 |
| Jean is old order Mennonite from New York State. Jean and her husband David and family live on a dairy farm, and travel their community using horse and buggy. She tells her story exclusively on Amish Stories. |
Susan had her Birthday, She is now seven years old. This year we had a small party of family a few of her closest friends.
 |
Happy Birthday Susan from Amish Stories
|
Edward also had his birthday and turned 15 as Michael will in October. As Edward did not want a large party, we had a party of his closest friends and another with the family. Clothes was not a problem as he had them, but he did not have any activity items. His friends gave him a fishing tackle box. Michael knew it was coming so we added to what money he had to buy Edward a fishing rod and reel. David and I got him a gift certificate for ice skates and snow skies along with boots, "etc" From David Jr. And Susan he got a new chess game.
My parents bought Edward a new rifle. Michael told Edward you will get a lecture and my Dad did tell Edward about safety and use of a rifle-the same he gave Michael when he bought him his. David’s parents bought him a year pass to Bristol Ski Resort like they will probably Michael on his. Now let’s hope we get snow this year better than last year.
Edward wanted to go see his Mother’s grave so we let him and Michael take the bus into Rochester, New York where she is buried. It took about half a day to go up there and back, but it was worth it because Edward felt better. He also said, that he felt like a man without a country as he had no real home.
David and I talked about this, and we had a family meeting. We asked Edward if he would like to be adopted into our family. David explained that means you are member of our family-through the good times and the bad times. He gets chores like everyone else, but goes fishing, hunting, ice skating and more. He was surprised, but said “yes, yes, yes”. We asked the family if there were any negative reasons no. No one had any. If fact, Michael was thrilled. We voted and all agreed.
The only thing is Edward would like to keep his family name so say his last name was Jones and ours Smith (not our real names)-his new name would be Edward Jones-Smith. We are just starting the adoption process. Part of what is cutting red tape is our adoption is going through on Michael. Social Services has sent letters to his relatives (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) explaining that we have applied for adoption. So far they haven’t had any negative replies.
So this year Michael will legally become our son-hopefully next year Edward will be an addition to our family. Susan is happy that both Michael and Edward are coming big brothers, but still adds the next one we adopt better me a girl.
Be With God, Jean
 |
| Art Image by Amish Stories. Old order Mennonite buggy from Lancaster county. |
| Cream the sugar, butter and eggs until fluffy. Mix in the buttermilk. Combine the cocoa and coffee in a saucepan, adding the liquid very slowly to prevent lumping, then mix into the creamed mixture. Moisten the baking soda with the vinegar and stir in with the salt and vanilla. Gradually mix in the flour, beating until smooth. Pour into a greased and floured 13" x 9" cake pan. Bake the cake in a preheated 350° F. oven for approx. 45 minutes. Cool Ice with your favorite icing. | 2 c. brown sugar 1/2 c. butter 2 eggs 3/4 c. buttermilk 1/2 c. cocoa 1/2 c. boiling hot, strong coffee 1 t. baking soda 1 t. cider vinegar 1/2 t. salt 1 t. vanilla 2½ c. sifted all-purpose flour |
 Up-Home, Down-Home represents the cultural development of recipes from the most intimate, formal setting to the easy-going, spur-of -the-moment family dinner. Quick, easy to prepare dishes include many favorites from the Chefs at the Groff's Farm Restaurant. Fully illustrated, some in color, 208 pages. Hard-cover edition. Betty Groff's Up. To order Betty's book please go to www.Amishshop.com |
 |
Don't miss a Special post from old order Mennonite Martha this Friday folks, as she discusses how she and the other old order woman get together to quilt and what goes into making one. With a recipe for "Cinnamon Chip Pumpkin Snacking Cake"
|
