Special Friendships
I was pleased and surprised when four of our dear Amish friends came all the way from Indiana to Washington State for my husband’s Memorial Service. One of the men, who is a bishop in their Amish community, spoke during the service, in addition to several other speakers. What a joy and a privilege it was to have these two Amish couples, who my husband and I became friends with over 20 years ago stay in my home for two full days and nights. The women were so helpful in preparing and setting things out for our meals, and then they cleaned up and put everything away after we had eaten. The men helped, too, and while the women picked blueberries from our berry patch, some weeds were pulled in the the flowerbeds by the men.
Friends from our church prepared a lovely meal, consisting of sandwiches, salads, chips, desserts and beverages, which were served to our family and those who attended the memorial service.
How thankful I am for good friends, who not only offered their help, but gave me comfort during a very difficult time.
How important has a special friendship been to you during a time of need? Is there anything specific you would like share?
I just read your book,The Discovery Saga Collection .It’s oneof your best in my opinion. Keep writing ✍️ . Thank you.
You are truly blessed to have such good friends to be with you during this time. When my sister passed away years ago, a good friend of the family offered to do all the food and drinks for the gathering after her memorial service. We were truly thankful for her kindness.
I am so sorry about the passing of your husband. True friends are a blessing not only everyday but also in a time of need. I recently had a dear friend of mine pass away unexpectedly. Upon grieving with my friends, we shared special memories about her that we will forever cherish.
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband. It’s wonderful that your church was such a blessing. I know you were happy to see your amish friends there, and the way they pitched in and did what was needed is true friendship. I pray you find comfort in the days to come.
Friends are important and a gift from heaven. I have a special friend Carla who was my little sister’s best friend since they were six. My sister has been in heaven since 2008. Carla is my adopted little sister. I pray with her and pray for her. She is always there for me and my family. I am blessed. I am praying for you and your family Wanda.
When my mom passed, way back in 2004, I vividly remember a friend who came to my house and just sat with me. I was on the couch, she was on the matching chair. I remember that we didn’t need to speak a lot. It was the love and kindness of her being there.
Special friendships are the best. I’m so glad you had people help you in your home and with your husband’s service. I also had friends and family help me when my late husband died suddenly. I don’t know how I would have managed without them.
Good friends are priceless. It’s wonderful to have them in your life. My friend Catherine and I meet regularly for a meal and wonderful conversation.
My mother had a massive stroke 2years ago now, and I had to leave North Carolina in a hurry for Kansas, I had just had eye surgery 2weeks before and could not fly, so my middle son and family packed and they drove me 1000 miles, my mother pulled through, and is still going with the help of my dad and my self. I really enjoy reading your books, I think I have read most all of your books, they are so easy to read, so calming too. Thank you and God Bless You.
There was an older woman that took me under her wing, showed me love, and made me and my husband part of her family. In 2018, I had a massive stroke and she came to sit with me while my husband got a break. I couldn’t stay awake long at a time, but she was there for me. Because of the love she showed me in my weakest moment then my faith grew in the Lord and I wanted to share that love with others.
I am so excited to hear about the prequel about Emma. Your quilting club series and cooking club series are some of my favorites.
Praying for you!
My friend who is also named Linda has been there for me during difficult times in the ministry and personal hardships as well. True friends are a rare gift of God. She and I laugh together and cry together throughout life
My friend who is also named Linda has been there for me during difficult times in the ministry and personal hardships as well. True friends are a rare gift of God.
I am praying for you and your family .
Good friends are wonderful.
I love reading all of your books,and I can’t wait to see what new books are coming out. Take care will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Friends are a lifeline at the most difficult times. They seem to know what needs to be done and they pitch in and do it without asking.
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your sweet husband 😔 I have been a fan of your books for over 15 years and just wanted to say thank you for your beautiful writings. Your books have always been a wonderful escape from life’s hardships.
It is in times of sorrow or trouble that we realize just how good the friends are that God has given us. Those friends can come from any walk of life, not just the one that we are on. I am sure that you treasured the actions of these friends during this time of mourning for you and your family
Wanda I’m sorry for the loss of your husband. The pain and grief will never get better. But you will learn how to adjust and handle it in your own way. I love your books and they have made it easier for me to understand my Amish neighbors that have become friends of mine! Thank you for that!
Without my friend Pam I would have never made it through the darkest time in my life. She carried me through when I could no longer stand.
Friendships like this are so rare and I am so blessed to have her in my life the past 20 years
My very dear friend Judy has been my saving grace on many occasions. Even though she cannot solve my problems, she listens with her heart and does not pass judgment. I think that it so important when you are having a problem with a loved one or something else in your life. I feel such comfort after sharing with her.
I’m continuing to pray for you and your family. That’s amazing for these friends to make that journey to help you in that time frame of need. When my husband was in a coma in the hospital, one of my church friends asked how she could help. I asked if she would stop by a funeral home with a cemetery to see if they still had plots available. She did this special request for me. Although my husband and I had prepared with wills and other legal documents, we had never discussed where we would be buried. He was only 60 when he went to Jesus.
That must have been such a blessing to you, to have the two couples travel to be with you.
Dear Wanda,
My heart goes out to you in your grief. I am praying for you. I know that you both love Christ, and you will see him again. This is the hope we live in.
Love,
Dina Scott
The summer of 2016 I spent the majority of it in Vermont with my parents . My father had stage 4 lunch canned, and this would be the last summer w him.
I have a close friend from high school who lives near by, whom I don’t see often because I live 3 hours away from my family and this friend.
One day at this time she came to see me and my family. She took me out to lunch, giving me a break from the emotions and exhaustion I was going through.
My mother at this time had some health issues as well, and she was always dependent on my dad.
She has a mental illness.
So I wasn’t only going through my own emotions, I was also trying to keep my mom afloat.
So my father had chosen not to continue with chemo and let things happen as he had been almost 4 years battling this disease.
My 2 younger brothers had already been closer to my dad than I, but this summer I had conversations with Dad that I head never had before.
When I was back to my home in northern New York State, every time we talked on the phone, he would tell me some of his thoughts, fears, and when we were done talking, would always say “I love you Margie and I always will”.
We had our ups and downs from my teenage years til this time, as I was married w 2 daughters now.
Fast forward to the weekend of October 21-23. I was called to come down, as Dad was failing fast.
That Saturday evening was the last time I heard my Dad’s voice , and he spoke weakly but clearly, “I live you Margie and always will, go home.”
The next day ,Oct 23,I headed home around 1pm.
An hour into my 3 hour trip I got the call, I pulled over at a countryside store. My parent’s longtime friend told me dad was passing. We stayed on the line until she told me he was gone. I immediately called my husband, my best friend who calmed me down so I could drive home , as he said that is where you need to be, w “our girls and I .
The song Humble amd Kind “ came on the radio.
The song I hear that reminds me of my dad.
For we had also the Saturday I last spoke w him, forgave each other of things of the past.
I am doing ok, but still tear up and miss my dad.
My best friend who is my husband is always supportive and my friemd downstate checks on me often.
I send you hugs and healing thoughts at this time.
Marj Gillette
I am truly sorry to hear of the passing of your husband. But we know that “Absent from the body means present with the Lord.” When I read of your Amish friends coming to be with you during the time of his homegoing celebration it truly touched my soul and I can only imagine what it did for you. True friends don’t talk the talk, but walk the walk. May God continue to comfort you day by day.
Prayers for you and your Family on this new journey to walk. Losing a dear husband is not easy…my journey is going on 8.5 years. miss him so much…Stay strong for him…Love your books. thank you for your gift of writing.
Good morning,
First I would like to send you my deepest condolences.
I work with special needs people and I have had the opportunity to be blessed by my special needs families not once but twice!! I love my job of caring for, teaching them things and letting them be out in the community. I really do believe that the Lord put me in this position cause I like helping others. Having friends like that are truly a God send! Be blessed!!
That was so very sweet of your friends to come all that way for you! It is always such a joy to have friendships like that. Praying for you!
What a blessing that your Amish friends came all the way from Indiana for the service! I was so sorry to hear about your husband’s passing. I know that he continues to support your writing from his heavenly home!
I was so sorry to learn about your husband’s death. You have been in my prayers since I first learned about it. I’m so glad that you are continuing to write, since you are one of my favorite authors. God bless you!
I will pray that God will give you all the words you need to write your upcoming book. God Bless!
Julie
Thinking of you Wanda ♥️🙏
Friends are so important in our lives, but nothing shows their care and understanding more than being present in time of need. When my parents passed away and lived 4 hrs away, we had friends make the trip to be at the visitation and/or funeral. Also the same with my husband’s parents. But most of all it’s the prayers of those friends and family that carry us through. But the physical presence is emotionally upholding to us. God knows what and who we need.
I love your books. I am so sorry about your husband. May God comfort you and your family during the days ahead.
Hi Wanda, I continue to pray for you and your family as you walk your faith journey since the loss of your dear husband. I am so thankful that God brought us special friends into our lives. I have a special friend that I have known since first grade. We call each other sisters. She was my neighbor for most of my growing up years. We were in each other’s weddings. We rejoiced at the births of each of our children. When each of our parents became ill and passed away, we reached out with kindness and love. We have been a listening ear for each other for all these years. It is such a joy to have a friendship and a long-time history with someone outside your own family. I praise God for her!
What a lovely thing to do. It shows so many fruits of the spirit. Good friends are such a blessing.
I’m sorry about the passing our tour dear husband. My sincere condolences and prayers for you and your family Mrs Wanda.
Is sweet to find peace and comfort through friends.
When I was younger in high school. My family had moved to a new city, a new church and a new school. leaving behind childhood friendships and people you knew. Although I had trouble fitting in there was a young man that his family became friends with mine. And even though he was 8 yrs older he became like a brother to me and my sister. Always looking after us,.and making us feel good in a new place. Whenever I needed a shoulder or ear he was always there. Making us smile, lecturing us like a brother and just being an amazing best friend. Now that he has passed. I sure miss him.
I’m so sorry about your husband. I know how that feels. My husband passed away 4 years ago this past week. It’s a lonely journey without your soul mate. Praying for you!
I’ve had a couple of friends that I’ve known for over fifty years. One lives close, the other a couple of states away. I know I can call on either one for support, understanding and comfort whenever needed.
I’ve been praying for you and your family Wanda. I can only imagine how difficult what you’re going through would be. I’m thankful that you’ve got good friends and your writing that blesses us all. Much love!
My mother was struck and killed by a car as she was leaving church 30+ years ago. My two sisters and I were in our thirties and this was our first real experience of tragedy. The church we belonged to took care of every detail of the after-funeral reception at my father’s home-from cleaning it ahead of time, gathering people to provide the food, setting the table with a variety of delicious food, beverages and the paper goods etc. and finally doing all of the clean up afterwards. Our family was in such a state of shock we could never have accomplished such a gathering on our own. I will never forget the blessing of our church family that day, whether they were close friends or members we hardly knew. God is so good!
I have 3 sisters from church who are like family to me more than my own. Always there for me. Sometimes we think alike too. When my hubby was in the hospital 2 years ago, the one sister and her hubby showed up and sat with me while he was having surgery. Told them they didn’t have to but they did. All 3 our very special.
True friends are a blessing especially when there’s a loss , they’re there to lift u up anyway they can . When my sister passed we had our church family there for us and what a blessing they was to us . We shared great memories of her which will be with us forever.
It is tuff to lose a loved one, my Dad passed away in 2018. We had family and friends that helped with everything.
How wonderful and thoughtful for your Amish friends to travel for Richard’s memorial service and to help in anyway they could. Shows the mark of true friendship.
I am so glad that you have such special friends. I have “friends”, but not any that would do something like this.
Friends are such a blessing in life. Glad you’re surrounded by special people during this time of adjustments.
How lovely that your friends are there for you during this difficult time. I am currently doing my best to be a supportive presence for my friend Chris who is undergoing cancer treatments.
Good friends and caring family are truly a blessing when tragedy strikes. Just having a kind word, and a heartfelt hug is so comforting. The community I grew up in was filled with people who brought more food than could be eaten, and were there to help with anything needed. You never forget them, and their kindness. I was so sorry to hear about your husband’s illness, and his passing. He was in my prayers. I’m praying for you, too. Your writing will be a great help for your comfort and peace. Many blessings to you and your family.
We were blessed with of family and friends when our son passed.
Many Prayers continued For You Wanda and Your Family
I’m so sorry for your loss of Richard. You have been blessed for a church famil,y & friends to help you at this time.
My Richard went home to be with the Lord 16 years ago. I still miss him. Three years ago I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. How I wish he was here to walk this journey with me. My church widow’s group has been wonderful to support me all the way.
Praying for you, Wanda.
Sorry to hear about the passing of your husband. Prayers are with you and your family during this time. It’s good to hear you have a great support system that was able to be with you during this time. Praying for peace and comfort in the days ahead.
I have a special friend who was helpful to me during the death of my daughter. Her and her family were helpful to us. They did so many things and just listened to us when we need to just talk.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Mrs. Brunstetter. Prayers for you! A special friendship has been very comforting to me in that when I reach out and say that I need some prayer, they have prayed for me and then checked back in. They also will just meet up to hang out and we laugh together. True friends are truly a blessing from the Lord.
beautiful friendships are such a blessing – especially during difficult time.
when I went through breast Cancer a few years back I was so thankful for friendships. the ones that came along side us, to pray for us, bring us food and to just love on me. it meant so very much.
I was sad to read of Richard’s passing. You have lost part of yourself. Your church and friends must be a great comfort. You are in my prayers.
I am delighted and excited to read of your next book, Beginner’s Quilt! The Half-Stitched Amish Quilting Club is the first of your books I read. I immediately searched out more of your books. I so enjoy everything you have written.
Have a blessed day!!
Heidi S
I had a friend in school but we never were that close.After we both got married and had children we ran into each at a grocery store and started calling each other on the phone.She moved over 100miles away 7 years ago and have never gotten together again.We talk on the phone every day and she is always there to listen and never judge.I don’t think I could have made it through my husband’s bad health and passing without her support.She is now just like my sister.Everyone needs a great friend like Barb.
May God comfort you and your family during this time of the loss of your loved one. It was nice that your friends came and gave you the support you needed at this time. Friends are wonderful.
Praying for you and your family. I look forward to reading your new book.
I have a special friend from church, her name is Jeannie and she is always there for me and always checking in on me. just a simple text showing me she’s thinking about me and cares. she means so much to me!! 🥰
Thankful that you experienced such an outpouring of God’s love at this very hard time. Blessings to you.
I am so sorry for your loss of your husband Richard. My prayers are with you and your family. Such a wonderful thing for your Amish friends go to be there for you. Looking forward to your next book.
I have been reading your books for many many years. My granddaughter enjoyed all your children’s ones. it seems Everytime I read one of your books, it was something in there that helped me with what was going on in my life. Thank you so much for all your books!!!
Wanda my heart goes out to you as you journey through this next step. God is good to send friends when most needed. I have friends like that and am blessed to call them my best friends. prayers to you as you continue to write and bless your readers with great stories.
Anita Smith
I am SO happy to hear that family & good friends helped you through those hard days. Family & friends are such a blessing!
My husband and I went through a very difficult 6 months after he fell from a roof in October ‘24. We were SO blessed by family & friends during this time. We had absolutely no income- yet we made it through! Thank the Lord!
Wanda- your books have been such a blessing to read! They are so full of hope, love, showing how God works when we allow Him to lead our lives.
Several years ago, I was having some terrible personal problems. A good friend helped me through that awful time. I always appreciated it and hope to help someone in this way some time.
Wonderful to have those friends. I am sorry for your loss.
It has meant so much to me when I have had special friends who can walk with me through the hard times. Their acceptance of my emotional ups and downs has been helpful. Some have offered scripture verses that have been very helpful. And knowing that they are praying for me is comforting.
When my father passed several years ago, many folks brought food to my sister’s house. One particular friend brought a basket full of paper goods (paper plates, paper towel, napkins, etc.) She mentioned that she feels this is helpful to the “house hosts”. The host won’t need to worry about running out of supplies when he/she has their minds occupied with other things that go along with the grieving process.
Praying for you and your family. May you feel God’s continued presence and comfort.
For me when I have had something happen in my life such as a death in my family – I find that I tend to pull back into myself and always tell my friends/family that I am okay. I feel that I need the time to get myself back onto track. Let my mind and my feelings reorganize what my life is going to be. I love them all for the offers, and I thank them for offering. This is just me.
Dear Wanda,
So very sorry for your loss.
Sending comfort and love.
Hugs,
Lorna Jappinga
Friends are a blessing from God. When my father died it was a shock but our Heavenly Father sent so many people to pray and love on our family. I pray for you and know you have a peace knowing he is with our Lord.
IT IS ALWAYS A BLESSING WHEN WE HAVE FRIENDS THAT STEP UP & WALK BESIDE US WHEN WE NEED THEM. I ENJOY ALL YOUR BOOKS, EVERYTIME I READ ONE, I WANT TO PACK UP & GO VISIT THE AMISH! THANK YOU FOR WRITING ALL THESE WONDERFUL BOOKS FOR US TO ENJOY!
IT IS ALWAYS A BLESSING WHEN WE HAVE FRIENDS THAT STEP UP & WALK BESIDE US WHEN WE NEED THEM. I ENJOY ALL YOUR BOOKS, EVERYTIME I READ ONE, I WANT TO PACK UP & GO VISIT THE AMISH! THANK YOU FOR WRITING ALL THESE WONDERFUL BOOKS FOR US TO ENJOY!
I loved your comments about your husband’s funeral. You used some scripture that I hold dear. I met you years ago when I attended a play based on one of your novels. One of my great memories!! Prayers for you!!
I’m so glad that your Amish friends were able to come to the memorial service. My prayers are for your peace and healing.
Hi Wanda
That is wonderful that your Amish friends were able to attend the service. So special.
When I had surgery a few years back, my kidneys failed. I had to go on dialysis. I had friends who stepped up to take me 3 times a week. I was unable to drive myself so this was lifesaving for me. I will never forget how they helped me during those months. I’m so glad you had support during this difficult time too!
I am so sorry for your loss of your husband. But i also rejoice with you as he gets to sit at our Savior’s feet. I was blessed to have purchased some of your husband cards. I love the one with the kitten looking down from the loft. I am praying a covering of the Holy Spirit to give you and your family peace and to walk with you in this new session.
Sorry for the loss of your husband. you are truly blessed to have such great friends.
I wish you peace and comfort for the days to come.
I love reading your books.
Wanda
I’m so sorry for your loss.Its good to have great friends around when we loose a love one.You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ernestine Haggard Richardson
When I suffered a serious injury some years back my friends really helped out with meals for my family while I was recovering. I was so touched by everyone’s kindness.
I have read and enjoyed most of your books. My husband and I and three other couples have traveled to Holmes County Ohio at least twice a year for many years and have met so many nice Amish people there. One family invited all of us to dinner at their house and we have a lovely meal and conversation time. We truly have enjoyed meeting the Amish families and buying their quality furniture and home accessories.
I’m heartbroken to hear you loss your husband and best friend.
I’m happy you were surrounded by so much love. Not everyone has that.
Also I hope you enjoy your new home.
You are very much love by everyone you have come in contact with wither it was through personal or by your books. I know I have enjoyed your book beyond measure.
Always in my prayers and heart.
Im so sorry about your husband. im praying for you to sell your house quickly. And I ask God to BLESS you in your new home.
I truly enjoy you books so much.
I got to meet you in person in Holmes Co Ohio years ago at one of your book signings.
I also experienced a wonderful time with a couple that were friends of my husband and I when I lost my dad and then six months later my husband. They were with me during the calling hours and funeral and a few days later took me out to eat and we enjoyed two hours of just talking about the things we did together. I repaid them a few weeks later when the wife lost her brother suddenly and three months later when he lost his mother. We have grown closer in this sharing of love and lost. Hang on to your good friends. They become part of your family.
I can’t believe 2025 is over. And a new year is here. I’m bad with resolutions lol but I’m going to try this year. May God be with you. Please keep writing awesome books I can’t get enough of them.love hugs and prayers to you.