{AMISH COMMUNITY NEWS}Vol. 2 No.12 December 1, 2010

Our next issue of Plain Country is Jan. 26. Deadline for submissions is Monday, Jan. 10. Advertising deadline is Monday, Jan 24. Please send the information that you’d like to share with Plain Country

to P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062. You may also call 440-632-0782 or fax to 440-834-8933.

Christmas TodayBy Sarah Miller

This issue is about Christmas. Our family gathering plans are to get together at Joe Jr’s. on Christmas Day. The women might have a Chinese gift exchange, the men also, unless they decide to exchange names. The children exchange names. After dinner and gifts are exchanged, we usually sing a while. Everyone brings snacks along to pass. But, most of all, let’s all remember the reason for this Christmas season.

Christmas as a Little BoyBy William Bender

We just couldn’t wait and the time went so slow. We didn’t get what the children get today. We always had a Christmas play at school and always drew names in school for gifts. Then my sisters started to get married. Then we always got together, but not always on Christmas day.

Merry Christmas f rom our homes t o yours!

Christmas on 93rd StreetBy Jacquie Foote

Money was never an issue at Christmastide at our house. My Mom and my Aunt Wanda who lived with us saved up all year to make sure it wasn’t. Christmas day started with church followed by a light breakfast. Then we gave and received the gifts that lay in beautiful wrappings under the tree. The gift I remember best was wonderful only because it was more a gift to the quiet man who made it than it was to me, who received it.

A man, a veteran wounded in the Second World War, had rented a small shop near us and opened a handmade toy store. He made and displayed in his window a wooden bench that played a tune when you rocked in it. But he could not sell it as people in our neighborhood had to spend their money carefully and could buy only his smallest, least expensive toys. And Mom felt sorry for him. Since if she bought that mammy’s bench she would be spending every penny she had saved up for gifts, she asked us if it would be all right to buy it. And, so, under the tree that year was a beautiful mammy’s bench that only I could fit into. The wood was finished to a satin gloss and was too uncomfortable for me to sit in it for long.

But we kept it, and Mom polished it weekly and thought often of the quiet man who made it. (He had closed his store after that Christmas and moved on.) Eventually we gave it as a gift to the youngest daughter of a

neighbor family. It fit her just fine.

Snowman drawn by

Katherine Detweiler (age 10)

Winter SnowBy Laura Detweiler

Wake up in the morning and what do you know?All you can see is snow, snow, snow!Hurry; get dressed and then let’s play.We’re all so glad there’s snow today!

Plain Country December 1, 2010

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{AMISH COMMUNITY NEWS}

Publisher: the FONTANELLE group incEditorial Coordinators: Jacquie Foote and Joe & Sarah Miller

Staff Writers: Katherine M. Byler, Barbara Ann Detweiler and Donnie MillerContributing Writers: William Bender, Daniel Fisher, Ellen Hershberger, Rachel Miller and Linda Weaver

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062Phone: 440-632-0782 • 440-834-8900 • 800-259-5869 • Fax: 440-834-8933

Published Every Three Weeks – Free of ChargeSubscriptions are available for $25 per year

In This Issue ...Birthdays .......................................................................02Bits and Pieces of Yesteday ....................................02Bookmobile News .....................................................08Books in Review .........................................................08Children’s Immunization Clinics ...........................02Greetings from Garrettsville ..................................06Greetings from the Plain Community ................02Hello from Amish Crossing Corner ......................06Hello from Huntsburg ..............................................08Hunter’s Diary .............................................................07Katherine’s Korner .....................................................05Lines by Linda .............................................................06Mom’s Diary ................................................................05Nutrient Dense Gardening .....................................06Parkman Pathways ....................................................07Recipes ..........................................................................03Seasonal Influenza Immunizations ....................02Spotlight on Hershberger’s Housewares ..........04Wanted ..........................................................................02

Greetings from the Plain CommunityBy Donnie Miller

Children’s Immunization ClinicsGeauga 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 CLINIC – Second Wednesday, Dec. 8 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Clinic will be held at St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Rd. (Route 87 east), Middlefield.Third Wednesday, no clinic in Dec.Third Thursday, Dec. 16 from 3 to 6 p.m. Clinic will be held at St. Lucy Mission, 16280 Kinsman Rd. (Route 87 east), Middlefield.NEWBURY TOWNSHIP CLINIC – Wednesday, Dec. 22 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Clinic will be held at Grace Evangelical Bible Church, 14951 Auburn Rd., Newbury.TROY TOWNSHIP CLINIC – Wednesday, Dec. 15 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Clinic will be held at Troy Community Center 13950 Main Market, east of Route 700

Happy Birthday!!

Seasonal Influenza Vaccinations The Geauga County Health District will continue to offer seasonal influenza vaccinations on

Friday mornings from 8:30 until 11 a.m. at 470 Center St., Building 8, Chardon. These clinics are walk -in clinics; no appointment is necessary. These clinics are open to anyone 19 years and older. Pregnant women must have a signed order from their obstetrician. The charge for a flu shot is $25. If you have traditional Medicare Part B, there is no charge,

Any child six months to 18 years of age can receive a flu shot at the children’s immunization clinics. There is no charge for children at these clinics.

If you have any questions, please call the health department at 440- 279-1950.5515 Kinsman Rd. • Middlefield, Ohio 44062

(4 miles east of Middlefield • 2.5 miles west of Mesopotamia)Monday - Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Saturday 8:00am-3:00pm

B & K Salvage

• Groceries • Health and Beauty Items

• General Merchandise

• Rainbow Laundry

Detergent

We have enjoyed the most pleasant fall weather, and we hope everyone else has also. Our hopes are that the winter will not be as harsh, cold and windy as it sometimes is. We will try to be as thankful when the weather is cold and dreary as we are when it is nice!

By the time this is printed, Thanksgiving will be past. Hope everyone enjoyed their families and was thankful that we still are able to live in a free country where we can serve our God as we see fit. Do we take our freedom, health, family and every blessing for granted? We sure hope not!

The Dan E. Miller family traveled to Munfordville, Ky. over Thanksgiving. Mom Mrs. Albert Troyer Katie also went along. Dans have two sons living in Kentucky, Davids and Daniel Jrs. They traveled by chartered buses.

Weddings in our area are almost past. There are still a few now and then here, but in Lancaster. Pa., November is the start of the wedding season. It used to be that all their weddings were in the month of November, but with the larger community, now their weddings start in November and last into the new year.

Eli M. Byler, aged 52, was not feeling well and was checked out by a doctor. He was sent to Hillcrest hospital and underwent a heart catherization. On Friday, Nov. 12, a defibrillator/pacemaker was put in. We hope he feels better. Let’s keep him and his family in our prayers.

Dec. 1 Mrs. Harvey (Sarah) Weaver Jr. (34)Dec. 1 Atlee Fisher (54)Dec. 1 Mrs. (Joe) Emma Weaver (80)Dec. 3 Ray Slaubaugh (46)Dec. 3 Mrs. (John) Arlene Shrock (54)Dec. 3 Mrs. (Nathan) Miriam Stutzman(29)Dec. 5 Mrs. John Kathy Byler (29)Dec. 5 Mrs. Jonathan (Katherine) Byler(29)Dec. 6 Barbara Miller (48)Dec. 7 Mrs. Menno (Martha) Miller (64)Dec. 7 Elmer Dan Yoder (69)Dec. 8 Mrs. (Allen) Mary Miller (42)Dec. 9 Allen J. Miller (58)Dec. 10 Mrs. Chester (Linda) HershbergerDec. 12 Marcia D. Burkholder (8)Dec. 13 John Byler (35)

Welshfield, Ohio Oct. 31, 1892

Bits and Pieces from the Past

Thanks to all who sent in birthday announcments and other information for us to share with the community.

17071 Tavern Rd. (Rt. 168), Middlefield • 440-548-2657Open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm • Closed Tues & Sun

Picnic Tables: Octagon & Straight 5’ to 8’ • Arbors • Gliders • Adirondack Chairs & Benches Swings • 4 Sizes of Wishing Wells • Mini-Bridges • 6 - 16-Ft. Bridges • Screened Gazebos & More!

& Custom orders WelCome!

Cornhole GamesTeam Colors

5 Total Colors

gift certificates

available!

Where cabinets are a work of art!

Since 197717090 Jug Street, Burton 44021 • 440-834-1540

Mon.-Fri. 7:00am to 4:30pm • Sat. by appointment only

Kitchens • Entertainment Centers • Bathrooms

Submitted by Sarah Miller

So far we had nice weather to husk corn and dig potatoes. Husking bees are numerous.

Andrew Coblentz, who was here the past month, will start for Indiana on the second of November.

A. Hahn, who fell from an apple tree three weeks ago and broke his vertebral column, died on Friday night. His funeral is today.

D.W. thinks he will quit his business.

WANTED FOR NEXT ISSUEFor our Jan. 26 issue, we would especially like:Community news • Anything from the schools • Recipes for soups & stews to keep us warm

As always, please send us your birthdays, benefits and memories that you’d like to share. As always, we look for suggestions from you to make Plain Country serve you better!

Send in to us by Jan. 10.

Dec. 13 Jonathan Byler (36)Dec. 16 Mrs. (Allen) Liz Byler (73)Dec. 19 Mrs. (E.M.) Emma Slaubaugh (70)Dec. 21 Mrs. (Joey) Mary Gingerich (51)Dec. 22 Mrs. (John H.) Katie Yoder (73)Dec. 22 Amanda N. MillerDec. 24 Ray E. Yoder (45)Dec. 25 Mrs. Josiah (Anna Mary) MillerDec. 27 Katie D. Fisher (24)Dec. 30 Mabel A. Miller

Happy Belated BirthdayNov. 19 Mrs. Jonathan (Mary Ellen) Miller (40)Nov. 20 Mrs. Owen (Betty) Miller (26)

16161 Nash Rd.(corner of Rt. 528 & Nash Rd.)

Monday thru Friday 8-5:30Saturday 8-5:00

FAMILY FOOTWEAR

Harness & Tack • DAC Supplies Lifetime Tables & Chairs • Buck Knives

Cross Cut Country Store

440-548-2259

• Wolverine • Carolina • LaCrosse • HI TEC Irish Setters • Propet • Skechers• Hush Puppies • Soft Spots & MORE!

December 1, 2010 Plain Country

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Holiday

RecipesButtery Spritz CookiesSubmitted by Laura Miller

1 cup butter, softened1 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar1 egg1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 teaspoon almond extract2 1/2 cups all purpose flour1/2 teaspoon salt Food coloring , colored sugar or decorating candy optional.In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and both extracts.In another bowl, combine the flour and salt.Gradually add flour mixture to the creamed mixture. (Tint with food coloring if desired).Using a cookie press fitted with the disk of your choice, press dough 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets.(Top with colored sugar and/or decorating candies if desired.)Bake at 375 degrees for 6 to 8 minutes or until set. DO NOT BROWN. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yields 7 1/2 dozen cookies.

Butterscotch Nut FudgeSubmitted by Rachel Miller

1/4 cup butter or margarine1 cup brown sugar1 cup granulated sugar3/4 cup sour cream1 teaspoon vanilla1/2 cup walnut pieces

Melt butter in heavy saucepan.Add brown sugar and heat to boiling.Add granulated sugar and sour cream.Cook over low heat, stirring until sugar dissolves to softball stage (236 degrees).Cool at room temperature without stirring until lukewarm (110 degrees).Beat mixture until it holds it’s shape.Add vanilla and nuts.Quickly spread in a greased pan.Cool and cut into squares.Makes about 2 1/2 dozen pieces.(I like to garnish each piece with a walnut half.Sometimes we use sweet cream or condensed milk.)

Christmas CookiesSubmitted by Rachel Miller

3 cups sifted flour2 teaspoons baking powder1 scant teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)1 cup shortening 2 beaten eggs1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup sugar4 tablespoons sweet milkCut shortening into the flour, baking soda, baking powder and nutmeg (if used).Beat eggs in another bowel. Add sugar, milk and vanilla and beat well.Add egg mixture to dry ingredients to form the dough. Let dough chill then roll out thin.Cut rolled out dough with cookie cutters in Christmas shapes.Bake in 350 degree oven until delicately brown.When cookies are cool, you may decorate them with colored icing if desired.Makes about 3 dozen cookies.(Baked cookies may be frozen and decorated later.)

Peanut Butter Cups Submitted by Barbara Ann Detweiler

4 cups peanut butter3 3/4 cups powdered sugar1/4 teaspoon salt3/4 stick melted butter2 cups chocolate piecesMix peanut butter, sugar, salt and butter well. Roll into balls.Dip into melted chocolate and let harden.

Silky Way BarsSubmitted by Sarah Miller

1 pound milk chocolate1/4 pound caramel3 tablespoons water1 1/4 cups marshmallow cream1/2 pound chocolateMelt 1 pound milk chocolate in double boiler over hot water.Add water and marshmallow cream; blend well.Cool until mixture can be easily handled.Melt caramel in double boiler.Melt 1/2 pound chocolate and pour half of it into the bottom of a pan. Chill until hard.Put caramel over chocolate in pan; spread evenly.Top with milk chocolate marshmallow mixture, followed by the rest of the melted chocolate.Cut into small squares when it is hardened.

Kiddie’s Chow MixSubmitted by Sarah Miller

1 package milk chocolate chips1 package semisweet chocolate chips1 cup peanut butter2 cups powdered sugar1 (12 ounce) box CrispixLarge bowl with a lidMelt both bags of chocolate chips and peanut butter in a double boiler. Mix until smooth.Pour cereal into the large bowl. Drizzle chocolate mixture over cereal and stir to coat evenly.Sprinkle powdered sugar over cereal.Put lid on bowl and shake well so all cereal is coated with the sugar.Pour on newspapers covered with paper towel and spread into a thin layer.Let dry for a few hours before storing in an airtight container.

A Christmas Story(A December I Remember)

By Henry Hofstetter

It was the winter of 1933, early December, in my third month of teaching following my 19th birthday. It was my first salaried job in the so-called Wilson District one-room schoolhouse in a back-road area of rural Middlefield. All of my 32 pupils, averaging four for each of the eight grades, were Amish except for three children of Czechoslovakian immigrant parents and two others of somewhat nondescript identity whom the Amish called “Yankee” kids. Presumably my own ethnic identity, too, was Yankee in the local Amish vocabulary. The dirt road, variously muddy or snow covered, was impassable by car most of the winter but traversed by two or three horse-drawn buggies or sleds per day, All of the children and I walked to school.

Because electricity had not yet been made available to this area, nor requested by the predominantly Amish population, all routine school activities were conducted in daylight hours. Such niceties as the use of ink were ruled out by reason of freezing at night, as the wood-burning stove could not be stoked for adequate heat retention in the overnight absence of 32 children and me, the teacher (and janitor).

Nevertheless, spirits were typically high, and each day seemed to produce its share of fun. So, the idea of Christmas emerged quite naturally. What to do about it? Let’s have a Christmas program to which the parents, about a dozen couples, would be invited. They could be accommodated with several borrowed benches. Parents would be asked to bring lanterns, kerosene or Coleman. My four eighth graders would cut a tree from a nearby wooded area. I assured the excited youngsters that I could obtain clip-on candleholders from friends of mine who were now using electric Christmas tree lights on their trees. So the makings and ideas for the program began to shape up.

I found a couple of dozen candle holders quite easily among the villagers though not in Amish homes, for the Amish were not free to indulge in decorative efforts. They were,

however, able to enjoy the efforts of others. But candles? With the advent of electric Christmas lights, the traditional wax candles had suddenly become obsolete. They were no longer stocked in stores nor were they procurable through their jobbers. I learned from one of the merchants that the wax candles had been made by the Standard Oil Company and that the company headquarters was in Cleveland. Somehow I acquired the address and promptly wrote a letter to the president of the corporation. I simply asked him if there was any possibility that in spite of the discontinuation of the candle production, there might be a dozen or two left in stock or otherwise available. I explained the circumstances of my need and my willingness to pay. I was not optimistic. In fact, I was certain that this was an absurdly naive attempt, which at best would merely have satisfied my conscience.

No response. A week or two had passed. In the forenoon of Friday, Dec. 22, the last

day of school before Christmas, we were rehearsing our parts,

songs, poems, recitations, etc. In the quietness of the rural

countryside, disturbed only by the schoolroom hubbub, we faintly heard the distant grinding sound of a large truck motor. This was indeed a rarity, though I realized that the

mud road on that day was frozen hard enough to be

passable by a motor-driven vehicle. Since this could be an

unusual sight for the youngsters, I suggested that they line up at

the windows to see what modem apparatus would be passing by.

Soon we could see a huge tank truck slowly approaching down our road. The driver must obviously be lost. When he pulled partly into the narrow drive of the schoolyard we could see the quizzical look on his face, so I opened the schoolhouse door and asked if I could help.

“Is this the Wilson District School?” he shouted. “Indeed,” I responded. “”Well, I have a package of candles from our president’s office. Are these for you?”

144 candles – 12 dozen!Needless to say, I have retained forever a

soft spot in my heart for Standard Oil.

I Remember ChristmasBy Rachel Miller

I remember when I was a little girl we could hardly wait for Christmas. As soon as we heard Dad was up, we’d be out of bed. We used to set a plate by our place at the table, and we always got an orange plus one or two gifts. We always had homemade candy. We made popcorn balls,

A Christmas TraditionBy Linda Weaver

A tradition we kept up for many years was caroling on Christmas Eve when our children were small. We’d end up at Grandpa and Grandma Weaver’s (Jake’s parents). Grandma would have sandwiches and coffee ready for us, and we took goodies along, too. We have many fond memories of those never-to-be-forgotten Christmas Eves.

16860 Kinsman Rd. (Rt. 87) 1-1/2 miles East of Middlefield

Jams • Jellies • Lots of Crafts • Gifts • Baked GoodsQuilts • Wood Items • Centerpieces • Wallhangers Place Mats • Rugs • Baby Items • Hickory Rockers

Jonas Jr. & Emma Miller • 440-632-1888 (Let Ring)

Amish Home Craft & Bakery

Order your Holiday

baked goods today!

Special orders welcome

Participant of Christmas in the Country! Get your Holiday Passport punched at our store for a chance to win a “Holiday Suitcase” filled

with gifts! ($500 value). Check out our raffle supporting “Middlefield Cares” & “Shop with a Cop.”

WinterBy Katherine Detweiler (age 10)

I like winter, Yes, I do.I like the snow,Do you?

The snowflakes fall,From the sky.We like them,You and I.

It’s always fun,To see snow fall.Let’s go play,And have a ball!

too.

Plain Country December 1, 2010

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Hershberger’s Housewares

Gideon and Margaret Hershberger, owners

Featuring name brand candles,

stainless steel kitchenware, clocks, and

much, much more.15419 Madison Road

(Route 528) Middlefield

440-632-9065Monday – Saturday

8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.No Sunday sales

Maple Lane Furniture & Fabrics

“Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices”

5319 South Windsor Rd • Middlefield • 440-272-594 Open Mon–Sat 8:00-5:00; closed Sunday

By Jacquie Foote

When you turn in at the Hershberger’s Housewares sign, you go past a comfortable looking large white house and follow the curving driveway to a trim white store. When you enter this building, you pass through Maple Valley Bookstore, which is actually a separate business owned by Margaret and Gideon’s son Steven and his wife, Barbara, who bought this Christian bookstore from his grandparents in 2000. They sell books for children and adults, including many classics and also coloring books, gardening books, and how-to books. Additionally there are stationery, cards and many puzzles. Together with the many useful and wonderful things in Hershberger’s Housewares, the books, puzzles and cards let you know you have stepped into a true country store … neat, welcoming, and marvelous smelling.

It all started in February 1993 when Margaret was diagnosed with a heart disease. In her own words, “We needed an extra income to help pay medical bills, etc. (The business) gave our children the opportunity to work in the store and with customers – a good experience in life.”

The building that wasto become Hershberger’s Housewares was already standing when the business was started but was about one-third the size it is now. Margaret is pleased with the west wing they added 10 years ago for their candle room. She says, “We carry four of the largest name brand candle companies, which are Yankee, Woodwick, Colonial Candle of Cape Cod, and Village Candle.” It is the gentle scent of these beautiful candles that greets you when you enter the store. The candle room is bright and festive with seasonal decorations around the candles, crystal vases and knickknacks. Beautiful clocks hang on the walls.

The rest of the store is devoted to what gives Hershberger’s Housewares its name.They carry five sizes of stoneware crocks in addition to the cast iron pans and Dutch ovens. There is a large selection of quality stainless steel kitchenware and utensils. Rada knives are available in many sizes. Kitchen gadgets – many of them things hard to find elsewhere – are neatly displayed on

the walls, .Year round, Hershberger’s Housewares

carries pressure cookers, canning supplies and food mills.

You will find many kinds of socks and gloves for the whole family as well as the wooden clothes pins and aluminum laundry carts. Oil lamps are on display along with glass replacement shades in many colors and several sizes and designs. Clocks, simpler in design than those in the Candle Room but still very nice in appearance, are on display on the walls. To help you put more fun in your lives, there are Ertl toys, card and board games, volleyball sets, popcorn poppers, popcorn and seasonings, and ice cream

makers. To satisfy the inner you, there are jams, jellies, honey and, at Christmas

and Easter, homemade candy!Over time, many customers

have come from all over the U.S. as well as foreign countries and happily shopped here. The Hershbergers have lots of good memories of them.

Margaret and Gideon chuckle as they tell of the time they were reshingling

the barn roof. Their sons were up there working and

imagine their surprise when they turned around to see that

an 85 year old gentleman from Turkey had climbed up the ladder.

It seems he had never seen a shingle before.Another time, a group of Japanese students

came to the store with a tour guide who had to interpret. The students asked many questions about the Amish culture. The Hershbergers showed them through their house and were thanked with many bows. Margaret and Gideon remember how polite they were.

Margaret remembers, “A school bus of German students came who spoke a German dialect similar to ours. It was easy to understand each other. Over the years we have had many German visitors.”

In 2010 visitors from Brazil, Saudi Arabia and Peru came and were as welcome as all who come in to buy a candle or a spaetzle maker or a new highchair for the baby … or who just want to look around. It is an especially great place at this time of the year when thoughts of Christmas gifts are uppermost in our minds!

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spotlight On...Coleman Lanterns &

CampstovesH.C. and Lancaster Lanterns

Parts & Repair ServiceL.E.D. Lamps & Flashlights

Bulk Food

William J.S. & Martha Miller16786 Madison Rd • Middlefield

440-548-5486

American Steel Carports & Pavillions

www.americansteelinc.com • www.claridonbarns.com

440-285-2509CLARIDON BARNS 13065 Mayfield Rd. Chardon

BARN SALES 10739 Kinsman Rd. Newbury

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15419 Madison Rd (Rt 528) Middlefield(1 mile south of Rt 87)

440-632-9065 Holiday Hours thru Dec. 23:

Mon-Fri 8:30am-8:00pm • Sat 8:30am-5:00pmRegular Hours: Mon-Sat 8:30am - 5:00pm

Hershberger’s Housewares“The Country Candle Corner”

Holiday open House

Free Refreshments

dec 3rd & 4tH

25% Off**Yankee Candle, Wood Wick and Village Candle.

Excludes other offers.

Come check out our other specials too!

Gift Certificates Available

December 1, 2010 Plain Country

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Katherine’s KornerBy Katherine M. Byler

Mom’s Diary By Barbara Ann Detweiler

24 days to Christmas!

need new windows?We have a complete line of all-welded new construction & replacement custom-size windows, and patio doors.

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Joe’s Vinyl Window Shop15020 Shedd Rd., Burton Call Joe Today! 800.866.0326 / 440.834.0326

S & E Country Store

440-548-2347

17574 Newcomb Rd • Middlefield

Parts and ServiceOil Stoves Gifts Books

German and English• •

Eek! It went down my back!As I leaned down from my chair to retrieve

something from the floor, 22-month-old Paul-i-wog leaned over from his chair next to mine to see what I dropped. His glass of RED Kool-Aid tipped with him, and, yes, it went down my back, first coloring the bottom of my white cap. It sure brought laughs all around, but Paul had no clue what was so funny.

Comment at the Senior Center: “He ate everything that was good for him and had a cure for everything by finding plants, etc. with healing abilities, and he still died young.”

“How old was he?”“Around 80.” This from a 92-year-young chick

(who didn’t always eat as well?).Some gals visited Mrs. Lydiann Miller one

afternoon. With the sun shining brightly and a roomful of smiles, we hope we left some cheer for her memory bank. Her daughter-in-law Rachel was also there a while. Lydiann’s daughter Mary Ann (Mrs. Paul Mast and two girls, Emma and Sally and the Ray Mast girls Iva, Arlene, Laura and Marian were all agreed (I think) to take me along. And the snacks! WOW! Topped off with delicious ice-cold rhubarb juice.

Some of the relatives made another trip to Ashland, this time with the Eli Brenneman family who lost an 8-year-old daughter in an accident. Sarah, the mother, and almost 3-year-old Lydiann are both still in braces and will be for quite a while. Their address is 1398 S.R. 96, Ashland, OH 44805. They have sons, 16 and 14, and three more daughters, 13, 10 and 6.

Bloodmobile at Joe’s Vinyl has had a change of dates for 2011, thankfully. First one is scheduled for Jan. 15, thus interfering less with get-togethers,

Saturday, Oct. 16: Wayne and I, with Andrew and Norma along, left for Cass City, Mich. this morning. We are visiting his sister Ada and family for a few days. We were glad to arrive after being on the road almost seven hours.

Sunday, Oct. 17: A beautiful day in Michigan. It is very flat here, but we managed to find one hill on the way to church this morn! We left for home at 4 p.m. and arrived at 10:30 p.m. Home looked sweet, and we were thankful to get home safe and sound and find the rest of the children asleep in their beds.

Monday, Oct. 18: Chester brought little Maria, age 4, up for the day since little Marlene is still in the hospital awaiting surgery to fix the vein in her head. Maria and Norma played nicely, and Norma shared willingly!

Tuesday, Oct. 19: Laura substituted a half day at school for a teacher who was sick. She loved it and wants to be a teacher someday.

Wednesday, Oct. 20: Both big girls were home all day, so we got a lot done. Tonight after supper, we all went out and raked leaves. We think no one in Windsor has as many leaves as we do!

Thursday, Oct. 21: Wayne went up to the hospital with his brother Chester while surgery was done on Marlene. He came home at 10:45 p.m., and they weren’t done yet.

Friday, Oct. 22: I’ve been having trouble with my ears, not being able to hear much out of one. I got an appointment with Dr. Libby, and they found wax! They removed it and checked my ears, and I have excellent hearing. I still need drops for a week because of infection.

Saturday, Oct. 23: A busy day. We are hosting church services here tomorrow, so everyone had their tasks to do.

Sunday, Oct. 24: Church services went well. We had a beautiful day. Now the house is clean, and I can sit and do nothing – NOT !!! The daily dozens still clamor to be done, besides sewing and getting ready for the holidays.

Monday, Oct. 25: My ears still hurt. Hopefully, those drops will take effect soon. We got our church mess cleaned up and then took leftover meat to the freezer.

Tuesday, Oct. 26: Little Maria came up today again. I caught up on some writing and paperwork. My ears feel better!

Wednesday, Oct. 27: This morn I mentioned how nice it is outside, and Norma remarked, “Yes, it’s supposed to be nice the next three days.” I asked her how he knows, and she said she looked in the newspaper yesterday. I didn’t know she even knew about it!

Thursday, Oct. 28: Cooler today but nice. Norma and I went out to visit school for a few hours. Very enjoyable. Our teachers know how to make classes interesting. Tonight we raked leaves – again!

Also hauled wood into the basement. “Many hands make light work” is a true saying.

Friday, Oct. 29: Dreary day! There was only 1/2 day of school today, so Norma went with the other children. After they got home, Betty informed me she does not want Norma there again. She did NOT sit still. Why am I not surprised!?

Saturday, Oct. 30: Wayne and John went hunting, and John shot a six-point buck. The little girls were all excited. I’m glad for the meat.

Sunday, Oct. 31: We ate a big breakfast and then went down to Wayne’s parents for a while. Came home, played games and went to bed.

Monday, Nov. 1: Cold! 28 degrees this morn. The first all-around frost we have had. I drove to the store for boots for Norma and suspenders for Andrew. When Norma goes outside now, she asks if she should wear her “mucks.”

Tuesday, Nov. 2: Katherine has a bad toothache, so I ended up taking her to the dentist to extract a tooth. Betty and Norma are fascinated with John’s deer head and antlers.

Wednesday, Nov. 3: This afternoon, four German exchange students and their teacher came for a visit. We visited school for a while. We all enjoyed it.

Thursday, Nov. 4: I did a huge laundry, then canned deer steaks and ironed clothes.

Friday, Nov. 5: Rose Edna had to go to the dentist today. She got a check-up and cleaning.Laura did some art projects with the little girls, making turkeys and Christmas rings. They tear off one ring each day until Christmas.

Saturday, Nov. 6: Very cold! It snowed, but it didn’t stay. The two little girls were Andrew’s helpers today, carrying wood, cleaning out the barn, etc. Betty can read now and loves it. School is her pride and joy.

Sunday, Nov. 7: The end of daylight savings time for this year. It’ll take a while to adjust. We drove down to my parents after church.

Monday, Nov. 8: I didn’t sleep well, so I got up at 5, made breakfast and mopped the floors before the children got up. I’m going to bed with two braces these days. One is on my arm for carpal tunnel syndrome and one is on my foot for plantar fasciitis. And I’m how old!!? Not even half a century!

Tuesday, Nov. 9: I drove down to Mom’s for the day. Walked up to Aunt Betty’s store and got some material.

Wednesday, Nov. 10: A beautiful day, so we washed blankets and sheets. We also cleaned the upstairs and put Norma’s bed in with Katherine’s and Betty’s. Now, it remains to be seen if it will work.

Thursday, Nov. 11: Today is Wayne’s birthday. Dad and Mom came up for ice cream and cake. Norma wanted Wayne to get up off his chair and when he did, she started giving him 43 whacks. She didn’t get that far though.

Friday, Nov. 12: This whole week has been so nice and sunny! Rose Edna made a lot of my Christmas cards today. I started on my Christmas sewing.

Geauga County Raccoon HuntersMeetings are held at

the club on Peters Road, the 2nd Thursday at 7pm

Attention TrappersLittle Beaver Furs will be at

the club every Wed., evening throughout trapping season

buying pelts

Mullet’s Footwear

4853 Kinsman (Rt. 87) Middlefield1 mile west of Mesopotamia 440-693-4363

Family Shoe Store

AVAILABLE AT MULLET’S

FOOTWEAR!Men’s & Women’s Shoesin Stock

etc, hopefully. Who knows about the hunters; they don’t take off for anything!

Winter brings with it the excitement of butchering meat and making scrapple – though we say “krebbles.” Yum! Hubby tasted it at “Big Boy” breakfast buffet without syrup but won’t taste it here at home! He should like it; it’s peppery. Am not complaining; have more for myself!

Well, we’ve tasted the cold and spit it out. Hummm – still cold. OK, now we’ll welcome snow to cover the dirty-looking landscape!

Was glad to see some Kentucky friends again. Just couldn’t see them all. Many from that area come from good old Mespo. A sister-in-law (Willie Jr.’s wife Martha) remarked that is wasn’t as looooooong as she’d feared; the eight hours went fast. I told her, “In other words, you’ll always want to travel with me?” I didn’t expect an answer to that one.

Hope Mel D. Byler’s finger has healed in time for the festivities. He got it entangled with a chopsaw, whatever that is. He can opt out of more involved chores for a while.

Things look quite bleak being a stay-at-home grandma. Necessary jaunts include getting together with family, first with uncles, aunts and cousins, and then we go to Betty Hershberger’s house for a delicious meal for brother Joe’s 70 th birthday. Next comes a benefit fish fry and auction afterwards benefiting a need. Then, a day of Christmas shopping is coming up (something new for me), an all-day deal. Also, there is the annual jaunt to Lancaster County, Pa. with 50 others on a bus with Stutzman tours. It will be eight hours out and eight hours back, the most fun!

Yep! 24 days to Christmas! You realize it now, don’t you?

Windsor Stairs and Millwork

Windsor Stairs and Millwork

7418 North Wiswell Rd. • Windsor 44099

• Stairs • Boxed Newels

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Miller’s Holz Haus

Going out of

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Plain Country December 1, 2010

6

Hello From the Amish Crossing Corner...By Sarah Miller

Chuckle At a New Years Eve

party, a woman whispered to her husband,

“That’s the fifth time you’ve gone back for more punch.

Doesn’t it embarrass you a little?” “Not at all,” he grinned.

“I keep telling them it’s for you!”

(Now, women, isn’t that just like

a man??)

Huge selection of displays on lot

• Yard Sheds • Garages

• Pavilions • Horse Barns • Pool Houses

• Hunting CabinsStop in to see our • Picnic Tables

• Lawn Furniture • Outdoor Fire Pots

• Fireplaces

Nutrient Dense GardeningBy Daniel Fisher

Lines by LindaBy Linda Weaver

Greetings from Garrettsville By Rachel Miller

Balusters Sizes: 1-1/4” and 1-3/4” Lengths: 31”– 48” Designs: Square & Pin Top Species: White Oak, Mahogany, Hickory, Poplar, Maple, and Paintedstair Parts • Newels • spiNdles Variety of Species and Painted

andy troyer, owner16201 Pioneer rd.

Middlefield 440.636.5577

fax: 440.632.1823

WROUGHT IRON now

available

In the Oct. 10 issue of Plain Country, we asked if you want to start Nutrient Dense Gardening next season, and we gave the first two steps to do this.

As you might remember, the first step is to test the soil with Morgen Extract and the second is to make fertility recommendations based on the soil test. Now, to go on …Third: Apply the annual broadcast. The best time to do this is in the fall. The second choice is in the early spring.Fourth: Formulate a regimented foliar program to feed the plant through the leaves. The foliar program is based on what the crop is and what you want the plants to do, such as make vegetative growth or make seed. Fifth: Implement the foliar program weekly.Sixth: Maintain soil conductivity during the growing season. This is done through applying nutrient drenches at the root zone of the plants.Seventh: Repeat steps one through six beginning with an annual soil test every fall if at all possible. That way we can see how much we are gaining and adjust the annual broadcast, the foliar regimen, and the nutrient drenches.Making a Better Soil: In a biological soil program, the farmer will pay attention to the soil for it is a major influence on crop growth and health, on crop yield and quantity, and on annual performance and farm profitability. Some good practices may include improving soil structure with a soil balancing program; recycling organic matter; maintaining a good balance of available crop nutrients; and using only products that improve the microbial life in the soil as well as feed the crop.

Following these practices will produce high yields. You can’t do much about the weather, but you can fix your soil. Until next time.

Daniel C. Fisher is proprietor of D & S Farm & Garden Supply LLC, 4738 Gates Road, Middlefield. Call his voice mail at 440-693-4632 for more information.

leg. She had to have fluid removed from her knee also. She has her leg in a brace and cannot

put weight on it. The doctor said it might take three months to heal. Am sure mail

would be very welcome. Address is 15730-B Agler Road, Garrettsville,

OH 44231.Allen and Mae Kaufman

of Shedd Road are planning to move in the big part of the house where her grandmother lives. This is on Grove Road. We will miss them in our

neighborhood. Grandmother is Mrs. John Mat Miller.

The Amish craft show on Saturday, Nov. 13 was a very fun

day. Many people came, and we had almost 40 vendors. Many beautiful crafts were

displayed and sold.There is a Haystack Supper and auction

here this Friday evening to help the Danny Hershberger family with expenses due to his breaking his ankle in an accident. He hasn’t been able to work for quite some time.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.

Time for another letter! How quickly the weeks fly by. Already the stores have their Christmas things out, and Thanksgiving is just past. Seems by the time Christmas is here, we’ve lost some of the true spirit of Christmas.

My, what lovely weather we have been enjoying. And one of these days that will change. But having snow will slow down our pace a little; I’ll welcome the change!

Visitors with grandpa John J. Miller Sunday, Nov. 14 in the afternoon were Billy and Dena, and Jacob and Emma Detweiler and son.

We are sorry to hear Mrs. Andy E. Miller of Burton-Windsor Road hasn’t been feeling well. She has been battling cancer for a number of years.

Miss Sarah J. Miller of Madison Road had hip surgery a few weeks ago. Mail will reach her at 16712 Madison Road, Middlefield, OH 44062.

Tuesday, Nov. 16, sister Edna Byler and I went to visit our sister, Mrs. Melvin Yoder, in Parkman. She fell last week, fracturing her left

We are having beautiful weather this week. I think we are having Indian Summer. Yesterday, Ivan mowed the lawn, and I helped with the trimming after I got the laundry done. I had some hanging in the basement from Saturday that I folded. We had rain and damp weather then and some snowflakes. It looked nice, but it melted as soon as it came down.

Today, Ivan finished the trim mowing and was weed whacking. We also raked leaves out of the ditch yesterday, put them through the shredder and on the garden.

A son was born to Allen Weavers Jr. They named him Jacob. They were all glad to hear that he is healthy. He has a brother and a sister who lived only about a week; they had heart problems. Jacob has one healthy brother.

Also a daughter, Kristine, was born to Robert Weavers a couple weeks ago. And, born to Homer Yoders, a son named Matthew.

The three-month-old son of Melvin and Dorothy Troyer had balloon heart surgery last week and is doing well. He stayed overnight in the hospital.

I am busy fall cleaning the kitchen this week. Barbara washed off the back porch after work this afternoon.

We were Christmas shopping with our children a week ago Monday in Holmes County. We have a lot of stores around here, too.

Mrs. Owen Hershberger Mary was in the hospital a week. She was in the ICU most of the time. They put a stent in her heart, and she came home Saturday night. She also had fluid retention. A couple years ago, she had open-heart surgery.

Nov. 10 … It’s very foggy this morning and 36 degrees. I hope it will be a nice sunny day as I have curtains to wash and rugs and other laundry. We also need to go to Garrettsville, as the bank won’t be open tomorrow, Veterans’ Day.

I’m getting my house cleaned as Tuesday next I have Sisters’ Day. Hope sister Anna Mary will come from Atlantic, Pa. Wednesday, we, along with Ivan’s brother and sisters, will visit Ray Miller’s Rachel. Rays lost a son several months ago.

Happy Birthday daughter Barbara!

Nov. 17 … Hello friends. It’s good to see the sunshine again today. Yesterday, it was cloudy, and we had rain in the afternoon and again this morning. It was also quite windy. We did enjoy the beautiful weather last week when it was in the 60s. It’s hard to imagine Thanksgiving is just around the corner and will actually be over by the time this is in print!

The mothers took hot lunch to school today, which is always a day brightener. Grandpa and I were invited, but I had a doctor’s appointment, so we missed out on the good food and also the children singing, which we enjoy. Maybe next time …

Saturday, I was at the craft show at Joe’s Window Shop. It was booming with business while I was there. I actually got some Christmas shopping done. They also had delicious food for lunch plus fry pies, donuts and homemade ice cream. Yummy!

The neighbor woman, Mary Slabaugh; Sally Kuhns and children; Linda Gingerich; Sara Jane Mast and Lukas; and the writer were at our new church family’s for lunch Monday, Karin Burkholders. We had a nice visit and everyone brought a dish for lunch.

Yesterday, we attended the Delaware horse sales with friends John Ray Millers, John Masts, Johns and Ray Slabaughs and Daniel Bricker. We started early and got home late, so I feel a nap coming up.

Nauvoo Rd.

Rt. 87

Rt. 608

Rt. 528

16403 Nauvoo Rd(One Mile East of Rt. 608)

Middlefield440-632-0248

A Treasure Today...An Heirloom TomorrowOne-of-a-Kind Handcrafted ItemsOak, Cherry & Hickory Furniture

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Entertainment Centers Hickory Rockers

Children’s Furniture Computer Desks

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Mon-Sat 8am-5pm; Fri ‘til 6pm; Closed Sunday

December 1, 2010 Plain Country

7

J&J Cabinet Shop4738 Donley Road

Middlefield, Ohio 44062

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I went archery hunting three times! That is a treat for me. The first evening I didn’t see anything until around 5 o’clock. A nice size buck came out the end of the field and walked straight across into a small postage stamp of a thicket. He was never really in my range and probably better than 75 yards away. It was nice to see something though. The only other problem was that I had forgotten my safety strap, and I am a little nervous about that. You guys can all be tough and go up 18 to 20 feet and be comfortable, but I can’t!

I actually got to go back out the very next evening. I was on the way to my stand across the field from the night before. I figured that I would trick that buck by being on the right side this time. Guess what? That’s why they call it hunting. I was about 25 yards from my stand, and I bounced that old boy right up and away! It is a good thing that I brought a good book along with me, because his tail was all I got!

After talking it over with my husband, I decided that I was going to trick this ol’ buck! (Yes you can laugh now!) I went out to the stand

All types: • Screws • Lags • Stainless Screws & Bolts

• Cabinets • Carts & Shelving • Misc. Hardware • Swing Supplies • Flammable Cabinets • Bolt Bins • Plexiglass • Bar & Chain Oil • Many Hose & Sheet Rubber Cut-offs

• Mop Buckets • Bookcases

We carry INTERSTATE BATTERIES

Daniel Miller, Owner 440-693-4232

We Stock: Gr. 5 Hex Bolts & Gr. 2 Carriage Bolts @ $1.75 lb. Gr. 8 Hex Bolts @ $2.75 lb.

Huge Selection of Cabinet

Hardware

Mon–Sat 8-5 5195 Kinsman Rd (Rt. 87) Bottom of Mespo Hill • Middlefield, OH 44062

New Load Of Surplus Has Just Arrived!

Over 1500 Cans of Spray Paint Available

Weed Killer • InsecticidesMonday, Oct. 25: I’m enjoying a few days in Pennsylvania with my friends. We visited at Troyer’s

Rope Company, and they gave us an interesting tour. Then we had time for food and fellowship around the table.

Wednesday, Oct 27: Still in Pennsylvania. We cleaned out the flowerbeds, went shopping and also to the cemetery.

Thursday, Oct. 28: Home again, and, now, it’s time to concentrate on getting things done and ready for church here on Sunday.

Friday, Oct. 29: I mopped my floor before going off to the cooking job.Saturday, Oct. 30: Today, all of us here are bustling around with last minute work before church

tomorrow. We started the day off by going to town and finished everything by bedtime - a good feeling to have things tidied up.

Sunday, Oct. 31: Church was here today at nephew Michael Yutzy’s.Monday, Nov. 1: A busy, full day at my caregiving job.Tuesday, Nov. 2: This morning at 3, I was awakened by cries for help from my client when she fell

on the floor. We were at the ER a good part of the day while she got her head stitched up. Then, tonight, my aunts and I surprised Aunt Edna for her birthday.

Wednesday, Nov. 3: Today was filled up with having a wonderful group of friends here to celebrate my birthday.

Thursday, Nov. 4: This afternoon another group brought birthday treats, and we had a good time visiting. This evening I went to the visitation of a former client at the funeral home.

Friday, Nov. 5: It’s my birthday, and, at my cooking job, the residents sang Happy Birthday. My, all this should last me for a whole year!

Saturday, Nov. 6: Guess what, in between doing stuff at home, two friends took me out to lunch. Then, tonight, the family had a birthday pizza supper! I could get used to this!

Sunday, Nov. 7: I went for a long walk today, just taking in the sights, smells and sounds of our surroundings.

Tuesday Nov. 9: These are my regular working days with my clients in Chardon. Our Tuesday night singing group sang by Gideon and Elmina Kurtz.

Wednesday, Nov. 10: Today, I had lunch with a friend who took me to have Chinese. Then, I went to an overnight job.

Thursday, Nov. 12: What a beautiful fall day. Today, I canned seven pints of applesauce for my clients, and then it was back to home sweet home.

Friday, Nov. 12: Today, I “pulled” a 13-hour, filling in for a coworker at my cooking job.Saturday, Nov. 13: This is the day we did all the “last day” jobs for church here tomorrow.Sunday, Nov. 14: Today was filled up with having church here at sister’s. Then, an evening with

family and a good supper.

Parkman PathwaysBy Ellen Hershberger

Harness • Saddles • Pony Carts Bulk Bins • Fencing • Shavings

MAPLEBROOK TACKAND HARNESS

Mark Gingerich15789 Georgia Rd., Middlefield • 440-632-0895

Maple Syrup For Sale

Now Carrying:I&J and Pioneer

Equipment

where I had bounced him up. I have always been told that deer usually move about every four to five hours. Obviously a winter storm, the rut, or anything else they feel like can change this. So, I went out and got into my stand at about 11 a.m. I was going to be there when he came to bed down. About 1 o’clock here he comes, right out on the opposite side of the field from me and proceeds to walk straight down and then cut into the woods. I really believe that those deer have trail cams too!

That is how it goes. I did get to see the rack of a really nice 10-point that my neighbor shot. I also heard that my other neighbor shot a 10-point just yesterday. There are still plenty left. This weekend is the special youth gun season. I hope all of you have good luck. The weather isn’t really deer hunting weather, but it will help some of those youngsters last that extra hour! Snacks – that’s what used to get me through. I guess they still do. I mean you might as well enjoy yourself!

Hopefully I will have some happy tales from gun season to share with you!!Good luck and be safe!

Kelly and her husband, Chris, are longtime residents of Huntsburg. Like many others in the area, they hunt as a means of putting meat on their table. Kelly also raises coon dogs and is active in the Lighthouse Methodist Church. Kelly, mother of two and Middlefield Post advertising representative, is famous for her venison chili and venison Italian sausage.

8221 Parker Road, Orwell, OH • Marvin Shrock, Owner Call us at 440-437-8458 or 440-437-2031 (Let ring)

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Plain Country December 1, 2010

8

WINDSOR FLOORING

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Home (440) 272-5021Daytime (440) 346-4709

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Come visit our showroom by appointment or we will bring samples to your door.

Quality Installation ~ Competitive Pricing

5619 SR86 (1/4 mile west of 534) • Windsor 44099

“Mailman, Mailman,Run like a fox.And take my envelope toThe Middlefield Post’s Mailbox!”(Thanks, Marty Ray Fisher )

Daniel J. Schmucker - (330)569-7032 or call (330)569-4825 (Voice Mail)

14409 Grove Rd. • Garrettsville, OH 44231

• New Construction • Replacement Windows• Basement Finish• Metal Roofs & Siding• New Roofs • New Siding

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Rt. 534 Rt. 87

GatesRoad

“Coming Home Again,” written by Benuel M. Fisher and self-published in New Holland, Pa., copyright 2010, is a biography of David D. Erb, who was born in 1923 to members of the Mennonite Brethren in Lancaster, Pa.

Mr. Fisher became acquainted with Mr. Erb’s life through Samuel King, an Amishman. Mr. King’s son, also named David, was only three when he was severely injured in a sled/pickup truck accident. David Erb, in his 50s by that time, had befriended the King family and was exceptionally kind to young David. His reminiscences of the events of his life led Samuel to convince Mr. Fisher that David Erb’s life story was worthy of telling.

Mr. Fisher spent some time interviewing Mr. Erb and researching the eras through which he lived. The result is “Coming Home Again,” a book about a man who lived during troubled times … a man neither rich nor famous … a man, just like the rest of us, capable of great goodness and sadly foolish decisions. Mr. Erb clearly never lost contact with God but did not always understand His plan.

Mr. Fisher recounts the effect the “Great

Books in ReviewBy Jacquie Foote Depression” had on people of limited means.

Then, in careful detail, he tells what it was like to be someone like Mr. Erb, whose feelings about the sacredness of human life precluded him from ever firing his gun at another person, even during battle. Near the beginning of World War II, the category of “conscientious objector” could only refer to people belonging to one of the pacifist religions. Mr. Erb wasn’t eligible. In spite of this, Mr. Erb was treated with a surprising amount of latitude. He remained in the army as an engineer and, even though he refused to carry a gun even when on guard duty, his sharp tongued commander did little to punish him. Once back home after the war, Mr. Erb began to let his passion for hunting consume him.

This book is written in a simple, clear narrative style. The author does write little sermonettes on the Bible and on history in the book, separating them from the actual biography by having them printed in italics.

“Coming Home Again” is written for those 12 and older. The story carries you along and the book is hard to put down.

You can find “Coming Home Again” at S & E Country Store on Newcomb Road.

15815 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield (Corner of Rt. 608 & Nauvoo Rd.)440.632.5228 Ext. 6000 • 800-327-9477 Ext. 6000

www.middlefieldcheese.com • Open Mon-Sat 8:00-5:30

The Home of Award-winning, High Quality, Natural Swiss CheeseOne mile N.of Middlefield on Rt. 608

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Visit our Museum, Video Viewing and Cheese Outlet.

Free Samples!

(Gift boxes can be shipped or picked up.)

Gift Boxes and

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Amish ChurchOrders

Mon-Sat 8-5:30

Visit us for all your Holiday Party & Gift Needs!One mile N.of Middlefield on Rt. 608

440.632.5228 Ext. 6000www.middlefieldcheese.com

Visit our Museum, Video Viewing and Cheese Outlet.

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(Gift boxes can be shipped or picked up.)

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One mile N.of Middlefield on Rt. 608440.632.5228 Ext. 6000

www.middlefieldcheese.com

Visit our Museum, Video Viewing and Cheese Outlet.

Free Samples!

(Gift boxes can be shipped or picked up.)

Gift Boxes and

Cheese Trays Available

Amish ChurchOrders

Mon-Sat 8-5:30

Bookmobile NewsBy Jane Attina

The Bookmobile is on the road!We really appreciate the support voters gave in the recent election. Many thanks to everyone!When I was a little girl, I lived in the city of Cleveland. I was fortunate that my local library was right

down the street from my home. A short walk brought me to the large stone building with high ceilings and rooms full of books. I spent many hours looking at books and then selecting just the right ones to take home. Once there, I would look at my treasure trove of books and put them in the order I wanted to read. That was the hardest part, as they all looked so interesting! In the good weather, my favorite thing to do was read under the big tree in the backyard of grandma’s house. With my back against the tree and the sweet smells of the flower garden behind me, I felt I was in heaven. A book could take me to many lands and, oh, the characters I met through my books, many of whom I still remember today.

I am sure many of our readers like to read outside as well, but our good weather days fade fast. Before we know it, the rain and snow is upon us, and we have to move indoors to do our reading.

Recently we have had quite a few books returned to the Bookmobile ruined from being left out in the rain. Once they get wet the mold starts to appear, and we can no longer check them out to anyone else. Please help us keep our books safe from bad weather by remembering to bring them indoors. Unfortunately patrons will be charged for the damaged books so that we can buy replacement copies.

New books are coming soon. Reserve your copies of the following next time you visit the Bookmobile or Middlefield Library: “Paradise Valley,” “Daughters of Caleb Bender Series No. 1” by Dale Cramer; “The Search,” “Lancaster County Secrets Series No. 3” by Suzanne Woods Fisher; “Serendipity” by Cathy Marie Hake; “Fatal Judgment,” “Guardians of Justice Series No. 1” by Irene Hannon; and “Courting Miss Amsel” by Kim Vogel Sawyer.

It is that time to get some turkey tracks on paper.On Nov. 13, Anna and I and five of the children and their partners and the eight grandchildren

went to the small town of McKay in Ashland County. Why do we even call it a town? There is no store close by. The only building there is H & H Custom Homes Model House. The old store had to be torn down for this building.

OK, let’s get back to our trip. We were at the Jonas Nisley’s sister Susie for dinner. Now, we can’t call it lunch as we had way too much to eat. Then we went to Wayne County and stopped at Tobe Miller’s sister Nancy to see their 30,000 three-week-old chicks. They feed them for nine weeks, and then they have from four days to one week to get ready for the next batch. Then we went to sister Katie for a light lunch. We all enjoyed the day.

Leah Bricker went to Cass City to her parents, the Joe Brickers. I’m not sure when she will come home. Sister Agnes and Simon Martha went to Kentucky to be with their children. They want to stay till after Thanksgiving.

This year the family wants to go to Clymer, N. Y. to brother Elias for Christmas. Now, don’t get me wrong, I like to see my brother. But December is a little late in the year to go to Clymer, with all the snow they get. And we are not young anymore with Sara the oldest at 82 and Becky the youngest at 66. So, we’ll see.

Hello from Huntsburg By William Bender

Customer Appreciation

Day

MULLET’S HARNESS SHOP

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December 1, 2010 Plain Country

9

Fun!Winners...

Logic PuzzleIt’s Christmas!

The nine Yoder children choose names the day after Thanksgiving to find out whom they needed to get a gift for this Christmas. The names of the children were Donnie (5), Ruth Ann (6), Sam (8), Rachael (10), Barbara (12), Ray (13), Robert (13), Gabe (15), and Lidyann (17).

Some had saved up money from jobs they had done throughout the year. Some had help from other family members. But, in the end, each was able to give a gift their person really liked. The gifts were: a carpenter’s belt, Christmas candy, a coloring book, drawing paper and pencils, a gift certificate, a handwritten book of advice on horses, jigsaw puzzles, a rabbit hutch, and a picture of Toby.

Use the clues and find out who gave what to whom! (The first one is done for you.) 1. Donnie won a box of 120 crayons in a coloring contest in The Plain Country. 2. Ray and Robert worked at the family’s produce stand all summer. 3. Lidyann saved up the most money because she had a waitress job. 4. Aunt Betty owns a small variety shop so close the Yoder kids can walk there. 5. Uncle Jake owns a small bookshop, but it’s too far to walk to it. 6. One of the twins wants to be a carpenter; the other one says he wants a job as candy taster in Aunt Libby’s candy and bakeshop. 7. Sam is always drawing pictures of the animals on the Yoders’ farm. 8. The one who gave the rabbit hutch really loves horses. 9. Ray couldn’t get Donnie’s gift at Aunt Betty’s, so Mom took him to Uncle Jake’s when she took Barbara there. 10. The boy who wants to be a carpenter didn’t make a rabbit hutch. 11. Barbara spent all the money she had saved up on puzzles for herself, so she raked leaves and shoveled snow to earn more to get her gift. 12. Lidyann went to Grandpa Joe’s carpenter shop to get advice about her gift. 13. Ruth Ann and Rachel both love animals. Ruth Ann’s special favorite is Toby, the family dog. 14. Donnie carefully glued three very pretty pictures to some thick cardboard Mom gave him. Then Dad did the cutting. 15. Ray and Robert walked to Aunt Betty’s store. 16. Rachel went to each of her uncles and to neighbor Jonas’ s farm and wrote everything down they told her. 17. The person who gave Donnie his gift really wanted to spend it on candy for himself. 18. Ruth Ann had no money, so Mom helped her in the kitchen. 19. Gabe got a really sore thumb from hitting it when he made Rachel’s gift. 20. Barbara couldn’t decide what to get at Uncle Jake’s, so Mom told her about gift certificates.

Lidyann ________________gave a carpenter’s belt to Robert__ __________________________________

_________________________gave Christmas candy to _____________________________________________

_________________________gave a coloring book to ______________________________________________

_________________________gave drawing paper and pencils to _____________________________________

_________________________gave a gift certificate to ______________________________________________

_________________________gave a handwritten book of advice on horses to __________________________

_________________________gave jigsaw puzzles to _______________________________________________

_________________________gave a rabbit hutch to _______________________________________________

_________________________gave a picture of Toby to _____________________________________________

Age 5-7 … Contest One … Coloring Marty Ray Fisher (Newcomb Road)James Miller (Reeves Road)Age 5-7 … Contest Two … Drawing and Coloring Adam Fisher (Newcomb Road)Cindy D. Kuhns (North Girdle Road)Age 8-10 … Contest One … ColoringNoah H. Miller (Mumford Road)Joseph Yoder (Donley Road)Age 8-10 … Contest Two … Drawing and ColoringErma Byler (Laird Road)Susan Detweiler (Bundysburg Road))Ages 11-13 … Contest One ... ColoringAmanda M. Miller (Hayes Road)Mary M. Miller (Pioneer Road))Ages 11-13 … Contest One ...Drawing and ColoringAnna Mae Detweiler (Parks West Road)Elma Miller (Bundysburg Road)*The winners have already received notification by mail. *

It’s a Christmas Contest!No coloring or drawing this time! This is a puzzler about gifts given in the Yoder family. Use the clues and fill out the part at the end telling who gave what gift to whom! Be sure to fill in your name and address.Rules: You can work out the puzzler alone, or as many members of your household who want to can work together. 1.) Print your answers clearly. 2.) Only one prize will be awarded to each household who wins, so sending in more than one entry per household won’t help. 3.) The entries are due to the Middlefield Post on or before Jan. 12.The prize of a packet of stickers will be awarded to the first 25 correct entries we receive.

Name: __________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________