I've been a bit preoccupied/busy with some projects lately, so I haven't been updating this site as much as I would like. But I think by next week I'll be back in the saddle and posting up a storm. Meanwhile, this is a pretty picture I thought I would share of the late Elizabeth Coblentz's farmstead outside of Geneva, Indiana. For those new to this website and the column, Elizabeth wrote the Amish Cook from 1991 - 2002 when she passed away quite suddenly. Lovina has written it ever since. I have so many deep, poignant memories of this place that I will cherish forever. I think a part of me will always feel a sense of longing whenever I pass the place. I keep thinking maybe someday I'll just be able to drive by it without feeling anything, but that day doesn't appear to be anywhere close. This is a view of the farmstead from the east, looking west. I took this shot at sunset, when the darkening sky gives it almost a haunting hue. From this direction, the place looks very much the same. But the house didn't stay in the Coblentz family, and has actually changed hands a couple of times. So you can't go home again. Not really. Flat farm fields aren't usually my definition of pretty, but the stretches of well-kept white clapboard farmhouses and tidy gardens from Geneva, Indiana east to the Ohio state line has an enchanting plainness to it that is quite captivating.
Loretta
At least we have our memories of special people, special places
Barb
You have such a wonderful story with Elizabeth, an Amish woman ready to take a chance on a young man. A great story and a great beginning to a career that has been such a delight to us all! Thank you Kevin, your memories are a part of you, cherish them.
Zelka Cani
I am curious, does the Coblentz farmstead still remain in Amish hands?
Barb Wright
I treasure my books that you and Elizabeth wrote. How wonderful it must have been to know her! I lost my oldest sister 36 years ago under the same circumstances as Elizabeth..it does get easier with time,but you will always remember.The harsh edges soften and you will be left with the good memories. I like the photo..any idea who now lives there?
Colleen Rohrer
I LOVE the picture of Ben and Elizabeth's farmstead!! I always felt like I was a personal friend of Elizabeth's ~ even tho' I had never met her. I am a very sentimental person, so I understand how you feel - somewhat. I get the same feeling when I drive past the farmstead where my very favorite Aunt Aurilla lived (also where my Dad grew up). The memories are so precious! Thank you and Lovina for the GREAT job you do ~ I LOVE reading THE AMISH COOK!!
Christine
I was wondering about what happened to the farm? Who lives there and if they are Amish or Mennonite.
Carolyn Collman
Hi Kevin, I ordered the set of cookbooks a couple of months ago when you posted the notice and paid with PayPal. I haven't gotten them yet, so wanted to let you know. I want to make sure to get the new cookbook.
Thanks for your help.
Carolyn Cpllman