Every good rule is eventually broken

Readers and writers of Amish fiction have discovered certain “rules” about the Amish–lifestyle choices that almost never vary from one Old Order district to the next, from one state to another. But the more I research this fascinating culture, the … Continue reading

Whoopie Pie History & Recipe

Whoopie pies are considered a New England phenomenon and a Pennsylvania Amish tradition. Whoopie Pies have also been known as a “gobs.” in Western Pennsylvania (see Gob History below). They are one of Maine’s best known and most loved comfort … Continue reading

Living Simply Tip

At every Amish gathering I’ve been to, there’s been a lot of visiting going on.  For the Amish, simple living involves spending time with their family and friends. Try visiting with a friend of family member without the distraction of … Continue reading

Free Recipe Friday – Barn-Raising Breakfast!

  This hearty Amish Barn-Raising Breakfast recipe is guaranteed to give you lots of energy to start the day. This homey, country-style breakfast bake might traditionally be made in a coal or wood burning stove, but it’ll bake up just … Continue reading

Free Recipe Friday

Now here’s a recipe you don’t see every day. It’s a dinner casserole, taken from Wonderful Good Cooking, from Amish Country Kitchens, copyright 1974 by Amish Country Publishers of Holmes County in Berlin, Ohio. The author, Johnny Schrock, was a … Continue reading

“Hiding in Plain Sight” by Amy Wallace

Releasing on April 1st!! World weary and down to a threadbare faith, police officer Ashley Walters seeks refuge in Montezuma, Georgia, a quiet town with a thriving Mennonite community. Yet even in the peaceful surroundings, she can’t escape the haunting … Continue reading

Single sons of farmers

Until I spent time interviewing and studying the lives of farmer, both Amish and English, it hadn’t occurred to me the responsibility of being the only son in the family. Most men who own family businesses hope their sons enjoy … Continue reading

Free Recipe Friday – Amish Bread

Amish White Bread Recipe Ingredients: 2 cups warm water (110 degrees) 2/3 cup white sugar 1 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1/4 cup vegetable oil 6 cups bread flour Directions: 1 In a large bowl, dissolve … Continue reading

The “Ordnung”

Passed along through an oral tradition, the Ordnung by necessity changes and evolves with every new issue that arises and every new technology that presents itself for consideration.  When deciding whether something should be allowed, church leaders focus on key … Continue reading

Free Recipe Friday!

Onion Fritters 3/4 cup flour 1 T. cornmeal 1 T. sugar 2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 1/2 cup cold milk 2 1/2 cups onions, finely diced In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, … Continue reading