Jul 21, 2011

Shiny bulbs make for Christmas (in July) cheerBy Dennis ZelaznyHometownLife.com

Christmas in July can be explained in several ways. In the Northern Hemisphere some people throw parties during July that mimic Christmas celebrations. In the Southern Hemisphere, where July falls in winter, it’s not uncommon for events to have a Christmas theme. But that is still way too confusing for me. So accept the fact that it’s July and we are going shopping for a new shiny Christmas ornament.

My travels took me to Marshall, where one of the Mole Hole Gift Shops exists. Mike and Penny Kinter own this wonderfully inspired vintage-styled shop. Their daughter, Kristin, has joined in the fun as well, helping with the buying and doing all the display work.

The original Mole Hole was established 45 years ago and opened in the basement of a wine store in Petoskey. The Mole Hole shops (there are only three) in Michigan, built a reputation of carrying unique one-of-a-kind items. Artisans largely created most of the merchandise in the store. The remaining merchandise was produced by small cottage-type industries.

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