Do the Amish celebrate the Fourth of July?

That’s a question one of my readers recently asked me. The Amish do not celebrate secular holidays. Those sit on the back burner of religious ones, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see an Amish family enjoying fireworks or having cookouts. The Amish here in northern Kentucky are from Swiss decent and certainly will not … Continue reading Do the Amish celebrate the Fourth of July?

The Ice Harvest.

Since temperatures have fallen, Mike and I know the ice harvest is soon upon us. For centuries, the Amish and some Mennonite groups, have been harvesting ice in the winter to fill ice houses that will keep their food cold the following spring, summer and fall. It's the way it was done for all our … Continue reading The Ice Harvest.

The joy in a slow journey

The Amish still travel much as their ancestors did—by horse and buggy, the steady clip-clop of hooves setting the pace of their days. When longer journeys call, they may hire a driver, or sometimes board a train or bus. Closer to home, my Amish friends often walk, or glide quietly on scooters. I’ve been blessed … Continue reading The joy in a slow journey

A Plain Woman

The Amish are known for their simple way of life, which is rooted in their Anabaptist Christian faith. They live by distinct rules and practices. Both men and woman have significant roles in their communities, and in within their families. Here are ten things Amish women cannot do that many of us might take for … Continue reading A Plain Woman

Coffee with a Cause Devotional

I was reading recent reviews from beloved readers for my latest release, A Stolen Kiss, and I cannot tell you how much it warms me when readers connect with characters from one of my books. LeEtta is such a sweet character, but one who had to learn much by watching those around her. Community is … Continue reading Coffee with a Cause Devotional

The Amish Beard

Old Order Amish are no longer a small secular group, but a growing population that call 32 states and 6 Canadian provinces home. If you live near Ohio, then you certainly have seen a horse and buggy, as 62 percent of all Old Order Amish reside there. They are our neighbors, the shops we frequent, … Continue reading The Amish Beard

Make 2023 ~ the year of Simplicity

It's amazing how fast a year can come...and go! I'm not one for resolutions, but it never hurts to set goals for yourself. This year I'm focusing more on living each day intentionally, and one at a time. I'm also embracing the simple. Growing up Appalachian, I know how to live simple and frugal down … Continue reading Make 2023 ~ the year of Simplicity