This area is somewhat populated by the Amish culture.  As you probably know, they live a very hard working yet simple life. Not cluttered by technology or the media. Living as a family with tight knit family ties. And wow, are they talented artisans and bakers.  We visited the Old Kountry Market owned and run by Amish. Fresh cooked dinner pies, homemade dips, cheeses, jams, local vegetables, and fruits. But what captures you upon arrival is the smell of fresh baked breads, cookies, and pies. During this visit we were greeting at the door by some Amish children. Adorned in their traditional clothing they were offering us free cookies. Sweet children with the manners of angels. Greeting everyone as they passed engaging them to take a cookie. Three girls and two boys ranging in age from about 6 to 11. They took their task very sincerely and made sure all the cookies were aligned just perfectly and well stocked.  They were so happy with being there and with each other.  No staring at a cell phone or I-pad. Just engaging and conversing among themselves and with all of us. Yes …conversation! Actual words exchanged and enjoying being children. What a beautiful experience.

In this day and age, I think we can truly learn from these people. Perhaps not all their culture we would agree with, but you certainly cannot deny that their appreciation of family, manners, and simplicity of life is not inspiring. And let’s not forget their baking skills. What was just to be a trip to checkout this market, turned into a very inspirational experience. Taking it all in and seeing the bigger picture and not just the things on the shelves.  Taking time to pause and smell the roses. Exactly what we have been wanting to get from our time on the road.