Recently, the oldie song “The Other Man’s Grass is Always Greener” has been weaving its way through my mind as I walk in the neighborhood. I can’t help noticing the many parched lawns and drooping bushes. Yet, some lawns are emerald green, an expensive investment in a city with high water rates.
A psychologist claims there’s a “Grass is Always Greener syndrome”, which extends far beyond yards and foliage. I admit to comparing myself to others, especially writers who are able to churn out copious numbers of books. Fortunately, I watch Nancy Pearl’s TV program and I’ve heard several successful authors say, “I write slowly.” I don’t write slowly, but publishing a novel seems to take forever, especially when research and editing is required.
Does my admiration for this lovely garden entrance cross the line to envy?
I think this comparing myself to others infuses all parts of my life, and I’m guessing many share the same malady. He or she is better looking, has a cuter figure, owns a snazzier car, a larger house … The list goes on. What can you think of?
Several years ago, I was surprised when I heard that many people on Twitter and Facebook feel inadequate after reading about others’ accomplishments. The reader actually feels lonelier. I’ve met many fabulous people on Facebook and enjoy communicating with them, and would never want to give them up. But I admit to occasional pangs of envy. How about you?
Is comparing ourselves with others a losing battle? Do you think the Amish suffer from the same malady? I’m guessing they do even though they’re admonished not to. What do you think might be some ways they compare themselves to others?
Oh, my, the green does seem greener in Lancaster County, PA.
Have you pondered living the Amish life? A miniscule number of English (non-Amish people) successfully join the Amish church and live their lifestyle. I feel the pull, but of course wouldn’t be writing to you on my computer. Nor would you be reading it. What about the Amish lifestyle is so compelling? Is their grass greener?
Are you satisfied with your life? Does anyone live with complete contentment?
Enter to win this Amish-made log-cabin pattern pillow and a signed novel.
Leave a comment and enter to win this exquisite 17” square Amish-made pillow from Lancaster County, PA, plus a signed copy of one book from the Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy: Leaving Lancaster, Pennsylvania Patchwork, or Forever Amish! USA and Canada. Winner has three days to respond.
I love that they are a close knit group with adult children caring for their parents in their later years. The community all comes together in times of need.
I admire them too, Lorraine! If we had a one-story home we might invite my mother-in-law to live with us. Too many stairs and it’s pretty boring around here with me writing all day and my husband at work. Thanks for leaving your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Yes, I think Amish have envy and the whole range of human emotions, just like all of us.
I would love to win the book and the pillow.
Thank you
Thanks for leaving your comment, Char! I believe you are correct: Amish are human and struggle with the whole range of human emotions. Living in a tight-knit community and adhering to the Bible and the Ornung, they usually handle them differently. I have learned so much from the Amish about forgiveness and humility. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Would love to win the pillow! Happy early birthday to me ! We always think the grass is always greener on the other side BUT, that has to be mowed too !
An excellent point, Rita! I’d love you to win the pillow as an early birthday present. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
My love for the Amish has spanned over many years of reading and enjoying the simple ways of their life. At times it seems the grass is always greener on the otherside, but when you take a peek over that fence you realize every grass has its own tangle of weeds or bare spots. We then have to remember during the times of barren soil, and tangled weeds, God, our Heavenly Father is creating a masterpiece in us…for in being happy and content with where we are God is able to grow in us!
Well said, Anita! Weeds of adversity snarl in every yard. Sometimes, I forget to thank the Lord for the problems that have led to growth and healing in my life. Best of luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think we all yearn for a simpler life similar to the Amish. I do not think admiring other gardens is a sign of envy. You are only relishing in the beauty there to behold. I personally had to battle “envy” for those who were not in the ministry whose weekends could be used to travel, etc when we only had two Sunday’s off…I know that was his Job or should I say Advocation. Another thing I worried about, trying not to worry (but I did), was not having a home of our own for when my preacher husband retires. Well the Lord took care of that and now we have two homes. God is good!
God is good, indeed, Virginia! It’s hard not to worry about worry, but He provided. Thanks for entering the giveaway and good luck!
Kate
I feel life is greener for the Amish than most of us. In spite of all the laborious work they do, both male and females and including children. At the end of they day they sit to a meal that comes from what they farm,grow, can, cook and enjoy, They make time for the things they love, They make time for friendship, fellowship, family. Day and life for them is exhausting. But they juggle their life without fuss and complaint. On top of the life they live that most of us would pull our hair out they are true to their beliefs. They reap many benefits that most of us can only dream of.
If families would sit down at the end of the day and eat dinner together, they would reap some of the benefits the Amish do, Teri. It seems dinnertime is a thing of the past. BTW: Amish women have assured me there life isn’t perfect either. They also have their problems, as all humans do, but their focus is on God and family. thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I do love the Amish way of life, although it would be so hard to adapt to it, after living life as we “Englischers know it. They are a very friendly folk with a very easy going lifestyle.
Very few Englischers make the transition, Antoinette. But it certainly is fun to think about, and to borrow parts of their lives such as spending time with family and building community. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I do think that even the Amish sometimes feel like the grass is greener.It’s hard as a human being not too feel that at times.Maybe a lady may feel her quilting isn’t as good as another’s or a gentleman may feel as if his field isn’t as large as the next.I find myself feeling as though I am not as pretty as others(or as thin).But on the flip I sometimes think I sing a certain song better than another.I believe we are a work in progress…..so I need to learn to ask God to help me be content where I am…even though it is hard.
You have an excellent attitude, Lynn! Would that all of us were content with what we have and do. Thanks for your thought-provoking comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
My mom tells stories of how she grew up that is quite similar to the Amish. She assures me it was not glamorous and was quite hard. I think we ‘romanticize’ what we think others are experiencing when it may not be any different from our own lives. The Bible warns about envy and I think it’s probably something we all deal with at some time. Since I live far from family what I ‘envy’ is the way the Amish are close in proximity to their families. Guess we’re never satisfied…even cows will stick their necks through barbed wire to get to the grass on the other side. Thanks for the reminder to ‘give thanks in all things’ and the opportunity to win! Always great giveaways!
I’m sure your mother gave you the straight scoop, Linda! Many do romanticize the Amish and have toyed with the idea of joining them, a reality that seldom happens. But we can still learn from them and emulate them in many ways, especially when it comes to family. Thanks for your fun comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
There are days where I think there are Amish roots in my family tree…so many things come to me as if I lived their way….family roots come from Lancaster area of Pa. I would love to go back for a visit and possibly meet relatives. The spelling of the last name was changed for some reason so tracing roots has been a task. But I go back pre-Civil war. Have to work on that more. I love to cook (plain) and crochet and used to move to sew even by hand. I want flowers year round (Florida allows that in some areas), I want chickens, goats and a cow or two. Used to enjoy working in the gardens until arthritis took over my body.
I would love to find out if there are relatives in that area.
One source might be the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society, Janet. Or start a family tree? Several people I know have had DNA tests, but I’m not sure what that would turn up. It would be fun to meet a long-lost relative as I did not too long ago. Thanks for visiting my blog and entering the giveaway!
Kate
There is an Amish background in my husbands family and i think he has inherited it some he loves the simpler things in life and always finds a way to handle things
Wonderful, Sheilah! Sounds like you married a marvelous man. Thanks for writing and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I Love reading about the Amish ! would love to win this awesome giveaway! Thank yyou so much for the chance!
Thanks for visiting my blog and leaving a comment, Sarah! I love writing about the Amish and would love to see you when this giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I think sometimes things seem easier for other people , but hard work and what God wants us to have is what’s important . Amish seem to have a hard life, but yet enjoy it.
I agree, Sparkle! What God wants for us is of utmost importance. Deciphering exactly what that is sometimes can be a challenge … Sometimes prayers are not answered the way we want and others seem to have more opportunities. When we get to heaven we will have to ask Him why. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
What a great blog post Kate! We are human of course and its in our nature to want what we can’t have, see something and desire the opposite of what our heart says, and we know in our head is right.
I think the key is held in the faith we all can obtain and the Amish hold dear!
Faith is believing in what we can’t see and trusting in what we do!
I learned a long time ago to not see things as the grass is always greener over there, or my cup is only half full, because growing up with a parent with a (quote) Handicap (which by the way I prefer to use the term handicappable) makes you realize you set your only limits. Don’t ever settle if your grass is not green work hard, if you can’t sew as well, take lessons, if someone says you can’t prove them wrong!
YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING WITH FAITH AND PRAYER!
A terrific outlook, Cherese! Faith and prayer are our weapons against jealousy and self-pity. Sometimes our prayers won’t be answered as we’d like, but possibly in a far superior way that glorifies God. Thanks for your insights and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I love the simpler, quieter life that the Amish live, the hard work and strong closeknit community. But while the grass may seem greener for us looking in from the outside, it is not always the case.
So true, Patti! Thanks for your insightful comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I love reading amish books, have read some of your books and have enjoyed reading them .i can related to some of the ways the amish do. as i grew up on a farm in Indiana no electric,out house,had to carry water, had to work,sat at the table to eat, play outside when we got our work done,wouldn’t trade them days for anything..
Thanks so much for reading my books, Barbara! Sounds as though you did grow up in a world quite like the Amish, as opposed to city-life. I imagine you have many interesting stories to tell. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have always been intrigued by the Amish. They seem to be a very close knit group who is very family oriented. I love how they forgive easily and always willing to help their neighbor’s. I’m not sure I could in Amish country though. I’m use to electricity and modern conveniences we have. They work very hard and don’t seem to take much breaks. I do love their deep faith and getting together on Sunday’s to share meals together. Fir me the grass is just fine where I am. I have an amazing family and am very content with my life. I’m blessed.
You are indeed blessed if you live in contentment, Deana! I’m glad your grass is already greener. Thanks for writing. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
love the pillow……
Thanks for entering the giveaway, Wilma. Good luck!
Kate
No, I found that itis “not greener on the otherside of the fence”. It sure looks like it sometimes but if we knew what was behind those “beautiful fences” we wouldn’t long for it so much. There are still thorns & bramble bushes & grasses that can cut your skin; all sorts of uchy things we don’t see.
I love reading Amish books & so does my husband.
I LOVE the pillows !!!! Always wanted something like that.
Thanks for sharing your terrific insights, Sharon! How cool that your husband enjoys Amish books too. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have often wondered if the Amish “compete” to see who can be the most Plain…..
We all struggle with not feeling good enough. If we could just for a minute or two see ourselves the way God sees us.
Thanks for the directed thoughts today.
P.S. I would love the pillow, and have very much enjoyed your books
Thanks for writing, June! I appreciate your kind words about my books. Glad you enjoyed them. I also appreciate your insights into human nature, since the Garden of Eden … Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think I could live a more plain life, but not sure I could do without my air conditioning. I would enjoy a close large family, quilting & baking, but know it is a lot of hard work everyday.
There are many facets of a plain life that I would also enjoy, Donna! Losing my computer and AC would be an enormous challenge. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I love reading about the Amish…I love their old fashioned ways
I love reading about the Amish too, Vickie! Writing about them is a never ending challenge of research and also rewards. Thanks for leaving your comment and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
The life of the Amish always make me think back to the simple farm life of my childhood, when all the members of our country church were family. The people I grew up with are still close friends even though we live far apart and only stay in touch through social media. We didn’t have the modern conveniences we have today and didn’t care because making do gave us a sense of pride and togetherness. No one was rich and we didn’t know we were poor. We were happy.
Your childhood sounds ideal, Paulette! What fun that you are still friends with the people you grew up with. And you still sound happy. Thanks for sending your lovely comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have to say I am satisfied with what I have. I have found contentment and peace. I may not have much by the worlds standards, but it doesn’t bother me. TY for the chance. Have a blessed day.
I wonder how many can say they’re satisfied, and have found contentment and peace, Lucy. Rich or poor, you reside among an elite group! Thank you for writing and I hope you have a blessed day too.
Kate
I could live Amish. Being on a fixed income, I have no cable tv or computer. I do drive a 2004 car, though. I live alone and love to read books.
So, I live a pretty simple life now.
I love your books, Kate Lloyd. I am waiting for new books to come out.
#LoveKateLloydBooks
#LiveSimple
Thanks so much, Elaine! If I could fast-forward my next book I would. We don’t watch much TV and don’t have one at our vacation home. But I would miss my laptop … Thanks for writing and sharing a little about yourself. There’s a lot to be said for simplicity. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think it is just natural for someone to envy what someonr else has, however there are different degrees that someone may react. I don’t feel the Amish would be to big on it. They are usually happy that someone gets what they need there aren’t to many flashy Amish.
I agree with you, Pamela. All of us have or will at some time feel envious. It’s what we do with those feelings that matters. Since Amish support their neighbors and community, I’m sure they do their best to discard negative reactions as we should do. Thanks for leaving your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I like their family closeness. I grew up with a mother who felt the glass was always half empty. I prefer to think of the glass as half full but some days are harder than others.
Excellent, Carolyn, and I salute you with a half-full glass! Yes, some days are harder, but then I remind myself of how many people have nothing or are suffering from a debilitating illness. Thanks for writing and I’m wishing you good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
My ladies group is studying a wonderful book called the Envy of Eve! We definitely all need to be reminded of what our desires should be. Lol speaking of that, I love your books and this pillow is just great!!
The Envy of Eve is an intriguing title, Jayne! I imagine your group has had wonderful discussions. Thanks for the compliment on my books. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
The Amish way of life shows us what family really means . Some of the rest of us are either too busy or don’t want family time. We all could learn a lot from the Amish.
I agree with you, Patricia, in some homes family life has all but disappeared. We have much to learn from the Amish. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
No I don’t. They are more appreciative for what God has Blessed them with. They want their families to be provided for and took care of. I’m sure there are those within the community which convet what others have just like in the English world but for the most part they are content with their lives
I think you’re right, Jackie. I’ve heard from several resources that 90% of Amish children choose to join the Amish church, thus promising to adhere to Biblical teachings and the Ordnung. As with all people, they are not perfect. If they were, no need for God. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I enjoy reading about the Amish but understand that while their lifestyle may be different from mine, they have many similar issues. Their faith upholds them; my faith uphold me. I am blessed to be content with what I have and where I am. Every day since the first heart attack in 1988 has been a wonderful gift and I am still one of God’s work in progress. BTW our almost acre is circled with trees – I can’t see the grass in my neighbors yard. That helps me concentrate on mine which, at the moment, is lush and green!
Each day is a gift from God, Judy, and I’m thrilled you are alive and active since your heart attack! I must admit, I’m a bit jealous of that acre around your home … Thanks for being such a great support and encouragement to me. Wishing you the best in all facets of your life, including this giveaway!
Kate
I love reading about the Amish and their simplicity of life. I know for sure I am too spoiled and would not make it in tha Amish world….I think the women are the glue that keeps the household going. I live their faith and looking up and praying for guidance, sometimes I may take things for granted and need to give thanks more often. I do look over the fence at my neighbors yards…one has a pool and is decked out like a Better Homes and Garden…magazine quality….another back yard neighbor…has an extra lot and their extra lot looks like a park! Flowers, trees, plants and walkways with plenty of benches for sitting! My backyard is small but very nice too…lush green grass and perfectly manicured by my hubby! I do admire other back yards but I love mine too!
I’m feeling a little envious, Linda, for your husband who keeps your yard perfectly manicured. I admit to wanting a huge yard like your neighbors, which sounds gorgeous. One reason I enjoy walking is taking pictures of other people’s flowers, etc., so perhaps our tiny lot has its merits. I think the key to happiness is being content with the gifts God gives us. I’ve experienced and witnessed much answered prayer, and then also prayers that were not answered the way I expected or wanted. In any case, He is in control. Thank you for your lovely comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I look at houses that have a big attics & wish we did . We lived in one home with an attic over the hole place & tall ceiling over it all . Good wide steeps going up to it . I need my spare room back .
Just hearing about your big attic with wide steps makes me want to write another story, Mary! I wish we had an attic. But they say “Nature abhors a vacuum” and when it comes to spare rooms I’ve managed to fill ours. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway! Sending you my best.
Kate
My cup is mostly on the half full side.
I could live without the TV but not the computer. If no computer how would I keep up with your posts and give aways?
I appreciate all farmers, another job I don’t think I could do.
Erma Bombeck wrote a book about the grass being greener. “The Grass Is Always Greener Over The Septic Tank.” It’s very funny and if you ever heard her talk that is the voice that comes to me whenever I read any of her books.
I smiled as I read your letter, Christine! Erma Bombeck was right about the grass being greener over the septic tank. We have one up at the beach, down below our house, fortunately. I’m like you; I love my computer. When speaking about computers an Amish woman told me she can’t miss what she’s never had. I certainly enjoy my communications online, such as we’re doing now. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
The simple life the Amish lead is envied by many but few realize the amount of hard work that goes into that simple life. I love that the Amish focus on what is important in life, a roof over the heads of their loved ones, good nourishing food on the table and a strong faith and following of God. There are many days I think I could live as they do. But could I? No cell phones, no email. I would be reluctant to part with the tools that keep me in touch with loved ones. Possessions and frills I could part with but not being in touch with love ones would be extremely hard.
You’re right, Susan, the Amish life isn’t that simple. When chatting with an Amish woman, I assured her that I wasn’t planning to leave my home and become Amish. She smiled and told me that their life is not always perfect, been gave me a personal illustration. There have been several break-ins in our neighborhood and I thought that I wouldn’t mind losing most of my possessions as long as I didn’t meet the perpetrator. Following God’s will and spending time with family are my biggest desires. Thanks for leaving your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I think it would be really hard to live Amish. I could give up the phone and even my computer, but living so far away from the stores would be hard to get to by horse and buggy. In many situations things always look greener on the other side. Thank you for the chance to win. Have a blessed week.
Thanks for writing, Debbie! Most Amish may hire drivers, but not own a car, and they may take the bus or the train. And they can use phone shanties and record messages. Fortunately, or I wouldn’t be able to contact several Amish friends. You are a brave woman to be able to give up a personal phone and computer. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Your question was, does anyone live in contentment? I think there are people who do, in various ways. I know several people who are content with their possessions and do not “want” anything more than they have. I know people who are content with their day to day experiences. However, there are many more, myself included, who strive to make the everyday better, the “dream” come true, and I wonder if it’s something in the way God made some of us that makes contentment harder to reach.
Thanks for the thought-provoking question!!!
Thanks for your thought-provoking comment, Connie! Some people do seem to come from a place of want, while others are content with whatever the situation. Maybe childhood experiences play a role. People are indeed fascinating. Wishing you the best of luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I believe the Amish struggle with the same issues of envy and thinking others have it better. They probably compare themselves to their farm and home size, business achievements, and even the success of their children but are instructed not to have pride or envy but always forgiveness. Yes, I’ve struggled with comparing myself to others but God wants us to be who He created us to be as each one is special and God does not make junk, as the expression goes. Thank you for a great blog post and giveaway.
Thank you for writing your terrific comment, Marilyn! Yesterday, I had the opportunity to encourage several people I didn’t even know. I asked one young man if I could pray for him and he said yes with tears in his eyes. God doesn’t make junk, but people fall into all kinds of circumstances and the Lord can use us to help them. Always a pleasure to hear from you. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I think complete contentment is hard to come by. Some little something will crop up here and there. But, it is much better to dwell on all the blessings that we have, the beauty that surrounds us, and the love that we have and can give to others.
You are absolutely right, Melanie! My life is so blessed, but sometimes I forget to thank the Lord and dive in with a dozen prayer requests. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I believe there are some Amish that envy life on the other side, just like some of us envy their simple lifestyle. I love visiting Amish country in Ohio. It brings peace to my soul, but I know I could never live like they do. I WOULD like to move to that area some day! Would love to win the beautiful pillow and book.
I’m sure you’re right, Sheryl. They are only human and thus must resist temptations. All of us have them. Speaking of temptations, an Amish couple who are very dear to my husband and me said they want us to move to Lancaster County and live on their road … But we would never move that far away from our grandchildren and mother-in-law an my husband works. Still, fun to think about. I wonder if you will move to Ohio in the future. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I try to focus on what I have, and keep envy out of the equation. It takes effort, but now I CAN look at the neighbor’s beautiful landscaping and think “I’m glad their lawn is so beautiful, and I enjoy looking at it when I walk past”. Think about those that have it much worse….a local 5-month old was killed by a careless driver while being walked in his stroller in our area recently. What could be worse than that? I’m thankful I wasn’t that mother (or that driver), and how can I worry about things like cars and yards when my children are both healthy?
You have a great attitude, Kim! I am also grateful for other people’s beautiful homes and gardens, which I may enjoy and photograph. Yes, many live with grief, illness, and loss. It’s not a good idea for me to watch the evening news, but rather crawl into bed early and read. Thanks for your thoughtful comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I too find myself comparing myself to others, always wishing I could dress like them , be smaller etc. I am thankful for what I have. And am grateful. I wonder also if the Amish really do have such thoughts, altho in the books they always are quick to tell themselves not to have bad thoughts and can go on so easily, but in real life, I wonder if their thoughts are so easy to disguard. Anyway love your books, would love to win.
First of all, thanks for your compliment about my books, Melissa! I know from speaking to Amish friends that their lives are not perfect. I’m afraid they are portrayed unrealistically sometimes. Most Amish do have a strong community to support them in times of need, both physical and emotional. Their losses and struggles can be as great as ours. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Sometimes in the struggle of life I have not always done so well of being jealous of others. When that gets in your brain it is hard to see beyond the material aspects of the world and you forget about what truly counts….love, relationships, smiles…..a fancy house and flashy car really doesn’t matter. Every now and then I have to kick myself to get back to a healthy mindset.
Good for you for getting yourself back into a healthy mindset, Suzanne! Growing up I always wanted to be taller and have straight hair. Sure felt great when I finally accepted the real me, even on a bad hair day. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I think we all look at other peoples’ lives sometimes and think they have a perfect life…… We all deal with issues and struggles behind closed doors that no one sees. Our grass may seem greener than their grass. They may think our lives are perfect compared to theirs.
The pillow is gorgeous and the book covers are beautiful
dowelljanet@hotmail.com
I am content with my life God has blessed me with. I admire the Amish because they live a much more slower paced life with less stress……. I love all our technology but sometimes wish we didn’t live life in the fast lane so much…. We all need to take the slower lane from time to time.
I think often that we forget the Amish are really more like us then we realize. They face many of the same chanllenges we do. I think it is how they handle the situation with great faith and know it’s Gods will.
Thanks
Good insights, Tina! Nowhere in the Bible does it say life will be easy. Twice, after a person had died, an Amish friend immediately said, “It was God’s will.” Yet they grieve and are sad, even though looking forward to seeing their loved ones again in heaven. Thanks for entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I am somewhat content in my life but i am definately envious of there closeness and family structure.
I wish I had a larger extended family too, Carol! Not that families don’t occasionally have disputes … Sad when it happens. Thanks for writing. Wishing you good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I am happy with my life, but sometimes I do fail and become envious of others. I sometimes look at their lives and wonder why mine cannot be that good. But we all know that everyone has issues, just not made known.
So true, Angie, and many hide their issues well. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I envy the Amish their sense of family and community…I would love to live in an area large enough that I could have my family all around me…and visit with them more often…spending more time together…of course…they would have to want that too…unfortunately…we don’t have that closeness…I miss so much of their lives with just the short visits we have…which are few and far between…and usually brought about by need…rather than want…and never last long enough to really “be with them”…
I’m sure my grandparents were disappointed when my dad was offered a teaching position at the University and my parents moved to the PNW. Too far a way. Fortunately, we visited often and as a young adult I invited myself for extended stays. I’m grateful our grandkids live nearby. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I can’t wait to read this book as I only read Amish/Mennonite books. This one looks so interesting & I want to take a walk with you. I need to read all of this trilogy books. Will have to check my local library. This pillow will look perfect on my bed but even on my living room furniture. Thank You So Much For your writing of these type books. God Bless!!
Please do read the Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy, Jill! If your library doesn’t carry it you could request the books. Most libraries are delighted to help their patrons. Love libraries. I’m growing fond of the pillow too, and hope the winner enjoys it. Maybe it will be you. Good luck!
Kate
I believe I’m doing what God has me here to accomplish. I’ve come to realize that lots of what people post on social media is exaggerated baloney. I take it for what it’s worth.
A wise decision, Gail! Not everyone can have the perfect marriage and grandchildren. Sometimes I read about tragedy and loss, and am happy to pray for those people. I am honored to be asked. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I admire the closeness of the Amish Community and the importance of God and family.
I admire the Amish too, Michelle! They have their priorities in order. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I’m pretty sure the Amish fight “the grass is always greener” syndrome! They are as human just as any of us are! As you noted in an earlier comment…the Garden of Eden. We are all afflicted w/ that! My guess is they wonder if my cakes are better than my neighbors?, are my quilt stitches as small as the others, and as girls/women am I as attractive as she is? There is always something to bring into comparison, regardless of what are religious/cultural beliefs are. Oh to be like Paul, who had learned to be content in all situations!
Thank you for sharing. Love the pillow and would love to be a winner! Here’s hoping…
I agree, Anne! Paul was not always content and called himself the worst of sinners. A good example for all of us, and an encouragement to me. Thanks for your insightful comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
What a beautiful patio, I love it.
I don’t think it is good to compare ourselves to others. There will always be greater and lesser people than ourselves.
I wonder at what age children start comparing themselves with others, Rita. To their siblings or on the first day of school? A lifelong struggle. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate