Local Features

‘Why not embrace each stage as it comes?’

Before I think about packing clothes for a trip, my children are making all sorts of plans. I usually tell them they may pack their purses, then I’ll go through everything with them and discuss with them what may or not may be good items to take along. We learn as we go; who will want to go after all the missing pieces of a travel checkers game or beads that strayed while threading them? As they grow older there will be plenty of time for the likes. For now there are a lot of more travel-friendly options such as looking at books, telling stories, or our old faithful games of ‘ABC’ or ‘I see something’.

The support of grandparents is a blessing

“Mom, you need to write a column about this!” Julia quipped as she scattered another handful of straw over her grandparents’ newly seeded lawn.

Making the best of it when you’re sick

These last days have been a pull and by last night, a fever set in.

The blessings of Sundays

I love Sundays; they bring their own sense of relaxation. Sundays at our house are set aside for more time with God and each other as a family. In a sense it’s much like a mini vacation; it gives us a breath of fresh air and rejuvenation for the week ahead. Isn’t it amazing that even God rested after six days of work? His example, coupled with teachings in the Scripture, gives us a day off with no feelings of guilt about all the work waiting for us.

A little tour of the Amish Cook’s home

Okay, what I would really like is an open house and host all of you for a meal, get acquainted, and the like. I know it’s impossible, but I won’t stop wishing for it. Daniel was bound and determined that we should travel to Ohio or somewhere closer to you to allow me to meet you. He was going to make it happen by this year, but plans have changed since he went to heaven. We’ll see what comes together- one day.

Viewing a special supper from a different angle

What would you do if the doctor told you that you have only a couple days left to live?

Reflecting on gravestones

A gravestone isn’t something I ever gave much thought to, it’s something I thought was distant and in the future, but events last year changed that.

‘Make it a rainbow day’

My heart was warmed. How special, a gift from my boyfriend. It was 14 years ago and I was spending time with Daniel and his family. The stone he had bought for me was a treasure; it bore the words, “After the storm comes the rainbow.” At that point in my life there were not many storms. Life was good, I was in love and waiting for the day I would be Mrs. Daniel Yoder.

A refreshing recipe on a hot day

The heat wave has been real. I’m not talking about those warm days when you sit in front of the fan and are back in your comfort zone. It’s like really hot.

Gloria’s mother-in-law steps in

Editor’s Note: Glora’s Mother-in-Law, Lydia Yoder, is writing a special column this week. Gloria returns next week.