Country Livin'

The other day I was on a bike ride mulling over this recent trial God has us going through.

I glanced down this random gravel road and was instantly thrust into the most beautiful, peaceful scene.

A little Amish boy in his typical blue pants, white shirt, and bowl cut was strolling next to his father, twirling a stick.

It was like a painting. It warmed my heart.

Then just beyond them I caught a glimpse of a little girl, probably Marie's age, wearing a plain pale yellow dress with her blond hair up in high braided pigtails. She was skipping.

Just as she disappeared behind the house I noticed another girl, a little older. She had on a pale purple dress and had long brown hair. She was leading a pony, jogging with it around the house.

I live in Amish country. But I think I'm still getting used to it. Something about this incredible glimpse into their lives forced me to forget about the rough times in our life for just a moment. The joys of simplicity, of childhood, of the country... I needed that.

It was surreal.

So I decided to whip out my iPhone and capture some of my surroundings as I rode by.

I really love it here.

I love that the overwhelming stench that sometimes permeates our neighborhood isn't bus fumes or cigarette smoke. It's cow manure. Duck poop.

I love how rare it is to hear sirens out here. Instead I'm listening to birds chirping and crickets buzzing.

I don't know what God has planned for us. I don't know how long he'll let us stay here. But for now, I'm in love with the beauty, the quiet, the peacefulness.

I'm so grateful He has us here now.

Clinging to His Truth...

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. (Eph. 3:20-21)



11. Sweet corn
12. Prayer time with hubby
13. Girl chats with my neighbor
14. Homemade pizza
15. Flat bike tires
16. Sunday morning nursery
17. Spending the afternoon reminiscing with old friends and getting to know new friends.
18. Continual reminders that I am not in control
19. Both babies willingly going down for naps at the same time
20. Quiet time