One thing I’ve noticed about most of my Amish friends is that they like to read. Many of them have said they enjoy reading because it takes them to places they’ve never been able to visit.

Reading is also a good way to relax, not to mention the opportunity to learn new things. So when you read one of my novels, I hope you will allow yourself to be drawn into the lives of my Amish characters and learn more about the Amish way of life. My husband and I have many good friends in several Amish communities, so I always try to portray them as accurately as possible.

Which of my books is your favorite and why? Is there anything new you would like me to write about?

Many people look at a New Year as a time to start over. They might make resolutions or come up with a plan to try something new. However, we don’t need a New Year to start fresh. The glory of every morning is that it offers us the chance to begin anew.

We might choose to change the way we eat; make more time for exercise; take time out of our busy schedules to enjoy our friends and family; or read our Bible regularly.

Have you made any resolutions for the New Year? Do you have a plan for sticking with them? I heard an old saying the other day that might help. “If you’re looking to make a new start, ask God to change your heart.”

At Christmastime there are no decorated trees or blinking lights adorning Amish people’s homes. They do, however, make special cookies and candies as part of the holiday activity. Some Amish will string the Christmas cards they receive around a room in their home, or may set out some candles and greenery. On Christmas Eve, the school children put on a program for their friends and family at the schoolhouse, where they share poems, recitations, and songs. The scholars will often exchange gifts with others in their class. On Christmas morning, the Amish gather with their families for devotions, and then the children open their gifts. In the afternoon the Amish get together for a big family meal. If Christmas Day falls near the end of the week, some church districts will hold their services on Christmas morning instead of the usual Sunday service.

Below is a recipe for a delicious dip that can be served during the holidays. One of my Amish friends shared it with me. It’s delicious, and I hope you will enjoy it too.

CREAMY CUCUMBER DIP

1 (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons salad dressing
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 medium cucumber, chopped
¼ cup green pepper, chopped
1 round tablespoon onion, chopped

In a mix bowl stir together the cream cheese, sour cream, salad dressing, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the cucumber, green pepper and onion. Refrigerate for two hours before serving. Serve with your favorite crackers.

What is your favorite Christmas recipe?