An Amish story -- by an Amish writer...and a contest!
This week I'd like to introduce you to an Old Order Amish friend of mine who has a new book out.
Linda Byler lives in Franklin County. Pennsylvania, and has written Running Around (and Such), a delightful story I think you'll enjoy.
Linda has been so gracious about reading my Amish stories, starting with the One Child novella in An Amish Christmas and When Winter Comes in An Amish Gathering, and my first book in the Quilts of Lancaster County series coming in the fall. I was so worried about accidentally offending the people I had come to respect for their dedication to God and their families. and when I told her this, Linda generously offered to read my work before it went to my editor. Then, to my surprise and delight, she not only read it, quickly, she called to say some really nice things about the story. I was humbled and gratified by her reaction, particularly when she said it was obvious that I loved and respected the Amish.
In the course of our talking for some time now, I learned that Linda had written a series of books about a girl named Lizzie. Then one day, she told me that a major publisher had picked them up. I was thrilled for her. She really deserved this success. Well, I could be heard all over Wal-Mart last month when I saw the book sitting on the shelf (such an engaging cover, don't you think?). I bought it right away and rushed home to read it. Since then I've had a chance to tell Linda I think her book is just wonderful. Readers at AmishLiving.com have already been writing about it. The "buzz" about what a wonderful book it is started before I could alert anyone!
I asked Linda if I could interview her so now, "meet" Linda:
BC: Tell me about yourself.
LB: I'm Old Order Amish and I live in a community of perhaps 150 families, all from Lancaster or surrounding communities. I have seven children of varying ages and 10 grandchildren.
BC: How do you write?
LB: I write my books in longhand in a composition book. My publisher has someone who types the story into a computer. Lizzie is actually my life's story, previously self-published and sold in the community as The Buggy Spoke series.
BC: What do you like to read?
LB: It's hard for me to find something that holds my interest. I usually choose a classic. I love John Steinbeck . Oprah's picks are worth trying.
BC: What's a typical day like?
LB: Hmm. There ain't no such thing!
BC: What would you like us to know about the Amish?
LB: The biggest misconception about the Amish is that we live perfect, pious lives.
And now, dear readers, I have a treat for you! I told Linda that sometimes we have a contest on this website so she is going to autograph a copy of her book for the winner. Just leave a comment and I'll announce the winner next Friday. I hope that whether you win the book or not that you will take a look at Linda's book. I think once you do that you'll want to buy it. I read it straight through, laughing at Lizzie's antics, sighing over her tribulations (real and imagined), and just out and out enjoyed Linda's wonderful way of telling her story.
'Til next week!
Barbara
Linda Byler lives in Franklin County. Pennsylvania, and has written Running Around (and Such), a delightful story I think you'll enjoy.
Linda has been so gracious about reading my Amish stories, starting with the One Child novella in An Amish Christmas and When Winter Comes in An Amish Gathering, and my first book in the Quilts of Lancaster County series coming in the fall. I was so worried about accidentally offending the people I had come to respect for their dedication to God and their families. and when I told her this, Linda generously offered to read my work before it went to my editor. Then, to my surprise and delight, she not only read it, quickly, she called to say some really nice things about the story. I was humbled and gratified by her reaction, particularly when she said it was obvious that I loved and respected the Amish. In the course of our talking for some time now, I learned that Linda had written a series of books about a girl named Lizzie. Then one day, she told me that a major publisher had picked them up. I was thrilled for her. She really deserved this success. Well, I could be heard all over Wal-Mart last month when I saw the book sitting on the shelf (such an engaging cover, don't you think?). I bought it right away and rushed home to read it. Since then I've had a chance to tell Linda I think her book is just wonderful. Readers at AmishLiving.com have already been writing about it. The "buzz" about what a wonderful book it is started before I could alert anyone!
I asked Linda if I could interview her so now, "meet" Linda:
BC: Tell me about yourself.
LB: I'm Old Order Amish and I live in a community of perhaps 150 families, all from Lancaster or surrounding communities. I have seven children of varying ages and 10 grandchildren.
BC: How do you write?
LB: I write my books in longhand in a composition book. My publisher has someone who types the story into a computer. Lizzie is actually my life's story, previously self-published and sold in the community as The Buggy Spoke series.
BC: What do you like to read?
LB: It's hard for me to find something that holds my interest. I usually choose a classic. I love John Steinbeck . Oprah's picks are worth trying.
BC: What's a typical day like?
LB: Hmm. There ain't no such thing!
BC: What would you like us to know about the Amish?
LB: The biggest misconception about the Amish is that we live perfect, pious lives.
And now, dear readers, I have a treat for you! I told Linda that sometimes we have a contest on this website so she is going to autograph a copy of her book for the winner. Just leave a comment and I'll announce the winner next Friday. I hope that whether you win the book or not that you will take a look at Linda's book. I think once you do that you'll want to buy it. I read it straight through, laughing at Lizzie's antics, sighing over her tribulations (real and imagined), and just out and out enjoyed Linda's wonderful way of telling her story.
'Til next week!
Barbara
Posted by Barbara Cameron at 6/10/2010 2:54 PM 
Categories: Running Around (and Such), Linda Byler
Tags: Amish fiction
Categories: Running Around (and Such), Linda Byler
Tags: Amish fiction
I am very interested in reading this book.
Kaye Whitney
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A wonderful treat to read this novel, beautiful cover.
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This book sounds wonderful and I would love to win this book I just love contests. I will definitely read this book if I win it or not, but I hope I win ;~)) I love all the Amish books. The cover on this book is fantastic.
Gods Blessings to you and yours
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Well thanks to you I figured out how to use this website. Wow that book looks so good. I know they say don't judge a book by its cover but some covers just make the book look so good and interesting. I look forward to reading the book.
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This is so exciting. It is another thing we didn't know about the Amish. I cannot wait to read it.
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Looking forward to reading about "Lizzie"!
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Oh, this is one book I just have to read!!! Whether I win it or not, you can be sure it will be on my list of books to buy the next time we are in the States- these books are hard to find in Canada- our Walmart NEVER carries any Amish fiction. I must say I envy you Americans who can just walk into some of these big chain stores and pick them up!! The cover of this book, alone, so appealing. LOVE IT!!
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I have Linda's books God Sees the Forest and The Music of the Lamplight. I also have all 7 of the Lizzie books, and they are very good. The descriptions of food make you extremely hungry. Lizzie and her siblings remind you of an Amish version of Laura Ingalls Wilder, and the preface of the first of the 7 original Lizzie books - title is Lizzie - does say, " I suppose it is only truthful to say that my love of the Laura Ingalls series is what prompted me to write about Lizzie."
I enjoyed the interview with Linda but was really surprised that the Amish would be allowed to read John Steinbeck or books recommended by Oprah.
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You mention "7 Lizzie" books. Are they part of this series? I have read the "Lizzie Searches for Love" series & enjoyed them. I did not find any other Lizzie books by Linda Byler.
Hi from Barbara Cameron:
The Lizzie series you mention and the series being published by Goodbooks are one and the same...they even have the same name. The first series was self-published by Linda and sold in the Amish community. Then the national company bought the series and is bringing them out every six months. I am thrilled that Linda's work is reaching a wider audience. She s a wonderful person.
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How wonderful - a new Amish writer - and she is Amish! It just doesn't get any better. I'm very anxious to read this new book - it sounds great! We're leaving for the Bird in Hand area on Tuesday for our semi-annual trip. If I see the book, I'll have to buy it but I sure wouldn't mind winning one!
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Sounds like a good book. I have added it to my tbr list.
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I would love to a copy of this book, but if I don't I will be buying a copy! Sounds like a wonderful book
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This is so wonderful. A book by a real Amish person? I would love to have my name entered in the drawing and hopefully win an autographed copy to add to my collection of Amish books.
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How exciting! I love to find out about new authors! And what a beautiful cover! I would love a chance to win a copy!
Blessings
Michelle V
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Barbara, I have read Linda Byler's book. She writes from the heart. As you do. Lizzie reminds me of my 15 year old daughter. We live in a small town. Lizzie being head strong and rebellious and not wanting to do without complaining.- Can't wait for the next books. Would like to thank our Lord for you, Linda and all the writers for writing from the heart. Thank you.
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What a wonderful interview! The very first day they put it on the shelf at our local walmart, my hubby saw it and grabbed a copy for me. He came home and said I have a surprise for you! Its definitely an excellent book, well worth reading. Kept me interested the whole way through and left you wanting to read more. I would LOVE to win an autographed copy for my own library. I'd even give my other copy to someone else! That doesn't happen often, I don't part with many books! I'll lend them out, but I don't part with them too easily, lol! Thanks for the wonderful opportunity Barbara!
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I am glad to see another Amish author. I think it is great. Can't wait to see her stories.. Glad to see she is honest in the interview.
God's Blessings,
Erin
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How exciting! I am going to look for this book!
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Oh my gosh, I would be thrilled to receive an Amish story written by an Amish author and then signed by her -- that would be awesome!
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I loved your interview and surely will pick up a copy of Linda's book! Linda seems no different than our best friend. She seemed open for any question you had. Thank you for introducting Linda to us and God's blessing on you both as you write such excellent novels, including the spiritual workings in the lives of your characters.
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I am anxious to read this book.
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I love to read Amish fiction. I would love to be entered into this contest. What a delight to read a book from an Old Order Amish author.
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What a wonderful opportunity to interview this special Amish friend. I look forward to reading her book.
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Hi Barbara,
I was on vacation recently in Lancaster, PA and purchased Linda's book the story is great. Can't wait for the others to come out in the near future. Please keep recommending various authors in your emails.
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I would really like to win this book. I enjoy stories that are about real life and this is about Linda's life.... sounds like a real winner.
Enter me please!
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I just found this website through facebook - what a great place to find out about new books to read. I moved to Lancaster County last year and feel blessed to live so close to the Amish - they are a great example to all of us and I find it so soothing to live amongst them
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This book is definitely on my list to read. I am so excited! Please enter me in the contest.
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I love Amish fiction - and how exciting to read one actually written by someone who is Old Order Amish. How many books are in the series? I want to buy them all!
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I've heard people ask if Amish write Amish stories. I think it is wonderful to see that they do. I look forward to reading Running Around.
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This new author sounds very interesting. Perhaps my book club will be interested in choosing an Amish book to read in the near future. I'd love to have an advance copy to review!
Thanks, Barb
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I think it's neat you 'found' her and her book - another reason too to go right back to Wal-mart! Thanks.
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Linda's book sounds great. Hope to win it. If not I will definately look for it in the stores. Thanks.
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This sounds so interesting. To read a story based on a real Amish person,written by an Amish lady would be great. Almost like reading a journal or diary. Can't wait to read this one.
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Wonderful to have a new Amish author -- and a true Amish at that! Am anxious to read the book!
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I have just bought Running Around and Such. I am so excited to start reading this book. Keep writing.
Becky Barber
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Oh I definitely want to read this book. Thank you for entering me in the contest.
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Can't wait to read this book. I truly love reading the Amish books. Recently went to Amish country in Ohio....loved it!! Now want to visit other places.
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Hi, I have just recently bought this book as soon as I saw it in Walmart. But if I was to win it I would give it as a gift... I am anxiously wanting to read it, but, first I must finish what I have already started... Thank You!
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I am always looking for a new Amish fiction book. Sometimes I drive my husband crazy. I am amazed at the slower paced lifestyle they live. I enjoy just learning about how they live their daily lives. I would love to be entered in the contest, but even if I don't win I will be looking for this book. Thank you so much for the information on new books and authors.
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I would love to read her book and look forward to it. I absolutely love reading amish fiction novels.
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I would love to read her book. I like to read any new authur book on the Amish. It looks like it will be a good book. So please enter me in the contest.
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What good news!! A new Amish writer. I love reading Amish fiction. I will buy this one as soon as I go to the store.Thanks for telling me about it.
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I love reading Amish Fiction and love finding new authors. I will buy this one as soon as I can get to the store. Thanks for telling us of this new book.
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I'm going to look for her book the next time I'm in Walmart. I love finding a new author to read!!
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This book sounds great. I look forward to reading an Amish story from such an authentic source.
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I reead any Amish story I can find. I think that the way of life the Amish have is more to my liking and my husband and I talk about moving into Amish country someday. I've homeschooled my 4 kids and am a stay at home wife/mother.
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The Amish quilts are amazing. I have quilting on my list of learning how to do by hand-not machined. I hadn't known of Amy before seeing the ad on Facebook but now going to look for her books as well as Linda's!
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What a great post! I like the question/answer section, it helps us get to know authors a lot better. This sounds like a terrific read. I can't wait to read this book. Please count me in.
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Please enter me...I just love books about the Amish.I love the cover.Thanks
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My family & I just came back tonight after spending the week in Indiana Amish country. We had a wonderful time & loved observing the Amish culture! I have looked all over for this book by Linda Byler & can't find it! I would love to read it.
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I just started reading this book! I was so excited when I saw it at Walmart the other day. How neat that it's written by an authentic Amish woman
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Can't wait to read this book; another on my wish list. Please add me to the contest. Thank you and God Bless.
Denise in NC
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This book sounds wonderful! I can't wait to read it. I was surprised to read that Mrs. Byler would be familiar with Ophrah's book suggestions! LOL!
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I am currently reading this book. I am enjoying it very much!!!
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her book sounds wonderful, I can't wait to go an get a copy....
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I am looking forward to reading books by Ms Byler!!
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Looks interesting! Will have to check it out!
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please enter me in the contest for linda's book, i would so love to read it
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This is so exciting! I love reading Amish fiction from the authors who write it, but to have an author who IS Amish is a gift! I can't wait to read this book and all others from this author!
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Thanks for a wonderful interview! I love the cover of the book - it really grabs me & makes me want to read the story right away.
Blessings to you both!
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I read this book. I was out in the middle of no where as a chaperone for some high school girls 2 weeks ago. I had finished one of my Amish books and still had 4 days to go. Went to Wal-Mart and saw Running Around. I grabbed it and read it in 4 days. It was a great book. I do recommend this book to all readers. I would still like to have a copy of the book with Linda's autograph. Happy Reading!
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I will definitely be buying this book if I do not win it. Good luck and God bless to all those who do enter to win the book.
Gods Blessings
Debbie Feavel
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I would love to have this book. Amish are how we should all live God first. I pray that my life is this way.
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Please enter my name in your contest. I look forward to reading Lizzie's story even if I am not the winner!
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How exciting to find a book written about the Amish life by someone who is Amish!
Hope to read this book soon.
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I really enjoy reading about the Amish. I have read almost all of Beverly Lewis's books. I know I will enjoy reading these too. So whether I win or not, I will be looking for them.
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The life of the Amish has always been a interest of mine, as I rather enjoy living the simpler lifestyle. I look forward to reading your books - "thank-you" for giving me this opportunity, adding me to your Fb friend list. I truly appreciate your friendship.
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So excited to read this book and the cover is one of the better ones I've seen! I'm glad I stumbled upon this blog!
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I was pleasantly surprised to see her book on the shelf at Wal-Mart and snatched it right up! Read it rather quickly and enjoyed seeing life through Lizzie's eyes. Thanks for the glimpse into the author's life!
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I would love to read this book and review it.
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I love reading Christian novels! I can't wait to read this one especially since the author has lived the life!
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I'm excited to read a new book by an author new to me. I enjoy all the Amish stories.
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I can't wait to read this book! I just love Amish books-- they touch my heart.
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I can't wait to read this book. I saw it a couple weeks ago at the store and ordered it last night. I then will donate it to my library, as we are low on funding. Kathleen helped us already and it is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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i have read this book. It was delightful, i laughed and laughed at Lizzie. Great book!
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Linda sounds like such a delightful person. I would absolutely love to win this! but good luck to everyone!
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I just love the cover of your book and know that it will be delightful to read and look forward to reading it when I can buy it !!!!!!
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I am a very big fan of All Amish stories. I buy and read all the books I can get. Before my Mother lost her eyesite she read all the books I had and really enjoyed the Amish series.When she finish one series I ahd to go buy the next ones. So now I am taking time to read them. If I win I will cherish these books
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I look forward to being able to read this book and any following series.
I have many Amish books and love reading them. Having have had the opportunity to be in their homes I can vouch for their lifestyle.Being a homebirth midwife and helping to birth their babies I feel blessed.
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You area fortunate woman! I would feel like I died and went to Heaven if I had the opportunity to mix with the Amish like you. You must be very loved by them
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I saw an ad on Facebook for your Amish books, I'm looking for new authors and your story looks great, looking forward to reading your stories. Thank you.
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I would love to read this book! I'm visiting Lancaster County next week and can't wait to hit all the shops.
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There are so many books to read of the Amish ! I loved this artical, She sounds so sweet. I would love to have her book. Is it in Canada yet ? Better yet I will go to Indigo and Chapters book stores to see if it there.
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I found this book by surprise at my local Walmart. I keep track of all the authors of Amish & Mennonite books. I have orders in for books being released in October. As each month passes, I order new books coming out the next month. I can't wait to open this book written by and Amish author. Please keep us posted when new books will be coming out. Thanks Linda Byler for sharing your books series with us Englishers. Monique
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How awesome that she is Amish. I can't wait to read this book. What an amazing person to share her life with us Englishers. Thank you so much Linda Byler!
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I have always loved and enjoyed reading Amish stories for some time now and am so looking forward to reading yours as well Mrs.Byler.
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Oh my gosh, I cannot believe I found your blog! My family and I have just returned from a wonderful weekend in Lancaster and I was surfing the net to find information on Linda. I tried to find this book all day today but being Sunday most places were closed. I had just learned about it last night paging through the Amish Country News at our hotel, The Amish View Inn. We were waiting for a guest speaker named John Fisher to tell us a little about life as an Amish person. I cannot tell you my excitement at the opportunity to be up close and personal with someone that I have admired all my life! Not John personally, but a person from the Amish community. I have visited Lancaster County a couple times a year all my life. As a child, I traveled there with my parents and now that I am grown with a family of my own we continue that tradition. Anyway I started to order this book at Amazon but I wanted to read a little about the author because though what I had read said she was Amish it did not say where she was from. I wanted to find that out because I wanted to read something from not just any Amish writer but an Amish writer from Pennsylvania because those are the Amish I know most about and am intrigued by! I was thrilled to come by this entry! I have to tell you though I will wait to purchase this book because though I realize the odds of me winning this are slim it would be absolutely awesome if I did because having this signed by Linda, not just any author but an Amish author would be incredible! I would also like to tell you a little funny story that just happened. When John was finished speaking to all of us at the hotel, he offered his family's cookbook for us to look at and purchase if we liked it. I am not one for cookbooks but I wanted to ask him if I bought it would he sign it for me. I said to my husband and daughter that would be the coolest thing to have something signed by an actual Amish author, even if it was just a cookbook! Well my daughter was kinda laughing at me because she said he's just a man mom, not a celebrity but my husband understood to me he was! I love the Amish life and often say I wish I was Amish. I admire that way of life and always have. Anyway I never got a chance to ask because there were people around and I was feeling kinda shy and I didn't know if he would think I was a weirdo or not so I just decided not to. Then today all the way home I said you know I wish I would have asked him it would have been so cool to have a book signed by John Fisher, an Amish man that we actually got to talk to! Oh well I know I am rambling, I just cannot believe I came upon this site. Thank you for this opportunity, I apologize for my going on and on and with any luck I hope to hear from you soon!!
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