Michiana House and Home December 2020

Complimentary December 2020

6 Winter Skills to Master Festive Decor Winter SOS www.michianahouseandhome.com

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www.michianahouseandhome.com PUBLISHER Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com PUBLICATION MANAGER Bill Hays bhays@the-papers.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com EDITOR Sarah Wright swright@the-papers.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Karen Johnson kjohnson@the-papers.com BUSINESS MANAGER Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com

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contents

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Maymie Ankrom, Mary Lester

DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Joe Hoyt jhoyt@the-papers.com

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Michiana House and Home (MHH) is a newsmagazine with emphasis on home decor, design and remodeling. MHH does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does MHH or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication.

MHH reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space.

Michiana House and Home has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. MHH makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.

NO. 8

Deck Your Room With Ribbons and Bows

FEATURE WRITERS Julie Young, Kathleen Moran, Amanda Demster & Rebekah Whirledge

MARKETING ASSISTANTS Darlene Eichelberger darlene@the-papers.com Trina Hoy thoy@the-papers.com

December 2020 VOLUME 17

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5 Six Winter Skills to Master 6 Festive Decor: Capturing the Season 8 Winter SOS: Who You Gonna Call? 10 Year-Round Gardening 12 Servin’ Up Good Eats 13 Trekking Michiana: Middlebury 14 Around Michiana 16 Business Gallery 17 Did You Know?

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Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $44.00 for one year; and $75.00 for two years. Mail the order form, along with your check to Michiana House and Home, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt.

Copyright © Michiana House and Home All rights reserved, 2020 Member of:

14 cover photo: shutterstock.com

| Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 3

editor’s note...

A traditional Christmas tree is unlikely to grace my abode this year. Since kitten enjoys being on top of my bookcase and dressers, there’s no way he’s not ascending a tree. It’s made me glad Michiana House and Home had the tree alternative collage last year since it’s encouraged me to pile up an assortment of books to then decorate with lights and garland.

No plastic needles all over the floor, no shattered ornaments, no wrecked tree base — perfection!

I also don’t have to worry about getting the tree packed away before my doggie bed-and-breakfast guest arrives — if he checks in for 2021. Last year, I failed to do so, and two ornaments were damaged following a mass display of anxiety. My lesson was learned.

Beyond the book tree, light will be the main way in which I celebrate the season. It brings a cheeriness and a sense of good tidings, both so needed after such a long year. Being afraid of heights and lacking Clark Griswold levels of ambition, I’ll probably stick to just my windows and enjoy my neighbors’ larger displays.

If I can get my hands on some sprigs of pine, I might decorate my front porch. Time will tell!

We hope to get everyone into the holiday spirit with this issue

of Michiana House and Home, especially since it’s bound to be a challenging holiday season.

Among the topics shared this month is “Six Winter Skills to Master,” and those skills aren’t all chores! Yes, some are, but writer Amanda Demster has added a couple of fun ones to tackle. For the supreme gift giver, check out Rebekah Whirledge’s call to arms on tidying one’s gift-giving collection while also creating a space where one can wrap happily without the stress of hunting for needed tools. Kathleen Moran is dishing out tips on using greenery to decorate this December — it is a Christmas tradition with long roots as I discovered after watching “Lucy Worsley’s 12 Days of Tudor Christmas,” a PBS special I highly recommend.

And if we’ve learned anything from insurance commercials and 2020, one can never predict mayhem. Moran is sharing some tips on how to find a pro in the event of a winter home emergency.

So, break out the 2021 glasses, new year’s horns and champagne — sparkling or otherwise — we’ve made it to the end of 2020. While the new year isn’t going to be without its oddities and challenges, it’s a fresh start of sorts. Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to all! n

Sarah

Sarah Wright, Editor Email: swright@the-papers.com

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4 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

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Deck Your Room with Ribbons and Bows

By Rebekah Whirledge, Michiana House and Home Writer

Move over she-sheds! What any Christmas-loving, crafty lady really wants is her very own gift wrapping station.

Nearly 100% of the time, it’s the ladies who are responsible for making sure no one is forgotten on the gift list, and now is the time to update this part of your life and make gift giving as easy as one (partridge in a pear tree), two (turtle doves) and three (French hens)!

To simplify for the upcoming holiday season, update your gifting station now. Maybe it’s a corner of a room, or maybe it’s a closet, but start by organizing whatever it is now. Throw away any ripped wrapping paper or bent bows. Do you have 5,000 gift bags all contained in one giant gift bag somewhere in your house, too? (Yes, this writer is speaking from experience!) Go through them and sort the ones that have last seen the light of day in 1993 from the ones you probably will reuse at some point. Donate those usable, but outdated, gift bags to a thrift store.

A gifting station is the gift that keeps on giving. There is nothing more joyful than a station full of fun holiday prints and colors, all organized and ready for any special occasion. Debbie Carpenter at Sweet Water Interiors in Goshen recommends some clear, plastic storage containers to easily see exactly what is “in stock.” And don’t forget to label each one.

A gift wrapping station can be as simple as an over-thedoor holder with pockets, which sorts the gift tags from the ribbons and bows, or it could be a custom closet full of stackable bins and deep baskets for wrapping paper rolls. Another idea for wrapping paper is a sturdy magazine rack. Weaver Furniture Sales in Shipshewana offers a solid wood, Amish handcrafted magazine rack that would be perfect for this role.

And if your gifting station is in a room with a table or desk, update that spot with a nice lamp to shine bright when wrapping gifts.

“Lamps are crucial for creating the optimal layered lighting effect,” said the staff at Kendall Lighting Center, which offers a multitude of gorgeous table lamps, desk lights, floor lamps and more. “Lamps add soft lighting in a room and task lighting over a workspace. Adding carefully selected table or floor lamps will enhance the design style of a room.”

A gift wrapping station, whether simple or elaborate, is a great way to simplify a task that haunts many of us year-round. And what a Christmas miracle it is to have a lovely one! n

RESOURCES: Kendall Lighting Center, multiple locations, 800-558-8820,

www.kendalllightingcenter.com Sweet Water Interiors, Goshen, 574-534-3989, www.sweetwaterinteriors.com Weaver Furniture Sales, Shipshewana, 260-768-7730, www.weaverfurnituresales.com | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 5

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Six Winter Skills

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4 3 5

By Amanda Demster, House and Home Writer

Michiana winters often prove difficult. Extreme temperatures and heavy snowfall can turn even short trips to the store into major headaches, and now, COVID-19 quarantines are keeping many people confined to their homes.

This year, why not master a few skills to help make the winter months more bearable.

REMOVE SNOW SAFELY

Snow removal can be dangerous. Having the right snow removal tools, and knowing how to use them properly, can help reduce risks. When using a shovel, a rule of thumb is to push snow off to the side, as lifting and tossing can cause injury. Try to find eco-friendly ice melt products. For larger driveways and walkways, a snowblower is always effective.

Kuert Outdoor Living carries snow shovels, ice melt spreaders and sprayers. Experts on staff can help you find just what you need to keep your walk and driveway clear this winter.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR CAR

Having a good set of tires with good treads is important, Kevin Good of Smith Tire, Warsaw, said. Make sure fluids are at their recommended levels and your coolant is resistant to colder temperatures so it does not freeze. Finally, he said, have a professional mechanic check your brakes. Many vehicle owners like to add an antifreeze solution to their gas tanks. This does not hurt, Good said, especially if the vehicle is kept outdoors.

6 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

CREATE A HOT BEVERAGE STATION

On a cold day, few things are more pleasant than a warm beverage.

This year, consider turning a corner of the kitchen into a hot beverage station. Ideas include an electric kettle or coffeepot and decorative baskets to hold tea bags, hot chocolate mix or coffee pods. Hooks or shelves on the wall provide a place to display mugs decoratively.

Not sure where to begin? Big C Lumber’s cabinet design department can help. On-staff designers offer advice and can help choose the right materials.

Modern Kitchen, Elkhart, and Cloud Brothers Inc., South Bend, both offer great ideas for cabinets, countertops and other features to make your beverage station unique.

FESTIVE MIXES

The right syrup combination can add a boost to holiday festivities where coffee lovers gather. Try these combos out: • Gingerbread Man: Gingerbread and Irish cream.

• Hot Toddy: Butter rum and cinnamon.

• Irish Mocha Mint: Irish cream, peppermint and dark chocolate.

• Jack Frost: White chocolate, vanilla bean and peppermint.

Source: www.tastefullbeans.com/latte-and-frap-ideas/

to Master

4 6 5 PROTECT YOUR PETS

Despite sporting built-in fur coats, pets are not immune to cold temperatures.

Keep an eye on how long they are outside, and check for ice and snow packed between the pads of their paws. Booties can prevent this.

Beware ice melt. Crystals can become lodged in pets’ feet, causing irritation. Pets can also ingest the crystals when they lick their feet, causing potential illness.

While some breeds enjoy the cold, if temperatures become too extreme, make sure to bring them indoors or provide a safe, heated place for them to go. Always make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water within easy reach.

VISIT YOUR LOVED ONES FROM HOME

Many factors make it difficult to see friends and family during the wintertime. If the weather or social distancing are keeping you apart, do not despair. All you need is a good internet connection and a computer, tablet or mobile device with a camera.

Options include Facebook Messenger, Skype, Zoom, Google Meet and others. Users do not have to be tech savvy to use these programs. An internet search will bring up tutorials on how to use video conferencing.

While nothing beats being together in person, seeing one another’s faces and chatting in real time can go a long way. n RESOURCES:

Big C Lumber, multiple locations, www.bigclumber.com Cloud Brothers, South Bend, 574-289-0395, www.cloudbrothers.com Kuert Outdoor Living, Goshen, 574-312-7557, www.kuertoutdoorliving.com Modern Kitchen, Elkhart, 574-674-9989, www.modernkitchen.net Smith Tire, Warsaw, 574-267-82610

KNIT OR CROCHET A CUP COZY

Have you been wanting to learn to knit or crochet, but do not have the time or patience to make a scarf or larger project? Cup cozies are small and easy to make­ — perfect for beginners. An added bonus is you will have something to show off when you are done.

Yarn shops and craft stores sometimes carry kits, complete with knitting needles or a crochet hook and just the right amount of yarn to finish the project.

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For fiber artists, no matter your skill level, the internet is your oyster. From free or paid patterns to video tutorials, it has great resources. Here are two mug cozy video tutorials to start with: http://y2u.be/lAomH0QXj _Q and http://y2u.be/5D94iRZSt6o.

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WeaverFurnitureSales.com | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 7

Festive Decor: Capturing the Season

By Kathleen Moran, House and Home Writer

Many would argue that it is never too early to start decorating for the holidays. One way to spruce up one’s home and capture the holiday spirit is to display festive greenery such as wreaths and garlands. Whether opting for reusable artificial pieces or live, disposable ones, these festive decorations are versatile and can be featured both on the exterior and interior of a home.

Andy Flickinger of Flickinger Farms in Wakarusa explained their trees were planted back in 2014, and the farm is preparing to open for its second year on the day after Thanksgiving. In addition to offering a wide selection of trees for cutting, premade live Fraser fir wreaths are also available for purchase. According to Flickinger, “These wreaths hold their short, soft needles better than a spruce would and they smell great!”

He added, “Another popular item that will be available for purchase is the kissing ball made of either boxwood or Fraser, which would make for a great complement to traditional wreaths.”

Spherical and full of greenery, they are distinct in presentation from mistletoe.

Kissing balls can effectively adorn similar areas to those of wreaths such as adding character to a homeowner’s front door or a prominent window. Also, like wreaths, kissing balls have a potential place within one’s home, including above a fireplace mantle or hanging from a chandelier.

It should be noted that their ideal environment is in “a cool, shaded place out of direct sunlight.” In this situation, wreaths and kissing balls can easily last until March. Yet, if brought inside, they may not last as long due to the variability of inside temperatures, which may cause them to dry out quicker.

According to Deborah Carpenter, ASID, of Sweet Water Interiors in Goshen, festive garlands can be showcased outside the home on lamp posts and around columns of a front porch. “There are even more options when it comes to featuring festive garlands indoors, such as on stairways, door frames, mixed in with a centerpiece of some sort and around a canopy bed frame of a young girl’s room, to name a few,” described Carpenter.

Photos courtesy of Flickenger Farm 8 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

The nice thing about garlands is they offer an opportunity for a homeowner’s creativity and imagination to be on display as well as the actual decoration itself. For instance, “homeowners can create their own garland to express the season or work in custom ideas that reflect their favorite and/or collectable items,” such as fruits, doves or angels.

“One can also add holiday decorations like pine cones to a garland to establish a rustic theme,” explained Carpenter. There is even the possibility of incorporating branches, some type of chain and lights to form the base. A final suggestion includes designing garlands from fresh or artificial evergreens or soft pine. This would allow one to weave in a string of pearls as a base to enhance the original character of a garland. n

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Fun, Festive Garlands to Try

Here are some easy garland ideas to get your creative juices going this December!

Photos: Shutterstock.com

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RESOURCES: Flickinger Farms, Wakarusa, 574-850-1471, www.flickingerfarms.com Sweet Water Interiors, Goshen, 574-534-3989, www.sweetwaterinteriors.com | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 9

Winter S.O.S.:

Who You Gonna Call?

By Kathleen Moran, House and Home Writer

Winter emergencies are notorious for occurring at the worst of times. Accurately assessing the severity of a situation can help determine whether to attempt a fix on your own or defer to a pro. If it’s the latter, it can be a struggle to find the right match, especially in a pinch.

Photo courtesy of Overhead Door Company

GARAGE DOOR TROUBLESHOOTING

CONSULT YOUR LOCAL BUILDERS ASSOCIATIONS

Local builders associations are a tool every homeowner should utilize as they make it easier to find qualified pros.

Shelby Roberts, executive officer for the Builders Association Kosciusko Fulton Counties, encourages homeowners to visit the organization’s website, which categorizes members by the type of service offered like plumbing or handyman. This resource is easily accessible and Roberts indicated,“Some members, depending on the type of emergency, actually waive the higher service fees for weekend and/or holiday hours.”

Furthermore, homeowners can implement preventative measures to minimize the chances of emergency situations, including “leaving cabinet doors open in kitchens and bathrooms and running faucets to help prevent the pipes from freezing.”

Bob Penrose, executive officer of the Home Builders Association of St. Joseph Valley, also directs homeowners to his association’s website, www.hbasjv.com, in the event of an emergency. The “Find-a-Member” section allows for alphabetical searches as well as those done by keyword or category. “An annual printed version of the member directory is also available. Although helpful, it is not updated in real time” like its digital counterpart, according to Penrose.

Like Roberts, Penrose emphasized the value in preventative measures.

“Homeowners can clean out their gutters to reduce the risk of them freezing, disconnect outside hoses and verify the seal on windows and doors to ensure there are no areas of potential heat loss,” he explained.

10 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

Winter emergencies often involve one’s garage door. Martin Madden, CEO and owner of the Overhead Door Company of South Bend, outlined three typical emergencies involving the overhead door: it will not close, it will not open and the remote will not work. The company offers “a handy troubleshooting guide on its website that walks homeowners through potential emergencies, how to solve them and when to direct the professionals on-site.”

Something as simple as snow or a shovel blocking the photo eyes of a sensor can disable the door from closing. According to Madden, “Removing excess snow from the lens of the sensor often allows the door to operate properly.”

When a remote does not appear to be working, it technically is. In reality, “the operator can’t lift the door by itself when the spring that essentially moves the door is compromised, meaning the door won’t open as it should.”

Coach House Garages Vice President of Sales Rick Otto also spoke to common winter emergencies involving one’s garage door when it will not open. “When the spring that attaches to the door via a cable is broken, it is best to call in the experts because the spring is under pressure and its uncoiling could result in a fatal accident.”

“Importantly, make sure that the torsion spring, rollers and door hinges are sprayed with a silicone-based lubricant once or twice a year rather than WD-40 that produces a greasy mess where dust easily collects.” And, depending on the outside temperature, homeowners are discouraged from pouring hot water around the base of the door because this can result in the door refreezing. n Photo courtesy of Coach House Garages

Free On-Site

Garage Design Consultation

Rodney Rouch • 574-534-1400 www.coachhousegarages.com

Don’t be Left in the Cold

Shutterstock.com

Nothing is worse than having the furnace or the power go out in the middle of winter. In a pinch, here are tips to stay warm until help can arrive.

• Call an HVAC professional if your furnace is not working.

Even if they cannot fix it right away, most will have emergency space heaters an employee can deliver for use until heat is restored.

• Use fireplaces and space heaters to produce heat. Never use the stove or oven to warm the house; this is a fire hazard.

• Hang towels or blankets in drafty areas to minimize the flow of cold air.

• Close the doors to any unnecessary rooms to preserve as much warm air in the heart of the home.

• Dress warmly and press spare blankets into service.

Remember mittens are better than gloves. Also, wear a hat since most body heat is lost through the top of the head.

•O pen cabinet doors beneath sinks to prevent freezing pipes.

• I f you find yourself without power, many of the steps detailed above should be used. Kerosene and propane heaters make great alternatives to electric heat sources for a short time.

• Always have carbon monoxide alarms installed. Generators, furnaces and other appliances can be carbon monoxide sources.

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RESOURCES: Builders Association of Elkhart County, Elkhart, 574-293-0997, www.baec.com Builders Association Kosciusko Fulton Counties, Warsaw, 574-267-6125,

www.bakfc.com Coach House Garages, 574-534-1400, www.coachhousegarages.com Home Builders Association of St. Joseph Valley, Mishawaka, 574-258-0411,

www.hbasjv.com Overhead Door Company of South Bend, 888-513-2826, www.1800overhead.com | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 11

| YEAR-ROUND GARDENING |

The Humble, Deceitful Norfolk Island Pine

WHAT PET OWNERS NEED TO KNOW ASPCA states on its website that the Norfolk Island pine — labeled as Australian pine — is nontoxic to dogs and cats; however, Bloomscape.com warns it is mildly toxic to pets, noting, “Ingestion will cause mouth and stomach irritation with possible vomiting.”

Sources: https://bloomscape.com/plantcare-guide/norfolk-pine/ and https://www. aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/ toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/australian-pine

WINTER HUMIDITY RESTORATION TIPS

Most houseplants — and humans really — require more humidity than is available in the average home during winter when furnaces and fireplaces dry air out. Due to this, plants may display wilting or leaves that are either browning on the edges or yellowing. Any of these signs mean your plants are desperate for humidity.

• Mist your plants with a spray bottle; however, never do this to plants with hairy leaves since the water lingers and could be detrimental to the plant’s overall health.

• Within a tray, layer pebbles or stones. Add water almost to the top of the pebbles, and then place the potted plants on top.

• Bundle plants together, and place a water-filled tin or watering can at the center of all the plants.

• Deploy a humidifier.

• Move plants into more humid rooms, such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.

Each November and December it makes a grand appearance in retail stores of all varieties — the Norfolk Island pine, or Araucaria heterophylla. They make for an adorable table topper during the holidays, particularly with ornaments and ribbons dangling from their branches. While the Norfolk Island pine might resemble a pine tree, it really isn’t. Rather it is a tropical plant of the conifer family Araucariaceae and is a native of the South Pacific.

After the holidays, people often throw the Norfolk Island pine away, but that doesn’t have to be the case since it makes a great houseplant. A slow grower, over time, a well-cared for Norfolk Island pine can reach 20 feet indoors, while its outdoor counterparts in warmer climates can soar to heights of 100 feet or taller.

In the home, keep the Norfolk Island pine in a medium to high light location, supplementing with a grow light as needed. When it comes to soil, a peat-based potting mix is ideal. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings since its roots are susceptible to rot if left too wet. If the needles start to turn yellow, more water is needed.

Plenty of humidity is also necessary, especially during winter.

While the Norfolk Island pine is in its growing season during spring and summer, a general-purpose fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength will be beneficial to the plant. You can also place the Norfolk Island pine outside during warm summer days to further encourage growth. In the winter, the Norfolk Island pine enters its dormant stage and doesn’t require fertilizer.

Taking these steps will ensure your Norfolk Island pine goes the distance long after this holiday season while stepping into the role of living Christmas tree for several more to come. n Photos: Shutterstock.com

12 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

Celebrate the Holidays with a Delectable Dessert With so many traditions and ways to celebrate the holiday season, the options are nearly endless for families looking to spend special moments together. One of the tastiest and most enjoyable activities you can engage in with family and friends is to team up and create sweet eats in the kitchen. (Family Features) Whether you’re a chocolate lover or prefer traditional seasonal flavors like peppermint and gingerbread, you can turn to these Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream from Milk Means More to tingle taste buds while bringing everyone together.

Find more ways to celebrate the season with sweet eats at milkmeansmore.org.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy of “What Megan’s Making” on behalf of Milk Means More Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 20

Cupcakes:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 tablespoons ground ginger 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 3 tablespoons molasses 4 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Whipped Vanilla Buttercream:

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 4 cups powdered sugar 2-4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream 1 pinch salt cinnamon, for topping

Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners. Set aside.

To make cupcakes: In medium bowl, whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and salt.

In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add molasses and beat until incorporated. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then beat in vanilla. Add flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.

Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.

Bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center cupcake comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let cupcakes cool 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

To make whipped vanilla buttercream: In large bowl of stand mixer, beat butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and, with mixer on low, slowly add in powdered sugar, cream and salt, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Once incorporated, whip frosting at least 3 minutes on medium-high or high speed. If frosting is too thick, gradually beat in additional cream. Pipe on top of cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon. n Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 13

| TREKKING MICHIANA |

Middlebury

Photos by Addie Wright

is grown from tradition

By Julie Young, House and Home Writer

Located 35 miles east of South Bend and nestled in the heart of Indiana’s northern Amish community, Middlebury is a town of 3,600 where cultures peacefully coexist and collaborate to bring out the very best in one another.

File photo

Sheri Howland, director of the Middlebury Chamber of Commerce, said the community is always eager to welcome guests. Visitors can drive through the countryside to experience the region’s historic Amish/Mennonite heritage as well as the RVs and manufactured homes proudly built in the area. They can taste the local cuisine, shop for something special or spend time outdoors soaking up the atmosphere.

“We also have a great school system and a new sports complex that we are really excited about,” she said.

For those interested in an authentic Amish experience, there is a table waiting for you at Das Dutchman Essenhaus. In addition to the family-style meals it is known for, the Essenhaus campus includes a bakery, village shops, inn and a theater that offers several productions throughout the year. Folks can also peruse 14 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

Shutters

the vintage wares at the 100-year-old Varns and Hoover Hardware or Old Creamery Antiques. One can also participate in historical walking tours and select from a variety of handmade goods crafted by local artisans.

Visitors of all ages will enjoy the various festivals and events that occur throughout the year, including the Essenhaus Classic Car Cruise-In, held each Thursday night May through September; the Pumpkinvine Bike Ride, which will be held June 19, 2021; Middlebury Summer Festival in August; Middlebury Fall Festival in September; Middlebury Hometown Holidays in November; and the Ice Festival in December.

Howland said Middlebury is excited about the planned renovations at West on Warren, a favorite restaurant and nightspot in the community. The updated patio space will feature alfresco dining in the summer and heated space in the winter as well as rooftop seating for patrons over 21.

“It’s a great place with wonderful food, entertainment and a great crowd,” Howland said. “It’s an exciting project that benefits the whole community.” n

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TOP FIVE DESTINATIONS IN MIDDLEBURY If you only have one day to spend in Middlebury, Sheri Howland recommends these top five attractions: •D as Dutchman Essenhaus campus — restaurant, bakery, village shops and more.

•K rider World’s Fair Garden Park.

•M iddlebury Community Historical Museum.

•H eritage Ridge Creamery – sample delicious cheeses and delight in many other Amish and local specialty foods.

•D utch Country Market — Family-run, this store features local honey, peanut butter spread, fresh baked items and noodles.

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Photo by Allison Kuipers

598 Shawnee Drive, Nappanee, IN 46550 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 | 15

michiana around

Editor’s Note: With ongoing concerns in regards to coronavirus, events may have been cancelled or postponed following Michiana House and Home’s press deadline. Verify events are still occurring before setting out to attend.

NOW-JAN. 2 ⎮ SHIPSHEWANA

DEC. 11⎮ BREMEN

This light display features more than 2 million LED Christmas lights that stretch for almost a mile and a half and feature colorful light scenes.

Tune your vehicle’s radio to the Christmas music broadcast station and soak in the Christmas spirit.

Admission fee 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday, 6-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday Open Nov. 20-21, Nov. 27-28, Dec. 1-Jan. 2; closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve 345 S. Van Buren St. www.shipshewanalightsofjoy.com

Take a journey back to Bethlehem and the first Christmas all from the comfort of your home.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Bremen Holy Walk, and it will be streamed on Facebook this year.

6 p.m.

Livestream on Facebook www.bremenholywalk.com

Shipshewana’s Lights of Joy

DEC. 4 ⎮ SOUTH BEND

First Fridays: Downtown for the Holidays Santa Claus is coming to town, and downtown South Bend will be alive with holiday cheer.

5-9 p.m. www.downtownsouthbend.com/december

DEC. 4 ⎮ WARSAW

Holiday Light Display Celebrate the first lighting of the Central Park Holiday Light Display. The display will then remain available for viewing until Dec. 31.

4 p.m.-midnight Central Park 225 E. Fort Wayne St. www.facebook.com/events/2821138268174911/

DEC. 4-6 ⎮ PIERCETON

Shop Hop

Bremen Holy Walk

DEC. 13 ⎮ SOUTH BEND

DEC. 19 ⎮ WARSAW

Kosciusko County Farmers & Artisans Winter Market Vendors will have their homemade and homegrown products from crafts and jewelry to baked goods, meats and more.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Center Lake Pavilion 119 Canal St. https://www.facebook.com/ events/666471394284190/

Elf in the Park

DEC. 29 ⎮ SHIPSHEWANA

The elves and reindeer are on the loose in St. Patrick’s County Park. Can you find them? Maps will be available to help guide you to where they were last seen. Afterward, warm up with hot cocoa.

Admission fee 1-4 p.m.

St. Patrick’s County Park — Brown Barn 50651 Laurel Road 574-654-3155 http://www.sjcparks.org

Come watch professional ice carvers create unimaginable pieces of art sponsored by local businesses. The Ice Festival competition and chili cookoff will be held at the Wolfe Building at a later date — Jan. 23, 2021.

10 a.m.

260-768-7589 www.shipshewana.com/shipshewana-ice-festival n

Shipshewana Ice Festival

DEC. 13 ⎮ MIDDLEBURY

Crystal Valley Concert Series Enjoy Christmas tunes courtesy of the Chicago Classic Brass group.

Admission fee 3 p.m.

First United Methodist Church of Middlebury 720 S. Main St. www.crystalvalleyconcert.com/event/2020-chicago-classic-brass/

In lieu of Pierceton’s Primitive Show at Pierceton Elementary, join the community in exploring its shops during this weekend event.

Store hours vary www.facebook.com/events/255834002484999/

DEC. 5 ⎮ SHIPSHEWANA

Kids Day

Kids Day is a great opportunity to get out, shop and have holiday family fun. Start at Yoder’s Red Barn Shoppes, 445 S. Van Buren St., where kids will receive a bag of items and a map of town to find additional activities. Santa will be at Yoder Department Store, 300 S. Van Buren St. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. visitshipshewana.org/events/kids-day-4/

DEC. 5 ⎮ SHIPSHEWANA

Shop for unique gifts at the Ship-Chic Craft & Vintage show, with sellers from all over the Midwest coming with a variety of vintage items, home decor, crafts, clothing, accessories, beauty products, jewelry, baked goods and more.

Admission fee 9 a.m.-noon Early Bird Entry and Noon-3 p.m.

Afternoon Special Entry Shipshewana Auction Misc. & Antique Building 345 S. Van Buren St. shipshewanatradingplace.com/events/shipchiccraft-and-vintage-show/

16 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

shutterstock.com

Ship-Chic Craft & Vintage Show

| Michiana House and Home | December  2020 | 17

Did You Know?

We need a little Christmas

By Julie Young, House and Home Writer

Although the festivities may look different this year, homeowners can still make the season bright whether they are entertaining close family or celebrating over Skype. Small interior updates are a gift that can make a big impact on your life while exterior elements can bring cheer to everyone who passes by.

Ornamental Upgrades Looking for a quick update that will make your home feel brand new? Now is a great time to change your doorknobs and cabinet hardware to refresh and rejuvenate your space. Have a desire for something more DIY? Create a modern floating mantle piece that can be a great backdrop for a family photo or the perfect place on which to hang stockings.

Let There Be Light For those who struggle with seasonal affective disorder, or S.A.D., the pandemic will undoubtedly intensify feelings of depression, isolation and stress. Homeowners can combat these symptoms by replacing light bulbs, cleaning their windows, investing in a light box and looking for other ways to let natural light in.

Of course, light doesn’t only have to benefit you. By adding some exterior lights and holiday decor to your home, you can show your neighbors you are thinking of them and brighter days are ahead!

Below Decks Winter is the best time to finish out your basement and install a home gym. Not only will this project help you look and feel your best, it is conveniently out of the way when company comes — or Zooms in — for a visit.

Fresh start

FAST FACTS

You don’t have to have a big budget to transform your entryway. An “upcycled” table, coat tree or hooks, key/mail organizer and artfully arranged family photos will offer anyone a warm welcome throughout the holiday season.

Replace your builder-grade carpet with a new rug runner on the stairs, and a fresh coat of paint in the space will also give your foyer some flash.

“Jingle Bells” was originally written in honor of Thanksgiving. Its title was also “One Horse Open Sleigh.”

(Source: https://www. mentalfloss.com/article/29329/ jingle-bells-was-originally-written-thanksgiving)

18 | Michiana House and Home | December 2020 |

The dreidel was originally used as a decoy gambling game.

(Source: https:// forward.com/ culture/326379/ the-true-history-ofthe-dreidel/)

“O Holy Night” was played on the first radio broadcast ever in 1906.

(Source: www.almanac.com/ fact/o-holy-night-was-played-on-the)

... and now you know!

Dress up a mini tree by placing it in a basket rather than using a traditional tree skirt. Then decorate with fairy lights for a more whimsical look.

Capture this look Display firewood for a more rustic, Scandinavian-inspired Christmas.

The Scandinavian Christmas gnome, or nisse, has rocketed in popularity in the U.S. Welcome this cute little guardian to your home this winter.

Place a snippet of your favorite Christmas song on a letter board for a touch of vintage flair.

Stars don’t always have to be suspended. They can also make great tabletop accents.

| Michiana House and Home | December  2020 | 19

574-862-1613

27888 CR 32 W. • Elkhart

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