-holedprivy was just feet away, from a fenced off train track. (I can’t begin to tell you howscary it was when the train went by.) The only light came from the half-moonshaped opening in the door. I don’t remember much else before that age, but I willnever forget the wasp’s nests stuck to the ceiling. On hot days, those bees werecircling the upper half of the outhouse, making the sitter automatically hunch down,exposing fleshy parts. Needless to say, no one lingered long inside. I don’t knowwhatever happened to that old outhouse, but the visual still makes me laugh.

From the pages of my parents’ photo album, before I was born, depicts onetotally hilarious black and white of my father and grandfather. Grandpa was drivinghis tractor, pulling an outhouse on a skid, that he had built for the little countrychurch up the road. My dad was standing on the tractor hitch waving as he andgrandpa rolled out of the driveway. We had to use that outhouse on Sundays untilthe church could afford to build a bathroom, which by the way, was when I wasabout 10 years old. Memories of running out of toilet paper and using leaves froma nearby tree, guarding the door to keep the boys out and stepping over snakes,makes me “laugh out loud” to this day.

That’s why I have, a metal-roofed, outhouse garden shed. Surrounding yourselfwith things that make you smile or laugh is good for the soul! “He who laughs, lasts.”

Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine...” and Ecclesiastes 3:1,4reminds us that, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activityunder heaven...a time to weep and a time to laugh...”

Cheryl Potts resides in Northern New York State. Cheryl is an elementary Literacy Specialist/author/presenter with ten published books.

Two grasses are predominanton short grass prairie plain—Blue grama and the buffalo

prevail on this terrain.

They’re similar in that each of themlooks dead by winter’s end;

grass leaves have turned pale yellow,while dry seed stems sway and bend.

Leaves start to dry by mid-July,stand curing where they grow.They go on curing in the fall,

no need to stack or mow.

Their roots serve as a reservoir,supplying plants through drought.

As long as roots stay in the ground,the grasses can hold out.

In drought time of the thirties,grass would have made it through,

but land had been plowed up for crops,so soil dried out and blew.

The sight of them in times of droughtbelies strength in the roots.

Eventually the rains will come,and with the rains new shoots.

Old timers, who knew grasses well,referred to them as “stout”—

chock full of natural nutrients,which filled the cattle out.

In This Land OfLittle Rain

Cowboy Poetry

by Jane Ambrose Morton

Native Grasses

“IN THIS LAND OF LITTLE RAIN”Tales of a family and a ranch—toldthrough poetry of the West.TO ORDER: contact Jane Morton, 12710 Abert Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80908

719-495-9304 • dickandjane2@earthlink.net

©2012 Jane Morton. All rights reserved. Used with permission.

Town & Country Cooking by Janette Hess

May / June 2013 Events & Fun stuff 9

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

painted projects or whatever yourimagination can dream up!

Reduce or enlarge pattern as desired.Commercial use prohibited.

Find more free patterns atwww.TheNobleWife.com

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

Free Pattern

Quilt show sponsored byCentral Oklahoma Quilters’ Guild

A Celebration of Quilts 2013For more than thirty years now the Central Oklahoma Quilters' Guild has

been promoting quilting through its dynamic programing and biannual quilt shows. COQG holds its quilt show on the odd number calendar years and this year, “A Celebration of Quilts 2013”.

"take 2" is shaping up to be an academy award worthy event. More than 400 quilts will be judged and exhibited. They will be from traditional pieced or appliqued to modern art quilts, from miniature to king size quilts, as well as, "Objects D'quilt" (dimensional things, like purses, dolls, clothing, etc.) Friday, June 21, 9am to 8pm and Saturday, June 22, 9am to 5pm the show will take place in the Travel & Transportation Bldg. at the State Fair Park (I-40 & I-44 or May Ave between NW 10th and Reno) in OKC. Admission is $10 for a one-day pass and $15 for two days. Or, come after work on Friday for $6 from 5pm to 8pm.

In addition to the beautiful quilts the show will host approximately 50 vendors with all manner of sewing and quilting equipment and notions. You will not only be able to see but purchase some of the most beautiful fabric in the country. There will be DOOR PRIZES, SPECIAL EXHIBITS and an absolutely gorgeous RAFFLE QUILT. COQG has again this year designated the YWCA Passageway Shelter for victims of domestic violence as the recipient of monies raised by the raffle quilt. The RAFFLE QUILT is a beautiful blue and white Hunter's Star quilt named "Star Struck" with an appraised value of $1,200.00. For further information visit the Guild web site, www.centralOKquilters.org. Click on Quilt Show. You do not want to miss this star-studded red carpet event.

10 Central OK

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May / June 2013 Central tX 11

Celebrate your nationali-tEa!What’s your ethnic background?

Does your name reveal your ancestry?

With a last name of Harris, it’s not surprising my husband is half English and Scots-Irish. But he’s also half Czech. So if I hosted a tea party to reflect my husband’s ancestors, I could use English, Scots-Irish, or Czech foods and customs to honor his background.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At our extended family gatherings, we often tap into our farm background and use cows and chickens for decorations. Since I grew up milking cows and gathering eggs, a country theme suits me to a TEA. After

all, as the saying goes: You can take the girl out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the girl.

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

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

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

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

From Lydia’s recipe File:

PavlovaThis dessert is popular in Australia and New Zealand. The crisp meringue shell with marshmallowy center tastes delicious topped with whipped cream and fruit.

Preheat oven to 250 degrees.Beat until foamy:4 egg whitesAdd a dash of salt, and beat to a stiff foam.Add and beat in: 3/4 cup sugar, one tablespoon at a time.After mixture forms stiff peaks, fold in:1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vinegar

Spoon meringue mixture onto a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper, forming a 9-inch round. Bake for 1 to 1 1/4 hours until outside is crisp to touch and pale cream color. Turn off oven and open oven door. Leave pavlova in oven until cool.Place on flat serving dish. Top with one or more cups sweetened whipped cream. Decorate with fresh fruit, such as berries, kiwi, or bananas.

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

12 northwest tX

Refreshing Summer SlawThere are times in your menu planning that call for a good crunchy

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

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

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

yOUr hEaLthy GardEn

Container GardeningBy Barbara mills Lassonde

Whether you have a large outdoor space for gardening or just a balcony or patio, container gardening can add charm to your area.

There are many types of containers in which gardeners plant flowers or vegetables, like an old wheelbarrow, window boxes, an old boot. You’re only as limited as your imagination and space. Some containers are porous, like wire baskets lined with a fibrous mat. To prevent the soil in these attractive planters from drying out, I line them with plastic wrap from my kitchen, leaving an inch-wide slit at the bottom for drainage, then add the soil.

If you use a metal container, line the sides with sheets of foam or layers of brown paper bags before adding the soil. This will insulate the container and prevent the soil from becoming too hot for your plants. I use the foam sheets that arrive at my house as packing material.

Tomatoes can be grown in large containers placed in a sunny spot in your yard, or you can try the hanging tomato planters. Window boxes can hold flowers or small vegetable plants, like lettuce or spinach.

Whatever container you choose for planting, be sure it has adequate drainage holes. If it is much deeper than your plants require, try filling the bottom with foam chunks or packing peanuts, spread a sheet of fine screening over the filler and up the sides of the container, then add your soil. You will have a much lighter-weight container, and you won’t be wasting precious soil.

A good quality potting soil is what’s recommended to use in containers. These commercial mixtures are heated to kill off any pathogens which may harm your plants. If you choose to make your own potting soil, try mixing one part loam with two parts peat moss and some organic matter. Nuking it in your microwave will alter the composition of the soil, so that isn’t recommended

If you plant seeds in the spring, cover the container tightly with clear plastic for a mini-hot-house. When your seedlings begin to grow, remove the plastic on sunny days to prevent them from cooking, and replace it at night. This will keep the soil warm, your plants will get an early start and produce longer.

Once you’ve finished planting, spread a layer of peat moss or bark mulch around your plants to help hold in the moisture. With proper care, your container plantings should flourish.

Barbara Lassonde is a master gardener with over four decades of gardening experience. She welcomes your gardening suggestions, and will share the best ones with our readers as space allows. Email her at: healthygarden7@aol.com.

A Book with Biteby susan tipsord

Looking for a good beach read? Pick up one of the new culinary mysteries at your library or bookstore. I love mysteries, and a mystery with recipes? Heaven on earth! One of my favorite series is based around a sleuth who owns a cookie shop. A cozy background with colorful characters and great recipes is a definite recipe for success in my book. No pun intended! Another favorite series is based around a coffeehouse, another favorite haunt of mine. Now mind you, these fairly quick reads are not literature, but when you’re on vacation, settling down and relaxing with some familiar characters can definitely add to your enjoyment. Whether the subject matter is cupcakes, coffee, or cookies, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest – and keep you coming back for more.

© Susan Tipsord 2013

May / June 2013 northeast tX 13

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QUILTING & GIFTS

Spring Cleaning with Essential Oils

by Wanda headrick

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

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

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

• It is safer for your health and environment

• Pure Essential Oils give added cleaning power without exposure to the toxic chemicals from synthetic fragrances (which often contribute to headaches and other health issues);

• It is FUN and over time, less expensive;

• Pure Essential Oils make your home environment relaxing, refreshing and fragrant.

I have included some ways to use Pure Essential Oils in cleaning your home for Spring and throughout the year to keep your home healthy and happy.

Lemongrass drain OpenerLemongrass Essential Oil has properties that are antiseptic, anti-

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

Lemmongrass Pure Essential Oil 10 Drops

Baking Soda 1 Cup

Boiling Water 3 Cups

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

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

Eucalyptus Floor CleanerEucalyptus is well known for helping to fight colds and flu due to its

natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is excellent added to a humidifier, the rinse cycle of a load of laundry, or to remove sticky residue from tags and tape and to remove stains from clothes.

Eucalyptus Pure Essential Oil 20 Drops

Hot Water 2 Gallon

Ground Soap Base (or liquid Castile Soap) 2 Tablespoons

White Vinegar 2 Cups

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

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

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

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

• Toilet Bowl Cleaner

• Orange Furniture Polish

• Natural Wool Felted Dryer Ball (a reusable replacement for fabric softener dryer sheets and decreases drying time)

• Pure Essential Oils of: Lemon, Lavender, Pine, Sweet Orange, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Rosemary Eucalyptus, Cedarwood, Patchouli and Lemongrass

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

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

May / June 2013 southeast tX 15

Outdoor Activities Word ScrambleUnscramble the words. Key is below.

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

2. ________________ igikhn walking for a long distance

3. ________________ abolfolt a game in which two opposing ________________ teams of 11 players each defend ________________ goals at opposite ends

4. ________________ ngrigdean the act of cultivating or tending a ________________ plot of land

5. ________________ sohognit to hit, wound, or kill with a missile ________________ fired from a weapon.

6. ________________ micpagn a place where a person or persons ________________ live in tents

7. ________________ tsprso an activity exertion and skill in ________________ which an individual or team ________________ competes against each other

8. ________________ iincygclb riding a vehicle with two wire- ________________ spoked wheels, a seat, handlebars

9. ________________ aldobgdel a game in which players in a circle ________________ try to hit the opponents inside the ________________ circle with an inflated ball

10. ________________ ncacpbgkiak combines hiking and camping ________________ backcountry wilderness

11. ________________ ihsignf the technique, occupation, or ________________ diversion of catching aquatics

12. ________________ icnicp a casual meal eaten outdoors

13. ________________ rocesc objective is to score goals, by ________________ kicking or heading the ball into the ________________ opponents’ goal

14. ________________ crangi to compete in a contest of speed

15. ________________ nerkitgk to journey on foot, especially to ________________ hike through mountainous areas.

16. ________________ eaocertnri enjoyable activity when one is not ________________ working

17. ________________ icetkrc a team sport with bat and ball for ________________ two teams of eleven players each

18. ________________ albesabl a game of ball between two nine- ________________ player teams played usually for ________________ nine innings

19. ________________ bganiunsth basking in sunshine, to get a suntan

20. ________________ iogfgnl game played on a large outdoor ________________ course with a series of 9 or 18 holes ________________ spaced far apart

1. rafting 2. hiking 3. football 4. gardening 5. shooting 6. camping 7. sports 8. bicycling 9. dodgeball 10. backpacking 11. fishing 12. picnic 13. soccer 14. racing 15. trekking 16. recreation 17. cricket 18. baseball 19. sunbathing 20. golfing

(Decortating Outdoors cont. from p.5)Using your antiques

My passion for antiques has led me to discover that not only do I love antiques for their history, value and form, but also for their function. I have found that a sturdy, primitive tool carrier can be rendered useful once again by serving as a tote for gardening hand tools. Early baskets fashioned from quality splint can be used to gather herbs or to bring picnic notions out to the summer table. Wooden wheelbarrows can be used as efficient work carts and serve double-duty as a garden centerpiece when the day is done. In essence, when I buy antiques that have stood the test of time I feel I am honoring them by putting them back to work.

Entertaining with antiquesAs I think to the warmer months ahead I get busy thinking of ways

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

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

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Just returned from the Annual Pfaff Convention!

JOIN US APRIL 27TH AT 10:00 We will be sharing all the “What's New

with Pfaff” that we have learned.

Join us on Facebook to check our progress and class availability. We will also be sending out updates in our newsletter.