A Taste of Haldimand: December 4, 2025

By Marie Fagan Peart   |  marie@haldimandpress.com

Although Sharon Woods is still considered a “newcomer” in some circles, she has called Haldimand County home for 18 years. 

It was 2007 when Sharon and her husband decided to move from the city and find a place in the country. They loved the two-acre property near Nelles Corners, but the house needed some work to make it their home. After living in the basement for a year, the house eventually became the beautiful home that it is today.

Sharon Woods

Sharon’s children, two sons and a daughter, and her grandchildren love coming to visit her in the countryside.

Sharon told me the story of how she drove by the Oneida United Church and admired this “picture-perfect country church.” She decided to attend a service. As she walked in, a woman in the congregation noticed her looking around and said, “You’re new here, sit with me.” Dorothy Smith warmly welcomed her that day and Sharon has felt at home in the church ever since. 

Yes, she is still referred to as the “newcomer” on occasion, but always in jest. She is an active participant in the choir and the United Church Women’s group. Sharon also gives back to the community through her involvement with the West Haldimand General Hospital Auxiliary. She has lots of fun with her bowling league friends and her card playing group.

About five years ago, a new family tradition was born. Sharon’s daughter, daughter-in-law, and niece gather in her kitchen to make Belgian cookies. Each has their specific role and there is much kibitzing about the thickness of the dough, size of the cherry pieces, and just how much jam is needed. All in good fun and a wonderful way to enter the Christmas spirit! Sharon has shared the cookie recipe, as well as a turnip puff. This veggie dish has been a family favourite for years and is one of the expected, traditional recipes made for Christmas dinner. Enjoy!