The “Christmas in the Cottage trail” was dark and cold until the small log cabin came into view draped in a warm glow of twinkle lights. As you stepped onto the porch one was surrounded by standing pots and centrepieces of Christmas decor for the home or office shopper. Crystal ice-bowls holding little candles greeted one as you approached the door. Special lighting behind natural berries and boughs sealed in glass sheets of ice beckoned you to take a closer look. There was a sense that you had come to a real gingerbread house in the woods. As you looked in the window however you realized that no, this was a dollhouse with goodies and treats. Everything in the dollhouse was specially designed for efficiency and comfort for the dweller but for those few days it was dressed up just for you!
The sweet aroma of cinnamon greeted one as you stepped through the door to be met with cheer by Reimer. As you melted into the warmth and the smells you knew you had made the right decision to come! The aroma of warm apple cider sitting on the wood stove wafted through the air as you moved around looking at the rich professional photography set in calendars, cards, mattes, and small crafts. Garden ornaments and other novelties crafted by Reimer also attracted the eye.
Then one is offered tea or cider in Reimer’s best china. As I sat back in a comfy chair nibbling on cheese and crackers and home-baking I made a promise to myself to do this every year – hoping that Christmas in the Cottage will open again next December.
– Karen Moilliet
