Amish Country Northern Indiana
Feb 22

Thinking Spring

Late February is a great time to think spring. Imagine longer, warmer days, the fresh smell after it rains and all the bright colors of nature when everything is just beginning to green up. It’s this time of year I like to start planning to get out and do things. More I’ve really enjoyed driving the Heritage Trail in the summer, and now planning to drive it in the spring. My mom used to say that spring didn’t officially start till after Easter. To me it starts earlier, so I’m “springing forward” planning my trip along the Heritage Trail before Easter. More

 

 

I don’t expect to see flowers blooming, but I know there’s still plenty to see. I imagine I’ll see activity in farm fields and spring lambs and foals. Plus the towns in Amish Country also get a renewed energy and store windows pop with spring colors. Whether it’s a sunny or rainy day, I know I’ll be thinking spring.

What are your plans for Spring Break?

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Feb 13

A Change from the Ordinary

Last Saturday while wondering what I would have for dinner, I realized it was time to try something new. With the gloomy weather and a hum-drum menu at home, I thought a new place to eat would go a long way in cheering me up a bit. A co-worker had recently mentioned a new, recently opened restaurant in Elkhart – ModMex. Hearing about their specialty guacamole and fusion of old and modern Mexican cuisine really intrigued me. More

It’s located at 1700 Toledo road (across from Sautter’s Nursery) in a small average looking building. I arrived just a little before 5p.m. As I pulled into the parking area, I was shocked to find a dozen or so cars already there. And when I walked up to the door there was a line of people waiting to enter. I figured I had made a good choice.

The inside is simple, open and contemporary. The menu too is simple yet the food offered is very creative. This certainly was the change of pace I was looking for! I ordered the guacamole and special of the night. The menu warned that the food was prepared fresh and to anticipate a wait. I’m not sure they needed that notice; my food arrived steaming hot within minutes. I was very impressed. The tortilla chips actually taste of fresh corn! The freshly prepared guacamole was loaded with flavor. And my main course… met and exceeded my expectations. The wait staff was helpful and patient. Everything was wonderful.

I certainly plan on being a repeat patron, and I’m very happy to have this new business in Elkhart County. If you’re in the area give it a try.  You’ll be glad you did.

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Feb 8

St. Pancake’s Day?

Sometimes Valentine’s Day gets a little too much attention. OK, I’m a man and that’s my personal opinion, but let me explain.

I think it over-shadows another important event, National Pancake Month. If I had to pick between pink foil wrapped chocolates and a stack of fresh-from-the-griddle pancakes, I would definitely pick the pancakes! I’ve loved pancakes since I was a kid. My Mother used to make them from corn meal and top them with apple butter. They were fantastic – especially with the crispy edges! More

I’m not suggesting anyone ignore Valentine’s Day. Pancakes and Valentine’s Day work well together. You can show your feelings for that special someone by bringing them breakfast in bed – a plate piled high with golden pancakes. (Try making them in heart shapes for a bit of romantic flair.)  Or go to any of Amish Country’s pancake houses and order up their house specialty. Now that’s romance! More

How can you go wrong with pancakes? It’s like having dessert for breakfast! Valentine’s Day and National Pancake Month – what a match! So share some sweet pancakes with your sweetie this year.  Of course, adding fresh flowers or candy might be a good suggestion too. More

Would you choose chocolate or pancakes?

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Feb 2

Relay for Life of Elkhart County

While reading a local paper, I came across information on an event that struck a personal cord with me.  So I thought I would blog about it here to share with others, in hopes of furthering a great cause.

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Elkhart County officially gets underway at 6:30pm Thursday, February 2, at The Lerner Theater with a kick-off rally to launch fundraising efforts for the this year. The 2012 relay will take place, June 16-17, at Concord High School. For more information contact Juliana Newbill at Juliana.newbill@cancer.org. More

My Grandmother has been a long time cancer survivor and fighter and she’s an inspiration.  She has never lost her courage or determination. I cannot think of a better way to celebrate her accomplishments than by participating in this Relay. The relay is not just a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society; it’s also a celebration of survival.

I realize many of you cannot attend this local kick-off, but there are probably other opportunities to get involved in your community.  You may save a life. More

How do you remember or currently support friends and/or family touched by cancer?

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Jan 24

Concert of a lifetime – Emilee Allan Will Perform at The Lerner

I would like to take a moment and share some information with folks about a unique opportunity. On January 28 at 8pm a new local voice will perform songs from her newest album. Emilee Allan is a native of the Michiana area, and at a mere 18 years old she has a spectacular voice. 

Emilee describes her music as a blend of country and blues influenced by George Jones and Carrie Underwood. Coupled with her unique song writing talent, she really delivers a wonderful experience for the listener. I was surprised and delighted when I first heard her singing. Certainly something I would recommend to any music lover. And it’s especially nice to spend time getting to know and enjoy some local talent. More.

The Lerner Theatre in Elkhart is a great venue. And the audience will enjoy her sophisticated sounds in an equally fitting location. In my opinion it won’t be long before she becomes a star and I’ll be telling friends that I got to see Emilee Allan live in concert. And to miss seeing her perform live for only $15 would truly be unfortunate. 

Have you seen performers before they made it ‘big’?

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Jan 9

Concord Bounce

If you have young kids, and need a place for them to exercise and get rid of winter blahs in Amish Country, try the Concord Mall Bounce House.

I was amazed at how much there is for my little one to do there.  There’s a huge slide, a play area for kids 5 and under, an obstacle course, and a couple of sports themed bounces.  Mina was thrilled!  She played for two hours the first time she visited and loved going down the giant slide and figuring out how to get over the huge wall in the obstacle course.  She actually played with a ball and baseball bat for the first time.  The fact that air keeps the ball up may have been the driving factor, but she loved it all the same.

Like most kids, Mina loves running and bouncing.  And I love taking her to places that foster her independence and let her burn up lots of energy!

So, bring a friend, or your e-reader, and enjoy the fact that your child is having a great time getting exercise and will go to sleep soundly at night.

The other good thing about Concord Mall Bounce House is its convenience to the food court. Ben’s Pretzels is ideal for a yummy snack, and Adam’s Bistro is great for a tasty, healthy lunch.

 

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Jan 5

Winter Weather in Amish Country Northern Indiana

Oh boy, it seems like wintery weather may actually get here. With a warmer than usual start, it’s been a little difficult for snow lovers, like myself. Over the Christmas holiday many kids probably opened snow related gifts that they can’t wait to use.

If Santa brought ice skates, the NIBCO Ice/Water park in downtown Elkhart is a great place to try them out. The ice rink has on-ice helpers to assist beginners and remind seasoned skaters of the rules for safe skating. More

For those little and big kids who received a sled or toboggan the county parks are the perfect place to try them out. Both Ox Bow and Bonneyville Mill have ample sledding hills for the beginners and old timers I usually go to Bonneyville Mill because its closet to where I live. Also, its free. A price that can’t be beat for unlimited plummets down their two hills. The county parks also provide toasty warm shelters by the sledding hills– perfect to sip a thermos of hot chocolate and warm-up chilly fingers and toes. More
 

And after sledding or skating a hot meal might be the perfect ending to a fun day. For me, this is the best time of year to enjoy a hearty country style feast with pie of course. But there are lots of options in Amish Country. The selection is wide so you decide. More
 

Tell us about your favorite outdoor winter activity.

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Dec 14

Santa Songs!

It seems Christmas carols are almost inescapable. But for me it’s a hallmark of the season. It’s just not Christmas till you hear that favorite song and sing along.

So this weekend, December 16 & 17, may be the perfect time to enjoy your favorites. Bonnie & Clyde’s Stone Soup Emporium is hosting an event in association with Premier Arts, called “Santa Sings – A Christmas Cabaret”. This is a family friendly concert of holiday music and plain talk about Santa’s traditional origin and his significance today. Songs featured will be classic carols from television and Broadway with Daniel Johnson. Daniel Johnson is a regular interpreter of holiday material and has appeared onstage and for charity. He has done work in “A Christmas Carol” and “Miracle on 34th St.”
Other Events.

The fun begins at 7:30 Friday and Saturday at the Stone Soup Emporium, State Road 120 in downtown Bristol, IN just across from the Key Bank. Along with the concert the Emporium offers art work from local artists, an old fashion soda fountain, ice cream treats, and a great selection of holiday gifts and treats. The concert is free with donations being accepted. More.

What is your favorite Christmas song? Leave us a comment!

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Dec 1

Elkhart Winterfest!

Winterfest is almost here! This is an exciting event for the whole family. Whenever I go, I can’t help but get that warm Christmas feeling I enjoyed each year as a kid.

This year there will be a parade, tree lighting ceremony, fireworks and a special skate under the stars at NIBCO Ice and Water Park near downtown The City of Elkhart is really going all out this year. The event kicks off at NIBCO ice park at 6 pm and last till 8 pm. more

And best of all…SANTA will be there for the kids. Mom and Dad can get a picture with the little ones for ONE dollar! You can find Santa at Elkhart Central Fire Station 500 East Street- Admission is $2.00 or a donation of  a non – pershishable food item for kids 3 - 12 years; free for kids under 3. more

Skip the mall and long lines this time and stop out with me. Santa will be available for visits in the morning from 8am to Noon and the town Winterfest in NIBCO water/ice park begins at 6pm. Between events stop in to McCarthy’s for a late lunch or early dinner.

Winterfest would be a great tradition to start with your family. What Christmas traditions do you practice or remember from childhood? Leave us a comment.

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Nov 29

After Thanksgiving

The day after Thanksgiving has become known as ‘black Friday’ to many shoppers and deal scouts. For those who enjoy heading out early hunting for bargains, our area offers LOTS of great shopping spots and all sorts of deals. However, I’m not really into the “shopping event of the year”. I’d rather put up my Christmas decorations and snack on the previous day’s left-over’s. more

I guess I’m old-fashioned. When I was a kid, there were no stores open on the Friday following Thanksgiving. If my family didn’t spend the day picking out our Christmas tree we’d often go to a park, assuming the weather cooperated. more

I remember one of my favorite things to do on the day after Thanksgiving was to see a movie if the theatre was open. Nowadays movie theaters cater to the post-Thanksgiving crowd. For folks wishing to escape the shopping rush but feel a little cabin fever, it’s the perfect day to catch a flick. more 

So if you’re not into shopping the day after Thanksgiving, this area has plenty of other things to do. Just call ahead to make sure places are open. Check out hours and phone numbers listed on our website AmishCountry.org

What is your favorite post-Thanksgiving Day tradition?
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