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hristmas is just around the corner and I can comfortably say that I have not begun my holiday shopping. I often find myself falling into the category of last minute shoppers desperately trying to find the perfect gifts for each person on my shopping list. With each story I write about the businesses that make up the Heartland, I have definitely been keeping my eyes open and have been inspired by country crafts and trinkets. I think it is safe to say that my friends and family will be receiving gifts from the Heartland this Christmas. Some of these shops that have inspired me are featured in this issue of the Amish Heartland. Carriage House is one of those shops where I could see myself not only buying gifts for the family but also for myself. Their endless selection of artwork and country knick knacks and collectables make it easy to give your home a rustic country feel. I must confess that I find it hard to get into the Christmas spirit before I have had my Thanksgiving feast, but after entering the Greenhouse Shoppe, I was blown away by the amount of spirit that could be packed into a small greenhouse. In this issue read how The Greenhouse Shoppe becomes transformed into a winter wonderland for the holiday season. Maybe someone in the family is in need of a new bike for Christmas. Whether a small child or adult or a professional biker or pleasure rider, Raber’s Bike Shop is home to 400 bikes to choose from. Not only do they pride themselves in carrying top of the line bicycles, but also in providing top of the line customer service. One of my favorite parts about the holiday season is all the baking and smells of homemade cookies and pies. Amish women are masters in the kitchen and spend most of their time whipping up delicious homemade treats to keep their houses stocked all year long. Featured in this issue is a story about one particular Amish family preparing for the holiday season and a small insight into the Christmas traditions celebrated by the Amish people. If you have read through all of these wonderful business stories and are still stumped about that perfect gift for your loved ones, don’t fret. Just when you thought you were running out of time in the day, shopping hours in the city of Berlin have been extended till nine in the evening. Go for a little “Shopping Under The Stars” on December 7 and let the moonlight guide you from store front to store front. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season as you gather around with family this year. Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year too!
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Catie Noyes Spectrum Publications Editor