Plain Country Dec. 1st, 2010

{AMISH COMMUNITY NEWS} Vol. 2 No.12

December 1, 2010

Christmas Today

Christmas on 93rd Street

By Sarah Miller

By Jacquie Foote

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.

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.

Christmas as a Little Boy

By 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.

Snowman drawn by Katherine Detweiler (age 10)

Winter Snow

Merry Christmas

By Laura Detweiler

from our homes to yours!

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!

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.

Plain Country

December 1, 2010

Bits and Pieces from the Past

Welshfield, Ohio Oct. 31, 1892 Submitted by Sarah Miller

{AMISH COMMUNIT Y NEWS}

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.

Publisher: the Fontanelle group inc Editorial Coordinators: Jacquie Foote and Joe & Sarah Miller Staff Writers: Katherine M. Byler, Barbara Ann Detweiler and Donnie Miller Contributing Writers: William Bender, Daniel Fisher, Ellen Hershberger, Rachel Miller and Linda Weaver Mailing Address: P.O. Box 626, Middlefield, OH 44062 Phone: 440-632-0782 • 440-834-8900 • 800-259-5869 • Fax: 440-834-8933 Published Every Three Weeks – Free of Charge Subscriptions are available for $25 per year

In This Issue ...

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

Happy Birthday!!

Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 5 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7 Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 9 Dec. 10 Dec. 12 Dec. 13

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

Dec. 13 Dec. 16 Dec. 19 Dec. 21 Dec. 22 Dec. 22 Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 27 Dec. 30

Jonathan Byler (36) Mrs. (Allen) Liz Byler (73) Mrs. (E.M.) Emma Slaubaugh (70) Mrs. (Joey) Mary Gingerich (51) Mrs. (John H.) Katie Yoder (73) Amanda N. Miller Ray E. Yoder (45) Mrs. Josiah (Anna Mary) Miller Katie D. Fisher (24) Mabel A. Miller

Happy Belated Birthday

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

Thanks to all who sent in birthday

Children’s Immunization Clinics

announcments and other information for us to share with the community.

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 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

Cross Cut Country Store 16161 Nash Rd.

(corner of Rt. 528 & Nash Rd.)

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

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.

& Cornhole Games Team Colors 5 Total Colors

Harness & Tack • DAC Supplies Lifetime Tables & Chairs • Buck Knives 440-548-2259 Monday thru Friday 8-5:30 Saturday 8-5:00

WANTED FOR NEXT ISSUE

For 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.

Greetings from the Plain Community

By Donnie Miller

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.

B&K Salvage • Groceries • Health and Beauty Items • General Merchandise • Rainbow Laundry Detergent 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

Where cabinets are a work of art!

Kitchens • Entertainment Centers • Bathrooms

Custom orders WelCom e!

gift s ificate t r e c le! b a il a v a

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!

Since 1977

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

17090 Jug Street, Burton 44021 • 440-834-1540 Mon.-Fri. 7:00am to 4:30pm • Sat. by appointment only 2

December 1, 2010

Holiday

Recipes

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 socalled 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,

Christmas Cookies

Buttery Spritz Cookies Submitted by Laura Miller

Submitted by Rachel Miller

1 cup butter, softened 1 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon almond extract 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour 1/2 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.

3 cups sifted flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 scant teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional) 1 cup shortening 2 beaten eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup sugar 4 tablespoons sweet milk Cut 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.)

Silky Way Bars Submitted by Sarah Miller

Butterscotch Nut Fudge Submitted by Rachel Miller 1/4 cup butter or margarine 1 cup brown sugar 1 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 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.)

Peanut Butter Cups Submitted by Barbara Ann Detweiler 4 cups peanut butter 3 3/4 cups powdered sugar 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 stick melted butter 2 cups chocolate pieces Mix peanut butter, sugar, salt and butter well.

Roll into balls.

Dip into melted chocolate and let harden.

1 pound milk chocolate 1/4 pound caramel 3 tablespoons water 1 1/4 cups marshmallow cream 1/2 pound chocolate Melt 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 Mix Submitted by Sarah Miller

I Remember Christmas

By 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, too.

Winter

By 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!

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

rd

Special o

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.

A Christmas Tradition

1 package milk chocolate chips 1 package semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup peanut butter 2 cups powdered sugar 1 (12 ounce) box Crispix Large bowl with a lid Melt 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.

Amish Home Craft & Bakery day our Holi Order y oods today! baked g ers welcome

Plain Country

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.”

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

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

3

By 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.

Plain Country

December 1, 2010

On..

spotlight

Hershberger’s Housewares

By Jacquie Foote

Coleman Lanterns & Campstoves H.C. and Lancaster Lanterns Parts & Repair Service L.E.D. Lamps & Flashlights Bulk Food

When you turn in at the Hershberger’s the walls, .

Housewares sign, you go past a comfortable Year round, Hershberger’s Housewares looking large white house and follow the carries pressure cookers, canning supplies and curving driveway to a trim white store. When food mills. you enter this building, you pass through Maple You will find many kinds of socks and Valley Bookstore, which is actually a separate gloves for the whole family as well as the business owned by Margaret and Gideon’s son wooden clothes pins and aluminum laundry Steven and his wife, Barbara, who bought this carts. Oil lamps are on display along with glass Christian bookstore from his grandparents in replacement shades in many colors and several 2000. They sell books for children and adults, sizes and designs. Clocks, simpler in design than including many classics and also coloring books, those in the Candle Room but still very nice in gardening books, and how-to books. Additionally appearance, are on display on the walls. To help there are stationery, cards and many puzzles. you put more fun in your lives, there are Ertl toys, Together with the many useful and wonderful card and board games, volleyball sets, popcorn things in Hershberger’s Housewares, the books, poppers, popcorn and seasonings, and ice cream puzzles and cards let you know you have makers. To satisfy the inner you, there are stepped into a true country store … jams, jellies, honey and, at Christmas neat, welcoming, and marvelous and Easter, homemade candy!

Hershberger’s smelling.

Over time, many customers Housewares It all started in February have come from all over the U.S. Gideon and Margaret 1993 when Margaret was Hershberger, owners as well as foreign countries diagnosed with a heart and happily shopped here.

Featuring name brand disease. In her own words, The Hershbergers have lots candles, “We needed an extra income of good memories of them. stainless steel kitchenware, to help pay medical bills, Margaret and Gideon clocks, and etc. (The business) gave our chuckle as they tell of the much, much more. children the opportunity time they were reshingling 15419 Madison Road to work in the store and the barn roof. Their sons with customers – a good (Route 528) Middlefield were up there working and experience in life.” imagine their surprise when 440-632-9065 The building that they turned around to see that Monday – Saturday wasto become Hershberger’s an 85 year old gentleman from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Housewares was already standing Turkey had climbed up the ladder.

No Sunday sales when the business was started but It seems he had never seen a shingle was about one-third the size it is now. before.

Margaret is pleased with the west wing they Another time, a group of Japanese students added 10 years ago for their candle room. She came to the store with a tour guide who had to says, “We carry four of the largest name brand interpret. The students asked many questions candle companies, which are Yankee, Woodwick, about the Amish culture. The Hershbergers Colonial Candle of Cape Cod, and Village Candle.” showed them through their house and were It is the gentle scent of these beautiful candles thanked with many bows. Margaret and Gideon that greets you when you enter the store. The remember how polite they were. candle room is bright and festive with seasonal Margaret remembers, “A school bus of decorations around the candles, crystal vases German students came who spoke a German and knickknacks. Beautiful clocks hang on the dialect similar to ours. It was easy to understand walls. each other. Over the years we have had many The rest of the store is devoted to what gives German visitors.”

Hershberger’s Housewares its name.They carry In 2010 visitors from Brazil, Saudi Arabia five sizes of stoneware crocks in addition to the and Peru came and were as welcome as all who cast iron pans and Dutch ovens. There is a large come in to buy a candle or a spaetzle maker or a selection of quality stainless steel kitchenware new highchair for the baby … or who just want and utensils. Rada knives are available in many to look around. It is an especially great place at sizes. Kitchen gadgets – many of them things this time of the year when thoughts of Christmas hard to find elsewhere – are neatly displayed on gifts are uppermost in our minds!

Maple Lane Furniture & Fabrics “Quality Furniture at Affordable Prices”

William J.S. & Martha Miller

16786 Madison Rd • Middlefield

440-548-5486

Holiday

open House dec 3rd & 4tH Free Refreshments

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

Need A door?

We’re Your Total Door Source

Sidelite Units • French Doors • Patio Doors Special Size Doors • Custom-Made Steel Doors Pre-Hung Entrance Doors • Vinyl Brick Mold Fiberglass Stainable Doors ANY STYLE INTERIOR DOORS & KNOBS Hollow Metal Commercial Doors & Accessories Local Delivery Available –Fast Service– call dan today!

D&S Door Sales

25% Off*

15060 Shedd Rd., Burton 877.895.0622 / 440.834.0622 www.millikenmillwork.com

*Yankee Candle, Wood Wick and Village Candle.

Excludes other offers.

Come check out our other specials too!

Hershberger’s Housewares

American Steel Carports & Pavillions Built on your site for – Single 12’ x 21’ only $695

Double 18’ x 21’ only $795

“The Country Candle Corner”

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-5:00pm Regular Hours: Mon-Sat 8:30am - 5:00pm

Gift Certificates Available 4

18’ x 21’

Model Always Open Sales are by Appointment at Your Place or Ours!

AMeRiCAN Steel provides great storage for cars, boats, RVs, equipment, and agricultural items.

www.americansteelinc.com • www.claridonbarns.com

440-285-2509

CLARIDON BARNS 13065 Mayfield Rd. Chardon BARN SALES 10739 Kinsman Rd. Newbury

December 1, 2010

Katherine’s Korner

By Katherine M. Byler

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,

24 days to Christmas!

Oil Stoves • Gifts •

Books

German and English

440-548-2347

17574 Newcomb Rd • Middlefield

By Barbara Ann Detweiler

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.

Yep! 24 days to Christmas!

You realize it now, don’t you?

Geauga County

S & E Country Store Parts and Service

Mom’s Diary

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!

Raccoon Hunters

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

Attention Trappers Little Beaver Furs will be at the club every Wed., evening throughout trapping season buying pelts

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!

need new windows?

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

Low E • Wood Grain • Bays & Bows • Shop Windows • Basement Windows Caulk • Barn Windows • Basement Hoppers • Basement Sliders 10 Sizes of Shop Windows in Stock

Joe’s Vinyl Window Shop

AVAILABLE AT MULLET’S FOOTWEAR! Men’s & Women’s Shoes in Stock

Mullet’s Footwear Family Shoe Store

4853 Kinsman (Rt. 87) Middlefield

1 mile west of Mesopotamia 440-693-4363

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.

Windsor

15020 Shedd Rd., Burton Call Joe Today! 800.866.0326 / 440.834.0326

Stairs and Millwork Custom-Built • Stairs • Boxed Newels

D&L FLOORING Great Flooring!

Great Prices!

• • • •

Linoleum Carpeting Laminate Floor Mats

Plain Country

visit our new showroom!

• Hardwood Flooring • Hand Hewn Beams • Handscraped Flooring • All Interior Trim For That Aged Look Unfinished or Prefinished Installation Available • FREE Estimates!

Contact Dave C. Miller at (440) 272-5157 7418 North Wiswell Rd. • Windsor 44099

Ma Interlock ple Flooring

Miller’s Holz Haus

only 8

9¢ sq.ft.

– Installation Available –

ut of Going oss Sale Busine

Open Mon-Sat 8am-5pm

Open Through December for Your Holiday Shopping!

Wooden Toys • Children’s Furniture & Toys Crafts • Jewelry Chests • Scenic Benches • Mirrors Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Sofa Tables • Quilts • Rocking Chairs • Pie Safes Closed Sundays Shelves • Pictures • Religious Items & much more!

Daniel E. Miller

440-685-4385

10040 Penniman Rd.•Orwell 44076

30% off All Wooden Items

14540 Old State Rd (SR 608) Middlefield • 440-632-1604 5

Plain Country

December 1, 2010

Hello From the Amish Crossing Corner...

Lines by Linda

leg. She had to have fluid removed from her Time for another letter! How quickly the knee also. She has her leg in a brace and cannot weeks fly by. Already the stores have their put weight on it. The doctor said it might Christmas things out, and Thanksgiving is take three months to heal. Am sure mail just past. Seems by the time Christmas Chuckle would be very welcome. Address is is here, we’ve lost some of the true 15730-B Agler Road, Garrettsville, At a New Years Eve spirit of Christmas.

My, what lovely weather we party, a woman whispered OH 44231.

Allen and Mae Kaufman to her husband, have been enjoying. And one of of Shedd Road are planning “That’s the fifth time you’ve these days that will change. But to move in the big part of the gone back for more punch. having snow will slow down our pace a little; I’ll welcome the Doesn’t it embarrass you a little?” house where her grandmother lives. This is on Grove Road.

“Not at all,” he grinned. change!

We will miss them in our “I keep telling Visitors with grandpa John neighborhood. Grandmother is them it’s for you!”

J. Miller Sunday, Nov. 14 in the Mrs. John Mat Miller.

(Now, women, afternoon were Billy and Dena, The Amish craft show on isn’t that just like and Jacob and Emma Detweiler Saturday, Nov. 13 was a very fun a man??) and son. day. Many people came, and we had We are sorry to hear Mrs. Andy almost 40 vendors. Many beautiful crafts were E. Miller of Burton-Windsor Road hasn’t been displayed and sold. feeling well. She has been battling cancer for a There is a Haystack Supper and auction number of years. here this Friday evening to help the Danny Miss Sarah J. Miller of Madison Road had Hershberger family with expenses due to his hip surgery a few weeks ago. Mail will reach her breaking his ankle in an accident. He hasn’t been at 16712 Madison Road, Middlefield, OH 44062. able to work for quite some time.

Tuesday, Nov. 16, sister Edna Byler and Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a I went to visit our sister, Mrs. Melvin Yoder, in blessed New Year.

Parkman. She fell last week, fracturing her left

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. 

By Sarah Miller

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 openheart 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!

One-of-a-Kind Handcrafted Items Oak, Cherry & Hickory Furniture

Living Rooms • Dining Rooms • Bedrooms • Curios Bookcases • Cedar Chests Entertainment Centers Hickory Rockers Children’s Furniture Computer Desks Nauvoo Rd.

Nutrient Dense Gardening

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

And Much, Much More

By Daniel Fisher

Rt. 87

Rt. 528

By Rachel Miller

A Treasure Today...An Heirloom Tomorrow

Rt. 608

Greetings from Garrettsville

By Linda Weaver

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

Middlefield 440-632-0248

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.

andy troyer, owner 16201 Pioneer rd.

Middlefield 440.636.5577 fax: 440.632.1823

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

Huge selection of displays on lot

• Yard Sheds • Garages • Pavilions • Horse Barns • Pool Houses • Hunting Cabins Stop in to see our

• Picnic Tables • Lawn Furniture • Outdoor Fire Pots • Fireplaces

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.

6

December 1, 2010

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

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.

Parkman Pathways

New Load Of Surplus Has Just Arrived!

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

Gr. 8 Hex Bolts @ $2.75 lb.

All types:

By Ellen Hershberger

Over 1500 Cans of Spray Huge Paint Available Selection of Cabinet Weed Killer • Insecticides Hardware

Monday, 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.

• 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

Mon–Sat 8-5

Daniel Miller, Owner 440-693-4232 5195 Kinsman Rd (Rt. 87) Bottom of Mespo Hill • Middlefield, OH 44062

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

MAPLEBROOK TACK Maple Syrup For Sale

AND HARNESS

Mark Gingerich 15789 Georgia Rd., Middlefield • 440-632-0895

Now Carrying: I&J and Pioneer Equipment

Wood Siding & Paneling for all your building needs!

Free Low-E Glass Through End of Year Alside New Construction or Replacement Windows

• 6x6 and 6x8 Logs! (Green or Kiln-dried) • Log Siding • Channel Groove • Shiplap • Tongue & Groove • Dutch Lap & more!

d Pine Kiln-driveailable Also A

Plain Country

–Custom-made to Fit Any Opening–

Hardwood Paneling, Flooring & Trim in Red Oak, Ash, Cherry, Maple, Hickory & Walnut

wE aLso oFFEr sidinG

FREE In-h o Estimate me s

orwell window & door

Our Lumber or Bring Your Own! Interior & Exterior • Rustic or Smooth

J&J Cabinet Shop 4738 Donley Road Middlefield, Ohio 44062

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

7

Plain Country

December 1, 2010

WINDSOR FLOORING

WE ARE A COMPLETE RETAIL FLOORING STORE

Books in Review

By Jacquie Foote

“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

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.

• LinoLeum - Armstrong & Congoleum • Laminate - Armstrong & Quick Step • tiLe- Marazzi • VinyL- Konecto • Hardwood - Sheoga • Carpet & VCt Quality Installation ~ Competitive Pricing Come visit our showroom by appointment or we will bring samples to your door.

Home (440) 272-5021 Daytime (440) 346-4709 5619 SR86 (1/4 mile west of 534) • Windsor 44099

Steven W. Byler

Weaver’s Furniture Q

Custom Orders Available!

High End Solid Wood Procucts

uality Amish Craftsmanship

•Oak •Hickory •Cherry •Maple •1/4 Sawn White Oak

Bookmobile News

• New Construction • Replacement Windows • Basement Finish • Metal Roofs & Siding • New Roofs • New Siding 21 Yrs. Experience Quality Guaranteed

C ountry

By Jane Attina

Triple S ConSTruCTion • Reroofs • Re-siding • Decks • Pole Barns FREE ESTIMA TES!

Bedroom Sets, Dining Rooms, Home Decor Bookcases, Entertainment Centers, Items Offices, Kitchen cabinets, & More!

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.

4537 Gates Rd Middlefield, OH 44062

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

Rt. 534 Rt. 87

Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. 8am-4pm • Closed Thurs. & Sun.

Gates Road

14409 Grove Rd. • Garrettsville, OH 44231

The Home of Award-winning, High Quality, Natural Swiss Cheese

One mile N.of Middlefield on Rt. 608 440.632.5228 Ext. 6000

One mile N.of Middlefield on Rt. 608 440.632.5228 Ext. 6000

Visit us for all your Holiday Party & Gift Needs!

New books are coming soon. Reserve your copies of the following next time you visit the www.middlefieldcheese.com 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; Gift Boxes “Serendipity” by Cathy Marie Hake; “Fatal Judgment,” “Guardians of Justice Series No. 1” by Irene and Hannon; and “Courting Miss Amsel” by Kim Vogel Sawyer.

Cheese Trays

www.middlefieldcheese.com

OneGift mileBoxes N.of Middlefield 608 • Meaton&Rt.Cheese Trays Gift Boxes 440.632.5228 Ext. 6000

–Visit Our Gift Box Room– and www.middlefieldcheese.com Cheese Trays Worldwide ShippingAvailable

Gift Boxes

Available

Hello from Huntsburg

By William Bender

(Gift boxes can be shipped or picked up.)

“Mailman, Mailman, and (Gift boxes can be shipped or picked up.)

15815 Nauvoo Rd., Middlefield (Corner of Rt. & Nauvoo Run like a fox.

Cheese Trays Visit608 our Museum, Video ViewingRd.) Amish Church 440.632.5228 Ext. 6000 • 800-327-9477and Ext. 6000 Cheese Outlet.

And take my envelope to Video Viewing Available Orders Visit our Museum, www.middlefieldcheese.com • Open Mon-Sat 8:00-5:30 (Gift boxes can be shipped or pickedFree up.) Samples!

The Middlefield Post’s andMailbox!”

Cheese Outlet.

Mon-Sat 8-5:30 (Thanks, Marty RayFree Fisher ) Samples!

Amish Church

Visit our Museum, Video Viewing and Cheese Outlet.

Free Samples!

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.

Customer Appreciation Day

Amish Church Orders

Mon-Sat 8-5:30

Orders

Mon-Sat 8-5:30

– Footwear for the Whole Family – – Men’s Work Boots – Choose from: Redwing • LaCrosse • Danner • Wolverine Irishsetter • Georgia • Rocky • Chippewa • Muck Boots Hi-Tec • Vasque • Golden Retriever & more!

Saturday, December 11th FREE Coffee & Donuts

Door Prizes

10% OFF Storewide 8

Brushle Buggy W ss ash

MULLET’S HARNESS SHOP

16138 Newcomb Rd., Middlefield 440-632-1527 Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 8-5:30, Fri. 8-7, Sat. 8-5 (Closed on Sunday)

December 1, 2010

Fun!

It’s a Christmas Contest!

Winners...

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.

Logic Puzzle

It’s Christmas!

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 … Coloring Noah H. Miller (Mumford Road) Joseph Yoder (Donley Road) Age 8-10 … Contest Two …

Drawing and Coloring Erma Byler (Laird Road) Susan Detweiler (Bundysburg Road)) Ages 11-13 … Contest One ... Coloring Amanda M. Miller (Hayes Road) Mary M. Miller (Pioneer Road)) Ages 11-13 … Contest One ...

Drawing and Coloring Anna Mae Detweiler (Parks West Road) Elma Miller (Bundysburg Road) *The winners have already received notification by mail. *

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 ______________________________________________

Name:_ __________________________________________________________ Address:_ ________________________________________________________ 9

Plain Country