On one night, every November, Markdale merchants get into the Christmas spirit which results in beautifully decorated windows, festive displays and sales, sales, sales!  Mrs. Kringle’s General Store even absorbed the sales tax, and the Markdale Standard reduced the cost of a year’s subscription.  Some say that’s “mad”, but we say, “Charge it!”

The shops were packed, and Main Street was alive with package-laden people hustling to their cars.  Some of the villagers, however, preferred to saunter, enjoying visits with friends and neighbours while listening to strolling carollers.  The Rotary Club did an excellent job of providing food for the frozen shoppers.  The scent of fried onions and hamburgers wafted temptingly throughout the Village, sure to lure those of us die-hards who skipped supper to shop.

Peek Through My Window did a fun thing, this year – 15% off most merchandise plus an extra 5% discount if you wore your pyjamas into the boutique.  Dawna Fitzgerald’s friendly and courteous staff were clad in matching “jammies”, and, with Christmas carols playing throughout the store, the atmosphere was charged with merriment and fun.  We all had to laugh when Markdale resident Linda Bailey slipped off her coat to reveal her jammies and snow boots.  What a sight!  Did she get 20% off?  You betcha!

This is more than just a shopping spree, however.  It’s a tradition that marks the countdown to Christmas Day – even Santa was there.  I got the shock of my life when he slipped his arm around my shoulders and told me he liked my new coat.  Now, how did he know that?  Hmm ... Good thing I picked up a little something extra for Santa on this night of moonlight and madness.

Shelby Rice, Santa and Ken MacArthur, Fire Chief

Peek Through My Window staff

Customer, Linda Bailey, gets a cup of piping hot coffee while she shops

Dawna Fitzgerald, Prop., and Kate Russell, Manager and Event Coordinator, Markdale Chamber of Commerce

Valerie Whitney
Dec. 7, 2007

Valerie was born in Toronto and raised in L.A., and is a newcomer to Canada (moved back 2 years ago), she claims to experience Ontario through eager eyes -- everything is new, fresh and exciting. “This is the first time in my life I've known all four seasons, and I can't decide which is my favorite -- it's all so breathtaking.  I even love the snow, although, I must admit, the brochure didn't say anything about my moving to a “snow belt” ”!

www.owensoundlife.com
A newspaper covering Bruce County, Georgian Bay and Grey Highlands regional events

(She) slipped off
her coat to reveal her jammies and snow boots..!  Did she get 20% off?  You betcha!

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