PC12052012

{AMISH COMMUNITY NEWS} Vol. 4 No. 16

December 5, 2012

A Merry Christmas to All!

And Many Blessings in the New Year!

Mrs. Joe Sarah Miller

Mrs. Ivan Rachael Miller

Mrs. Jacob Linda Weaver

Mrs. Wayne Barbara Ann Detweiler

Jacquie Foote Donnie Miller

Mrs. Joe Katherine Byler

Barb Fontanelle

Ellen Hershberger

Jane Attina

William Bender

Mrs. Norman Susan Yoder

Daniel Fisher

Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler

Next issue Plain Country– Jan 23. Submission deadline–Mon., Jan 11. Advertising deadline–Jan 18.

Please send the information to share to Plain Country, P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062, or call 440-632-0782 or fax to 440-834-8933. Subscriptions are available for $25 per year.

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Plain Country’s Community Events

nonprofit amish benefits & events are published at no charge

{AMISH COMMUNITY NEWS}

Happy Birthday!!

By Barbara Ann Detweiler Windsor Mills School’s annual Christmas program will be Dec. 21.

WANTED

Dec. 22 Emma Weaver (76) Dec. 22 Laura Mullet (Bill) (8) Dec. 23 Chester C. Byler (7) Dec. 23 Ruth Miller (Lester) (25) Dec. 24 Chester C. Byler Dec. 24 Andrew Miller (Marvin) (7) Dec. 25 Nancy Miller (68) Dec. 25 Ella Miller Dec. 28 Mrs. Melvin Ray (Linda) Shetler (Big 50!)

Dec. 29 Norman A. Miller (19) Dec. 30 Mrs. Lester (Nancy) Mullet (23) Dec. 31 Daniel Miller (Lester) (9)

for our next issue

Please write in and share some . . .

- School news - Benefits to be held after Jan. 23 - Tasty Winter Recipes - Bits and Pieces from the past* - Memories of Winter - Tell Us a Story Information for next edition must be received by Jan. 11 to be included.

Send to: Plain Country, P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 * If it is not included in our next issue, it will be included in a future issue.

In Memory Michael C. Byler Born Dec. 8, 1996 Died July 12, 2006

AMISH HANDCRAFTED RUSTIC LOG FURNITURE & MORE!

Melvin (Bob) Byler (66), died Dec. 7, 2005 (Our dear brother, we are still missing you.)

Great gifts for Christmas!

Stop by and browse our store....

Plain Concerns

This is a list of organizations that help with low cost spay/neuter surgeries: n Rescue Village~ ~~~~~440-338-4819 n Geauga Dog Warden~~440-286-8135 n Fix It in the Farmland~~ 440-338-4819 n Angels for Animals~ ~~220-549-1111 n Valley Save a Pet~~~~~440-232-9124

ng hispri Pine

Customer Appreciation Day Dec. 8th•7:00am-4:30pm

s

Dec. 5 Freeman Byler Jr. (69) Dec. 5 Allen (Seal) Byler (40) Dec. 6 Katie Troyer Dec. 6 Aaron Shetler, Jr. (12) Dec. 6 Jacob L. Hershberger (16) Dec. 6 Susan N. (Miller) Byler Dec. 6 Barbara Miller (50) Dec. 8 Nathaniel V. Hershberger (13) Dec. 8 Wally D. Byler (60) Dec. 9 Allen J. Miller (60) Dec. 10 Robert R. Hershberger (15) Dec. 10 Nancy (Jacob) Yoder (32) Dec. 11 Mrs. Melvin Ray (Leona) Shetler Dec. 12 Olin Yoder, Jr. (72) Dec. 13 Mrs. Andrew (Mary) Yoder (59) Dec. 16 John E. Mast (73) Dec. 16 Bethany (Steven) Byler (9) Dec. 16 Alan Ray (John) Byler (6) Dec 17 Mrs. John (Clara) Shetler (79) Dec. 17 Betty Ann Hershberger (19) Dec. 17 Nancy Mae Yutzy (5) Dec. 17 Robin Gruber Dec. 21 Cathy L. Miller (32) Dec. 22 Robert C. Hershberger

Schools

Bits and Pieces from the Past...........................08 Bookmobile News................................................06 Books in Review .................................................. 06 Children’s Immunization Clinics .................... 02 Greetings from Garrettsville.............................03 Greetings from the Plain Community...........06 Happy Birthdays ................................................. 02 Hello from Amish Crossing Corner.................03 Hello from Huntsburg.........................................07 In Memoriam.........................................................02 Howdy from West Farmington........................08 Katherine’s Korner................................................05 Lines by Linda........................................................04 Local Amish Business Directory......................09 Mom’s Diary............................................................05 Nutrient Dense Gardening................................07 Parkman Pathways...............................................07 Plain Community Events ...................................02 Recipes.....................................................................04 Wanted ....................................................................02 Words from Windsor............................................07

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Subscriptions are available for $25 per year

Send to: Plain Country Events, P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 or call 440-834-8900 | fax 440-834-8933

From Our

Publisher: the Fontanelle group inc v Editorial Coordinators: Jacquie Foote, Joe and Sarah Miller Staff Writers: Katherine M. Byler, Barbara Ann Detweiler and Donnie Miller Contributing Writers: William Bender, Daniel Fisher, Ellen Hershberger, Rachel Miller, Linda Weaver and Susan Yoder Mailing Address: P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 Phone: 440-632-0782 v 440-834-8900 v Fax: 440-834-8933 Published Every Three Weeks – Free of Charge

In This Issue ...

F10% urnOFFituSTOREWIDE* r

Door Prizes • Free Coffee & Donuts (*Feed and fuel excluded, 5% off on harnesses)

Children’s Immunization Clinics

Footwear for the Whole Family Men’s Work Boots

Geauga County General Health District hosts local children’s immunization clinics.

Immunizations for children and adolescents are free of charge for all Geauga County residents regardless of income. For non-Geauga residents, there is a $5 fee per child, per visit.

MIDDLEFIELD CLINICS NEWBURY TOWNSHIP CLINIC n Second Wednesday, Dec. 12, 9 to 11:30 a.m. n Wednesday, Jan. 23, 9 to 11:30 a.m. n Third Wednesday, Dec. 19, 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Clinic will be held at Grace Evangelical Bible Church, 14951 Auburn Road. n Third Thursday, Dec. 20, 3 to 6 p.m.

Clinics will be held at St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Road (Route 87 east).

n Collar Clocks Rhythm Clocks n Hickory Rockers n Log Gliders n Outdoor Furniture n Bedroom n Kitchen n Amish-made Handbags and more!

Custom k or Leatherw Available

n

Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9:00 to dark. Closed Sun.

Whispering Pines Furniture 9100 St. Rt. 534 (1/2 mile North of the Square) Mesopotamia • 440-693-4445 / 4269 (let ring)

WE CARRY A HUGE SUPPLY OF DAC HORSE SUPPLEMENTS We Also Carry: Lots of Tack, All Sizes of Harnesses, Equine Supplies and Valley Road Children’s Wagons

MULLET’S HARNESS SHOP 16138 Newcomb Road, Middlefield 44062

440-632-1527

Mon.-Thurs. 8-5:30, Fri. 8-7, Sat. 8-5 (Closed on Sunday)

David RS Sharp

WE ARE A COMPLETE RETAIL FLOORING STORE

Bulk Pricing Available

Shop

n Knives n Scissors n 4” & 6” Jointer Knives n Electric Clipper Blades n Meat Grinder Knives and Plates n Drill & Wood Bits n Chisels n Hand Saws and more!

For your convenience drop off at Midtown Variety • 15970 E. High • Middlefield

High-Quality Congoleum Linoleum

Bird feeder

• LinoLeum - Armstrong & Congoleum • Laminate - Armstrong & Quick Step Quality • tiLe- Marazzi • VinyL- Konecto Installation • Hardwood - Sheoga Competitive • Carpet & VCT • Floor MaTs Pricing • ClearanCe reMnanT rolls

16 “ x 16” x 19” high Sturdy can hang or place on post Inside 9” x 9” feeding area

Come visit our showroom Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9-5; Sat 9-3

440-632-9600

Crist A. Fisher – 440-632-1957 – 16115 Nauvoo Rd. Middlefield

2

n

15480 Burton Windsor Rd • Middlefield

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Hello from the Amish Crossing Corner

Cross Cut Country Store

By Sarah Miller

• Quality Footwear at Great Prices • Boys’ Back-to-School Pants • Household Items • Lifetime Tables • Horse Supplies • Miscellaneous • LED Bulbs

Nov. 16, 2012: having an all you can eat buffet. That will Well, I guess the rainy season is over as be the first buffet for here. A silent and live we’re having beautiful weather now. auction will follow.

Last week was a very full week. With On Saturday, Nov. 17, we will host the the funeral of neighbor Jake C. Byler, a annual A.F.S. exchange student dinner birthday get together for sister Ellen for the students and their host Detweiler, plus Joe’s brother John parents. They said there would be and wife Esther were our over 91 people coming! We’ll serve =========== night guests on Friday night. a chicken dinner. Neighbor A golfer told his caddie, They came for the funeral.

Crist Slabaugh will give the We are sorry to hear “I’m eager to make this shot. students buggy rides. brother-in-law Eli Kauffman Sunday, Nov. 18, That’s my mother-in-law up needs heart surgery next our family will have our there on the clubhouse porch.” week. They live in Mio, Mich.

Thanksgiving dinner at son He will have his surgery Waynes. in Indiana. Sister Clara is “That’s over 300 yards,” the Neil E. Miller, Tavern recovering from a hard fall Rd. had an suction on caddie said doubtfully, that injured her back and Wednesday, Nov. 14 to sell his “You’ll never hit her neck. We hope she will be able farm tools, cattle and horses, from here!!” to care for Eli. as he is quitting farming. His son Visiting their brother Andy in Abner will take over, Stark County Wednesday evening, Nov. Saturday, Nov. 10, was the annual 14, were Grandpa John, Jonas and Susie. Mrs. Amish Craft Show here, in our Window Shop.

Ada Miller, Albert, Wilmer and Chester Miller, We had around 45 vendors. Our biggest crowd Mahon and Ida Schlabaugh, Eli and Nancy yet! I think most of the vendors were happy Byler and Marvin Hochstetler. It is several with the day. Lunch was also served and there years since Andy’s wife passed away. were fry pies and homemade doughnuts. We Lots of deer hunting is being done. look forward to having it again next year.

Grandson Allen Ray got one and his Dad got You all have a good week and a blessed one later on, too.

Christmas.

We are getting ready for the dinner and

Stay well … auction here tomorrow evening. They are

Chuckle

16161 Nash Rd. • Middlefield • 440-548-2259 (corner of Rt. 528 & Nash Rd.) Monday thru Friday 8-5:30; Saturday 8-4:00

Holiday Chocolate Headquarters!

• Wafers (chocolate and butterscotch) • Block chocolate • White chocolate • Baking supplies • Bulk foods • Grocery items • Kitchenware • Gift ideas and more

Erb’s Variety Store

13924 Bundysburg Rd., Middlefield, OH 44062 440-632-0376

Greetings from Garrettsville

By Rachel Miller

Our Weld is Our Bond

Nov. 16, 2012: Friday evening and we have 40 degrees at 6 p.m. It’s dark already for a half hour or longer now.

We are having nice weather. It goes to 30 degrees or lower at night. The paper says sunshine and in the 50s all week. Maybe this is our Indian Summer.

We did have a few flurries on Monday and some rain, too. We had gone to Holmes County shopping with some of our children and grandchildren. Tuesday, we were visiting at our sister-in-law’s and the rest of Ivan’s brothers and sisters that live there.

I was working on fall cleaning the kitchen this week, so we have the entrance and basement left to do. Tomorrow, granddaughter Rachel comes to help finish the weekly cleaning. I have laundry to do and we have leaves to rake or blow. I’m soaking the rest of my Tupperware tonight in Clorox water so we have that to wash. That makes it nice.

I did some of the cleaning last week. Barbara goes to one of her jobs tomorrow.

Sunday, Marvin Kurtz and we are planning to go to son Allen’s to church. Nov. 19 is Allen

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Let us bring our Metal Weld/Repair Shop to you

Kathryn’s 44th birthday. Dec. 6 is daughter Barbara’s 50th.

Son Rays are coming on Thanksgiving.

Maybe some of the other children will too. We will have turkey and the works. When I was still at home, we never had turkey. We always had chicken. We had our own to butcher.

Dad used to go rabbit hunting. I liked the way Mom made them like a stew. Now, since I have to cook it, I don’t like it.  We don’t usually have any as Ivan is no hunter. He doesn’t care for wild meat, so I don’t have to cook any and that’s good. When our boys were still at home, they used to go hunting once in a while.

Barbara Ann (Mom’s Diary), I hope your feet feel better soon! I had a sore toe (an ulcer underneath the middle toe) for a year or a little longer. It finally healed, but is still a little red or pink. But it doesn’t hurt. Maybe, if I had stayed off my feet better, it would have healed sooner.

Our family will get together at son Ivans on Dec. 15 for our Christmas. Maybe, we’ll have my side here on Christmas Day, if it suits them. It would be my brother and 3 sisters whose families are still at home.

We are a Local Company with several mobile units that handle all metal welding, cutting and fabricating

Please contact us at:

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866-981-8965

Call to schedule your appointment today.

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Huntsburg • 440-636-5300

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hearing evaluations for our Amish neighbors is our specialty!

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

s e p i Rec from the neighbors

Spiced Mixed Nuts

Cranberry Salad

Orange Sugared Pecans

Almond Joy Bars

1 egg white, slightly beaten 1 teaspoon water 8 ounce jar dry roasted peanuts 1/2 cup whole almonds 1/2 cup walnut or pecan halves 3/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

4 large boxes Jell-O 2 red raspberry, 1 lemon, 1 cherry 16 cups boiling water 1 can crushed pineapple 6 oranges, peeled 6 apples, chopped 1 bag cranberries Grapes as desired 3 cups chopped nuts

1 cup brown sugar 3 tablespoons evaporated milk 1 tablespoon butter 1 teaspoon grated orange peel 2 cups pecan halves

2/3 cups sugar 1 cup minus 1 tablespoon Karo 3 tablespoons water 4 cups coconut (less if desired) Melted chocolate 1 cup whole almonds

Submitted by Ellen Hershberger

In a large bowl, combine egg whites & water.

Add nuts and toss to coat.

Combine sugar and spice and sprinkle over nuts. Toss to coat.

Spread coated nuts on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake at 300 degrees for 20 – 25 minutes. Transfer nuts to wax paper, cool and break apart.

Submitted by Sarah Miller

Submitted by Ellen Hershberger

Cook sugar and milk to 234 degrees, stirring occasionally.

Add butter and orange peel and blend well.

Stir in pecans until coated.

Spread on greased cookie sheet.

When the coating is dry, gently break pecan halves apart.

Store in covered container.

Grind oranges and cranberries.

Mix Jell-O with water in a large bowl. Add fruit and nuts. Chill until set and serve.

Clark Bars

Submitted by Ellen Hershberger

Semi Boneless Ham Submitted by Rachel Miller

Here are a few family favorite ways to bake that ham.

1. Put ham in roaster and pour 7-Up over it.

Bake at 350.

2. Put ham in roaster and place pineapple rings on top. Then, mix brown sugar with the pineapple juice and spread over the ham.

Bake at 350.

Submitted by Barbara Ann Detweiler

Submitted by Susan Yoder

1/4 cup butter, melted 1/2 cup karo 1/2 cup brown sugar, more if needed 6 slices bread 6 eggs 1 cup milk Dash of salt Syrup

Mix butter, peanut butter, sugar, vanilla & graham crackers well. Shape into bars.

Dip into melted chocolate and let harden on wax paper.

Mix butter with karo and pour on the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan.

Sprinkle with brown sugar.

Lay bread in bottom of prepared pan.

Beat eggs with milk and salt.

Pour over bread and refrigerate overnight.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. Serve with syrup.

(We love this with brunch and usually serve hash browns and bacon or sausage with it.)

Lines by Linda

By Linda Weaver

Nov. 16, 2012: I’m sure you all noticed that it was trying to snow on Tuesday last. Little patches of white here and there tell us it succeeded somewhat. The ground seems to be white with frost every morning lately, so we know that sooner or later the white stuff will be here to stay. The sun is a beautiful pinkish orange this morning, reflecting those colors on my walls and changing from one moment to the next.

Jake’s siblings were all to Geauga Hospital Monday eve to visit with brother Alan Weaver. He was there because of a lung problem that they thought was pneumonia, but they’re doing more testing. His white blood cell count is elevated also, the main concern at this time.

Also, at the hospital was Eli Troyer, 82. I believe he had pneumonia too, along with other problems. He planned to go home Monday evening.

Brother Alan got a new roommate while we were there. It was none other than Allen J. Byler.

His wife and daughters Sue and Martha were with him. I am not sure what his problem was, except that he had chills during the night.

My niece, Dr. Jamie Byler, her husband Jeremy Kecshl and three daughters recently moved to the Bainbridge area from Akron. She was an OB-GYN at Akron General Hospital and is now affiliated with University Hospital in Cleveland. She’s an assistant professor at Case Western Reserve University … a very busy lady! We are hoping to see more of them now that they’re in this area. She is a daughter of my brother Freeman Jr. and Barb Byler of East Claridon.

Jacob, Marty Ray and Lukas Mast were to their doctor’s in Cleveland last night. Marty Ray has been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. The shots he is taking once a week don’t seem to be helping much yet, but the doctors say it’s a slow process. So, hopefully, we will see a difference before too long. He is enjoying his cards and $$$ and had enough money to but a pony harness.

He has been driving their pony every day since.

I’ve been cleaning my china cabinets and cupboards this week. These dishes have some precious memories involved. It made me think of all my aunts who have given me dishes, and of course, of our dear mothers who have passed away and left us with special memories.

Ida Gingerich (Mrs. Erwin) had surgery on her foot this week. She will be laid up for several weeks. We wish her better days ahead.

We attended a maple seminar in Erie, Pa. last weekend. A very interesting session (at least for the men). We women learned about maple cream and other goodies made from maple syrup.

Every year I think, “This is the best Christmas ever!” But every year it gets better and better!

God’s blessings are wished to everyone this Christmas. Linda Weaver

Combine sugar, water and Karo.

Heat to boiling, add coconut and cook for 3 minutes.

Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper.

Press an almond on top of each.

When cooled, remove from wax paper and dip in chocolate.

Main Dish Taco Salad

Baked French Toast

1 cup butter 1 pound peanut butter 3 teaspoons vanilla 2 1/2 cups XX sugar 1 pound crushed graham crackers Melted chocolate

Submitted by Rachel Miller

Candy from Mandy Hershberger

1 pound hamburger, browned 1 onion, chopped 1 package taco seasoning mix 1 can kidney beans 8 ounce bottle Thousand Island dressing 1/3 cup sugar 1 Tablespoon taco sauce Cook all ingredients together.

Serve with crushed Doritos, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.

Peanut Butter Cups

Submitted by Barbara Ann Detweiler 2 cups peanut butter 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 stick butter or oleo Melted chocolate Mix other ingredients well, and then dip in chocolate.

Submitted by Ellen Hershberger 4 ounces cream cheese 1/4 cup XX sugar 1 cup peanut butter* Melted chocolate

n Coleman Lanterns & Campstoves n H.C. and Lancaster Lanterns

Parts & Repair Service

Mix cream cheese, sugar and peanut butter and form into balls and dip into chocolate. (* 1 cup coconut can be substituted for the peanut butter. E. H.)

Family Shoe Store

n 12 volt L.E.D. Lamps,

Fluorescent Bulbs & Flashlights n Bulk Food William J.S. & Martha Miller

16786 Madison Rd • Middlefield

440-548-5486

One Day Only ~ Dec. 15TH

EXTRA 25% OFF

Men, Women and Children

ALL CLEARANCE Shoes & Boots

Mullet’s Footwear

4853 Kinsman (Rt. 87) Middlefield (1 mile west of Mesopotamia) • 440-693-4363

4

Mom’s Diary

By Barbara Ann Detweiler

Saturday, Nov. 3: John and Andrew went hunting but came home disappointed. The girls did the weekly cleaning.

Sunday, Nov. 4: I went to church for the first time since August. My feet hurt by afternoon, but I’m glad I went. We had visitors tonight – a church family.

Monday, Nov. 5: I went downstairs and did laundry. It’s not too bad if I stay down there and don’t try to go up and down the stairs.

John and some of his friends left for Southern Ohio to do a week’s worth of deer hunting.

Tuesday, Nov. 6: I went to get a few groceries, then went to my cousin Sue Yoder’s (our new Plain Country writer) for the rest of the day. All my cousins gathered there and it made for an interesting, noisy day!  Wednesday, Nov. 7: John called last night and said he got a deer.

Wayne and I went to visit with Dave and Marie Yoder at Yoder Coleman. Dave and Wayne have similar heart problems (arteries closing). It was a very enjoyable evening.

Thursday, Nov. 8: Rose Edna and I went to Maple Lane Furniture and bought a recliner for Wayne for his birthday and Christmas! His special day is Nov. 11.

The children decorated the chair with balloons, signs and blinking lights. When he came in, he was so mesmerized by the hoopla that he didn’t realize the chair was new until he got right up to it.

Friday, Nov. 9: We went to Orchard Knob School’s dinner and auction. I was glad when we got home again for my feet weren’t feeling the best.

Saturday, Nov. 10: John came home from hunting. It was good to see him.

T R OYMillworks ER formerly “The Spindle Shop”

• Balusters Sizes: 1-1/4” and 1-3/4” Lengths: 31”– 48” Designs: Square & Pin Top Species: Oak, Poplar, Maple, Hickory, Ash, other species available • stair Parts • Newels • sPiNdles Andy Troyer, owner 16201 Pioneer Rd. Middlefield 440-636-5577

WROUGHT IRON now available

Amish Home Craft & Bakery

Lots for the last minute shopper...

My great uncle Jake C. Byler’s funeral was today and I couldn’t go because of my feet.

The girls did the work and, tonight, neighbors Tims and Phillips came over with cake, ice cream and snacks for Wayne’s birthday.

Sunday, Nov. 11: Wayne’s birthday. His sister Barbara and Leroy and family came this afternoon.

Monday, Nov. 12: I talked to the rheumatologist today and he wants to see me again. But … I can’t get in until Dec. 21.  Tuesday, Nov. 13: I went to my parents for the day. Sister Elizabeth and sister-in-law Laura were there also.

Wednesday, Nov. 14: Laura went to Holmes County, Ohio to visit some schools and do some shopping.

Norma is sick with a sore throat.

Thursday, Nov. 15: Had a houseful of visitors, my old friends since my teenage years. I really enjoyed the day.

Wayne and the boys went hunting, but no luck.

Friday, Nov. 16: A beautiful day.

Rose Edna did lots of laundry and I did ironing and puttered around some.

My feet hurt terribly and I decided to get an appointment with another doctor for earlier than Dec. 21. I did get one, but that one is only 4 days earlier.

Saturday, Nov. 17: Today was youth day gun season hunting, so Wayne went with Andrew and Andrew managed to shoot his first deer right away this morning. He was so happy! But, I think Wayne was even more excited than Andrew!  Rose Edna had Betty helping her with cleaning, etc. against Betty’s will. She was acting kind of grumpy and huffy, so I told her to get the chip off her shoulder. She immediately looked at her shoulder to see where the chip was, so I explained to her what it means. Soon after, she decided to escape to the outdoors before Rose Edna could give her more to work!  Sunday, Nov. 18: To church, then home and Wayne’s two sisters and hubbies came for a while. Tonight, we went to visit with neighbors David and Christina’s to see the new baby.

Monday, Nov. 19: A nice day. I cut some fabric for new dresses for the girls.

Tuesday, Nov. 20: Went to get groceries, and then suffered some pain for a while.

Wednesday, Nov. 21: There was only a half day of school because some parents are going to Kentucky for Thanksgiving.

Thursday, Nov. 22: Thanksgiving Day. We went down to my parents for the traditional turkey dinner. It was a warm day and sunny.

Friday, Nov. 23: Rose Edna is off on a trip to Lancaster, Pa. with my Mom. She’ll be back Saturday night. This has been a beautiful week but will next week bring snow?

Katherine’s

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Time waits for no man; only 19 days to Christmas! Who’s counting, anyway?

We’ve been richly blessed at Thanksgiving time. We had beautiful weather and fine food. And now, our cup runneth over with turkey in jars in the basement from the over abundance. Now, cold weather will be upon us, a good time for homemade soups and turkey sandwiches?

Granddaughter Rose Edna Detweiler was my partner on a two day trip to Lancaster County, Pa. Told her she’d always remember it, the trip down and back as much as the shopping and the eating. There we go again.

Always talking about food.

We were reminiscing about the tornado that went through here 27 years ago last May. Son Wally is the age hubby was back then. I believe Wally and brother Dan’s wife were the only ones around here injured enough to have to see a doctor. Or did Mary Ann just want to go with Wally? He had a gash in his head from flying glass. Too much pressure in the room.

Only 20 days to Christmas!

Bits and Pieces of Yesterday Submitted by Katherine Byler

April 17, 1986, Burton, Ohio … South Burton News: Elmer Kuepfers of Linwood, Ontario were overnight guests of Levi Millers recently.

Jonas Yoder services at John Shrocks’ last Sunday. Visitors were Raymond R., Samuel R., Abner R. and families (all Millers) and Mose N. Wengerds. Council meeting April 27 at Jonas E. Millers.

A daughter named Barbara was born to Eli L. Yoders.

Mandy Miller (Crist E’s sister) is doing much better. Her incision is healing nicely. Amanda Hershberger and Rebecca Kauffman stayed with Mandy and her sister Sunday so the rest could attend church.

Last Thursday was the wedding of Freeman Gingerich and Ella Miller. Home Bishop Eli Yoder performed the ceremony. Attendants were Owen R. Miller and Edna A. Miller. Bishop Felty Gingerichs and Andy Gingerichs of Sparty attended. The newlyweds moved on Saturday to their new home.

S. Troy services at Reuben Bylers’ past Sunday. Visiting ministers were Albert R. Schmuckers of Guys Mills Pa., and Deacon Joe Mast. Others were Ervin T. Yoder family, Joe J. Millers, Jake R. Millers of Guys Mills, Noah J. Millers, Allen J. Hershberger’s, Ervin A. and Andy E. Bylers and Eli G. Kurtzes.

Council meeting April 27 at Robert W. Detweilers’ on Nash Road. Ervin Yoders had supper with Esther M. and her brothers before they went home to Pennsylvania.

Later callers with Esther were Andy Troyers, Andy J. Millers and Erwin Weaver of Hartville.

Mrs. Dan E. Yoder of Bridge Road. Budget Scribe had a heart attack Monday morning and is a hospital patient since.

Eli Burkholder (78) also had a heart attack lately and the doctor says, “slow down” as he has some damage.

Mrs. John J. Miller

One-of-a-Kind Handcrafted Items Oak, Cherry, Br. Maple & Hickory Furniture A Treasure Today...

May 9, 1986, Middlefield, Ohio … Chipmunk Road: Sons were born to Mahlon J. Millers and to Mark D. Gingerichs, their first. Grands are Bishop Dan Gingerichs and James A. Millers. Daughters to Eli H. Bylers and Albert E. Millers.

New patients in Geauga Hospital are Ada Y. Hostetler and Alma Sue Miller. Ada had surgery last Tuesday.

Andrew D. Miller, 50, of Swine Creek Road died Sunday in Geauga Hospital of a heart attack. He leaves his wife Lydiann Troyer whom he married on Nov. 19, 1953. Also leaves his four sons, five daughters, three bothers, three sisters and his father Dan D. Miller. Services will be held at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday. Burial will be at the Bundysburg Amish Cemetery.

Published to be married are Roy J. Yoder and Erma Troyer of Holmes County. Wedding date set May 22 at the bride’s home.

Also published were Andy A. Miller on Hayes Road and Amanda W. Byler on Donley Road; Bill D. Gingerich on Georgia Road and Susan A. Miller on Madison Road; Lester Byler on Clay Road and Lorena Shetler on Kinsman Road.

Thursday visitors with Eli D. Detweilers of West Farmington were Eli G. and Gid G. Detweilers, Anna Weaver and girls, Jake J. Bylers and children, John S. Yoder and son, Elizabeth Detweiler, Dan M. Detweilers. Also Enos Detweilers and children of Bloomfield.

Mrs. Gid Detweiler

An Heirloom Tomorrow

A quilt would make a great Christmas gift!

Cutting Boards • Candles • Soaps Stocking Stuffers Homemade Candies Be sure to enter the drawing for our Christmas Bakery Give-Away Basket

16860 Kinsman Rd.(Rt. 87) Open Daily 9am - 4:30pm Bakery Available Daily – Will Do Special Orders!

Nauvoo Rd. Rt. 87

Rt. 528

440-632-1888 (Let Ring)

And Much, Much More

Rt. 608

Amish Home Craft & Bakery

• Bedrooms • Living Rooms • Dining Rooms • Curios • Bookcases • Cedar Chests • Hickory Rockers • Children’s Furniture • Computer Desks

Korner

By Katherine M. Byler

We tend to know a bit about how a tornado acts and what to do.

In all the cleaning up at the John Weaver home after the tornado, rats were seen scurrying. Son John says someone was threatening to throw them at my brother Allen. This was outside, not in the house. Some memories are best forgotten.

Was unhappy to hear widow Mrs. Andy Ida Byler was not so well recently with her heart ailment. We missed her at the Senior Center.

Mrs. Joe Sara Miller (widow) was back with us last time, a tough cookie, seemingly.

We have new neighbors just north of us, where Nelson and Ellen Byler lived. (They moved south of Farmington on Doty Road.)

The new neighbors are newlyweds David (Melvin) and Rebecca Yoder. Their new home is the house her folks, the Joe Hostetlers built and lived in until Rebecca was probably 6 years old. (Wonder how far off I am.)

Poinsettia season is upon us. My two year old lost all its leaves and was pitched. My one-year-old plant is looking good, if the bracts start turning red now. Was gifted with two brand new plants, making it look like Christmas. Now we can say, “Let it snow; let it snow!”

Wishing everyone a peaceful, prayerful Holiday Season!

16403 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield • 440-632-0248 (One Mile East of Rt. 608)

www.countrysidefurnishings.com Mon-Sat 8am-5pm; Fri ‘til 6pm; Closed Sunday

5

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Bookmobile News

Books in Review

By Jane Attina

By Jacquie Foote

“The Dawn of Christmas” by Cindy Woodsmall was published by WaterBrook Press, Colorado Springs, Colorado, copyright 2012.

This is the third in what could be called the Christmas in Apple Ridge series. The Plain Community of Apple Ridge, Pa. was first introduced in Cindy Smallwood’s enchanting “The Sound of Sleigh Bells”.

In her first two Apple Ridge Christmas books, Cindy Woodsmall wrote of the folly of those who lie to try to save others pain. In this book, however, she deals with one who lies to cover his own wrongdoing. She also considers what would make someone who has accepted Baptism in the Amish faith consider leaving.

The story revolves around Sadie Yoder and Levi Fisher. The day before her wedding, Sadie finds out Daniel, her husband-to-be, is not to be trusted to keep his commitment. Daniel denies any wrongdoing and no one but her dad believes Sadie’s reason for breaking her engagement. All this begins to erode Sadie’s faith in the way of life she has chosen. Levi Fisher, on the other hand, on a single piece of evidence, has come to the conclusion that no woman is to be trusted.

These two meet when, late one evening, Sadie, dressed in blue jeans and without a kapp, goes out for a horseback ride (not at all what a baptized Amish woman should be doing) and comes across Levi who has been thrown from his horse and is badly injured. Even in this situation Levi is able to match Sadie’s quick wit and mischievous sense of humor with his own and a friendship springs up.

In each of her Apple Ridge books, Cindy Woodsmall crafts characters … those central to her story and those only peripheral … so believable and rounded that you take it for granted they are real people. She presents the Amish culture sympathetically and with care. This book does have more anomalies than the others … such as confusing a halter with a harness and a buggy with a carriage.

These slips do not make the book less enjoyable. The story is captivating and the characters are handled honestly. Because of the nature of the characters, there is more humor in this book than in the others. Cindy has produced another excellent read for anyone reading at the sixth grade level or above.

It is hard to believe that December is here already and soon we will be ushering in a new year! Does it seem like the older one gets the faster the years go by? It certainly does to me. As I prepare for the upcoming Holiday Season, I try not to let the commercialism that surrounds us everywhere take away from the real reason for the season. Christmas Day is celebrated as a major festival and public holiday in countries around the world. There are countries in which Christmas is not a formal public holiday and these include China, (excepting Hong Kong and Macao), Japan, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Thailand, Iran, Turkey and North Korea. Christmas celebrations around the world can vary markedly in form, reflecting differing cultural and national traditions.

Personally, I most enjoy being able to spend time with all of my family. Everyone young and old comes together to reflect on the past, share what is new and plans for the future. Watching the grandchildren all playing together can sometimes make my head spin! Oh, if only I had their energy I think to myself!

While browsing the internet I found this quote about the month of December that I really liked. (I recognized the author as the writer of the children’s book Peter Pan.) “God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.” ~ James Matthew Barrie.

This month we are featuring books written by Suzanne Woods Fisher a best selling author of Amish fiction and non-fiction books.

Her interest in the Amish began with her grandfather, who was raised Plain in Franklin County, Pa. She travels back east a couple of times each year for research. For fun, too.

Suzanne has a great admiration for the Plain people and believes they provide wonderful examples to the world. Her books reflect her belief that you don’t have to “go Amish” to incorporate many of their principles into your life, principles such as: simplicity, living with less, appreciating nature, forgiving others more readily, trusting in God. When Suzanne isn’t writing, playing tennis (badly!), or bragging to her friends about her grandbabies, she is raising puppies for guide dogs for the blind. To her way of thinking, you just can’t take life too seriously when a puppy is tearing through your house with someone’s underwear in its mouth.

Coffee Break With Sue

By Susan Yoder

By now, we’re probably all part of the hustle, bustle of this busy time. Let’s remember the reason for the season.

It’s such an enjoyable time with school programs, gift exchanges, family gatherings, singing the beautiful Christmas Carols that we’ve always known, making memories …

Daughter Regina and co-teacher Maria are busy practicing for their program. (It’s always a relief for them when it’s over and for the students, too!)

On Nov. 17, most of the Yoders gathered at Dad Yoder’s near Mt. Hope. It was for Thanksgiving and Christmas together before Dads leave for their winter home in Florida.

We probably won’t see them until spring.

Haven’t heard how my aunts are doing. I know Martha spent a day at her granddaughter Susan’s. She is back in her own home again;

someone stays with her.

Baby news is a son, Micah Jesse to Bill and Susan Hershberger. Grands are Jonas Gingeriches and Albert Hershberger and great is my aunt Barbara Byler from Michigan, formerly of Parkman.

Henry Frey has plans to winter in Florida; I am sure the family will miss him. We’ll miss him in church.

Well, we’ve now caught five (!) mice. Hubby thinks we have ‘em all. Is he being optimistic?

Or is it more like “ignore it; it might go away”?

We shall see.

Hope you all have a nice Christmas and a blessed New Year! Let’s remember those less fortunate and those having their first Christmas without a loved one.

See y’all next year!

Suzanne’s books are very popular in our library and her new children’s series, “The Adventures of Lily Lapp”, co-written with Mary Kinsinger, is proving to be a favorite of our patrons both young and old. “Life with Lily” is the first book in the ‘Adventures of Lily Lapp’ series. Lily is six in this story, just starting first grade in a one-room schoolhouse in upstate New York. Her parents are busy building a farm and soon animals join the family— Jenny the cow and Chubby the miniature horse. A baby brother arrives, too, which Lily has mixed feelings about. (She wanted a sister!) Aside from a mischievous friend like Mandy Mast, Lily is happy at school and even happier at home. But trouble is brewing at the schoolhouse and change is on the horizon for Lily and her family.

The second book in the series will be out in early 2013 and is titled, “A New Home for Lily”. It tells of the challenges that Lily faces when her parents move to a new home in Pennsylvania. She has to make new friends, settle into her new home—which she thinks is ugly—and adjust to another new baby brother. (Still no sisters!) Even worse, a boy at school, Aaron Yoder, enjoys tormenting her.

There are some bright spots about Lily’s new home—she has a wonderful teacher, and her relatives have moved close by. But there are a few lessons Lily needs to learn about starting over.

The bookmobile has special coloring pages, word scrambles, crossword puzzles and even recipes featuring Lily and her family.

Additional titles by Suzanne Woods Fisher include: “The Lancaster County Series”, “Stoney Ridge Seasons Series” and coming in the future, the “Eagle Hill Series” and the “Petticoat Row Series”.

Suzanne also writes non-fiction books including: “Amish Proverbs”, “Amish Values for Your Family”, “Amish Peace: Simple Wisdom for a Complicated World”.

The bookmobile would be happy to order any of these titles for you, just ask on your next visit.

Happy reading from the Bookmobile.

Please Note …

During the holidays the bookmobile will be off of the road on Dec. 24 and 25 and also Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.

Have a happy and safe Holiday Season.

Nutrient Dense Gardening

By Daniel Fisher

Let’s keep going with the necessary minerals.

Calcium: Some potential benefits of calcium may include improved soil structure, stimulated growth of soil microbes and earthworms, mobilization of nutrients into the plant, increased nitrogen utilization and protein content, increased root growth, leaf growth, cell wall building and cell division.

Calcium promotes enzyme functions, increases sugar levels and enhances overall plant health, resulting in higher quality grain or fruit.

Calcium is the main element to provide resistance against the organic acids in the soil, thereby creating the energy to grow a crop.

Until next time.

It is getting close to Christmas again, so you need to buy those new scooters for you and your children while supplies last. The old style scooter (bottom right) is getting harder to get. We can hold your purchase until closer to Christmas to help you surprise the lucky recipient. We have 12”, 14”, 16”, 20” and 26” wheels. Give us, CountrySide Bicycling, a call at 440-487-5018.

Daniel C. Fisher is proprietor of D & S Farm & Garden Supply LLC, 4738 Gates Road, Middlefield.

For more information or clarification call his voice mail at 440-693-4632.

6

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Greetings from the Plain Community

By Donnie Miller

Nov. 17, 2012: Such nice sunshine as I write my letter this morning. I’m sure we are all wondering what this winter will bring.

Must think if we have fuel to stay warm, food to eat, family to enjoy … what more is there to ask for?

Visiting with Dave Troyer Lizzie Ann one evening recently were Ken and Sara, Dan and Katie, John and Becky, John and Martha, John and Sue and ourselves. Ben Troyers and Norman Millers also joined us.

Lizzie Ann is our oldest Amish Lady in the community and will be 96 years old on Dec. 12. She is still in fair health, but cannot see very well and must have long days. She lives with her daughter Betty and Ben, and is well

taken care of.

Mrs. Dan Wengerd Nancy spent a few days in Geauga Hospital with a cough and breathing problems.

We have many sick people within the community and our thoughts are with all that are suffering over the holidays. A thought: a letter, or a short visit, or a phone call can help those who do not have many things to look forward to.

Another thought … pick out a needy family and buy needed things to make their load a little lighter over the Christmas season.

Also … welcome to our new scribe, Mrs. Yoder.

Tell Me a Story

Submitted by Sarah Miller Years ago, a young lady with a beautiful voice was told to never come back by the family music teacher, although the girl had the most beautiful voice the teacher had ever heard. When he was asked why she was asked never to return, the teacher responded, “Oh, she is just a machine.

Some day, something will happen to break her heart and then she will sing.”

This young lady became a great concert singer of a mechanical type with perfect control and enunciation. She got married, but it was disappointing and it broke her heart. She lost her home, her husband and her love. But, in it she discovered a new spirit and a new appeal to the thousands that came to hear her.

Now, when she sang, thousands would weep without embarrassment or shame. It was the anguish of the singer that made the sweetness of the music. She had been in and out of the storm and had become a new person, a person with a soul and heart that related to the audience.

The real moral fiber of character and integrity is revealed in the tests of life. If you are having troubles, as hard as it is to believe, it may be the very best thing that could be happening to you.

For, out of troubles, God may make you to be a person you never could be if everything were ideal and perfect and free from difficulties.

Parkman Pathways

By Ellen Hershberger

Monday, Nov. 5: My eye surgery is cancelled for this morning and so I’m just being spoiled and enjoying my 70th birthday.

Tuesday, Nov. 6: There are a bunch of errands to run, and then tonight, I was taken out for my birthday. My, I could get used to this.

Wednesday, Nov. 7: Our mother’s sisters are here from Michigan and New York. Some nieces and nephews joined them for lunch at Joe and Sara’s.

Thursday, Nov. 8: In between work duties, we took time out for our regular spaghetti special.

Friday, Nov. 9: I woke up with my head scrunched in a crazy way in the corner of the pillow. As the day progressed, pain in my neck, arm and shoulder increased.

Saturday, Nov. 10: Ouch! Ouch! I didn’t want to turn my head or do anything at all!

But I managed to get the daily dozens done … begrudgingly.

Sunday, Nov. 11: Church was at Noah’s for Andy Byler. Several of the family cracked, rubbed and massaged my neck and back, and I’m still miserable.

We enjoyed supper at Andy Bylers.

Monday, Nov. 12: Work duty called and I had two 4 year olds for the day. After a hot soak in the tub, there was finally relief! Thank GOD! Tuesday, Nov. 13: Sister and I mixed some baby-sitting with lunch out and errands in town.

The singers were to Mrs. Emma Miller’s on 608 in Middlefield. Such a happy, blessed time!

Wednesday, Nov. 14: Sister and I had good chiropractor treatments and have much

Howdy from West Farmington

By Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler

Nov. 15, 2012: I am a little nervous since I got a letter from Jacquie Foote saying she’d like my letter to be sent in sooner because of Barb Fontanelle going in for back surgery, she being the owner of the Middlefield Post /Plain Country. Barb, we hope your surgery goes well!

This is a very busy time, getting ready for a group of 32 people coming here tomorrow for a Thanksgiving dinner, so I’ll have to make this short …

I also took 3 hours off today to go along to help daughter-in-law Marty Lori and children go to Whispering Pine School. The mothers took a Thanksgiving feast to the school for the children and teachers. Marty Jr. started his first year of school. This gave us a good chance to visit his school.

Tuesday night, some of us took supper over to widower Sams Johns Joe and son Benji for Joe’s 72nd birthday on Oct. 31. Going were Preacher Crist J. S. and Barbara Ann Millers, Robert Stutzmans, Bill Stutzman, Daniel and Martha Fisher, Plain Country Scribe Joe and Katherine Bylers, Daniel (Junior) and Sara Ann Bylers of Guys Mills (who brought their delicious homemade ice cream from their own dairy herd) and us. Mark and Ida Mae Moore came over later.

The “Sudden Death” group planned to visit him Wednesday night. Don’t know who all will be there, except Bill J. S. Millers, Enos Barkmans, Bishop Dan Fishers, etc.

It was nice to see Mrs. Josiah Anna Mary Miller feeling better Monday night when some of us went over to sing. She is doctoring cancer. They live with their son Allen and Kathy Millers who have a beautiful invalid daughter Betty who has the biggest smile, though she could never walk, being in a wheelchair all her life. There were sons Johns, Marty, Dan Troyer, Dan Kurtz, Eli and Alta Bylers, Andy and Edna Fishers, Joe and Laurie Detweiler, Norman and Miriam Miller and us.

Christmas is just around the corner and I have a feeling I won’t be ready. Time goes so fast and before we know it, it’s here!

Our English friends will be here soon to take us up to Mespo. The Commons Store and get our supper there. What a treat!! I won’t have to cook!

Mel and Maurine Shetlers, Preacher Andy D. A. and Ida Millers, Deacon Mike and Emma Slaubaughs, Alvin and Marie Erb, and Rudy and I visited our great aunt, Mrs. Joe Barbara Miller, age 94, in Brown City, Mich., last week. She is a sister to John Shetler (Grandpa) deceased. She has a very sharp mind yet, always enjoyable to listen to her long ago stories of Grandpa, etc.

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relief!

Cooking at Brooks this afternoon was on the schedule and then on to a 72-hour shift.

Thursday, Nov. 15: Co-worker Lydia is flying off to New Mexico for the very special occasion of her oldest niece’s wedding.

Friday, Nov. 16 – Saturday, Nov. 17: Friend Kathleen had a very challenging week what with falling and is again at the hospital.

Sunday, Nov. 18: I slept (what else?) quite a bit today. The family rode in buggies tonight to Peters Road to sing for ailing Roman Troyer.

Monday, Nov. 19: This was a regular workday.

Tuesday, Nov. 20: Lydia is back and I headed home this morning, stopping at various places. I was not worth much as far as work goes … too tuckered out. So, I enjoyed my mail and the “little people” here.

Wednesday, Nov. 21: “If dandelions bloom in fall, there will be no winter at all.”

Is thus true? There are dandelions in the back yard … and mice and rats in the entrance and cellar. We have caught 4 rats and 3 mice. I still hear noises! Gross!

I whiled away my time today taking naps, chatting and baking desserts for tomorrow.

Thursday, Nov. 22: Thanksgiving Day, 2012!

How did November go by so fast?

We enjoyed turkey dinner … and it was a nice day to finish raking leaves.

Thank one and all for the beautiful birthday cards, notes and gifts. To date, I have received 146 cards!

Our prayers are for Barb Fontanelle, owner of the Post/Plain Country as she goes in for back surgery.

We thank GOD for everything.

By Barbara Ann Detweiler

A son, Adam, to David and Christina Miller. Grandparents are Dave C. Millers and Robert H. Millers.

Allen Byler III was in a buggy when he was hit by a car from behind. The buggy was smashed to bits and Allen was life flighted. But it turned out to be nothing serious and he was sent home again.

stock Ready for delivery!

Joe’s Vinyl Window Shop • 15020 Shedd Rd., Burton

7

Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Hello from Huntsburg

Thoughts of Christmas

By William Bender

Nice weather we are having. I wouldn’t mind if it stays all winter. Better than the usual cold of winter. When I was a boy, we didn’t have running water. A lot of mornings when it was cold, there would be ice in the water pail.

Sometimes the dipper was frozen in the pail.

The elk hunters came back. Billy and David Yoder each got one, David a 5 X 5 and Billy a 3 x 4. Crists are eating elk! They had 300 pounds of meat to take care of.

Danny Ray came to make his home with Danny and Susan Miller. Dan and Martha Miller and Mrs. Roman Mullet are the grandparents.

The only great is Mrs. Enos Miller Sara.

Write about Christmas? … Well, it comes a lot faster than it did when I was a school kid, or so it seems. We always had a Christmas play at school house … something to look forward to. We sang a lot of Christmas Carols. At home, we used to set plates, and, Christmas morning, we had fruit and candy on the plate and a small gift. That was one morning Dad didn’t have to wake us. We were out of bed early, but Dad did still have to remind us we had chores to do. Now, Christmas is just another day.

Thursday, Dec. 25, 1952: Joe Schmuckers and Joe Millers here for dinner. They got us a cuckoo clock. Reuben feeling some better. Colder, snow flurries.

You may not be aware of me, Amidst the celebrations.

You’ll have to look beyond the stores, and all the decorations.

Sugar, flour, eggs and butter, Mixing bowls and wooden spoon.

Round and round we turn the batter, We’ll have dough to roll out soon.

Friday, Dec. 25, 1953: Were all at Joe Schmuckers for Christmas.

Uria’s Dan and Sam went along with Sam and Reuben to Crawford. Then Sam went home. (*This is Andy’s Sam from Delaware.)

But, if you take a moment, From your list of things to do, And listen to your heart, you’ll find, I’m waiting there for you.

Cut the cookies with the cutters, Diamonds, circles, crescent moons, Pop them all into the oven, One December afternoon.

Saturday, Dec. 25, 1954: Christmas Day, were at Melvins. Reuben went back to Crawford this p.m. It was a nice day.

Children all at home this evening.

You’re the one I want to be with, You’re the reason that I came.

And you’ll find me in the stillness, As I’m whispering your name.

A Blessing to Remember

What a blessing to remember, at this season of the year, All the gifts that God has given … friends and family so dear.

Sunday, Dec. 25, 1955: Noah and I out home. Reubens had a roast turkey there. Dans and Ervins also there.

Warmer.

Love, Jesus (This is from an old Christmas card. I think it’s very heartwarming. SY)

Most of all we think of Jesus and the joy that comes again,

Tuesday, Dec. 25, 1956: Noah, Tillie, Becky and I were out home.

Snow on the ground, damp and cold.

– chuckle –

When we hear the Angels’ Message, “Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men!”

Eddie had such a miserable toothache he thought he was going to die. “What can I do to relieve this suffering!” he asked a friend.

“I’ll tell you what I do,” his friend said.

“When I have a toothache or any other kind of pain, I go to my wife. She puts her arms around me and caresses and soothes me until I forget all about the pain.”

“Gee, that sounds like a wonderful ides,” Eddie said, “Is she home now?”

I Believe...

That even when you think you have no more to give, When a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help.

When I remember Christmas, I remember how nice and warm the house was and how good it smelled, and what the tree looked like.

My Dad kept the big coal fired furnace in the basement well fed. It did the best it could and we wore sweaters to be comfortable. But, at special times like the Christmas season, he would light the gas heater in the fireplace and, with this additional heat, most of the apartment we lived in was toasty warm.

Starting the second week in December, my Aunt Wanda, who lived with us, spent many an evening baking a stream of Christmas cookies … none of which I was permitted to touch. She baked the cookies as gifts for her friends. (To be fair, I was allowed to eat the broken ones. And, I suspect, she made sure there were plenty of those.)

But, especially, I remember the Christmas tree. We always waited to get a tree until Christmas Eve; that was when the prices came down. After dinner, off we went to the neighborhood gas stations and vacant lots to hunt us a tree. (Organizations like the Boy Scouts sold trees in the vacant lots.) There were always at least a few nice ones left to choose from and, although my parents were considering the money, I was looking for that special tree we would rescue from the cold darkness to give a home and a beautiful purpose.

My Dad carried the chosen tree to our apartment and fitted it into the base he had made for it.

That always seemed a long process, likely because the boxes of our treasured ornaments my Dad had brought up from the storage room in the basement were lined up waiting to be opened and the special beauties they contained revealed. They were mostly fragile glass Santas and birds and fanciful spheres and stars. I was told many had come from Europe “before the War” (WWII) and could never be replaced, so I handled them almost with reverence. There were also hand made ornaments, some made by me, some by my cousin Helene. These were treated with the same respect as the others.

First came the lights. Stringing them was my Dad’s job as the skin of his hands was tough enough to withstand the pricks of the pine needles. Then came the ornaments, including the special star that graced the very top of the tree. Finally stings of tinsel were draped.

Except for a brief testing of the lights, the tree stayed dark until Christmas morning when its lights were turned on for the entire 12 days of Christmas to celebrate the coming of Jesus, the Light of the world.

WILL BUY ALL TYPES HORSES & PONIES

Merry Christmas

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Home: 330-702-1832 Cell: 330-719-5980

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9900 SR 534 • Middlefield • 440-693-4380

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If you look for Me at Christmas, You won’t need a special star.

I’m no longer just in Bethlehem, I’m right there where you are.

Clidder, cladder baking tins, Cookie cutters, rolling pins.

Christmas cookies, Let’s begin.

Mom’s 5-year Diary on Christmas …

By Jacquie Foote

ROOFING & SIDING

Submitted by Susan Yoder

Christmas Cookies

Remembering Christmas

HERSHBERGER

If You Look for Me at Christmas

By Mrs. Rudy Kathryn Detweiler

8

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Plain Country | December 5, 2012

Local Amish Business Directory If you are an amish business and want to be included on our map, call kim 330-389-0094

Rt 322 East to ORWELL

Rt 88 South to Garrettsville

AMISH BakerIES 1. Amish Home Craft Shop 16860 Kinsman Rd. 44062 440-632-1888 2. Countryside Home Bakery 17075 Mumford Rd. 44021 440-834-0776 AMISH CRAFTSMEN 3. C A Miller Custom Woodworking 17090 Jug Rd. 44021

440-834-1540 36. Joe’s Window Shop

15028 Shedd Rd. 44021

440-834-0326 40. Mast Metal Sales

13828 Bundysburg Rd. 44062

440-632-0093 7. Triple S Construction

14409 Grove Rd. 44231

330-569-4825 • 330-569-7032 5. Troyer Millworks 16201 Pioneer Rd. 44062 440-636-5577

6. Windsor Stairs And Millwork 7418 N. Wiswell Rd. 44099 440-272-5157 Furniture | fabrics 9. Country Side Furnishings 16403 Nauvoo Rd. 44062 800-819-6160 • 440-632-0248 www.countrysidefurnishingsohio.com GROCERY | Salvage 10. B & K Salvage

5515 Kinsman Rd. 44062

440-693-4617 15. Nauvoo Family Market 15979 Nauvoo Rd. 44062 440-632-5584 Health | Organic 17. D & S Farm & Garden Supplies

4738 Gates East Rd. 44062 440-693-4632 www.dandsfarmandgarden.com

9

Rental | REPAIR | SUPPLIES 25. David RS Sharp Shop 15480 Burton Windsor Rd. 44062 • 440-632-9600 SHOES | BOOTS | VARIETY 29. Cross Cut Country Store 16161 Nash Rd. 44062 440-548-2259 30. M & W Coleman 16786 Madison Rd. 44062 440-548-5486 38. Mullet’s Harness Shop

16138 Newcomb Rd. 44062

440-632-1527 20. Mullet’s Footwear & Country Cedar

4853 Kinsman Rd. 44062 440-693-4363 21. Pine Craft Storage Barns 13650 Madison Rd. 44062 440-632-0174 34. River Valley Coleman & Variety

9900 SR. 534. 44062

440-693-4380