THE AMISH COOK
BY GLORIA YODER
Last weekend we had the opportunity to host my husband Daniel’s parents and siblings from Danville, Ohio. We always enjoy spending time together but this was an extra treat since we had not seen them for quite some time.
While they were here Daniel’s brother John, who also lives in this community, discovered they have corn that is ready to be harvested. So we rolled up our sleeves and worked together. Many hands certainly made the work light. Before long the task was completed with over 40 quarts of corn in the freezer.
Our 2 ½ year-old daughter Julia loved all the action. Playing with her little cousins is always a highlight for her. All too soon it was time for everyone to go back home again. Thankfully, we are blessed with good memories that are tucked away in safe keeping.
And speaking of memories, perhaps it would be interesting for you to join me in looking back over the past years to take a peek at Daniel’s and my life during our growing up years?
On August 28, 1988, Lydia Yoder beamed down at her newborn son. What a miracle and a gift from God! Daniel’s mother proved to have an exceptional mother heart’s filled with love and dedication. It was soon obvious that he would have his daddy’s curls, with Daniel’s being a bit lighter - a golden brown. His parents Ephraim and Lydia diligently taught their children the ways of the Lord and were an example of prayer and dedication to God.
With six brothers and one sister, life on a dairy farm didn’t get boring. At seven years old Daniel was responsible to help with his part of milking cows by hand. Eventually the farm was replaced with a pallet shop. He and the Yoder brothers pitched in once, more determined to help Dad make a go of the business. They put their heart in it working swiftly and steadily.
Tobias, Daniel’s oldest brother, owned a landscaping business. After his younger brothers were old enough to replace him at the pallet shop he had the opportunity of helping Tobias with building retaining walls, patios, and other landscaping. That was something he always enjoyed doing.
Meanwhile, 50 miles away, and a little over a year after Daniel’s birth, David and Dorcas Raber had a newborn daughter. Baby Gloria was born on November 12, 1989
Our parents also did an outstanding job in caring for their children and teaching us about God and His Word.
Javin, my big brother and hero, was almost a year older than me. Even though he was a boy and I a girl we spent hours together playing. I became more involved in playing outside with him, and he even joined me in playing with dolls! Catching minnows and wading at a nearby creek was one of our favorite activities.
At six years old I enjoyed the adventure of moving to Flat Rock, Illinois. I knew all would be well as long as my parents and three brothers were with me. Upon arriving at our new home items were unloaded including a cage with our beloved pet. I can’t even remember now whether it was a dog or a cat. Back then it certainly was very important to us. The cage door was opened and it slipped out and dashed for the nearby woods. Javin and I were devastated convinced it was gone for good. Dad tried to reassure us, telling us that it’ll come back. Of course what he said was true. Aren’t Dads always right?
The rest of my growing up years were spent here in Illinois while Daniel’s family lived in Ohio. The question keeps coming up: so where did you meet each other? Good question, how about saving that answer for next week?
This week I’ll include an old standby recipe that my mother used quite a bit during my years at home. When we didn’t know what else to make we could always settle on “Stuff.” Even though it is not listed, imagination is perhaps the number one ingredient in this recipe. Add or omit vegetables according to your taste. Sour cream or a soup may be used to replace gravy if desired. Vegetables may be sliced or diced. We usually make this venison.
- Brown 1 1 /2 pounds of hamburger, sausage or venison
- Potatoes
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Peas
- Onions
- Cheese and or gravy
- In a large skillet brown the hamburger.
- Layer raw veggies on top of meat.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Spread gravy or cheese over the top.
- Cover and simmer on low until veggies are tender.
Linda from KY
Thank you for sharing the birth stories and childhood of you and Daniel. It was delightful to read! I'm looking forward to hearing how you and Daniel met. One of my favorite things to do when couples come to our house (I'm married with 4 children, the oldest is married and lives several hours away) is to ask them how they met.
Theresa
Really enjoyed this column Gloria. The recipes for stuff sounds like something I'd make when we don't know what to have!!. Can;'t wait till n ext week to find out how you & Daniel met
lorraine stoddard
Enjoyed reading this! Looking forward to next weeks column.
Angela Bjelland
Thank you Gloria for sharing your life with us. We look forward to many more. The recipe looks so good! Keep up the great work.