I often hear from my readers that they enjoy reading my Amish-themed novels, and also the cookbooks with Amish recipes. Many times I am asked what appeals to me about the Amish way of life, and what made me decide to write about the Plain people. For one thing, I was, and still am, drawn to their simple lifestyle and the fact that they don’t put emphasis on worldly things. I also appreciate that my Amish friends put God first, and then their family. But it doesn’t stop there. In addition to their faithfulness to God and family, the Amish people I am privileged to know personally do a lot to help other people. When I’m with our Amish friends I see their family closeness, and my desire to be closer to my own family grows stronger. When I’m visiting our Amish friends I feel calm, relaxed, and closer to God. All of these things are why I write Amish-themed novels that I enjoy sharing with my readers.

How about you? What do you admire about the Amish way of life? What do you enjoy most about reading my books that are set in Amish country and reflect the Plain people’s simple way of living?

Life is full of decision making, and sometimes we know that the choices we make are the right ones. Other times we look back and feel as if a choice we made was a mistake. I have found that when it comes to making a choice about something, it’s always best if I take the time to pray about it first before making a final decision. Sometimes there is also an advantage of talking with someone you trust and getting their advice. Weighing the pros and cons is also helpful, but the fact is, once we’ve made a decision, there is no way we can know for sure how things will work out once we’ve made our choice. The important thing is how we deal with our choices even if we feel they were not thought through properly. Even a wrong choice can work for our good if we pray about it and ask the Lord to use it for His good.

How about you? Have you made any choices that you later regretted? How did you make the best of those decisions, and perhaps, even learn from them?

In the Book of Psalm, verse 46:10, it says, “Be still and know that I am God.” I cherish those words. They mean so much to me. In all honesty, it’s hard for me to be still. I’m a doer, and since there is always so much to be done, I’m normally on the go. Even so, I am aware of the importance of spending some quiet time each day, and being in the presence of God makes it even more special. When I find a place to sit and be still, it’s often outdoors, weather permitting. If the weather is not cooperating, then I like to sit near a window where I can look out and see what things are growing in our yard.

While being still and focusing on God and His beautiful creation, I will often read from my daily devotional or a passage from the God’s Word.

Do you take time regularly to be still and think about God and all that He’s done for you? If so, where do you like to be during this time of renewal?