I guess the reporter still lives inside of me. My nose twitches when I hear a siren, and when I smell a good story, I’m like a bloodhound on the trail of a fox.
I feel a little bit like Edward R. Murrow, a hero of mine, reporting about World War II from the roof of his hotel in London.
I do love telling stories, especially ones like this. I am learning along with everyone; it has become an exceptional experience.
I feel a little sneaky rushing in when they are eating, but they can all seem from their windows and several of them have already asked me if I can print out some of the photos so they can take me home.
Of course, good reporters are always sneaky, nobody really wants them around.
I came by during lunch break. It’s safe to take photos if nobody is there. The draft horses were there; they were brought into the shade and watered for the break. For the first time, I came up to them and rubbed their necks.
They liked it, one put his big head on my shoulder.
I was, as usual, astonished by the progress that had been made since the morning when I last stopped by.
Much of the flooring is in, and it will all be done by evening. Then the bigger work on the alls will add another 14 feet to the walls already built.
Donut Friday and the making of most baked goods were postponed; the family’s women are making and cooking food for the small army fathering around their barn.
I don’t know if the girls would like to be out on those rafters hammering; they are certainly busy preparing food and soon will be making quilts with the visiting wives and daughters – quilts are a big part of barn raisings., an important tradition.
If the girls are unhappy or feel excluded, they don’t show it. But I can’t say what’s in their minds. They seem cheerful and excited about all the visitors, and they are sure happy to thumb wrestle with me. Strong thumbs, everyone, I’m still winning, but my thumb is weakening and getting sore.
This winning streak can’t last forever, and these women are tenacious. I’m leaving shortly to drive to pick up some more incoming Amish, I’ll get another look at the progress this afternoon when I get back. Thanks for all of your wonderful words, I’ve never received so many for one story.
Hi Jon,
After breakfast, the first thing I do is go to your blog! I start and end my day that way. I find peace, comfort and happiness there. You, Maria, the dogs, cats, chickens, donkeys and sheep brought me so much joy, sharing the Miller’s is like more icing on the cake! I, too, love flowers, especially from a garden. I tell you, if you wake up on the wrong side of the bed and see fresh flowers in a vase; it cheers you up. We are getting ready to move so no garden this year, but my wonderful husband picks up flowers from a farmer’s market or grocer and I break them down and put them all over the house. So I know your flowers on the Miller’s table will be a wonderful hit! You and Maria are such a blessing to me and I just wanted to let you know. It makes you feel good when you say positive things to people, loved ones, friends and folks like you and Maria that I only know through your blog but feel like I have known you for a long time. Thank you for that! I am sooooo excited about the barn. Have a lovely weekend and thank you.
You bring me to tears, Angela, thank you..
I’ve been doing the same thing every morning. It’s a wonderful way to start the day!
Thanks Jon, I love watching this progress, how fun for you!!!!
WOW! This is simply amazing. So glad you are getting to be a part of it – and you are a vital part for them. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story with us. It’s like I’m there too just reading your stories about the barn raising.
Amazing how fast this is going. Maybe the Amish might go to our nation’s capitol and teach Congress how to work together to get something accomplished. My mother always used to say, “four hands or better than two” when it came to work.
I’m selfishly delighted that you are an investigative journalist AND that the Miller’s moved into your neighborhood. Your camera lens is now my window.
I feel like Angela above. Thanks, Jon!
I agree with Angela. I read your blog posts about your Amish neighbors over and over. I can “see” what you see and feel how very grateful you are for this unique experience.
Thanks Joann..