Finding Peace in God’s Creation
We hope this note finds you well as October settles in here in the Heartland. The days have been warm and sunny, with temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80's. The fields are turning, the air carries the scent of harvest, and families are preparing for the holidays that will soon be upon us. It is a beautiful time of year to pause, look around, and notice the simple blessings that surround us.
This week, we continue our series on Amish leisure and visiting, focusing on how nature itself becomes a place of recreation and renewal. For the Amish, time outdoors is not only about fresh air and exercise but also about drawing closer to God and one another.
Birdwatching is one of the quiet joys of Amish life. The bright red Cardinal is a favorite sight, though its habit of pecking at windows can be less welcome. Still, many Amish families see meaning in these encounters. One family recalls a Cardinal persistently attacking their windows in the weeks before their father passed away, only to stop suddenly after his death. A year later, the same bird (or one very much like it) returned to another window, as if to remind them of the nearness of life and eternity. Whether in a shady backyard watching squirrels and turkeys pass through, or sitting by a barn listening to the calls of sparrows, these moments of quiet observation are treasured.
Fishing is another pastime that blends excitement with stillness. Many Amish recall their first fishing trips with their fathers and siblings, learning to cast a line even if they cannot remember whether they caught a fish. The joy was in the company and the laughter. Local lakes and streams, especially those in nearby parks, hold special meaning because they are places where the community gathers year after year. On Park Day, families come together to fish, share meals, and enjoy the water. The tug of a fish on the line is thrilling, but so too is the peace of sitting by the water, reflecting on God's creation.
Walking and hiking are also deeply valued. Some prefer the solitude of walking alone, using the time to pray or think, while others enjoy the companionship of a friend or family member. Both experiences are meaningful in different ways. Certain paths hold memories that linger for a lifetime. One family remembers a curve in a country road as the last place they traveled with their father before his passing, and each time they walk it again, it carries both sadness and remembrance. For many, walking in nature brings thoughts of heaven, a reminder that the beauty of this earth is only a glimpse of what is to come.
Horseback riding is less common among the Amish, though many have tried it in their youth. Those who have described it as exhilarating say it is a way to feel connected to both the horse and the land. Horses, of course, are central to Amish life, and many believe they can sense a person's mood. A hurried spirit makes a horse harder to hitch, while a calm hand makes the journey smoother. Families also recall long buggy rides across state lines to visit friends, journeys that were tiring for the horse but memorable for the people.
Boating and visits to public lakes are another way Amish families enjoy the outdoors. They may rent a pontoon or take out a small boat, spending the day fishing, grilling hot dogs, and sharing a picnic by the water. State parks are especially beloved, offering both peace and fellowship. These outings are not extravagant vacations, but rather simple, joy-filled days that strengthen family bonds.
In all of these activities—birdwatching, fishing, walking, riding, or boating—the Amish find lessons in patience, humility, and gratitude. Nature speaks of God's order and care, and being outdoors imparts a peace that reminds them that the Creator is in control.
Stories from Our Amish Basket Weavers
Here are a few happenings the families dedicated to weaving the beautiful baskets featured on AmishBaskets.com have shared with us this week.
The Mast Family
The last of the white peaches in the Mast orchard were gathered this week, with the children collecting the fallen fruit each morning. One day, they discovered a surprise under the tree — a possum that had met its match with the family's four dogs. The children imagined it had crept in overnight, lured by the sweet scent of ripe peaches, only to be chased off before it could climb for a snack. Rosa canned 14 quarts using mango juice instead of sugar, a trick she says brings out the flavor. The firm peaches were saved for fresh eating at supper.
The Borntrager Family
Weddings are a big part of Fall in the Amish community, and this week brought another joyful celebration. With the bride's family nearby, school was canceled on Wednesday in the Borntrager's district so everyone could attend. Classes were also paused on Thursday and Friday while the teacher traveled to Illinois for her niece's wedding. The usual substitute stayed home to support her own sister, who has been going through a difficult time after a broken engagement. While not every story ends as planned, the season is still filled with love, laughter, and plenty of pie. The Borntragers say it's been a week of dresses, singing, and late-night visiting.
"There are 3 ways to get something done. You can do it yourself, hire someone to do it, or ask your children not to do it."
— Amish Wisdom
