Just last week I enjoyed what could be a perfect gift, one package with a focus on Christmas and pleasing to families. I boarded a bus with old and newly-made friends for what we all considered a much deserved preholiday lift. The spirit of Christmas among us, we headed to Lancaster, a pleasant drive across our state.

For nearly 48 hours we learned about people, the Pennsylvania countryside and the holiday's true meaning. Two days of Christmas magic I'll remember for a very long time.

The motorcoach drive to Lancaster began with longtime friend and Canonsburg resident Loretta Kulakowski planning our tour. Always fun loving and amusing, Loretta filled our days and evenings with the enchantment of Christmas. Needing a little downtime before the holiday rush, we were eager for the distraction.

Approaching our destination, Amish farmers were seen clearing cornfields and their children playing outdoors. Horse-drawn buggies were also attention-getters, seeming to be more plentiful than cars along the highway.

More than 200 nativities from around the world provided a realistic journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem and the rich history of biblical times.

Scenes recreated to include the 1940s war years, Santas from around the world, fantasy train village evoking the holiday spirit and a special 1950s Woolworth's showcasing vintage toys and merchandise.

In its 23rd season, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre entertained travelers with Holly Jolly Christmas and provided an extensive buffet. Featuring Christmas music with children and adults in traditional costumes, the musical offered fun for all ages.

Continuing our Lancaster visit, we drove through the Amish countryside to Kitchen Kettle Village. The stop is convenient for lunch or dinner or to mingle with folks from around the world--through more than 40 quaint shops. The village also offers an educational tour through pristine Amish farmland in a covered horse-drawn buggy.

Barely a stone's throw away, we stopped at Zimmerman's, a general store celebrating 100 years of supplying groceries and more to its Amish residents. Near the entrance, among the fruits of this year's harvest, sits a phone booth reminiscent of the 1984 film Witness starring Harrison Ford. I recall Harrison, dressed in plain Amish style, making a call from the booth during one scene in the movie. This favorite flick added more fun to the stop at Zimmermans.

Moving right along with our Christmas celebration, we headed to the Millennium Theater to experience the Miracle of Christmas. The awesome performance includes gifted vocalists, magnificent costumes and realistic scenery. Live horses, camels, donkeys, goats, sheep and doves amazed the audience with their interaction.

Reported to be the largest Christian theatre in the U.S., this larger-than-life musical is truly a performance to see again and again.

In a time where parents aren't sure what is suitable for family viewing, these productions are family-friendly, without a doubt. A drive to Lancaster can be a memorable holiday treat, a special gift for all ages.