Whip Around Wednesday

That’s really not what my blog is about, but it’s how I’m feeling this evening. Seems like when I’m close to a deadline, my turn to blog whips around faster than the spin cycle on my wash machine.

Tammy has completed her book and Tracie mentioned that her latest had arrived. So here I am honing in on the deadline for the final book in the Daughters of Amana series and celebrating the release of the first book in that same series. Somewhere to Belong released February 3. And just like these other gals, I’m thankful for the privilege God has given me to do something I love. Each new book is a thrill and it’s my constant prayer that my books will touch hearts and honor Him.

I thought I’d share a few pictures from the very first trip my husband I made to Amana. I posted at least one of these in a newsletter some time ago, but the picture of us sitting in the giant rocking chair is one of my favorite memories from that visit. And if you go and visit in the Amana Colonies, you can crawl up in that chair and have your picture taken too—be sure you send me a copy if you make the visit.

In Somewhere to Belong, one of the places you’ll read about is the kitchen house where Berta and Johanna work, so I’m including some pictures of the inside of one of the kitchens that is open to tourists who travel to the Colonies. You need to disregard that air conditioner sitting on the floor in the picture to the left--they didn't really have those. :) Although communal kitchens no longer exist, this one has been maintained so that visitors may have a glimpse into the past. That’s me standing outside the kitchen house with Brandi Jones, a curator at the history center. Some of the women were known as ‘paring knife sisters’ (don’t you love that designation) and they would sit on the back porch with wooden trays on their laps while they snapped beans or sorted spinach—a way to visit with one another and enjoy the outdoor weather while they worked.

So, if you can’t make it to Alaska in the near future, I highly recommend a visit to the Amana Colonies in Iowa. You’ll enjoy ‘gut’ food, friendly people, and lots of history. And don’t forget a visit to the Woolen Mill, the candy shop, and bakery or the General Stores. You'll find a General Store in both Main Amana and High Amana.

May you find joy as your experience God in your surroundings. ~Judy

P.S. My husband’s surgical procedure went off without a hitch although we are still waiting for pathology reports. Continued prayers in that regard are greatly appreciated.