Tracy Fredrychowski's Blog

Discover the latest Amish fiction new releases for July, August, and September 2025

If you’re a fan of Amish fiction, you know how exciting it is to discover a new release right when it comes out. To make things easier, I’ve gathered a list of Amish fiction new releases for July, August, and September 2025. Whether you love Amish romance, Amish mystery, or Amish suspense, you’ll find something to add to your reading list.

Amish Fiction Releases in July 2025 Mindy Steele – Hunting for a Husband (Heart of the Amish #9) Laurel Blount – Trusting the Amish Farmer (Hickory Springs Amish #2, Love Inspired) Ann Blackburne – Lizzie’s Little Mouse (Heart of the Amish #8) Mary Alford – Framed in Amish Country (Love Inspired Suspense)Amish Fiction Releases in August 2025 Adina Senft – The Amish Cowboy’s Wedding Quilt (Amish Cowboys of Montana) Dana R. Lynn – Hunting the Amish Witness (Amish Country Justice, Love Inspired Suspense)Amish Fiction Releases in September 2025 Tracy Fredrychowski – The Amish Widow’s Last Stitch (Willow Springs Amish Mystery Romance #3) Jennifer Beckstrand, Rachel J. Good, Mindy Steele, Tracy Fredrychowski – A Harvest of Amish Blessings (Anthology) Rachel J. Good – An Amish Second Chance Romance (Surprised by Love #2) Amy Lillard – The Amish Nanny’s Secret (Love Inspired) Shelley Shepard Gray – Unshaken (Amish suspense) Suzanne Woods Fisher – A Healing Touch

This past quarter has been packed with wonderful new Amish stories, romances, mysteries, and even suspense. From longtime favorites like Shelley Shepard Gray and Suzanne Woods Fisher to fresh voices like Tracy Fredrychowski, Ann Blackburne and Mindy Steele, there’s a book here for every reader who loves Amish settings and heartfelt storytelling.

 Be sure to bookmark this blog, as I’ll be updating quarterly with new Amish fiction releases.

The post Amish Fiction New Releases: July–September 2025 Roundup appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Four Amish Women. Four Stories of Gratitude, Faith, and Love.

As the leaves fall and the smell of pumpkin pie fills the air, we invite you into the lives of four Amish women, each preparing for Thanksgiving in their own special way. Below, you’ll hear directly from the characters in A Harvest of Amish Blessings—Beth, Mary, Anna, and Patricia—as they share what this season of gratitude means to them.

Helping Hands by Mindy Steele

This will be our first Thanksgiving without Andrew. The ache hasn’t left me, and yet… the kitchen still smells of cinnamon and the boys still track in muddy boots from the yard. Life moves forward, even in loss.

This year, I’m keeping things simple. A pot of chicken corn soup, a loaf of warm bread, and my sister-in-law’s famous apple cobbler. My heart is heavy, but I’m beginning to see that help sometimes comes in quiet, unexpected ways, like a note left on the porch, or a kind word at the store.

Gratitude doesn’t always come easy. But it’s there, waiting to be noticed, even in sorrow.

Letters of Gratitude by Rachel J. Good

Thanksgiving has always been a time of reflection for me, probably because I spend so much of it guiding my students through the same.

This year, I gave them a simple assignment: write a letter of gratitude to someone in the community. The results? Let’s just say there were more than a few tears… including my own.

I’ve been making pumpkin whoopie pies and setting the table with mismatched plates borrowed from neighbors. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, the greatest blessings come from simple words spoken at just the right time.

Thanksgiving on Huckleberry Hill by Jennifer Beckstrand

I wasn’t planning to celebrate Thanksgiving this year. What’s the point when your whole family forgets the dinner you’ve worked so hard to plan?

But just when I was about to give up and eat Cream of Wheat alone, something changed. (Don’t worry, I didn’t burn the stuffing again.)

There’s a pie cooling on the windowsill, fresh rolls under a towel on the counter, and a heart that’s learning, yet again that blessings have a funny way of sneaking in when you least expect them.

Seasons of the Heart by Tracy Fredrychowski

The annual Harvest Dinner is just days away, and I’ve been peeling potatoes and stringing dried corn all week.

But this year feels different. I’ve been standing at a crossroads, trying to choose between the comfort of what I’ve always known and the pull of something new. Thanksgiving reminds me that God often uses the quiet seasons to stir the heart.

My pies might not win any blue ribbons, but I’m learning that being faithful in the little things is its own kind of blessing.

From Our Table to Yours…

We hope this glimpse into the lives of Beth, Mary, Anna, and Patricia warmed your heart. Each of these women has a story of loss, hope, and the quiet power of gratitude, and we invite you to discover them all in A Harvest of Amish Blessings.

Whether you’re peeling potatoes, setting the table, or simply catching your breath between busy days, may you find a moment to pause… and give thanks.

Discover the warmth of Amish Country at Thanksgiving here>>A Harvest of Amish Blessings

The post A Thanksgiving Note from the Women of A Harvest of Amish Blessings appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Celebrating the Release of The Amish Widow’s Last Stitch

Lizzie
I never expected that the last thing Grossmammi Esther would crochet would lead me straight into a mystery or into love.

Her death left a hollow space in my chest I didn’t know how to fill. Esther was more than just my grandmother. She was my anchor, my steady thread in a world that often unraveled too quickly. When she passed, all I had left were her journals, her shop, and a half-finished crochet pattern she never explained. That pattern ended up being more than just yarn; it was a trail of clues.

But I wasn’t ready for what those clues would uncover. And I surely wasn’t ready for Evert Miller.

Evert
Coming back to Willow Springs was never in my plans. I came looking for answers about where I came from, not to fall in love with a stubborn yarn shop owner in mourning.

But Gott has a way of unraveling the plans we make and stitching something better in its place.

What started as a search for truth turned into something far deeper… a reckoning with the past, a confrontation with betrayal, and a quiet kind of healing I never expected to find… especially not at the end of a crochet hook or beside the warm scent of Lizzie’s tea.

Grief brought them together, but one secret could tear them apart.

We’re so excited to share The Amish Widow’s Last Stitch with you.

It’s a story of grief, faith, family secrets, and the quiet power of second chances. If you’ve ever held onto the memory of a loved one, questioned your place in the world, or found healing in unexpected places, we pray this story touches your heart.

With every stitch, there’s a story. And this one? It’s ours.

—Lizzie & Evert

The post A Stitch Between Grief and Grace appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Sometimes the quietest towns hold the loudest secrets and the most beautiful stories of redemption.

In Amish Women of Lawrence County, six women face grief, heartache, and choices that test their faith. Today, they’d like to speak to you directly.

As you revisit, or meet for the first time, the women of Lawrence County, here’s a little note from each of them…

Emma (Book 1 – Emma’s Amish Faith Tested)
“There was a time I wasn’t sure I could ever smile again. Losing my baby shattered me… but what surprised me most was how Gott used that brokenness to lead me somewhere deeper. If you’re grieving or feel far from God, I want to walk with you through these pages.”

Rebecca (Book 2 – Rebecca’s Amish Heart Restored)
“Guilt makes you do strange things. I tried to run from everyone who loved me… especially Eli. But the Lord had other plans. He sent grace through a letter, a friend, and a very determined grandmother. I hope my story reminds you that no one is ever too far for Gott to reach.”

Anna (Book 3 – Anna’s Amish Fears Revealed)
“Fear used to control every part of me. Losing Simon… then finding him again… I didn’t know which was harder. But God never left my side. If you’ve ever doubted His plan or struggled with anxiety, maybe you’ll find some peace in my journey.”

These first three stories are bundled in Amish Women of Lawrence County: Books 1–3

• Read free on Kindle Unlimited or own the 3-in-1 eBook for $9.99.
• 🛒 Buy the Paperback for $24.99 here on my website and receive a collector magnet in your order.

Barbara (Book 4 – Barbara’s Amish Truth Exposed)
“I carried secrets for too long. Shame held me back from truly living. But the truth, no matter how painful, was the only thing that could set me free. If you’ve ever struggled to forgive yourself, maybe you’ll see a bit of your own story in mine.”

Allie (Book 5 – Allie’s Amish Family Miracle)
“Joining the Raber family was harder than I ever imagined. My Mennonite roots made me feel like I didn’t belong. But sometimes, it’s the unexpected twists that lead to miracles. I hope my story encourages you to keep fighting for where and with whom you belong.”

Savannah (Book 6 – Savannah’s Amish Ties That Bind)
“I came to Willow Springs looking for answers, and found a whole new life. There’s something healing about discovering where you come from, even if it’s nothing like you imagined. If you’ve ever had to start over, I think you’ll relate to my journey.”

These first three stories are bundled in Amish Women of Lawrence County: Books 4-5

• Read free on Kindle Unlimited or own the 3-in-1 eBook for $9.99.
• 🛒 Buy the Paperback for $24.99 here on my website and receive a collector magnet in your order.

Two trilogies. Six lives. One unforgettable journey.

Whether you’ve read one or all, these heartfelt stories offer over 1,000 pages of faith-filled inspiration FREE in KU or less than $20 on Kindle, or enjoy both paperback trilogies for under $50. Thank you for walking with these women. Their paths are filled with joy, sorrow, and the kind of hope only God can give.

The post Six Women. Six Stories of Faith, Healing, and Hope appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith

Dear readers,

Writing Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith was one of the most personal journeys I’ve ever taken as an author. It wasn’t just another story, it was a reflection of my own walk through breast cancer and how God carried me through a season I never expected. As Ruth and Wilma faced their diagnosis with courage, I found myself revisiting the many moments of my own story… both painful and beautiful.

Since releasing the book, I’ve received a number of heartfelt messages and questions from readers about how this story came to be. I thought I’d share some of those answers here, hoping they’ll offer you encouragement, a deeper connection to the story, and perhaps even healing of your own.

Q&A: Behind the Story

1. How much of Ruth’s story was inspired by your personal journey through breast cancer, and how did writing it help you process your experience?
Ruth’s journey mirrors much of what I personally walked through. Like her, I faced a diagnosis that brought uncertainty, fear, and ultimately surrender. Writing this book allowed me to process that experience and put on paper what it means to truly trust God through the valleys. Ruth’s faith, her quiet courage, and her love for others are all deeply rooted in what I learned along the way.

2. Wilma and Ruth come from very different backgrounds. What message were you hoping to share by pairing an Amish woman with an English woman facing the same diagnosis?
I wanted to show that pain doesn’t discriminate, and neither does love. Wilma and Ruth’s friendship wasn’t typical, but that’s what made it beautiful. God often places people in our lives we never expected, and through them, He reveals His compassion, humor, and healing. Their bond reminded me that community can be found in the most unlikely places.

3. Faith plays such a strong role in how both women approach their healing. Was there a specific Bible verse or prayer that helped sustain you during your own treatment?
Yes—Isaiah 26:3 and Isaiah 53:5: “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”  And, “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement that brought us peace was upon him, and with his wounds we are healed.”  Those verses became an anchor for me. I didn’t always have the answers, but I knew I could cling to His peace. Even in the middle of hospital rooms and treatment plans, I was never alone. 

4. Ruth chose not to pursue additional treatment after her surgery. What inspired you to write her journey that way, and how did you want readers to feel about that choice?
That part of Ruth’s journey was incredibly personal. While every cancer journey is unique, I wanted to show a woman who prayerfully made a decision and stood firm in her peace. It’s not about what’s right or wrong, it’s about trusting God’s direction for your life. I hope readers walk away respecting her courage and recognizing the strength in stillness.

5. The story touches on the power of our words during hardship. How did guarding your speech and speaking positively impact your outlook during your treatment?
That was one of the biggest lessons I learned. I was intentional not to speak fear into my days. Instead, I chose words of life, hope, faith, healing. The Bible reminds us that the tongue holds the power of life and death, and I truly believe that by speaking God’s promises, I created space for miracles. My mindset shifted, and I began to see His hand in the tiniest details. 

 Final Thoughts: The Power of Storytelling

At its heart, Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith isn’t just a story about illness, it’s about hope, friendship, and the power of trusting God even when the path ahead is unclear. I pray this book reminds you that no matter what you’re walking through, you’re not alone. There is purpose in your pain and strength waiting to rise in you.

If this story touched your heart or made you think about your own faith journey, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Until next time,

 

 

Tracy Fredrychowski was written a book about a subject that way too many women face in their lives with caring, warmth, and faith. Some laughter to make the story lighter and some tears to remind us of how fragile and quickly our lives can change in an instant will leave the reader touched with a warmth that only Tracy can leave you with in a book.
I wish I could give this one a 10 star review.

Janet

Amazon Review, When two worlds collide, friendships are born

The post Walking Through the Fire with Faith appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

From the Desk of Emma Yoder, Amish Scribe
Willow Springs, PA | New Order Fellowship

Greetings, dear friends and neighbors,

The birds are singing louder these days, the peonies have started to bloom, and the days are longer, which can only mean one thing here in Willow Springs (aka New Wilmington): it’s almost time for the 36th Annual Amish Benefit Auction!

Held every year on the first Saturday in June, this beloved event has become one of the highlights of our community calendar. Folks from all over, Amish and English alike, come together for a day filled with fellowship, food, and a whole lot of good-hearted giving.

It’s truly one of the best days of the year!

This auction isn’t just about beautiful quilts and handmade furniture (though you’ll find plenty of those!). Every penny raised goes toward helping an Amish family with hospital bills. It’s amazing what we can accomplish when we join hands and hearts for a common purpose.

I’m especially excited this year because my husband, Samuel, will once again be helping as one of the auctioneers. You’ll find him at the quilt tent, calling out bids with that steady voice of his. He says it’s one of his favorite things to do, not just because he gets to talk (he does enjoy that!), but because he knows how much these quilts mean to the women who made them and the families they’ll help support.

Speaking of quilts, my friends and I have been stitching away all year long. Katie and I put the last few stitches in just last week, and I must say, this year’s patterns might be our finest yet. From Log Cabins to Starbursts to classic Amish Nine-Patches, each quilt carries the love, prayers, and care of many hands.

But what would the auction be without the food?

Oh, the food! Katie and I have been up early all week baking fry pies, fruit pies, and loaves of fresh bread. We’ve got apple, cherry, and peach ready to go, plus more dough rising for another batch tomorrow. The Englishers especially look forward to these homemade treats, and we’re more than happy to oblige. You’ll also find fresh donuts, soft-serve ice cream, wood-fired pizza, and all sorts of good things to fill your belly while you shop or visit.

There’s something for everyone at the sale: handcrafted furniture, hanging baskets and garden plants, toys, wagons, and even tools. If it’s Amish-made, it’s likely to be found under one of the big tents. And even more importantly, every item is offered with a spirit of generosity.

If you’ve never been to the Benefit Auction before, I warmly invite you to come.

It’s a day of joy, community, and purpose, and I can’t think of a better way to spend a Saturday.

Looking forward to seeing many familiar faces there, under the June sun and beneath the sound of the auctioneer’s voice.

With a grateful heart,
Emma Yoder

P.S.
If you’d like to read more about my life here in Willow Springs and how Samuel and I faced one of the biggest tests of our faith, I invite you to read Emma’s Amish Faith Tested, the first book in The Amish Women of Lawrence County series. It’s a story close to my heart, and I hope it blesses you as much as the telling of it blessed me.

The post A Joyful Time of Year: The 36th Annual Amish Benefit Auction appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Faith, Friendship, and the Amish Spirit of Willow Springs

Dear Readers,

I’m Ruth Yoder, and I come to you with a story close to my heart, penned with care and love by Tracy. Her newest book, “Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith,” is a tale of resilience, deep faith, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship that form in the most unexpected places.

I’ll never forget that cold, uneasy day in the doctor’s office, the chill of the room seeping into my bones as I awaited the news that threatened to change my life forever.

The diagnosis of breast cancer was a heavy burden, not just for me but for my beloved husband, Levi, and our family. The fear of my grandchildren growing up without their Grossmommi was almost too much to bear.

But in this story of trial, there also blooms a tale of hope and unexpected companionship.

It was during one of my lowest moments that I met Wilma Nettles, an English school teacher whose vibrant spirit belied her own struggles with the same daunting diagnosis. Despite our different worlds, we found common ground in our shared challenges and embarked on a journey that would change both our lives.

Together, we traveled from the quiet, rolling hills of Pennsylvania to the sunny, welcoming streets of Pinecraft, Florida. Along the way, we made stops at places filled with history and beauty—like the bustling flea markets of West Virginia, the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg, and the breathtaking vistas at The Pretty Place in South Carolina. Each location wove itself into our story, offering moments of joy, reflection, and discovery.

Our road trip was more than just a series of destinations; it was a journey of healing.

We shared stories, laughter, and tears, finding joy in simple moments and solace in each other’s company. Wilma, with her ever-present courage and zest for life, helped me see my own strength, while I hoped to offer her the quiet reassurance of steadfast faith.

This book isn’t just about facing illness; it’s about embracing life’s unexpected journeys and the friendships that help us navigate them. It’s about finding light in the darkness and strength in togetherness. And it’s about the community of Willow Springs, where every neighbor is family and every story is intertwined with threads of grace and love.

If you haven’t yet met my neighbors or walked the lanes of Willow Springs, “Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith” offers you a gateway into our world. It’s a celebration of the bonds that hold us together, through trials and triumphs alike.

I invite you to join Wilma and me on this path of discovery and healing.

Tracy has captured our adventures with such warmth and sincerity that I am confident you will feel every emotion as if you were right there with us.

Thank you for letting me share a piece of my heart with you. I hope our story inspires you, brings you comfort, and reminds you of the power of faith and friendship.

With heartfelt blessings,

Ruth Yoder

The post A Letter from Ruth Yoder appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Amish Caramel Corn

There’s something truly magical about witnessing a tradition that not only tastes delightful but also speaks of family and community life.

On a recent visit to my Amish friend Sarah’s home, I got to experience such a tradition firsthand—making Amish Caramel Corn. As evening settled over the countryside, the cozy warmth of Sarah’s kitchen and the sweet, salty aroma of caramel corn created an inviting atmosphere that was simply irresistible.

Sarah’s three boys, Jacob, Eli, and Samuel, had spent their day outdoors, helping around the farm and with chores, anticipating the treat they knew was coming as the sky darkened. In the kitchen, Sarah began the time-honored process, one that seemed to dance between culinary art and heartfelt ritual.

She started by melting 2 cups of white sugar until it was just lightly browned, being careful to manage the heat to prevent any scorching. Then she added ¾ cups of white Karo syrup, 2 tablespoons of vinegar, a little water, and a quarter teaspoon of salt into the pot. The mixture needed to reach a very hard ball stage—perfect for getting that satisfying snap from the cooled caramel.

Just at the right moment, Sarah stirred in a teaspoon of baking soda and a cup of salted peanuts, the mixture frothing up in an exciting sizzle. With a practiced hand, she poured the bubbling caramel over five quarts of popped corn that she had kept warm, ready for this very moment. The boys, drawn to the kitchen by the smell, watched with wide eyes as their mother stirred the concoction, making sure every kernel was coated in the golden caramel.

As she worked, Sarah invited her sons to grab their bowls and head to the porch.

Wrapped in blankets, they sat under the starry sky, bowls in hand, munching on the caramel corn. Sarah encouraged them to dream about the upcoming summer days, running barefoot and catching fireflies, their laughter mingling with the night air.

Witnessing this, I was reminded of the simple pleasures that form our cherished childhood memories. It was not just about the food, but the sense of togetherness and anticipation for the days to come.

Here’s Sarah’s recipe for Amish Caramel Corn, a treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or a sweet, nostalgic snack:2 cups white sugar3/4 cups white Karo syrup2 tablespoons vinegar1 teaspoon baking soda2 tablespoons water1/4 teaspoon salt1 cup salted peanuts5 quarts popped corn

Melt and lightly brown the sugar. Keep the heat low as you finish to prevent scorching. Add the syrup, vinegar, water, and salt, and boil to a very hard ball stage. Remove from heat, add soda and peanuts, and stir well. Pour immediately over warm popped corn and stir until evenly coated. Let it cool, stirring occasionally.

As I share this sweet slice of Amish life with you, I invite you to think back to your own favorite childhood treats.

What special snacks bring back fond memories for you? Feel free to share them in the comments below—I’d love to hear about the treats that made your childhood sweet!

The post The Sweet Magic of Amish Caramel Corn appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Writing, Hiking, and Staying Inspired

Life as an author is a wonderful blend of creativity, discipline, and, believe it or not—movement! While much of my time is spent in front of my computer, bringing stories to life, I’ve also made it a priority to balance those long writing hours with plenty of time outdoors.

Since the beginning of the year, I’ve hiked nearly 200 miles, and I’m just getting started. I set a personal challenge for myself to hike 1,000 miles this year—a bold goal, I know! Why? Honestly, I’ve asked myself that same question more than once, especially on those days when my legs are burning, and I could easily justify staying inside with a cup of tea and my laptop instead. But deep down, I know I want to prove to myself that I can do it, all while sticking to my tight writing schedule.

And speaking of writing—what a year it’s been so far! Book Updates & Exciting Releases

If you’ve been following along, you know that I just finished Ruth’s Amish Words of Faith, a deeply personal and faith-filled story that I can’t wait for you to read. It’s currently with my editorial team and is set to release May 6th. I’m so proud of this book and the message it carries, and I hope it touches your heart as much as it did mine while writing it.

I’m also in the middle of writing The Amish Widow’s Last Stitch, the third book in my Willow Springs Mystery Series. This one has me fully immersed in twists, secrets, and small-town intrigue—it’s been so much fun to write! On top of that, I’m outlining a secret project (shhh, details coming later!), which is set to release in January 2026.

And guess what? There’s even more coming your way! By the end of 2025, I’ll have four more books released—woohoo! It’s taken a lot of planning, dedication, and a few late nights, but I’m right on track, even with my hiking goal.

Balancing Writing with Adventure

If I’ve learned anything over the years, it’s that staring at a screen all day isn’t always the best thing for creativity. That’s why I make it a point to step away from my desk and enjoy nature as often as I can.

Recently, I planted strawberries in my South Carolina garden (I can already taste the fresh berries!) and cleaned out my vegetable beds to prepare for planting. There’s something so rewarding about working with my hands in the soil, watching new life take shape.

My husband and I also love camping, and last month, we took a birthday camping trip to Savannah. We also spent time at Lake Jocassee, soaking in the peace and beauty of the outdoors. We have several more hiking and fishing trips planned for the rest of the year—nothing too extravagant, just simple getaways to enjoy God’s creation and recharge our spirits.

A New Monthly Book Club!

One of the most exciting things we’ve launched recently is a new monthly Book Club in my private Facebook Amish Fiction Readers Group! If you love Amish fiction and want a cozy, ad-free place to chat about books, you’re invited to join us. It’s a safe, friendly space free from distractions, and I’d love to have you be a part of it. You can request to join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tracyfredrychowski

The Secret to Staying Motivated

Writing can be lonely work, but I’m blessed to have four amazing author friends who keep me accountable and inspired. We sprint together, talk almost daily, and help each other push through those inevitable moments of burnout. Even though we mostly see each other through Zoom meetings, they are truly the best workmates I could ask for!

So, what does the rest of 2025 look like for me? More books, more hiking, and more connection with my readers! I can’t wait to share these new stories with you, and I hope you’ll continue this journey with me.

If you’re reading this, thank you for being part of my world—your support, encouragement, and love for Amish fiction mean everything to me.

Until next time, happy reading!

Blessings,
Tracy

P.S.

Are You New to My Books? Let’s Fix That!

If you’ve never read one of my books before, I’d love to introduce you to my world of Amish fiction! Just send me an email at 📧 author @ tracyfredrychowski.com with the subject line “Send Me a Story!”, and I’ll send you something to enjoy right away. I can’t wait to share a little piece of my storytelling with you!

Looking forward to hearing from you! 😊

The post A Peek into My Life as an Amish Fiction Author appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.

Willow Springs, PA – New Order Fellowship
February 14, 2025

Gut morning, dear readers!

As I sit by the kitchen window, pen in hand and a mug of hot peppermint tea nearby, I marvel at the beauty of the winter morning. Outside, a thick blanket of snow covers the ground, sparkling like diamonds under the pale February sun. It is peaceful, yet there is much activity within our little corner of the world.

My husband Samuel is out in the fields, working with the other men to spread fertilizer on the frozen ground.

The task may seem odd to some, but it’s an important job in preparing for spring planting. I admire his dedication as he bundles up in layers to face the cold.

Inside our home, there’s a different kind of bustling.

Our three little ones—three-year-old Cindy and four-year-old twins, Otto and Owen—are busy at the table, cutting out hearts and coloring Valentine’s Day cards. It’s not an Amish custom to celebrate this day in the way the Englisch do, but the children have such joy in making something special for each other. It warms my heart to see them sharing their crayons and giggling over crooked hearts and mismatched designs.

Winter in our Amish community is a time for both hard work and simple pleasures.

The men have been busy cutting blocks of ice from the frozen creek to fill the ice sheds. This is a job that requires teamwork and strength, but it ensures that we have ice for the warmer months ahead. Samuel came home last night with stories of how the ice blocks were so clear, you could see straight through them to the other side. He said it reminded him of how we should strive to live our lives—pure and transparent before Gott.

For the women, winter means staying warm in our cozy homes while we keep busy with tasks that are better done indoors.

Today, I have bread rising on the counter and a batch of cookies cooling on the rack. It seems my little ones have an endless appetite, especially on cold days. Keeping them fed and happy is no small task, but it’s one I treasure.

Speaking of treasured things, our peaceful community was recently in quite an uproar over a peculiar mystery involving Ruthie Mast’s cherished recipe box. Ruthie, as many of you know, is an excellent baker and owner of The Amish Baker. When her prized recipes began disappearing, it sent ripples of concern through Willow Springs. Newcomer Isaiah King, who runs the buggy shop, stepped in to help Ruthie uncover the culprit. I won’t spoil the details, but let me just say it was quite the adventure seeing our quiet town rally together to solve the theft. I’m thankful everything is back to normal now, and Ruthie’s recipes are safe where they belong. It’s a reminder that even in a close-knit community, life can surprise us in the most unexpected ways.

If you want to know the full story, I’m delighted to share that Ruthie and Isaiah’s adventure is at the heart of the new book, The Amish Baker Caper. This second installment in the Willow Springs Amish Mystery Romance series is out now, as of February 4th. It’s a tale filled with mystery, faith, and a touch of romance—perfect for these cold winter nights.

I hope this letter finds you well and warm. As we endure the remaining weeks of winter, I pray that each of you finds joy in the little things—a warm fire, a kind word, or the laughter of children. These are the moments that carry us through.

Until next time, may Gott bless you and keep you.

In His love,
Emma Yoder
Willow Springs, PA

Photos used with permission by Jim Fisher

 

 

 

The post Life in Willow Springs During Wintertime appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.