Simple Living
During a recent radio interview, I talked about some ways we can simplify our lives and try living a little more like the Amish do. Here are a few suggestions:
The Amish travel mostly by horse and buggy. They also walk many places, and some ride bikes or scooters. Whenever I ride in an Amish buggy I notice so many things around me. Why not take a leisurely walk in the country, or even a stroll around your neighborhood? It’s amazing how many things you’ll see when you walk instead of ride in a car. The fresh air and exercise is good for you, too.
At every Amish gathering I’ve been to, there has 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 or family member, without the distraction of TV or radio in the background. You’ll be surprised at how much more enjoyable the conversation will be.
One thing I’ve noticed about most of my Amish friends is that they like to read. Many have often said that they enjoy reading because it takes them to places they’ve not been able to visit. Reading is also a good way to relax. When you read one of my novels, I hope you will allow yourself to be drawn into the lives of my Amish characters.
What are some things from the Amish way of life that you have incorporated in your own life?
Learning about the Amish was changed the way my husband and I look at life these days. I love to read amish fiction and have even learned to quilt. I found that I love it. Last week I lost my job of 20 years and as of today, my husband and son are part of our governments shut down. Normally we would be totally freaking out over this, but we are not. We visit Lancaster often and we realized the peace we feel when we are there. We have decided to keep that feeling now. Things may get tough, but we are looking at the bright side of the situation.
Thank you for helping change our way of thinking with your wonderful books!!
God Bless
Jody Rigle
Yes I love reading her books before my mom pass away she got me into reading her books.i get lost when i am reading.it allmost think that you are in her books.I know that if everyone put god first then they will not worry.about what the gov.is doing.i told some of my friends if they put there faith in god they will not worry.because he was the one to come to earth in the first place.so we all need to come together and pray over each an everyone..and to bring peace and love.
I read a lot-books, magazines, Internet blogs, etc. I am trying to spend more time with family and friends.
I have enjoyed reading your books about the Amish for years. I have adopted a more simle way of dressing. Over time I have changed from shopping for many new stylish outfits with lots of bling to more simple, timeless looks that will not go out of style. I wear simle smaller jewelry and know that my beautify comes from genuinely caring about others, being interested in their lives and a warm and friendly attitude towards everyone.
We recently downsized and moved to town from the country. Our new motto is “less is more.” Weather permitting, I’m riding my bike to work. In the evenings, we are going for walks and riding bikes together. The advantage is there are no dead skunks or opossums in the road!
Wanda, I love reading books about the Amish because it takes me away from the faced paced life I, along with so many I know, live. I like to sit on my screened porch and rock in my rocking chair. As I go by home after home all over, I observe rocking chairs, wicker and other types of chairs on porches. However I have yet to see people in them. Sometimes I wonder if we like to “advertise” relaxation, but neglect time to do so. So, with book in hand let me rock away at least an hour of my life from time to time.
I do love to read and lose myself in the story. I at times get so involved while reading a story I feel like one of the people in the story. I also love the simple things of life — the beautiful sunrise or sunset — the change of seasons and so many things God has for us to enjoy. Thank you for sharing your insights and imagination for us to enjoy!
When I awake in the morning, I try and remember to give thanks to God for allowing me to experience another day. I am making more room in my life for contemplation and am trying to free myself from too many things going on at once. I am always amazed that my Amish friends, and we had dinner with them last weekend, take things in stride. They face challenges, one of the women is teaching school for the first time and feels a bit overwhelmed with establishing a routine, and yet, they handle those “crisis'” much better than I. I have so much going on and seemingly no time to spare, but I am learning. I am slowing down and looking for the beauty in life and in the world and learning to be grateful for all I have been given and not long for what I don’t have and/or need. Susan
We live in such a busy world. I work in a funeral home, which is a constant reminder of the precious life we have here, and at times is cut short. The Amish seem to put much more emphasis on caring for one another, and their neighbors than the average American does. I am blessed because I come from a big family and many of us live within a 10 mile radious, but the busyness of life keeps us at times from spending more time together. I read one of your Amish stories and I am compelled to call someone in the family and have breakfast or coffee together.
Wanda,
I am an advocate of simple living. I find as I am getting a little older that I appreciate more and more the quieter, less rushed way of living. I enjoy reading about the Amish way of life and have naturally incorporated many of their ideals into my own life. Walking regularly, more time spent in reading and in prayer are just a few of the ways I have chosen to improve my life. Thank you for sharing your passion for the Amish with us through your books.
Sincerely,
Susan
I have tried to be more conservative in my life. I do my own freezing of fresh vegetables to enjoy later in the winter. I also open windows so I don’t need to run the air conditioner as much. I have always been a conservative person having been brought up that way. I love to walk in the country and just see all of God’s beautiful creation. Especially now when the leaves are turning such radiant colors. Fall is a favorite time of the year.
Although I have not purposely set out to adopt ideas from the Amish, I do find myself slowing down, spending time with family, and leaving the television and radio off after I’ve read Amish fiction. Their less-hurried lifestyle draws me.
I love to read books about Amish.
This was my first time reading your journal, and it became clear to me why I love reading your books. You have captured the beauty and simplicity of life, so many of us forget all that is free can bring us happiness. It is not about things and dollars. Thank you Wanda, I was honored to meet you in Sugercreek.
Nancy
I love to walk. I live in a small town so I’m able to walk instead of driving. I notice so much more about our Lord’s wonderful creation that way.
Wanda, I love reading, journaling and creating pieced quilts! But in the midst of raising three teenagers I am again reminded that I need to slow down and take a walk in the woods, down the road or to a cemetery to remember loved ones. Reflection is something we need in our lives, time to reflect on the times God has walked through the pain with us; Sometimes it seemed we were alone and other times, a human touch or whisper encouraged us on. But when someone took the time to listen….ah that was a touch of heaven on earth. Friendship takes time and nurture. I hope I am a good friend and can listen when others need to be heard!
Relaxing seems to be a lost art… No matter where I go everyone is rushing around. When I spend time in the Amish town of Lancaster, I love to see the calmness in the Amish.. Always smiling and wishing people well. My time there is well spent.. I have been going for well over twenty years, and while much has changed, when I go I search out the back roads, the root beer stands, and fruit and vegetable stands of the Amish.. I still have a horseshoe I bought quite awhile ago from a young Amish child.. There is nothing more Blessed then to watch the Amish just being Amish.. They have been blest by God indeed!
I enjoy walking with my family.
When I was a kid one of the greatest things for me was to visit with my extended family at our reunions. To hear the stories of my relatives was a lot of fun. I still enjoy it to this day, although I don’t get to go as often.
Your books really do put me in a piece of mind that helps quiet my soul. Right now, going through breast cancer treatment, having that reprieve is very nice.
Thank you for sharing your talent.
I used to walk every evening with our beloved sheltie! We saw new things, friends and enjoyed the exercise. He is gone now and it is harder for me to do that walking!
Years ago, an elderly lady neighbor told me that she didn’t need to travel. She had visited the whole world through the books that she had read!
Just read your second book about the patchwork quilt. Loved it!
I enjoyed hearing you speak last year at the library in Fairbank, IA!
I like to read outside and look at the lake and the birds. The other day we had two eagles soar over the lake.
I have started reading Amish books and learning a lot. I also read a cookbook by the Amish in Florida which also had some stories about the people writing the recipes. I have made a couple of recipes from the book.
As a young child my mother taught me to sew,crochet .I also canned alot of vegatables , raised a garden…baked everything from scratch.. God has blessed us with these talents .I’ve always admired the Amish as they keep life simple. God and family are first and foremost,.They help each other .
Today life is so fast paced there isnt time to do these things.
I love the amish books as it reminds me to make time to help others, to worship and be there for family.Thank you Wanda for the wonderful stories..
Grandchildren and great are very nice to have around they make you fill young some times and
other times so old. But I love them any way.
Hi Miss Wanda! I love to read Amish stories and many things about the Amish lifestyle fascinates me. The way they fully depend on their Creator and the close relationship they have with Him is among many. I also love the way the forego the modern conveniences that are such a distraction and often times take our attention away from God. I enjoy sitting under the tree in my front yard with my Bible or a good book and just enjoying all of God’s creation. I also opt out of taking my car to my sister’s who lives almost a mile away. I just enjoy my time out in the open spaces with the beauty of God all around me.
Wanda Barefoot
flghtlss1(at)yahoo(dot)com
My husband and I have finally “retired” from working full-time and the Lord has enriched our lives with a wonderful family that we can enjoy being with much more. My sister and I take long walks together and admire the beautiful flowers and landscaping in the neighborhood. My husband and I love to go to the Ocean and Parks and just enjoy all that our God has created. When I read about the Amish, I long for days gone by, when things were so much simpler and God and family were the most important things.. We are striving to make our lives less complicated and just enjoy life – God – and family…
I enjoy family and grandchildren sitting around the fire-pit toasting marshmallows! Love the fall season and the crisp, cool evenings and feeling warmth of the campfire. Families need to spend more time together. Also, good for neighbors to get to know each other – time to turn off computers and all the electronic devices and learn to visit and talk to each other! I’m thankful for all God has given us to enjoy and He needs to be glorified!
Hi Wanda,
What a surprise I got when my husband and I pulled into the motel in Bird in the hand. We had traveled from Niagara Falls where we spent a few days celebrating our 40th anniversary and just decided on a whim to pull in and see if they had availability. I was reading some of the pamplets and saw you were there autographing books. I read your books all the time and LOVE them. What a pleasure and honor it was to get a book you have autographed and to have a picture made with you. My friends are jealous. Thank you for your God given talent that so inspires me each and every time I read one of your books. May God continue to give you those special words that you place in your books.
Joanna
Oh how I can associate with trying to find a more peaceful existence! Walking is one of my favorite things, and as I do so every morning with my pet, I find it a good time to communicate with the Lord…ask for his guidance, peace, and grace in my life! It’s also a good time to focus on the artistry of God in nature and be thankful for all we have!
I don’t have the pleasure of a lot of family, but I go there in books! Amish books are dear to my heart because of the way their love and support of one another shines through. They have so very much to teach us. I very much enjoyed the first book in the Quilt Club” series. I have just received the second one and look forward to seeing more miracles occur. It was a great thing to watch as they came to accept one another and to watch as God moved in their lives!
Thanks for touching our hearts with your books! God Bless!
Dear Wanda, I so enjoyed meeting you and your husband in Shipshewana last year. When you spoke of just enjoying the beauty of God’s country and His people, it reminded me of Psalm 143:8, “Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in the morning, for in thee do I trust;…”. Just hearing the birds sing, the wind blow, or the rainfall is so peaceful and reminds me once again of God’s existence. Thank you for all you do and say to share God’s beauty and wonder.
Hello!
I love all kinds of Amish fiction, but you are by far, my favorite author. I , too, like taking walks. I try to find at least one thing to look at or see, whether it be someone’s new decoration on a door, or new flowers. It makes me pay attention to what is around me, especially God’s beauty.
Good Morning, Miss Wanda,
I LOVE to read. I read every day, unless I am vey ill. I can go places I’ve never been, even be in the Civil War, with a book. The rockers on my porch are getting to be very worn, with the miles I have put into them. The green & the quiet around me quiets my soul. God loves me so very much, has given me so much, so I try to use the mind, body and senses he gave me; one way I can give back to Him. His world is more awesome than we, as humans, could ever dream to improve upon. Just to look around us at the beauty of flowers, mountains, the sky, the oceans and realize He made us to enjoy it all with Him. May we realize it is ours to enjoy and get as far removed as is possible from the noise and lures of this greedy world. Thank you for your Blessed gift of sharing through your stories.
I have visited the Amish community I PA in years past and I still remember that I automatically slowed down and relaxed when I was there. My husband and I loved the food and friendship we received there. I only got to go back one time after he passed away. Now I am not able to walk but hope to soon as I have had both my knees replaced and am almost ready to attempt walking again. I was not able to walk for several years so I did a lot of sitting on my porch reading. I still do that but because I want to and not that I have to. Have a beautiful day and God bless.
I love to visit Amish country in Ohio. I do so at least once a year. I love to stay at the Inn at Honey Run, visit the cheese shops, Lehman’s, quilt stores, and just be in a slower paced area.
Your books take me there, they are calming, relaxing, and faith filled. Thank you for being you and helping me to slow down… 🙂
I have read almost all of your books and releate to the characters in each book. They have become part of me and I feel I know them well.
I enjoy it so much when my family gets together. We made a large table out ot an old door for a recent family summer gathering. I look at the table set with a cloth and all the food each member supplied and thought this is how the Amis would do it!
Keep writing because your books inspire me.
Wanda,
I love reading your books. We live in Alabama and we travel each year to Holmes County, Ohio. In fact, we will be there next week (October 6-12.) I love the Amish books you write and I read each one of them. I can image the beautiful Amish countryside and the people as you write about them in your books. Some of the places you write about I have visited and that makes it even more exciting. I love the Amish ladies love of flowers and when I begin my flower beds each Spring, I am reminded of them and what a talent they have for growing such beautiful flowers. Keep writing your wonderful books. You are indeed blessed by God to be able to write such wonderful and inspiring books.
I love reading because it teaches me something every time I pick up a book – and it transports me to new places and introduces me to new “people” – because I truly do feel I meet the characters in the books I read. And the Amish are a wonderful group of people to meet. Thank you for your books – and your blog.
I am blessed to live in Lancaster County, PA, and I am so inspired by the Amish way of life. Whenever I can, I try to spend some quiet time outdoors to talk to God and be moved by His magnificent creations. Any time that I am “unplugged” from the modern world like this, I think of the Amish. I sometimes wish my life could be that simple all the time.
I love to read books about the Amish. Their life is so much simpler than the hustle bustle of the rest of us. I read a lot and never watch TV so I do experience the peace and quiet that the Amish enjoy. When walking you can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation that you totally miss by speeding from place to place by any other means.
I have loved the Amish way for many years & have read all of Wanda’s books. Since retiring, I have adopted a slower paced life & learned from the Amish to enjoy my life more. I enjoy the work I choose to do & give thanks to God for all first & foremost. I take time to appreciate the blessings of God & have a happy heart in giving back through others.
Thank you, Wanda, for your talent of writing & for sharing it with us!
I LOVE to read. when I was younger, I read the bodice-rippers that were so popular back then. Now I enjoy the simple, loving stories about the Amish or Mennonite life. The stories are so refreshing and make me long for those past times when things and lives were so much more simple than now.
I have always wanted to learn more about the Amish and have read and enjoyed a couple of your books in past years. However, since retiring from teaching in June, I have free time (Praise the Lord!!) and have been reading your books like there is no tomorrow! I very much enjoy the pictures you paint in my mind as I find joy in “visiting” Amish country, the people and their love of God!! Keep up the good work….you are a blessing!!!
I agree that is good to livi simply. It reduces a lot of stress. My variety is to sit on the deck at the end of the day and just absorb nature. Then I sit there and read.
Love your books and agree that we can benefit from simplifying our lives. Both my husband and I make a definite effort to spend quality time with kids and grand kids. While this can sometimes be difficult to implement the “no electronics” code, once it is accomplished we all benefit. Got to spend quality time with all this summer. Learned lots of new things, especially about grand-children. When there are no distractions, they tend to open up about lots of topics!
I am constantly reading about the Amish ways and I am fascinated. Life just seams so much more simple for them, not having to have the hectic ways we live. I have cut out a lot of the drama causing people in my life and I will now get up in the morning, put some coffee on, hand wash the dishes (instead of using my perfectly good dishwasher) and sit down and start reading from a good book. I used to constantly watch TV but I have to admit that there are only a couple shows that I care to watch any longer. I would rather do something that is more relaxing and less “electronic”. I am trying to get my life to run more smoothly and less stressful. I understand that the Amish also have stress in their everyday lives but they also seem to have some down time (while riding in the buggies) to think and reflect, which I don’t feel that we “English” take the time to do. Oh, to live the life of an Amish person for just one week……..
I have loved to read and knit since I was a child. Reading takes me places I have never been and will never likely get to. It also gives me much to think about and consider. Knitting is very relaxing and I have resolved many problems while I was knitting. It is a great stress reducer.
We miss so much by racing from place to place. We need to learn to take our time and enjoy the world around us and the people in our lives.
Wanda, I absolutely LOVE your books they have helped me through some pretty rough times. When I read your books I feel like I am there. You have such a great talent. I live way out in the country and one of my favorite thing to do is walk in the fall woods with my family and dog. I love the smell of the air and the sound of crispy leaves under foot. Thank you for sharing your wonderful books with us.
I enjoy the peacefulness of reading
I love reading your books!!!
I love hanging my just washed sheets outside. The fresh air and sunshine smell can’t be beat and it’s some of the best sleep I’ve ever had!
I’ve been trying to think before buying stuff I probably don’t need. Makes everything simpler.
We live in a 55+ retirement community and I walk to all the community events-dominoes, Bible Study, holiday events and such. I also walk every morning for 1+ miles. I love to read and devour books in my favorite genres- Amish fiction and Holiday themed books. Since we’ve retired I try to visit more and not be in such a rush to get on to the next ‘thing’. I would sure love to read this book in the October contest-“Log Cabin Christmas”. A Christmas themed book! is one of my favorites. sharon, ca
We grew up near Lancaster, PA and have always envied the simple, beautiful life the Amish live. While reading your books, we can mentally picture the characters and locations. As we get older, we value our friends and family more and take the time to slow down and appreciate God’s handiwork in nature. We read every day and are trying to cut down on the negative influences in our life, including many of the current shows on TV.
Love to read. My daughter & I exchange your books & enjoy them so much. The Amish are a special people. Wish I could be more like them. Keep the books coming. Lavita
I cook a lot of things from scratch, now that my husband and I are both retired. I stopped buying those convenient frozen boxed meals. I make all my own pie crust and don’t take too many short cuts. I do use a pumpkin pie mix however. I can’t wait to try Emma Miller’s Apple Crumb Bread.
I’d rather read than watch tv any day.
There are a lot of things I could change to simplify our lives.
P/S: I have made shoo fly pie a time or two but enjoy one made by the Amish more than my own.
I discovered your books several years ago and after reading them all, I now wait eagerly for the next book to be published. Your books offer a calm in my life and during a trip to Lancaster a few years go, I felt compelled to watch a farmer plow his fields from our hotel window. So relaxing! I am so glad that your books have re- introduced me to the joys of reading!
I was raised on a dairy farm and have always lived in the country so I have a lot of their ways already. I have a garden, raise meat chickens for the freezer ,make homemade bread and I usually can a lot. This is healthy and helps with the grocery bill.
I too read to relax…and I quilt to also relax and spend times with my quilter friends..I have more than enough quilts to last a lifetime but I love crafting and friendships of others.
My Mother is one of your biggest fans and hasn’t been able to read The Log Cabin Christmas yet. She has been very eager to read it. She loves log cabins as well as your books!
Thanks so much for the opportunity to win this great giveaway! If by chance I should win, this will be a Christmas present, if I can wait that long to give it to her. 🙂
Dear Wanda,
I so enjoy reading your books about the Amish way of life.. I have learned alot from their simple ways. I use alot of Amish recipes that i find in your books, I have quite a collection going and as soon as you have a new one come out it is in my hand.. I would love to one day be able to actully visit a Amish village and talk with the Amish about their lifestyle that has been my dream for along time.. People laugh at me when i say that i would love to live the life that they have.. Thank you so much for your books and all the information that you put out to explain and help us understand their way of living..
Thank you so much
Lisa Overstreet
Every book I’ve been able to read or listen to that you’ve written I’ve thoroughly enjoyed.
I’m a big fan of uncomplicatedness. I like simplicity. I agree with what you said re: leading simpler lives. I’m often praying that the Lord will simplify my life. When you’re busy all the time you really can’t enjoy life because your too preoccupied with other things.
Several years ago I’d started walking with a couple other women and was really happy to do so. Then came some changes as life happens and I had to stop doing so but I always wanted to resume doing so at some point in time. Well, last week I actually got to go walking in my neighborhood. It was so refreshing!
My desire is to do as much as I can while I can to be a blessing and source of encouragement, as we as an inspiration to those whose life I touch whether directly or indirectly. It truly is amazing how God takes us and uses us to glorify his name.
For the first 12 years of our marriage, my husband and I have struggled with finding time to slow down. Our jobs are over an hour away (by car) and since he works 10 hr days, we are up early and home late. In June, we became the guardians for our two oldest granddaughters ages 4 and 9. I read your stories (and a few others as well) and really connect with the slower, more Christ centered way of life that is lived by the Amish. With the added blessing of raising two small girls in our current society, I have started to make small but significant changes to our lives and those ideas came from your stories. We now all sit down to dinner together, start the meal with a prayer and turn the tv off. I get myself up at 4:15 (most) mornings to pop something warm in the oven for everyone to eat on their way out to start their busy day. Sorry its not from scratch, usually prepackaged scones or cinnamon buns. We have instituted “Family Night” on Fridays where we pick out an age appropriate movie and snuggle on the couch with the girls, eating popcorn and sharing the time or play a game we all can enjoy. We are working hard to keep Christ at the center of ours and the girls lives and trying to teach the girls how important family is, which are two of the basic tenants of the Amish way of life.
I have a twelve year old son and I find the best way to connect with him is being outdoors. We walk a lot, throw the baseball or football around, ride bikes, swim, hike, fish etc. I limit his video games and TV. He is a much happier child the more time he spends outdoors and being physically active. I think simpler is much better. Too much technology is not a good thing!
Congratulations, Wanda on the birth of your great grandchild.
Grandchildren sure do make our lives precious.
Reading Amish fiction is a nice way to relax and it reinforces my feeling that family is special.
i have to say i am reading more, we have taken some of the clutter to collection bins for others to enjoy as well as cleaning out closets and draws
I love to read and recently formed a small book club! Also, I am due to get two
knee replacements and plan on walking so many places…
Many thanks, Cindi
Hi Wanda Hope that you are having a great day. Exactly 1 year ago we moved up on our land that we’ve owned for 10 years it is still out in rural dubuque and we now don’t have to drive our compost up to here the composter is here so the dogs and i sometimes make several trips up to it daily as i use a small sealed bucket in the house. Also what I like to do morning and night is walk to the end of the driveway it is a circle 1/2 then it goes down well I am disabled so to walk there is hard for me but I try to do it 2 times a day then several times a day the dogs and I just go outside and sit and listen to the birds or watch the neighbors 2 horses across the hill from us. Reading well that has been my excape since my severely abusive foster home and now 50 years later it is a time that i can relax and just listen to the birds at the 14 feeders that we have. We also can alot so sometime this week we are going to can another 15 qts of tomatoes which is more than last year as we didn’t can at all as my husband was in the hospital and we were moving into our house I should say he was moving us after he got out once he got the dogs and I into the house that was it we only lived about 1/4 mile down the road but now instead of coming up here for campfires I enjoy our land every day sunny or snow. Thank you so much for the book I got it in last nights mail and was so happy I think of you every day i have my potholder on the small breakfast table in the nook and it is so pretty.
My husband is out of work due to illness, and I am disabled. We have less money than ever, but we are happier than ever too! We get to spend so much more time together, and our time is more precious than money ever was. This Christmas every single person on our gift list is getting a homemade gift. Instead of feeling bad, like I thought I would, I am very excited to have an “Old Fashioned Christmas”! I thank God for our simple, but oh-so-full-of-love, life.
Hi Wanda. One of the things from the Amish way of life that I have adopted into mine is leaving Sunday as a Holy day. So often many find Sundays as the catch up day. Not anymore for us! Sunday is a day of God, church, and family. We enjoy worship time as a family and then fellowship with each other with a meal, and then relaxation time reviewing each other’s week and chatting about various things. Lately it’s been on our back deck since the weather has been so nice. We play soft Christian music in the background and enjoy our time with our grandchildren. I use to dread Sundays…all I saw was work…but now I see Christ and peace…I like that SOOO much better!
Congraulations on the new ggrandbaby. We get to see our grandchildren this weekend. All their birthdays are in October. Oh what fun. We live on a small farm and grow some of our produce. Some, the animals take and destroy first tho. We use a wood furnace. For the last several years, all the wood was provided by storms or tornados around the area. Which means we got wood from cleaning up others problems. For the most part we live simply and of course, I love to read. Many blessings to you and all those involed in the Cabin Christmas book.
I do tend to walk everywhere. There are some lovely paths through the town here that beckon. I feel at peace as I let my mind wander. It’s a very healthy exercise in all respects.
When I am stressed I pick up one of your books and read. They relax me because they have a calming effect. I live in Indiana in an area where there are a lot of Amish, but have not been able to go for a buggy ride. I know they live a simple life, but it is also a hard life working very hard every day except the day they worship. We need more of their values in this troubled world today! Keep writing your wonderful books, we all love them.
I LOVE your books & the idea of living a simpler life! (I have recently been de-cluttering my life & my home and have gotten rid of several boxes of books, BUT yours are some of the books I’ve kept!!) Keep up the good writing & thank you for sharing the Amish with those of us who live far away!
Whenever I have free time I enjoy reading a good book. My sister and I take walks around our neighbor all the time. It is nice to enjoy the fresh air. We go late night because it is so quite. I am very close to my family so we see each other everyday. God Bless you and your family.
I love reading Amish books and the Amish culture. I’ve been to Lancaster and Pinecraft many timea. I love the feeling I gt reading Amish books, the calmess ness, the peace, you feel like you are part of the story and you can relate to the characters too.
I have a deeper appreciate for the Lord from the bible verses I read in these stories.
I learn to cook Amish meals and bake bread through these books.
I have a deeper love for gardening too.
Thanks for your great books.
I make everything from scratch like my Amish friends do. I don’t even own a microwave oven. I have actually been doing this most of my adult life. I love having all the family gather around the tabke at one time together. It is rewarding to sit and talk and especially to see them enjoy thr fruits of my labor.
I love reading about the Amish lifestyle. I have worked in an area with many Amish in Michigan and loved meeting them and talking to them. I have a wonderful new understanding of them when I read your books. Thank you
Our kids and I take walks around the neighborhood all the time. Myself and our oldest daughter are very into reading, along with my husband. Our two youngest children are starting to get into reading now as well ! We do most everything as a family, weather it is just a drive in the car, a walk around the neighborhood, apple picking or just sitting on the porch and playing out in the yard.
I learned a little poem from my Mother a long time ago,
Use it up
Wear it out
Make it do
Or do without
All my co-workers have learned to appreciate my simple was of living and have even asked advise on how to live with just what is necessary.
I love reading about the Amish and have realized my family needed to slow down. We sit and talk without any electronics(including no phones). My husband and I love this time but have realized our children are enjoying it as well and the time is getting longer. We have always been a close family but this has made us appriciate each other more.
All of the family is reading more. Thankful for the peace and harmony in our home. We have 4 children and come October 6th, they will all be teenagers. God is Good!!!
Love your books. We have been gardening and canning alot more this summer and fall. We have taken more family time and shut down all eletronics.
Here a few of the things from the Amish way of life that we have incorporated into our lives.
* We have a small garden in our backyard where we grow the things we enjoy the most.
* We are working on clearing out the clutter and simplifying the number of things that we “need.”
* We spend almost every weekend visiting with friends and family and/or enjoying the natural beauty of our area.
* We place our faith in God completely and accept the things that happen as His will.
* God is first in our lives then family/friends followed by our community and lastly, our jobs.
* We don’t have cable, Internet, or a land line in our home! We spend our evenings reading, playing Scrabble, or just sitting outside enjoying the weather. Although we do occasionally order movies or TV series DVD sets from the library when we want something “different.”
I just love the simplicity of the Amish lifestyle. I would love to stay with an Amish family to learn more about their routines and habits, so that I could apply them to my own life.
Hi Wanda I think you’re absolutely right the Amish do seem to have another way of living such as Amish will not own or drive a motor vehicle, … listen to radios, have internet or TV’s in their home, and phones remain off limit inside the homes also. Personally I think they got it right. It’s not only a better way of living but healthier for the body mind and soul. I like the way Amish people always give a helping hand to one another in need, it show good character. But I have to say it’s not television or radios distracting people from good conversation anymore, it’s the freaking cell phone’s and computers. Like the Amish I think everything on earth is made for the good, its people that use it to the bad. I also think the reason the Amish life has sold people for so many years was because of their strong faith in God;that was always leading us to believe and trust in them, but with this new Amish kids running wild shows I think people are starting to wonder just how safe eating, staying, and buying stuff in Amishville really is.
I find such peace when I read your books. When I am reading your books, I am there, wherever you take me. Our world is in a sad situation and you help to make it easier. Thank you so much for all your time and talent, you have certainly blessed this Mississippi girl.
The Amish spend Sunday together and visit. I like to spend extra time after church, just catching up with folks. After all, our relationships will be the only thing that matters at the end of our lives. People are a good investment! My husband and I also spend time in Amish country in the spring and the fall-a perfect away to slow down and reconnect!
Every October I get a chance to go to Northern Michigan and enjoy friendship in Gladwin, MI
I belong to a quilt qroup there and we stay at this Christian Camp where before every meal we enjoy prayer and give thanks to our Heavenly Father.
We also get special time to and visit the Amish and the products that they sell. We met many Amisha and they even look forward to our visits.
We have seen their quilts and fruits and vegetables and some special talented children who makes special baskets that we have all admired and purchased.
It is a pleasure to see the simple life of these amish people. We also do some similiar thing as while we are up there we do not watch T.V.’s or telephones or computers . It doesn’t even seem to matter to any of us. the fellowship we share is most enjoyable.
Hi Wanda!! I left a comment before!!, But i can’t seem to find it?Well it must be in hiding, Any way’s , you were saying that the Amish like to read a lot!!, Can you tell us if they read any of your Book’s ?? . Ok back to Incorporating!! I do a lot of Amish cooking, Canning!!,an Praying!! I don’t do a lot of TV watching!!, I’m out doors am much as possible, I’m learning how to can Fruits an Veg!! Jam, Jelly’s, . So far I love what i’m doing!! Then when all is done!! I kick back an read Your Books!! That takes me away to Amish Living!! Thanks You so much for you Books!! Barbara861@ Verizon.net ‘ Barbara Prisinzano’ 10/03/`13
I enjoy my stops at the Amish vegetable stands and the bulk food store owned by my good friend, Wally Byler’s Linda. It is such a joy to have a bit to “touch base” with her and catch up on family news, both hers and mine. I buy a great deal of my baking supplies from her and the most wonderful goatmilk soaps…with lavender or vanilla, mint or savories. They are so good smelling and great for the skin! Eggs, fruits, tomatoes, spices and more are offered during the year there, according to the season and even home-made Christmas candies that are oh-so-good! I have realized hurrying around the way we “Englisher’s” do is detrimental in so many ways. I love the quiet time in my car, going down those old country roads instead of hurrying down the interstates. It is just such a joy!
Thank you, Wanda, for bringing the quieter ways to our eyes through your books. It gives an entirely new perspective to our day! You are a blessing and a joy to us, your readers.
Spending time with our family and friends is very important. One thing I have learned is to always make time to help others and that family is very important. We love to visit the areas where the Amish live. Most recently we visited the Berlin, OH area. The Amish were very friendly. Thank you for all the books you have written and the pleasure I have received from reading them.
wanda love your books, and what I learned from the amish way of life is never forget god. make him an important part of your life everyday in everyway.
I love reading your books and know the Christmas stories in “A Log Cabin Christmas” will be so enjoyable! If I am a winner, I will be truly blessed!
Thank you for this chance, I have read i think all your books I think and it woud be such a pleassure to have a signed book of yours thank you again for this chance. Karen at khsmith97217@yahoo.com
Hi Wanda. Thank you so very much for your wonderful stories (and cookbooks) about the Amish. Although I am not able to take walks because of physical limitations, my husband takes them daily and nearly always comes back with a description of what he has seen 🙂 Reading your books really puts my mind on a slower, more appreciative level than perhaps I would have otherwise realized. We are retired so our lives are pretty much simplified, and it is wonderful. I dream of going to Lancaster County to see in person the sights, smells and people you make come alive so vividly!!! Living in Oregon would make that quite a trek and investment. Do you have any advice as to where to start in looking into visiting that area? I just ordered “The Tattered Quilt” and am anxious to read it! I am also appreciative of the chance to win a copy of “A Log Cabin Christmas.” Thank you!
I love reading your books, as well as other novels. I enjoy walking & agree that it is important to try listening & spending more time with family. I lost both parents this year. Family means more to me than ever. Thanks for your heart warming novels about the Amish way of life!
I love to read and I notice when I have a sale that the Amish come and buy books. Also I notice when they are going past my house in their horse and buggies they are laughing and talking to each other instead of being on cell phones and such. They never seem to be hurried just riding along enjoying the day. I hope that I can be more like them.
I like to simplify my life by giving away things that I don’t use/need. This helps my time spent at home to feel more relaxing and simple. I also like to bake. I used to always listen to the radio while I baked, but now I enjoy doing it without that extra noise.
The Amish are very simple people. They live from the land, and they put family first and care about the members of their commumity
I love your books on the Amish. I have retired and it gives me more time to just sit and read. I think the Amish have it right in staying away from the fast paced life. My husband and I love to go camping just because we get away from all the everyday rush and it is so nice to just walk in the parks and walk trails and just take in God’s beauty. Thank you for your wonderful books.
Some of the ways I’ve incorporated the Amish simple life into my own are reading more books about the Amish to learn more of their ways. Also, I walk daily, when the weather is not stormy, to listen to the birds and nature. I grew up in the country, thus canning and freezing produce is something I continue to do just as the Amish does. Living a simpler life with less things to distract me and to clean in my home, thus allowing more time for reading, visiting with family and friends.
Your Amish books are awesome and always include how important it is to follow the Bible and God’s teachings. Thank you for all you’ve contributed to increasing our knowledge about the Amish with your books, articles, pictures.
Blessings!!!
I am trying to get rid of alot of items that’s taking up my time keeping it clean.I am trying to reuse and recycle and not waste.Spending my time more wisely.I still have so much I want to do to simplify my life but I am on my way.
Thank you so much for the awesome Rachel Yoder books, Mrs Brunstetter. You are a fabulous author. Rachel Yoder-Always trouble somewhere is the only series written by you that I have read. I hope to read more!!!!!!!
Several of my neighbors & I get together once a week on the front porch to visit & spend a little time with each other. It is so nice to relax, enjoy the sunsets & visit. Sometimes we get so busy with our lives we forget to enjoy the gifts of good neighbors & beautiful sunsets we are given.
I quilt when ever I have a chance.
I would love to simplify my life. I am going to walk places and park further away.
I have always admired and tried to mimic the Amish way of life. Through the Industrial Age and modernisation they have stuck to the original way of life and are better for it. The world would benefit greatly (IMO) if this way of life was more widely embraced the world over.
I love to read, also do not listen to the radio much. How can God speak to someone when he has to compete for a quiet time? He doesn’t. I love quiet, simplicity….
Love reading your Amish books. They have given me an “escape” and relaxation in the midst of several trials in my life. One such time was when my Mama was on Hospice care & I stayed home 5 months with her. Just reading these books gave me enjoyment during a very difficult time. Also, being a pastor’s wife, often times our family goes through a lot of things that others don’t understand. We have to keep our countenance uplifted before our members even though we may be facing dark times. Of course, God’s Word & prayer cannot be substituted, but your books give so much enjoyment and makes life much easier. Thank you for your writings…may God give you wisdom & grace to continue to bless our lives.
Growing up, both my parents worked. Dad worked at Southern Railway and my mom for the Postal Service both in Atlanta, Georgia. They would ride together with an hour on the road, during the morning ride they would catch up on what was going on with the family and each other. On the ride home they would share each other day and spend time praying for us in what ever God brought to mind. When they pulled into the driveway they were ready for family time. Yes, they had rushed lives, but as a child I never felt like they did not have time for me. They raised me in God’s light and His love. You see I was the child of their hearts, not by blood. Blessed to be in the family who loved the Lord with all they had. I compare my home life with how the Amish live, God and family in the center. With hearts full of love for each other. Both my parents are now with the Lord, but I know I will see them again. My husband and I work hard to raise our boys with Christ in the center and family around the table. We love our Sunday dinners with all of us together when they were younger. Now, between jobs and college the boys still gather round our table when they can and share how things are going with them. I love a simple life, but in our world we do have to work at it…… and it is worth every second!! So a good Amish book reminds……slow down, listen, love, laugh and put God in the center for the journey is the best part!!
For me I love visiting Lancaster and visit at least 8 times a year. I love the simple life and enjoy lots of their recipes and enjoy my gardening. When I read your books I feel like I am a part of the book I feel I am one of the characters and it draws me into the story.
Wanda:
I do not have any Amish friends as you do, but for some reason I love to read books about the
Amish people. I keep a list of all books that I read ( have been doing this about 8 years) I have
read the following of yours. Lancaster Brides, A Merry Heart, Looking for a Miracle, Plain and
Fancy, The Hope Chest, The Storekeeper’s Daughter, The Quilters Daughter, The Bishop’s
Daughter, A Sister Test, A Sisters Hope and Half Stitched Amish Quilting Club. My biggest
problem is that when I start reading , I don’t want to quit and get on with other things I need
to do. We have visited several Amish Cities and communities and have enjoyed them all.
We really like Shipawanna. Hope you have a Blessed 2014 and looking forward to some more
good reading, Ida
Wanda, I very much enjoy reading your books. You are a great author. I met you last summer in Ohio ar the play Half Stitched and at your book signing there. Was a pleasure to meet you and your husband. Would love to be a winner.. Thanks, Barb