Amish Tidbits

with guest Molly Jebber.

Research can be fun . . . 

You’ve picked your location for your story. You researched the entertainment, appearance, stores, and unique way of life there. Maybe you visited and talked to the people to learn more about the location’s history. That’s what I do to learn about the Amish.

I write Amish Historical Romance. Their history, faith in God, traditions, and lifestyle are all interesting to me. The Amish and I share the same faith in God. The difference is our lifestyles. I wear makeup, like to shop, drive a car, use a blow dryer and curling iron, love to listen to musicals, and enjoy many things the outside world has to offer that they avoid. 

The Amish and Mennonites believe baptism should be an adult choice, and they reject infant baptism. They were once known as Anabaptists. Mainstream Protestants and Catholic authorities persecuted the Anabaptists in the 1550’s. They were beheaded, burned at the stake, tortured and thrown in dungeons for believing this way in their faith.

Jakob Ammann felt the Mennonites were too lenient in church discipline and in accepting more conveniences and comforts into their lives. He led the Amish to Pennsylvania away from persecution, and the word, “Amish” derived from his last name. They thrived and still do today.

  They and I believe in John 3:16. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” 

King James Version

The Old Order Amish use the King James Version of the Holy Bible written in German or English. Their main language is Pennsylvania Dutch.

The community agrees and lives by a list of rules called the Ornung. The colors approved for women’s skirts and dresses and men’s shirts and pants, resolving disputes among themselves, etc. are all adhered to as agreed upon by the bishop and elders.

Dolls don’t have faces. They don’t want their children wanting to look like the dolls to avoid “graven images” and pride. The dolls are soft and cuddly.  

They use propane gas, wood burning stoves, and oil lanterns for cooking and light.  

Children attend school through the eighth grade. They are needed to work on the farm, and Old Order Amish don’t feel it is necessary for their lifestyle. 

Children play soccer, ride bicycles, fish, and hunt to name a few fun activities. The Amish have large community meals together to socialize. They take care of the widows and aged, and they financially support those suffering from sickness, a fire, etc. 

They will go to doctors, clinics, and hospitals. They do give and accept blood. 

They drive horse-drawn buggies or wagons for transportation. They will accept rides from Englischers, and they will travel by boat or train for long distances.

The Old Order Amish strive to do God’s will in their lives. They avoid confrontation, violence, and strife. I travel often to their communities and find the women kind and compassionate. They are so talented. Their food is delicious.

 Quilts are made with perfect stitches and beautiful patterns. Jellies, jams, baked goods, and many dry goods are amazing. The craftsmanship in their furniture is near perfect. I enjoy it all! They strive to do God’s will in all they do, and to forgive others, no matter how difficult the circumstances. I have been blessed by the Amish. If you have a chance, visit an Amish community and enjoy all the good food and dry goods! Here’s a potholder I bought.  
        

  
My Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series (Change of Heart, 1899 and Grace’s Forgiveness, 1900; and Two Suitors for Anna, 1903) takes place in Berlin, Ohio. In each one, someone receives a quilt with a pocket sewn on it and a letter tucked inside. 

Two Suitors for Anna releases in stores and ebook TODAY, January 31, 2017. Thanks for celebrating with me!

Have you visited Amish Country? What were your thoughts? Did you go home with an Amish homemade item? 

Anna hesitates when Noah proposes marriage and insists they move to another Amish community to meet new people and experience a new location. He takes her hesitation as rejection and leaves. Daniel comes to town and offers Anna friendship, and they fall in love. Noah returns, and he asks Anna for forgiveness and another chance. She’s torn. Who will she choose? Who will you root for?

Today Molly is generously giving away two copies of Two Suitors for Anna. Two winners! Be sure to comment! Winners announced in the Weekend Edition

MollyJebber has just signed a four-book contract for a new Amish Bakery Series with the first story taking place in 1912 coming soon. 

Please visit her website: http://www.mollyjebber.com for a complete list of where she’ll be speaking for Women’s Christian Connection, and other groups about the Amish and my books or where she’ll be offering classes on marketing, publishing, and writing. Enjoy watching her book video about Two Suitors for Anna! 

Her books are listed with links to buy them in print or Ebook in stores and online.